What Is a “Local Guide” in Google Maps?

Google Maps is one of the world’s premier and most powerful mapping services, giving users access to explore the globe, find places, get directions, and more. But did you know you could also contribute back by helping improve the experience for millions of other people worldwide? This is what being a “Local Guide” is about!

Key Takeaway

A “Local Guide” is a volunteer position that allows you to contribute to Google Maps by writing reviews, sharing photos, answering questions, adding or editing places, and checking facts. You can earn points, badges, and rewards for your contributions, and also help other users discover new places and experiences. Being a Local Guide is a great way to share your knowledge and passion for your local area, and also learn from other Local Guides around the world.

What Are Local Guides?

A Local Guide is someone who helps improve Google Maps by providing feedback based on their personal experiences. As a Local Guide, you can:

• Write reviews of places you visit—restaurants, hotels, attractions, etc.—such as restaurants, hotels, or attractions.

• Share photos that capture the atmosphere or vibe of places or events.

   

• Answer any queries other users might have about places or topics related to your area.

   

• Add or modify information about locations, such as opening hours, phone numbers, and websites.

   

• Verify and fact-check the information that other Google Maps users have provided.

By doing these activities, you can earn points and level up as a Local Guide. There are 10 levels in total, each with its own badge and benefits. The higher your level, the more perks you can enjoy, such as:

• Getting early access to new features and products from Google.
• Receiving invitations to exclusive events and workshops for Local Guides.
• Getting recognition and exposure on Google Maps and other platforms.
• Having a chance to influence the future of Google Maps and other services.

Being a Local Guide can be rewarding and educational at the same time; you will discover new places and experiences, learn from fellow Local guides, and connect with a worldwide community that shares your enthusiasm for travel and exploration.

How Can I Become a Local Guide?

Anyone aged 18 or over living in one of the 40 supported countries and who has access to Google Maps can become a Local Guide. All that’s necessary to register as one is having an existing Google account and accessing their devices through Google Maps. Here’s how you can sign up:

• Visit the Local Guides website and click on “Join Now”.
• Sign in with your Google account and select your current location.
• Agree to the terms and conditions of the program.
• Start contributing to Google Maps!

Google Maps allows anyone with any device capable of supporting it—be it a smartphone, tablet, or computer—to contribute. Android or iOS device owners can use the Google Maps app on their Android or iOS device to locate nearby areas that need your assistance; simply tap “Contribute” at the bottom of their screens and pick an activity suitable to them from this list of available activities.

Join Local Guide events organised in your locality by other Local Guides; these provide great opportunities to meet new people, exchange tips and tricks, and have some fun while contributing to Google Maps! You can search for upcoming events through the Local Guides Connect website as well as interact with fellow Local Guides from around the globe!

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about being a Local Guide:

Q: How many points do I need to reach each level?

A: You need the following number of points to reach each level:

• Level 1: 0 points
• Level 2: 15 points
• Level 3: 75 points
• Level 4: 250 points
• Level 5: 500 points
• Level 6: 1,500 points
• Level 7: 5,000 points
• Level 8: 15,000 points
• Level 9: 50,000 points
• Level 10: 100,000 points

Q: How do I earn points?

A: You earn points by doing any of the following activities on Google Maps:

• Write a review (10 points)
• Write a review with more than 200 characters (10 bonus points)
• Add a photo (5 points)
• Add a video (7 points)
• Answer a question (1 point)
• Edit information about a place (5 points)
• Add a place (15 points)
• Check facts (1 point per fact)

You can also earn bonus points for certain activities, such as:

• Reviewing or adding photos to places where you’ve checked in (5 bonus points per place)
• Adding or editing information about places that are not yet on Google Maps (5 bonus points per place)
• Adding photos or videos to places that have few or none (5 bonus points per photo or video)

Q: Do my points expire?

A: No, your points do not expire. However, if the content you’ve submitted is removed or rejected by Google, the points you earned for it will be deducted from your total.

Q: What are the benefits of being a Local Guide?

A: As a Local Guide, you can enjoy various benefits depending on your level, such as:

• Level 1: Get access to the Local Guides Connect website and monthly newsletter.
• Level 2: Get early access to new features and products from Google.
• Level 3: Get a Local Guides badge on your profile and reviews.
• Level 4: Get a free Google One trial for 3 months (subject to availability).
• Level 5: Get a chance to be featured on Google Maps and other platforms.
• Level 6: Get a chance to attend exclusive events and workshops for Local Guides.
• Level 7: Get a chance to test new products and features from Google before anyone else.
• Level 8: Get a chance to apply for the Local Guides Summit, an annual event where you can meet and learn from other top Local Guides and Google experts.
• Level 9: Get a chance to become a Google Maps advocate and mentor other Local Guides.
• Level 10: Get a chance to join the Local Guides Advisory Board and influence the future of Google Maps and other services.

Q: How can I learn more about being a Local Guide?

A: You can learn more about being a Local Guide by visiting the following resources:

• The Local Guides website, where you can sign up, check your points and level, and find tips and tutorials on how to contribute to Google Maps.
• The Local Guides Connect website, where you can join discussions, share stories, and find events with other Local Guides from around the world.
• The Local Guides YouTube channel, where you can watch videos featuring stories, tips, and challenges from other Local Guides.
• The [Local Guides Help Center], where you can find answers to common questions and issues related to being a Local Guide.

Conclusion

Becoming a “Local Guide” on Google Maps can be both rewarding and fun, sharing your expertise of the local area with users while simultaneously helping others discover new places and experiences. As an added incentive for sharing knowledge and passion for their community with strangers. As well as earning points, badges, and rewards for contributions made and learning from fellow Local Guides globally becoming one is definitely something worth giving a shot if you love exploring and helping people!