Travel Blogger of the Month: Q&A with Tara Gumala

Our next travel blogger of the month is a Registered Social Worker and self-proclaimed traveler.  She already visited different provinces in the Philippines and in ASIA. She is the author of http://taragumala.blogspot.com/. For being social worker, she aims to provide some materials with her fellow social workers who can use for whatever legal purposes for as long as they ask permission.

I would like to introduce our Travel Blogger of the Month, drum roll please. Let’s give it up to GAB.

Cebu

Q and A with Gab

1. What is your purpose of travelling?

Mainly to explore places that most people don’t know. To share my experiences in budget travelling and inspire other people, especially young age, that travelling need not to be expensive, that your dream destination is always within their reach. Encouraging people to travel is the main purpose of my blog, kaya “TARA GUMALA”(Let’s wander!).

2. Do you travel solo? or in a group?

Both. Though if I am on a strict budget I prefer travelling with group, I believe that it is always cheaper by a dozen. I tried solo backpacking, once; I enjoyed it and will do it again anytime soon.

3. How often do you travel?

I make it at least once a month.

4. If your answer in #2 is travelling solo, what are the best locations for solo traveler?

see # 5

5. If travelling in a group, with family or couple; what would be the best destination?

Palawan: I love everything in Palawan and it is best explored with friends. This is my ultimate destination with my friends. Tip: You will save a lot of time and money in island hopping if you travel here with friends or in a group. 

Panay Island: The whole Panay Island includes 4 provinces (Kalibo, Capiz, Antique and Iloilo) that have underrated attractions. Plus, the public transportation in the island is very accessible. 

Rizal Province: I love this province, besides from being a stone away from the Metro, it has a lot of things to offer, from its magical mountains to fascinating falls to a breathtaking views. Plus, everything here is budget friendly and you don’t have to worry about missing a flight. ;)

6. Give at least 5 travel tips to our readers.

a) Google is your best travel companion! Do your research, as it will be your key to your next destination. There are so many articles in the net; all you have to do is read. And once you’re done with your trip, share it with other people.

b) Always be open for changes. Do not fell in love with Plan A, so that if Plan A did not work you still have Plan B up to Z! 

c) If you are on a budget, always remember that it is “always cheaper by a dozen.” Joining an open tour, especially in island hopping, will save you a lot of time, money and energy, and you will definitely gain new friends.

d) LNT Policy (Leave No Trace). Learn to respect our environment. Stop leaving anything and stop taking anything. 

e) Safety first. Let your loved ones know where you are and give them a copy of your itinerary with contact number.

7. What are your 3 memorable travel destinations and why? (please do share your best photos)

a) Cebu (Bantayan Island and  Malapascua Island): Cebu will also be a memorable travel because this was my first destination on my first ever solo backpacking. I explored places alone, it was fun because I could do anything and I tried things without anyone interfering me. 

b) Kuala Lumpur: I did a lot of research in this place and it was my first time to organize an international travel with my friends. I was the one who planned for everything. It was fulfilling and liberating at the same time.

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

c) Mt. Pulag: I was never a fan of trekking, I am more into islands and beaches, as it only requires minimum energy.  Since Pulag is my first mountain, I also passed out on my way to the summit but the famous sea of clouds in Mt. Pulag changed my perspective. Now, I still love islands but I also love the mountains. In short, I love the outdoor life! 

Mt. Pulag

You can connect with Gab via Facebook facebook.com/taragumala/

To GAB: Thank you for the effort in answering the Q&A with the travel blogger. I hope we can bump each other in one of our future travel destination! Tara Gumala!