In an apparent move to take on Yelp and other local review sites, Internet search giant Google has quietly launched a new program called `Google City Experts,' which will basically encourage more high-quality local business ratings and reviews on the Google+ social network.

The Google City Experts program promising perks as well as appreciation for users who regularly write up their experiences at restaurants, theaters, and other locations around select cities, initially only in the U. S., U. K., Australia, and Japan. Users who leave at least 50 reviews to date will be rewarded, as will be those who write up at least five new reviews every month.

According to a Google representative, the special perks will be given to users who meet the guidelines of the Google City Experts program - which amalgamates Google+ and Google Maps - will include exclusive access to local events; "special online recognition;" and "custom swag" which means free, Google-branded products.

In addition, avid participants will also be entitled to receive monthly newsletters which may include a variety of offers; and will be alerted to possible involvement in local contests and events.

The select cities in which the Google City Experts program is being initially offered include Austin, Chicago, New York, Phoenix, Portland, Raleigh-Durham, and San Francisco in the US; Bristol, Edinburgh, London, Manchester in the UK; Sydney in Australia; and Tokyo and Osaka in Japan. However, Google will gradually expand the program to new areas over a period of time.