A longtime fan of traditional mapping, Ricardo was born to be a Local Guide. "When Google Maps came out, the transition was very natural," he said. "As a Local Guide, I really like to register new places in my city and, above all, write reviews as a reference for other Maps users. With the passage of time, the changes and new options of the program are always exciting because in this way we help both tourists and inhabitants of our city through our impressions and discoveries of small places that are essential to visit."

He is a member of the self-organized #TeamTacos, launched in 2019, whom Connect readers will recognize from their amazing meet-ups (and recaps) about their culture, stories about places worth visiting, and posts bringing the LATAM community together. He's co-hosted many meet-ups with this group, highlighting everything from towns in Mexico to tips for being a great Local Guide.

In the age of COVID-19, he has also come to understand other ways Local Guides can have an impact on their community. "This situation has caused me to realize how important our role as Local Guides is to support small businesses, either by registering the business in case it does not appear in Maps, or by registering updated information on its operating model during the pandemic, so that customers can request their services without having to physically move," he told us.

"During this time I have tried to do a more direct review of the neighborhood in which I live to be sure that the information of these small businesses is correct. I know that's a practical way to help them and help my entire community."

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