Hello everyone!! I am Omkar, a Level 7 Local Guide from Pune City in India. My journey with Google started in 2014 when I began frequently adding ratings in Maps. Google kept sending me recommendations to contribute more to Maps by joining as a Local Guide. A positive response to my first review encouraged me to actively participate and finally, in November 2019 I signed up for the cause.
I have visited many places and clicked many photos with my old camera during the pre-smartphone world. I still remember the trouble it used to be to explore a new place with the aid of locals. I wished there was a reliable guide with me. Google Maps made that dream come true and now I am expressing my gratitude by helping other travelers and new-comers to the city with my reviews and photos.
The Local Guides Program has uncovered another facet of my life- to explore the unexplored! My view of the world has changed. Now I always try to find out the unique things or unknown facts about the places I visit. I plan my outings to locations that are not yet well recognized and need promotion. I want people to know about these unique places along with the associated trivia. My photos and reviews are getting more attention and are proving useful to the community. This gives me immense pleasure and also inspires me to contribute more.
I’m passionate about driving and traveling. The Local Guides Program has given me a reason to drive more, travel more, and contribute more. The points and rewards that I get also add to the motivation of sharing my knowledge as a guide.
Connect Live 2020 Event is a great opportunity for me to explore the unexplored and expand my view. It will also add more to my knowledge base. I will get to meet the Local Guides Community and experience my first journey out of India. I am super excited to be there at the Connect Live 2020 Event!
