Category: Best Locations 2017
For the Consul who consistently chooses superb locations, going above and beyond for exciting and top-class activities!
2017 Winner: Omar Wani in Khobar (Eastern Prov.), Saudi Arabia
2017 Honorable Mention: Helena Pham in Hanoi, Vietnam
Why They Won
When determining 2017’s choice for Best Locations, the Global Awards Jury considered Consuls who consistently think outside of the box, hosting their activities in new and exciting places, and injecting a sense of fun and adventure into their location choices.
One of our jury members says, “Since taking on the role as Consul of the Meeting & Adventure Group in 2014, Omar has made it possible for so many members to experience places surrounding Khobar that they wouldn’t normally be able to see. Picking great locations by the sea or on top of sand dunes in the desert, Omar takes exploring to the next level. He has also given the opportunity for members to see Khobar from the sky, organizing paragliding as a top location for his activities!”
How do you go about finding unique locations to organize your activities?
Well I must admit that searching and exploring new places has always been my passion. I strongly believe that there are ample places to explore wherever you go and most of the times even we aren’t aware of our local surroundings as most of the people usually ignore the places around them and try to look for newer options. The best way to find unique and interesting places is to connect with locals as much as you can and besides there is lot of information available on the internet to explore. I always keep an open mind when it comes to exploring something new. I noticed that even some simple activities like visiting a camel farm and feeding camels brings joy and happiness to the people.
What is important to look for when choosing your locations? Do you have any ‘’top tips’’ to share with other Consuls?
In choosing locations for dining and social gatherings, I always rely on the quality of the service of the food and friendliness of the staff. However, I am an outdoor person and always keen on exploring the best possible options. The key to choosing locations is to be creative and think outside the box. I remember one time I participated in a cultural festival and saw many activities happening in one place, that was a time when I took note of them and decided to include them in my bucket for future activities. It started with paragliding in the middle of the desert with a breathtaking view of the oasis around. The activity was appreciated by all members and it motivated me to take initiatives and always come up with new and different ideas. This activity remains one of our regular activities due to its popularity and adventurous nature.
Can you give us an example of a “highlight activity” you have hosted during your time as Consul?
Every activity I host is a learning experience as I encounter people from all over the world with different nationalities, backgrounds, etc. There have been many proud moments which I would like to cherish here with all of you. One of the best moments was organizing a Christmas party, which I had no clue about as I was brought up in a Muslim background, and besides, options for entertainment and celebration are limited in Saudi Arabia. The party was attended by members of InterNations irrespective of their background, and bringing people together to celebrate under one roof was a life changing and wonderful moment personally to me.
I remember another proud moment which was to organize a Ramadan Dinner as suggested by InterNations HQ. In the beginning, I wasn’t convinced with the idea as most of the members of InterNations are mainly foreigners in comparison to locals. I finalized the venue and decided to go ahead with it. To my surprise, I saw a huge number of people showing a great interest in joining dinner and talking about cultures, festivals and diversity in the kingdom.
Congratulations to Omar, 2017’s winner for the Best Locations, as well as our honorable mention, Helena Pham! We look forward to seeing what exciting locations you come up with for your activities in 2018!
About the Winner:
Omar Wani has been the Consul of the Khobar (Eastern Prov.) Meeting & Adventure Group since January 2014. Originally from Kashmir, Omer has been living in Saudi Arabia for over six years. He has a passion for exploring new places and adores the inquisitiveness of local culture. He loves to meet new members in Saudi Arabia and shows them the adventurous and brighter side of life in unique locations.
