Danila loves to review restaurants as a way to document her travels while shouting out local businesses that have memorable service and experiences. As a Local Guide, Danila's goal is to capture mouthwatering photos of dishes and desserts with helpful photos of menus that show pricing, and ambiance. Danila's latest obsession is to find the best pizza in Milan.

What is your favorite place, experience, photo or video you contributed to Google Maps this year?
Last summer I visited Mexico for the second time. It was a great experience and I had the chance to explore more of Yucatán than I did the last time I visited. I visited the Sian Ka'an Natural Reserve this time around and it was one of my favorite places in Yucatán. The reserve is home to several endangered species, and I got to see dolphins, manatees and turtles (with their babies!) swim in their natural habitat. A really incredible experience.

What advice do you have for other Local Guides?
If you're thinking about becoming a Local Guide, my advice is to just do it! The best part of being a Local Guide is that you don't need any special skills or knowledge. You just need to be willing to explore your city (or new ones!) and share what you find with others. And the best way to enjoy yourself as a Local Guide is to be kind and helpful.

What do you like most about the Local Guides community?
When I travel and want to experience a place "like a local." The community is great in helping me find things to see and do, that I would otherwise miss. Thanks to some really good reviews, I've discovered some hidden gems all over the world.

What makes a place or experience worth rating/reviewing?
It's also fun to be more mindful of my own experience, so I can write better reviews later on. It feels like writing a diary! I enjoy writing reviews and make an effort to do so on a regular basis. But I'm happiest when I can give a glowing recommendation for a fantastic experience or service (especially food). If the experience was particularly enjoyable, or if something amusing or unexpected happened, I will almost certainly write a review.

What is your favorite feature of Google Maps?
I love it when you can make a reservation directly through Google Maps. In a busy city like Milan, finding a table by making phone calls is always a huge headache! And it's especially useful when you're traveling and don't speak the local language.

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