How one Local Guide supports LGBTQ+ businesses on Google Maps and Connect

[TiffanyBnyc]

Caption: A photo of the outdoor seating area of the Cafe Bar Eden in Maspalomas, Spain, with a rainbow flag in the background. (Local Guide @HeyitsNicho)

We’re excited to kick off Pride month by sharing the story of Local Guide and 2021 Guiding Star Nick (@HeyitsNicho). Nick loves to support LGBTQ+ businesses by spreading the word about them on Google Maps and Connect.

“I use Google Maps as a reviewer who wants to visit gay bars and other LGBTQ+ places. When I’m out, I need to know the location, opening times, and other information which Google Maps provides. It allows me to be spontaneous with my trips and explore places I want to go to.” 

Nick thinks it’s vital to support LGBTQ+ businesses because they’re more than just a business. “Let’s take gay bars, for example. They have LGBTQ-owned beer brands, LGBTQ magazines, and hire LGBTQ artists. A popular beer might sound nice, but you can support the LGBTQ community and bring joy by giving a shoutout in your reviews to the venue, drinks, and artists you are seeing.”

One of Nick’s most memorable moments as a Local Guide was when a well-known LGBTQ+ pub owner told Nick that his review on Google Maps brought new people to the bar. “It was so nice to hear that I actually made an economic difference, if only once for that pub owner.”

Caption: A photo of Nick and his partner at the Southend Pier and Railway in Southend-on-Sea, UK. (Local Guide @HeyitsNicho)

Nick loves being a part of our community on Connect, too, which he says often inspires him to go out more. That’s why it’s no surprise that he also uses the platform to help others discover great LGBTQ+ places. “This way, when I visit these venues, instead of just reviewing them on Google Maps, I can post about them on Connect and create a guided experience so others can (if they are in a place for a limited time) check out all of them.” His guides cover European capitals like Rome and Budapest, beach resorts like Maspalomas in Spain, and towns across England, like Rochester and Southend-on-Sea.

For Nick, Pride is about accepting yourself, affirming your rights, and celebrating love and identity. This year, he will be celebrating by attending various events throughout England. “I'll be going to as many Pride parades as I can because they are my favorite.” He’s planning to turn his trips into helpful posts for Connect, so make sure you watch this space in June!

Local Guides, how do you support LGBTQ+ businesses? Let us know in the comments below.