Google Local Guides: write reviews and earn points

What is Google Local Guides?

Google Local Guides is a Google program that encourages users to contribute to Google Maps. By writing reviews, uploading photos, answering questions, and adding or correcting information, you help others make better decisions about where to go. In return for your contributions, you earn points and move up in level, which gives you access to exclusive perks.

The program makes Google Maps more reliable and up to date. Just think about it: how many times have you chosen a restaurant based on reviews, or found a store thanks to someone's photo? As a Local Guide, you are the one who helps others with this kind of information.

Why should you join?

Help your community

By sharing your experiences, you help others in your neighborhood and beyond. Your review of a local restaurant can help a tourist find the perfect place to eat. Your photo of a hidden gem can inspire someone to discover a new place.

Earn points and perks

Every contribution earns points. As you collect more points, you move up in level (from level 1 to 10). Higher levels give access to perks such as early access to new Google features, invitations to exclusive events, and badges on your profile.

Be part of a community

Local Guides form a worldwide community of millions of people who work together to improve Google Maps. In the Netherlands there are also local groups and meetups where Local Guides get together.

Signing up as a Local Guide

Joining is easy and free. All you need is a Google account. Go to maps.google.com/localguides and sign up, or open Google Maps on your phone and go to your profile to sign up for the program.

After signing up, you can start contributing right away. Every review, photo, or correction you add earns points and counts toward your level.

How do you earn points?

There are several ways to earn points as a Local Guide:

Writing reviews (10 points per review)

This is the most valuable contribution. Write honest, detailed reviews of places you have visited. Describe your experience, the atmosphere, the service, and whether you would recommend the place.

Adding photos (5 points per photo)

Upload photos of places you visit. Good photos help others get an idea of what to expect. Think of photos of the location, the interior, the food, or specific products.

Adding videos (7 points per video)

Short videos can give even more context than photos. Film the atmosphere of a cafe, a walk through a store, or the view from a lookout point.

Answering questions (1 point per answer)

Other users ask questions about locations. If you know the answer, you can help. Questions are often about opening hours, parking, or specific facilities.

Adding or editing information (5 points)

Help keep Google Maps up to date by adding or correcting information. This can include opening hours, phone numbers, websites, or accessibility information.

Adding places (15 points)

Do you know a location that is not on Google Maps yet? Add it! These can be new stores, restaurants, or public facilities.

Tips for writing good reviews

Be specific and detailed

A three-word review helps no one. Describe what you ordered, how the service was, what the atmosphere was like, and what you specifically liked or disliked. The more specific, the more useful.

Be honest and objective

Give an honest picture of your experience. Avoid exaggerating in either a positive or negative direction. Acknowledge that a less pleasant experience may have been a one-off.

Write for others

Think about what you would want to know before going somewhere. Is it suitable for kids? Are there vegetarian options? Is there parking? This kind of practical information is worth its weight in gold.

Update your reviews

If you visit a place again and the experience has changed, update your review. This keeps the information current and relevant.

The levels and perks

There are 10 levels in the Local Guides program. Here is an overview:

• Level 1: 0 points - You've started!
• Level 2: 15 points
• Level 3: 75 points
• Level 4: 250 points - Access to the Local Guides Connect community
• Level 5: 500 points - Badge on your profile
• 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 - Highest status

The perks vary and are regularly changed by Google. They can include Google Drive storage, discounts on Google products, early access to new features, and invitations to special events.

Local Guides in the Netherlands

The Netherlands has an active Local Guides community. There are Facebook groups and forums where Dutch Local Guides exchange experiences and share tips. Sometimes Google organizes local meetups or online events specifically for Local Guides.

Dutch cities benefit enormously from active Local Guides. Tourists from all over the world use Google Maps to explore the Netherlands, and your contributions help them find the best places.

Privacy and visibility

Your reviews and photos are publicly visible on Google Maps, linked to your Google profile. You can control in your settings how much information is visible. If you'd rather stay anonymous, you can change your profile name.

Keep in mind that your contributions are permanent and can be seen by millions of people. Write reviews you stand behind and only post photos you are willing to share.

Conclusion

Google Local Guides is a fun and meaningful way to share your experiences and help others. Whether you are a passionate foodie, love exploring, or simply want to contribute to your local community, as a Local Guide you make a difference. Sign up, start contributing, and watch your points and level grow. Every review and photo you share makes Google Maps a little better for everyone.

Frequently asked questions

Does it cost money to become a Google Local Guide?

No, joining the Google Local Guides program is completely free. All you need is a Google account to start contributing and earning points.

What perks do I get as a Local Guide?

Perks vary by level and are determined by Google. They can include extra Google Drive storage, early access to new features, badges on your profile, and invitations to exclusive events.

Are my reviews anonymous?

No, your reviews are posted under your Google profile name and are publicly visible. You can, however, change your profile name if you don't want to use your real name.

Can I edit or delete my review later?

Yes, you can edit or delete your reviews at any time through Google Maps. It is even recommended to update reviews if your experiences change on a return visit.