My Google Guide Reviews

Maxim Ross - Google Guide Profile

I have been a Google Guide for a number of years, and very much enjoy sharing reviews, pictures and videos of the places we visit around the world.

Being a Google Local Guide is a fantastic hobby if you love travel, exploring new places, having new experiences, and sharing them with people.

Explore more about the Google Local Guides program.

Our Travels Around the World

Singapore

Singapore is an amazing place to visit! From its unique culture, delicious cuisine and iconic landmarks to its vibrant nightlife and stunning national parks, there’s no shortage of things to do!

Singapore is filled with adventure and excitement and is an awesome destination for anyone looking for a unique travel experience. One of my favorite things about Singapore is the food. Hainanese chicken rice, Laksa and chili crab are some of the favorites you can get at the local hawker centers.

There’s also a huge variety of things to do and places to explore – Marina Bay, cable car ride to Sentosa Island, Haw Par Villa, Jurong Bird Park, Night Safari – there’s always something exciting and fun to experience so you’ll never get bored.

Singapore is also home to some of the world’s best shopping, you can’t visit Singapore and not spend some time on Orchard Road.  There’s a variety of malls, markets, and high-end boutiques. Moreover, Singapore is an incredibly safe and clean city, making it a great destination for travelers of all ages.

Singapore is truly a city of adventure and I love it!

Bangkok

Bangkok is one of the most vibrant and exciting that I have spent a lot of time in, both working an for pleasure. There is no shortage of fun and interesting things to do. Bangkok is one of the most unique and exciting places you can go, while still experiencing all the creature comforts of a modern city. Whether you’re interested in shopping, sightseeing, or even just experiencing the culture, there’s something for everyone.

One of the best ways to explore the city is through its many markets and shopping centers. Bangkok is known for its bustling street markets, like Chatuchak Market, which offers a variety of goods ranging from clothes and accessories to food and furniture. The Chao Phraya River, running through the city, is the centerpiece of many of the tourist sights. One of the best ways to get around is on the river taxis.

Chiang Rai

Chiang Rai is the northernmost province of Thailand and is a popular travel destination for those seeking unique experiences a little off the beaten tracks of Phuket and Pattaya. With a rich cultural heritage and plenty of natural beauty, there is never a shortage of things to do and see in Chiang Rai.

For those interested in exploring the vibrant culture of Chiang Rai, there are several temples and historical landmarks to visit. Wat Rong Khun, also known as the White Temple, is a breathtaking temple complex covered in stunning white stucco and glass fragments. Wat Phra Kaew, or the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, is a spectacular temple that houses a revered Emerald Buddha statue. Both of these temples are must-sees for travelers looking to experience the local culture.

For those interested in ancient ruins, Chiang Rai offers the ruins of Wat Phra That Doi Chom Thong. This ancient temple is believed to have been built in the 13th century and is surrounded by lush jungle and spectacular views. Visitors can explore the ruins and learn about the history of the temple.

Chiang Rai also has several beautiful gardens, including the Baan Dam Museum. This unique museum is filled with a variety of traditional Thai artifacts, sculptures, and paintings. Visitors can stroll through the gardens and take in the sights and sounds of the museum.

Nature lovers will find plenty of opportunities to explore the great outdoors in Chiang Rai. Doi Tung, also known as the Mountain of the North, is a stunning mountain range with some of the most beautiful views of the region. For a more tranquil experience, you can take a boat ride along the Mae Kok River and enjoy the breathtaking scenery. There are also many hiking trails that offer stunning views of the nearby mountains and lush jungle.

Bangkok Again

Bangkok is home to many temples and shrines, as well as numerous monuments and historical attractions. A visit to Wat Pho and the Grand Palace should be at the top of every traveler’s list, and a trip to the floating markets of Thonburi will offer an unforgettable experience.

For those looking to indulge in some unique Thai culture, there’s plenty of activities to take part in. From Thai cooking classes, to Muay Thai boxing lessons, to even taking part in a traditional Thai wedding, there’s no shortage of ways to experience the local culture. Thai tourist attractions like the Erawan Museum and the Jim Thompson House are also great places to learn more about the country’s history and art.

No matter what your interests are, Bangkok has something to offer everyone. With its vibrant culture, diverse attractions, and endless shopping opportunities, it’s no wonder Bangkok is one of the most popular destinations for tourists, and a place we visit often. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious shopping experience, a unique cultural experience, or just a chance to explore one of the world’s most exciting cities, Bangkok is sure to provide a unique and unforgettable journey.

Space Shuttle Atlantis STS129 Launch

The launch of Space Shuttle Atlantis STS129 was one of the most spectacular events I had witnessed. It was my first shuttle launch viewing. It was a sight to behold and an experience to remember for a lifetime.

The launch viewing areas were packed with thousands of people eagerly waiting to witness the launch. People could watch the launch from the rooftop of the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, or from the NASA Causeway. NASA also provided special viewing areas in the form of bleachers and also had telescopes available for viewing the launch.

As the countdown began, spectators felt a wave of anticipation and excitement in the air. When it came time for launch, the space shuttle roared off the launchpad with a thunderous sound and a brilliant light show. It was a spectacular sight to see with bright flashes of light and booming thunderous noises.  For those viewing the launch from the Causeway, it was an awe-inspiring sight. The shuttle was visible for miles, lighting up the sky with a brilliant display of energy and power.

The Space Shuttle Atlantis STS 129 mission was an important event for NASA. Its main purpose was to deliver two massive spares packages to the International Space Station. The mission lasted 11 days and involved five spacewalks. For the first time ever, the crew used a robotic arm to move parts from the shuttle cargo bay to the space station.