Originally published: 1/16/2017 | 1:06pm
Hello, blog readers! I had to take an extended hiatus due to school, but I am so happy to finally be back with a new post. As stated in my last blog post, I will be talking about Google Local Guides and the perks that come with being one. Perhaps you've heard of this before or maybe you are a Local Guide. I am going to do my best to explain what it's like being a Local Guide from my perspective to better serve you in understanding this role.
I have been a Google Local Guide for approximately a year now (though it could be longer). The whole thing came about one day when I was doing something that I typically do: take pictures of my food when I go to a restaurant. I do have an Android phone, and my settings allow Google Maps to track where I am. So, when I take arrive at certain locations I have the option of posting pictures and writing reviews through the Google Maps app to help people that look up more information online about the place I'm currently visiting. When I got the email about becoming a Local Guide, I didn't hesitate to opt-in. For me, this was a chance to challenge myself to explore the city I live in and be more active in tourism as someone who likes to get a more realistic idea of where I want to go and what I want to do.
Being a Local Guide also means getting to enjoy some cool perks! There are various levels to progress through as a Local Guide, including testing Google products once you reach level 2. In my last post I discussed the Google Trips app. I actually gained early access to this app and had the pleasure of testing it out and giving feedback before it was officially released to the public. As an avid tourist and travel blogger, this was a great opportunity for me to explore the ways that Google can make travel planning easier.
Google has also recently made being a Local Guide a more social activity by hosting and encouraging Local Guides to get together and explore their hometowns. Unfortunately, I have not been able to participate in my hometown Local Guide events, but if any of you have please leave a comment below and tell me what the experience is like.
That sums up what I have come to know and love about being a Google Local Guide. It's actually something that is really fun to experience if you're a fan of all things Google like me. As always thank you for reading and I will be back with a new post in 2 weeks. Happy Travels!
Feel free to leave comments below, tweet (@KimiThoughts), or leave a post/message on Facebook (@KimisTravelThoughts) and share your experience as a Google Local Guide or ask questions you have for me about being one!
