Travel Blogger of the Month: Going Places

Hello guys! Today’s blog post is our next travel blogger of the month. He has been traveling since he was 7 years old.  Yes! You read it right! His mother brought him in her various trips abroad and many places. And since then, he became a travel addict.

I am glad to introduce our blogger of the month is, drum roll please… Ian, the author of Going Places.

Below are the travel tips and travel experiences from Ian.

The Great Wall of China - Mutyaniu Section, Beijing, China

Q and A with Pinoy Travel Freak

1. What is your purpose of travelling?

My purpose is mainly to live out my life motto of “travel is an experience of a lifetime”. Travel is an opportunity not just to go places but also a good way to experience the best of life can offer. Travelling is a better way for me to learn the realities of life, discover the cultures surrounding us and how beautiful our country is - which by the way; it is indeed more fun in the Philippines!

2. Do you travel solo? Couple? Or in a group?

I always travel in group because it is always fun with others and travel moments are best shared when you traveled with friends and loved ones. I haven’t experience travelling solo yet. 

3. How often do you travel? 

In a year, at least 5 to 8 times but the concentration of my travels is during Summer since the weather in the country is good for local travel. Summertime coincides not just the start of my travelling season but also my birthday trips as my birth month falls on the first month Summer which is March.

4. What would be the best destinations for a solo traveler, for a couple, for a group or with family and friends?

I haven’t experience solo travelling but I can recommend 5 best destinations for a couple, for a group or with family and friends which I have been to.

a) Thailand – It is best for both first –timers and groups because Thailand is cheap and affordable yet a country very rich in places to see, food to taste and culture to experience.

b) Camiguin – You will fall in love with this island province because it’s gorgeous sceneries and quiet atmosphere are romantic and at the same time fun and exciting.

White Island, Camiguin

c) Vietnam – There so many things to see and to experience in Vietnam especially when you go out of its capital city. It is also very cheap to travel around Vietnam. No need to be a big spender because if you have enough money you can entirely travel and explore the whole country in 2 weeks!

d) Zambales – The beautiful coves of Zambales which mainly caters to campers is a great way to bond with family, friends and loved ones as bonfire by night let’s you share activities that don’t need so much gadgets to be entertain. Plus sceneries of mountain ranges and beaches are superb backdrops!

e) Albay – Adventurous at heart will surely love all the outdoor activities of the province. But if you prefer a relaxing and calming activity, simply admiring the beauty of Mayon Volcano will surely do satisfy you. 

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

a) Research the place that you are going to visit by reading travel blogs and asking queries to the person who actually travelled on the place you want to visit. Research will help you a lot in budgeting, accommodation, itineraries, timetables and sites that are must-see in the place.

b) Take a time off from social media and connection to your urban life. You wouldn’t be able to savor to the fullest the new place and the new experience that is being expose to you if you keep on tweeting and posting a shout and check-in just to be keep everyone updated and be on the hashtag ATM mode.

c) Stay safe in anything you do in travel. Be aware of accident prone areas and activities that might cause injuries. And don’t touch any marine animal or corals when snorkeling. Be aware of poisonous marine animals that seemed harmless like jellyfish, sea urchin, lionfish and stone fish.

d) Be aware of the time! Always keep in mind that time is very essential in every aspect of travel. From flights, bus schedules, days of stay, frequency of transportations, weather changes up to distances of one place to another, time always play a vital role in travel.

e) Always check the weather to the place that you are visiting on your target date of travel because bad weather definitely spoils your once in a lifetime trip.

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

a) Bohol – Aside from being my first time in Bohol and experiencing its haven of natural beauty, this destination was my first ever birthday trip in which I actually travelled on my birth date.  I have never been so happy than doing my one great passion in life on your special day!  It was an experience I will never forget! My birthday trip to Bohol also started my yearly tradition of having a yearly birthday trip on my birthday day.

Chocolate Hills of Bohol

b) Beijing, China – It was a dream destination to me ever since it was announced as the host of 2008 Summer Olympics. It is not just a historical trip but it also let me appreciate China, the Chinese people and its rich culture. It is also a trip wherein I carefully planned a very hands-on and do-it-yourself style of travel which I successfully pull-off. I was able to do DIY trip to the Great Wall of China with only the help of printed guides and travel blogs sans language barrier. But what also makes it memorable is that my trip to China was one of my travels that I really work hard for it to happen. Imagine, I spend two years saving money to fund my trip to China!

c) Anilao, Mabini, Batangas – This is one of the destinations that I truly enjoyed group travel with friends. When my friends at work happened to have a schedule of same day-off, we didn’t let pass the chance to have a great bonding time by having a “best day-off ever” in Anilao! It was fun and memorable because on this trip we get a chance to know things about each other and about ourselves as well. What makes this destination memorable the most is we get a chance to establish a long lasting friendship in our circle. This is one of my trips that I truly experienced, the travel thought – “As with any journey, who you travel with can be more important than your destination”

7. Who is your ideal traveler? Why?

My mom, Gloria C. Poral. Why? Because she is the true viajera at heart in our family. Since, I was 7 years-old, she already brought me on her various trips abroad and she has been to many places before I get into travel world. She introduce to me to the travel world at a young age! I think this was the reason why I grow up as a travel addict! But I admire her most for having always a thirst for adventure and for discovering the world around her.

I also looked up to Chyng Reyes of No spam, no virus, no kiddin!. Her travel photos are superb and travel tips are helpful. But I also love the way she tells her travel stories which were fun, adventurous and entertaining. 

To the owner of Going Places, it is my privilege to feature a travel blogger like you. And, for that, I'd like to thank you for giving me a chance to let me share your tips and experiences through this site.

Connect with Ian - Going Places through social media sites.

Twitter: @ianlovesplaces
Instagram: @ianskyianized
FB page: facebook.com/goingplaces

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! 

Travel Blogger of the Month: Q&A with Sky and Summer

Today is the first day of what we called “Love Month” and our Travel Blogger of the Month is a lovely couple which currently residing in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The owner of www.boundfortwo.com. Sky and summer are both from Mindanao and they met in Cebu. In 2010, they decided to take another chapter in their relationship. And, in 2014, they renewed vows.

Sky and summer shared their travel experiences and tips through my Q&A with Travel blogger.

Q and A with Sky and Summer

1. What is your purpose of travelling?

Explore new places, learn and different cultures and meet people. 

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

We’re a duo but we can join a group for more fun.

3. How often do you travel?

Leash had been in place, so we say at least once in every quarter.

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

N/A

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

a. Subscribe to news mail and social media of Airlines/ Hotel  to get ahead of that promos.

b. Always be early to the airport.

c. Bring dry fit shirts when visiting hot humid countries. It’s easy to wash and fast to dry.

d. Bring in empty water bottle, this saves a lot of moolah.

e. Wears a smile, wherever you are. It’s a Universal language.

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

a. Bagan, Myanmar

b. Koh Lipe Thailand

c. Borobudur Temple, Magelang Indonesia

You can connect with this lovely couple to:

Twitter: @boundfortwo

Instagram: boundfortwo

Facebook: www.facebook.com/BoundForTwo

To this lovely couple: I am glad that they accept my invitation to answer all questions on the form. I wish all the happiness and love. Happy love month to both of you. More travel! :)

Travel Blogger of the Month: Q&A with Budget Biyahera

Hello Guys!

For today’s piece of writing, I have asked or sent an interview question to our fellow traveler to be featured here in the website as my “Travel Blogger of the Month”. There are few questions that they need to fill out on the form. And, I am grateful that our first travel blogger of the month really exert an effort to my request.

I would like to introduce our “Travel Blogger of the Month” is the author of www.budgetbiyahera.com or you may call her “Mai”. She started blogging on 2008. She is also a freelance writer, the owner and designer of the local shoe line Lakhambini and part-owner of a Video Production House called Brass Knuckles Inc.

Q and A with Budget Biyahera

1. What is your purpose of travelling?

Oftentimes, I would travel to seek relaxation -- to simply have the time to unwind and recharge. But I also travel to discover new places, to learn and immerse in new cultures, and to meet like-minded individuals who’ll teach me a thing or two about life. 

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

I haven’t traveled solo yet. But I’ve always had plans to try it. Hopefully soon.

3. How often do you travel?

I used to travel at least once every 4 months. But since I started my small venture, my trips lessened. If I can’t go out of town, I would try and reward myself with a staycation in the metro. I also try to visit one country every year, if budget permits.

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

N/A

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

a. Try to budget your projected expenses for an upcoming trip. The process itself will help you determine what you need to save up for.

b. Purchase plane tickets from seat sales even if the travel date is a year from now. This can work to your advantage, as it gives you more time to save and do your research.

c. Do your research. By doing so, you’ll be able to learn how much transportation fees are on an estimate (i.e. Boat and Motorcycle fares), how much your preferred lodgings are worth, what the weather will be like and so on.

d. Invest in a durable bag, and pack light if you’re going on a short trip. By doing so, you’ll no longer have to buy that extra check-in baggage. 

e. Instead of folding your clothes, try to roll them one-by-one. You’ll get to have more space for other things in your bag when you use this method.

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

White water rafting in Cagayan De Oro, Misamis Oriental

Island hopping in Coron, Palawan

Temple hopping in Siem Reap, Cambodia

You can connect with Budget Biyahera via:

Twitter: @budget_biyahera

Instagram: budget_biyahera

Facebook: www.facebook.com/budgetbiyahera

To Mai: Thank you so much for your time for answering the Q&A with Travel Blogger. May you have more travel this year. Keep safe and enjoy! :)