Hey Local Guides! I’m a Level 8 Local Guide, and I always try to make my reviews as useful as possible. After writing hundreds of them, I’ve realized that some key strategies can make a review more informative, more engaging, and even more valuable for others.
Here are my top 5 tips to write reviews that truly stand out:
Tell a story, don’t just describe the place
Instead of saying “The coffee was good, and the place was nice,” try adding more personality and details:
“I walked into this café looking for a quiet place to work. I was immediately impressed by the smooth jazz playing in the background and the barista’s warm welcome. He recommended their signature espresso, and wow—it did not disappoint! The real highlight? A raspberry cheesecake that looked (and tasted) like a work of art. Definitely coming back!”
Be specific—details matter!
Mention what really makes a difference for future visitors:
Food & drinks: Portion sizes, taste, prices, any must-try dishes?
Service: Friendly, fast, or slow? Any standout staff members?
Atmosphere: Cozy, trendy, loud? Good for working or date nights?
Accessibility: Parking, wheelchair access, kid-friendly options?
Use high-quality photos (but not too many!)
People love visuals, so upload clear, well-lit photos of food, interiors, or standout features. Pro tip: Avoid posting 10+ similar shots—instead, choose the best 3-5 to make an impact.
Keep it real—mention both pros & cons
Honest reviews help the community the most. If something wasn’t great, say it politely:
“The pasta was fresh and homemade, but the portion was smaller than expected.”
“Great cocktails, but service was slow on a busy night—maybe better on weekdays.”
Answer questions before people ask them!
Think about what YOU would want to know before visiting a place. Does it have free Wi-Fi? Is it pet-friendly? Is there outdoor seating? The more helpful your review, the more people will appreciate (and upvote) it!
Bonus: Want to level up faster as a Local Guide? Consistency is key! Try adding reviews every week, even for small places like gas stations or convenience stores. Every contribution helps the community.
What are your best review-writing tips? Let’s share and help each other become better Local Guides!