Google Maps and Hold My Pin: two parts of the same plan.

Start with the job you need done

If you already know a place’s name and location, searching for it directly in Google Maps may be the simplest next step. If the clue you have is an Instagram reel, Hold My Pin can help turn that content into map links.

There is no need to choose one tool for every part of a trip. The useful distinction is between identifying a place from a post and deciding how to organize or visit it.

When your starting point is a reel

Follow @holdmypin and share a public reel or post in the DM conversation. The assistant attempts to identify places from the available content and replies with Google Maps links. Response times and results vary.

Open a returned link and confirm the intended business, city and branch. An AI-assisted result can be wrong; a map search result is not the same as a verified venue recommendation.

Make the shortlist yours

Google Maps supports saving places to your own lists. Once you have checked a result, use the Save control in Maps and choose a list that makes sense to you, such as a particular trip or places near home.

Hold My Pin does not automatically add places to that account. Keeping this step deliberate also helps you avoid collecting every result when only one or two interest you.

A simple way to choose

Use direct map search for a place you can already name. Use Hold My Pin when the information is still inside a reel. Keep the source post for the details that made you curious, and check current venue information before setting off.

• Known name and city: try a direct map search.
• Interesting Instagram post: send it to @holdmypin.
• Confirmed listing: save it in your map app.
• Visit planned: confirm opening hours and reservations with the venue.