Empowering women through Google Maps

[TiffanyBnyc]

Caption: A photo of Local Guide Kiara Di Paola sitting on the Brooklyn Bridge in New York City and holding a rainbow balloon. (Courtesy of Local Guide @Kiariladyboss)

In celebration of International Women’s Day on March 8th, we’re shining a spotlight on one of the incredible women in our community, @Kiariladyboss. Kiara Di Paola is a Local Guide Level 9 and a New Yorker who is passionate about exploring the city and uncovering local gems for others to discover on Google Maps.

Originally from Italy, she always had the desire to live abroad and experience different cultures and languages. Through watching movies, Los Angeles seemed like her ideal life. She remembers her first visit to New York as a tourist and she “hated it.” But after university, she jumped at an opportunity to move to New York, and quickly fell in love with the city.

Today, Kiara has shared more than 7,000 photos and videos and 900 reviews of restaurants, attractions, and more across New York City and wherever her travels take her. “I love to review places on Google Maps and know that I am helping other people with useful information and pictures,” Kiara says. You can check out her list of unique and hidden spots in New York.

Caption: A photo of deck chairs, tables, and an outdoor daybed on a lawn at QC Spa, one of the most relaxing spots in New York City, with the city’s skyline in the background. (Courtesy of Local Guide @Kiariladyboss)

Kiara draws inspiration from the women who have shaped her life, particularly her grandmother and mother who always showed strength and kindness — characteristics she has carried with her in life and her career. As an entrepreneur herself, celebrating her 10th year in the travel industry, Kiara is especially passionate about supporting women-owned businesses. She empowers others and encourages people to visit women-led businesses by reviewing their places and adding photos and videos to bring the experience to life. “I truly believe in the authenticity and truthfulness of Google Maps. People on Maps are real,” she says. 

Caption: A collage of two photos of Little Market NYC, a women-led market, featuring brands that are only owned by women. (Courtesy of Local Guide @Kiariladyboss)

Along with making edits to places, like changes in opening and closing hours, she also updates her reviews from time to time, adding pictures or new captions. Kiara notes that “places change, you change, and you may have more to add over time.”

When she’s not traveling and sharing about her adventures on Google Maps, you can find Kiara running marathons or volunteering her time to help homeless and low-income women in New York City gain skills and experience to find jobs. 

Happy International Women's Day to all of the amazing women in our community! Local Guides, don’t forget to join our new Connect challenge dedicated to supporting women-owned businesses.