Posting in the Kilt night by state or country works if folks actually frequent those areas to respond to a fresh post from a visitor, but I fear may miss some folks who would be interested in being involved.

Using the stated locations would be helpful if one could sort by location, but then might require multiple PMs to various members in those areas as there would be no centralized listing of who in those areas might be interesting in helping out a visitor, i.e., interested hosts so to speak.

An interactive map would let folks post their own "pin" in their location which should then lead to a forum member's name, as well as what kind of things he/she might be interested in helping with---directions, guidance, sharing adventures or meals or drinks, even hosting a visitor in his/her home or B&B, etc... Only those interested in the whole project would need to "post" a pin and description. Not interested, no pin, regardless of the fact you live there. Those who are travelling would be able to see where folks are who are interested in helping out a traveller so they can contact them and plan their trip in those areas.

A second use of a map, or better a separate map with a different use, would be one where folks could post a "pin" at a location and link it to a short description of a particular point of interest, photographic opportunity, sight to visit, place they have been, and could be linked to travel photos in the "post your photos" section of the forum. E.g., somebody visits Ben Dhub, the could post a "pin" linked to a brief description of what they saw, and what was so great about this place, and then link to their photos. Different colored pins could be used for places to eat with reviews, places to stay with reviews, particularly interesting but lesser known places to visit and activities like highland games, etc...

Just some thoughts. Ponder some more on them as will I.

jeff