Torben is a Local Guide who always keeps an eye open for how they can add to Google Maps while traveling. By adding photos at every stop, Torben has amassed over 78,000 photos with more than 3.5 billion views, 11 lists, and 3,000+ places added on Google Maps — all allowing others a better understanding of the locale. In planning future trips, Torben looks forward to meeting other Local Guides and sharing the experience with the broader community.

What is your favorite place, experience, photo or video you contributed to Google Maps this year?
This year I visited Cape Sounion in Greece and the North Cape in Norway, where I was able to contribute many photos to Google Maps. Traveling around Europe has allowed me to better learn and understand the cultures of this portion of the world. For example, shopping malls are always a special highlight for me. You get to see how international retail companies tailor an experience to different environments.

What advice do you have for other Local Guides?
It's important to contribute information that will help others navigate the most efficient, and pleasant experience. That means adding photos that show the entrance or distinguishing features of a venue. In most cases, one photo per place can go a long way. Try to be objective when writing contributions, as well. You should look for a business' best effort in their customer service and offerings, and try to be constructive with how your review can help them and their customers.

What do you like most about the Local Guides community?
The Local Guide community expands my world and "business bubble" on an international level. We share a passion to explore our world and share different experiences. It's even better to be able to attend the meet-ups in person. We've been able to organize these in incredible locations such as Norcia, Treviso, Krakow, and Gent! I am looking forward to taking part in organizing more in 2023.

What makes a place or experience worth rating/reviewing?
If the place has an impact on a community or neighborhood, then it is worth reviewing. I look for a special feeling when I visit. While I can't review all the places I visit on business trips, I do look for unique experiences like museums, restaurants, and specific stores that have more of an impact on how I interact with the world.

What is your favorite feature of Google Maps?
My favorite feature is finding the best routes to a destination on Google Maps. I use all kinds of transportation, so I'm always happy to use the timeline function and of course the possibility to upload pictures along the way.

Want to learn more about this incredible Local Guide? Check out their contributions on Google Maps and follow them on Connect.