Born and raised in the Philippines, my first experiences of travels would be around Metro Manila, where I grew up, and our occasional out of town trips to Nueva Ecija where my father is originally from. Road trips and beaches are a part of my life. I remember a couple of times when my Dad would drive us very early in the morning to Baguio and drive back to Metro Manila on the same day. He did not complain of exhaustion. He was just happy that the family was spending time together and exploring beautiful places in our country.
Fast forward to today, I’ve been blessed to have friends and loved ones who also love traveling and discovering new spots in the Philippines. With them, I had the privilege of hiking in Kalinga to meet the badass Oldest Mambabatok (Traditional Kalinga Tatooist), Apo Whang-od, couchsurfing in Bohol and Samar, road trippin’ to Bicol and swim with the butandings (whale sharks), and going on weekend getaways to Zambales, La Union, and Tagaytay in Cavite, just to de-stress and have coffee or a bottle or two.
So many things to see and experience in my country, the Philippines! And, I’m so excited for you, too, to get to have a taste of what we can offer!
If you need more convincing or are planning on a trip to my side of the world, let me tell you stories of my travels in the Philippines and some insider’s tips and info on where to go, what to eat, and what to experience in the Philippines. Click on the pictures below!