The Road to Conquer Philippines’ 80 Provinces: Tips For Solo Travelers
I have been traveling solo alot and I have noticed that more and more people are really going solo. For whatever reason, I know it’s worth it.
Here is how I travel solo:
- PLAN AHEAD. There is no substitute for a good plan. I am not referring to a detailed plan but at least I know where exactly I want to go, what exactly I want to see and at the very least, I have a picture of what my travel looks like or ends up. Very importantly, I know where to sleep even at least for the first night. This goes without saying that I can book my airfare ahead of time and get promo fares.
- PACK LIGHT. With just a hand carry luggage, I can easily manage myself with so much easy. I can go anywhere and anytime. Even for a week or month, just a hand carry will be enough and I get to discipline myself too on cloths and accessories.
- INTERACT WITH THE LOCALS. Social media is the best way to interact with locals. I get first hand information and travel related ideas with them. I get a local guide and I am sure I will learn a lot from them. Sometimes, I bond with the locals to feel at home. Just don’t mess up with them.
- GET CONNECTED TO SOCIAL MEDIA. At this age and time, it’s a ‘sin’ if one is not on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram. My family knows I am alright when I post updates on my FB.
- TAKE PHOTOS AND VIDEOS. I get as much as I can. I normally have four 16GB with me. I love looking at my pictures and videos. They remind me of my modest life. I only use my cellphone when I travel.
- KEEP SAFE OF IMPORTANT ITEMS IN ONE PLACE. I always put my money, cards, passport and cellphone in one place which I bring with me all the time. If the hostel has a safety deposit box, I put them there.
- GO OFF THE BEATEN PATH. There is much joy to be in places where few people have been. The places unknown and unexplored are the best ones to experience. I feel happier.
- EAT IN LOCAL RESTAURANTS. I always make sure to eat in restaurants distinct to the place. I always allocate money for a good eat. But I do not also restrict myself from eating street foods.
- SLEEP IN HOSTELS. Save money and gain more friends in hostels. In choosing one, make sure its centrally located, with fire exit, with wifi and if possible with security system
- OBSERVE AND RESPECT. Before doing anything, I make sure I have seen how locals do it. Most importantly, I trust instinct.
- TRAVEL ESSENTIALS. My backpack contains the following: 2 hiking shorts, 2 boxers shorts, 1 running shorts, 5 awesome #philippines80 tshirts, 2 singlets, 5 underwear, 5 handkerchief, 2 small towels, scarf, toothbrush, toothpaste, mouthwash, razor, cotton buds, lotion, sun block, vitamins, nail cutter, first aid kit, 1 multi-purpose mug, ready to mix coffee, candy, biscuit, chargers and pen and paper. I wear Crocs, Garmin GPS watch, Hedger body bag and jacket. My backpack is Gravis.
- MONEY. I always bring money just enough that I have nothing left to buy any pasalubong. If I have to buy something to bring home, it must be a very small souvenir I can include in my collections. But in most instances, I never buy anything.
INTERACT WITH THE LOCALS. Yes. Although I’m originally from the North, I was able to save myself from getting stranded by befriending the people of Kalibo at the Kalibo Airport. They’ve been very nice to me even if the language that I can only speak is tagalog and English.
nice to hear that. an ilocano just as i am?
Yes! My province is Bolinao but I grew up in Quezon City. I can speak a little Ilocano though.
wow. bolinao it is. one of may fave spots. and bolinao is the philippine tourist destination featured as a permanent display in legoland malaysia!
very well written! the best advice for every traveler.
thank you very much!
The pack light is my problem =(
there is always a first time to do it. i bet you want to try it
i always slip in the first tip… i often go without itinerary. most of the time, no contacts.
hehe. planning is very important to save on resources