travel plan

May

2021

What Do You Think is Your Travel Personality?

Reading Time: 4 minutes

What do you think is your travel personality? Do you notice any difference in your personality when you travel alone or with a group? Remember that we all have our personas. We may be a different person when we travel by ourselves or when we travel with other people. Our personality may also depend on the personalities of the other individuals in our travel group.

Our travel personality may also depend on our goals for traveling. What kind of experiences do you usually imagine for your travels?

Thrill Seeker

Are you looking for thrilling experiences when you travel? Do you see yourself swimming with sharks or camping in the wild to get a glimpse of wild animals? Does excitement fill you at the thought of bungee jumping, sky diving and the like? If this is you, then you definitely have the travel personality of a thrill seeker. If you seek even more extreme thrills, you may even call yourself a danger junkie.

As a thrill seeker, you want to get close to the wild side of nature. You crave the death-defying stunts other people have experienced before; and you want to feel the same adrenalin rush for yourself. Sometimes, even if you fear it, you still go for it. It takes courage to travel out of your comfort zone. This is something you actually crave.

Of course, you don’t go into these adventures unprepared. If you need to learn a new set of skills to participate in an adventure; you take the time to do so. You spend time learning and training as though you were preparing for the Olympics. Thrill-seeking is like a sport to you. You actually enjoy the whole process. You’re not really competing against anyone though. For you, the thrill and the adrenaline rush are all worth it.

Adventurer

Do you picture yourself exploring new dive spots, swimming with whales, climbing mountains or trekking through the dessert? Do you enjoy road trips? If so, then you have the travel personality of an adventurer.

You’re the type of person who relishes unique adventures. You are always open to new types of experiences. To try something once is your motto and that’s what makes traveling with you so much more fun. Whether you travel alone or with buddies; you always enjoy your self. The least adventurous around you also get to have their fun even when they’re just watching you.

You are always interested in what unique experiences your destination has to offer. Spontaneity is the name of your game. Your travel buddies are swept along with your enthusiasm to try out new things. However, you always keep everyone’s safety in mind first.

Sightseer

Would you describe your travel plans as calming, laidback, easygoing, casual and free? If this is you, then you’re a sightseer. For you, travel is a time to relax, walk around at your leisure and just enjoy the scenery as you pass by it, or as it passes you by.

This doesn’t mean that you don’t make plans. You enjoy the freedom but you do have an agenda of the places you want to go to; the food you want to try and other activities you want to watch or even participate in. Wandering around and getting lost in exploring the interesting nooks and crannies of the place is a normal part of the experience for you.

Your travel plan might include going on a tour group but you also make sure to have free time to explore on your own. Leisure is your travel game plan. A structured plan on where to go and what to do is a convenient way for you to get acquainted with a place quickly. This is also an opportunity to take note of interesting places or things to do. Then you take your own leisurely time to go back and enjoy them on your own or with your group. You usually take lots of pictures or videos.

Learner

Do you travel because you are interested in the place’s culture and/or history? You may be curious about something specific such as the cuisine or the arts. Maybe you like going to places like libraries, or museums; or you enjoy hanging out at historical sites? Do you like visiting old buildings or spending time inside old churches? If this is you, then your travel personality is that of a learner.

Your travels often have a structured plan to it. You know which places you want to go to and which ones you might want to see if you have time left. A guided tour is usually on your list. You may get a local guide that you can consult when you need to. Afterwards, you go straight to what you really came for. You spend most of your travel time in the specific places you have on your list. Going early is part of your habits; because having the church or museum all to yourself is such a pleasure.

Your itinerary may also include taking a class such as pottery or weaving. You take lots of pictures or illustrations, or notes. Sitting on a bench and just people watching is also a leisurely time for you. When you go back to rest; you usually review your pictures and/or notes.

Your Travel Personality

Does your travel personality fit any of these? If not, which are you closest to? Your travel personality may be a combination of any of these as well. Or you might have started out as a sightseer and now you are more of an adventurer. You may also be a learner and now you aspire to be a sightseer and enjoy the sites around you more.

The more important thing is how your travel goals have helped you develop as a person. Traveling helps us get to know our selves better even as we get to know more of the world outside our home towns. For some people, travel is a way to sort through their life issues. It also provides us with more inspiration for what we want to be and where we want to be in the future.

Feature Image: Original Photo by Felix Rostig on Unsplash.

Feb

2021

Most Beautiful Places to Travel in Spring

Reading Time: 3 minutes

Sure we cannot travel yet because we are still in the middle of the pandemic but one day, we will be able too. In the meantime, why not visualize yourself on that perfect spring day in your dream destination? Here is a list of some most beautiful places to travel in spring.

1. Geneva, Switzerland

One of the largest lakes in Western, Europe, Lake Geneva is lined with flowers in full bloom during spring. You will see a picture-postcard scenery with the Swiss Alps and some medieval castles in the backdrop. No wonder it is considered one of Europe’s top destinations. With the highest elevation in Europe, you can enjoy a range of activities from sightseeing to even some winter sports that the Alps has to offer even in Spring.

2. Holland, Netherlands

Tulips are large brightly colored flowers usually in red, pink, yellow and white. They are the most colorful of all spring flowers. And the Netherlands soil and environment is the perfect country to grow these tulip bulbs. That’s why there are acres and acres of tulip fields found all over the country but the most number of tulip fields can be found in Holland. The tulips are in full bloom from mid-March to mid-May. You can go to the Keukenhof to see the world’s biggest flower exhibition or at the FloraHolland to see the world’s biggest flower auction. Or you can just simply drive around the country to discover a vast sea of flowers everywhere.

3. Kyoto, Japan

Spring is the most coveted time of the year in Japan, especially in Kyoto. Have you heard of the Sakura festival? Officially called the Hanami Festival, it actually pertains to the Cherry Blossom Festival. It is because it is in this time of the year where the cherry blossoms are in full bloom. And Kyoto is the historical and cultural center of Japan. Once the capital of Japan for over a thousand years, there are about 17 UNESCO World Heritage sites in Kyoto. Imagine exploring the historical heart of the country amidst the cherry blossoms, it is truly going to be one wonderful experience.

4. New York, USA

Looking for a city to visit? Then New York is the best place to go. You can stand in awe at the skyscrapers, watch a Broadway show, visit world-class museums or simply eat delicious foods from around the world. Known as America’s melting pot with more than a third of its population coming from different countries, New York has something to offer to every nationality. Although New York can be quite expensive, there are ways to enjoy NYC even on a budget. Spring is the perfect time to visit the city because the temperature is just perfect to walk around and explore what the city has to offer.

5. Tuscany, Italy

if you are looking for art, culture, food, history, shopping and wine; then Tuscany is the best place to go to. With its dramatic scenery and the historic cities of Siena and Florence, you can just simply relax and enjoy the breathtaking landscapes or admire the beautiful medieval art. You can even shop for leather, wine, cheese, truffle oil, ceramics and even luxury designer brands. Spring is the perfect place to visit Tuscany as the weather is perfect to go around and the days are longer. Going around in Tuscany in Spring is a magical experience.

What are you waiting for? Start planning now.

Feature Image by Kohji Asakawa from Pixabay

Jan

2021

5 Under Rated Destinations in The Philippines

Reading Time: 4 minutes

These are just 5 of the most under rated destinations in the Philippines. Blessed with many beautiful places to explore, the Philippines has a lot to offer. This makes it really difficult to pick a favorite as each location has its own unique appeal.

There are certain places around the country that are not as popular. The good news is, travelers who have visited them end up with wonderful memories of their trip. That’s why these travel destinations are worth a spot in your travel bucket list.

1. Bukidnon

Bukidnon is one of the under rated destinations in the Philippines. It is a landlocked province in the northern part of Mindanao. It is nestled in a plateau and surrounded by hills and mountains. Bukidnon actually means “mountain dweller” or “highlander”. It is considered as the country’s food basket. You can enjoy the sight of vast plantations of sugarcane, pineapples, bananas, rice and corn.

Alalum Falls, Bukidnon | Photo: kleo-marlo
Info: Tourism Philippines Bukidnon

It has weather similar to Baguio; making it a great summer destination. Enjoy forest parks, mystic caves, spring resorts, mesmerising water falls, and great mountain views. Take your pick and create your own adventure in discovering Bukidnon’s hidden gems.

2. Camiguin Island

Camiguin is the “Island Born of Fire”. It holds the world record for the island with the most number of volcanoes for every square kilometer. Mount Uhay, Mount Hibok-Hibok, Mount Ulan and Mount Mambajao are all volcanoes on this island. The island hosts the Lanzones Festival, which is one of the most popular festivals in the country.

The island is a secluded destination. It has refreshing waterfalls, cold and hot springs and an untouched sand bar. The sunken cemetery, the well-preserved ancestral homes and churches that are centuries-old are popular tourist spots. If you’re going to Cebu, be sure to include Camiguin in your itinerary.

3. Camotes Islands

Be sure to add Camotes Islands to your Cebu itinerary. The islands are located between Cebu and Leyte; composed of four towns in Cebu: Port, Tudela, Pilar and San Francisco.

According to local folklore, the Spaniards asked the locals the name of the place; the reply they got was the word “camote”. The locals were harvesting sweet potatoes (camotes). They thought that the Spaniards were asking what they were digging. That was how the group of islands got its name.

Santiago Beach in Camotes, Cebu | Photo: cebucitytour

The islands boasts of beautiful white beaches, amazing caves and a lake. You can enjoy scuba diving, free-diving or snorkeling, and other beach sports like volleyball and frisbee. You can immerse yourself in the beauty of nature by taking island tours. Take a tour of Lake Danao, Timabu Cave, Buho Rock, Bukilat Cave, and Busay Waterfalls, to name a few.

4. Catanduanes

Is Batanes on your bucket list? If you can’t afford Batanes yet; Catanduanes is a great altertnative. Nicknamed “land of the howling winds”; typhoons often visit the area. Prepare your travel essentials for such weather.

Tuwad-Tuwadan Lagoon, Catanduanes
Photo: catanduanes.gov.ph

Aside from the howling winds and strong ocean breeze; the beauty of Catanduanes will sweep you away. Enjoy gazing in awe and don’t forget to take pictures of its serene mountain tops, scenic grasslands and towering cliffs. It has historic sites just like Batanes and rock formations that will look gorgeous on your Instagram feed.

5. Siquijor

Another one of the most under rated travel destinations in the Philippines is Siquijor. It is popularly known as one of the most mysterious places to visit in the Philippines. It has a serene cove which is believed to be the haunting ground of witches, sorcerers and even mythical, supernatural creatures. The mystery of the place is heightened by these rumors which are all untrue.

Paliton Beach, Siquijor | Photo: designthinktravel

Travelers who have visited the place are mesmerized by the beauty of its natural wonders. These include waterfalls, parks and beaches like Kagusuan Beach, Paliton Beach and Salagdoong Beach. Pick a curious bunch of friends who are eager for an adventure and book a trip to this mystical location.

There are sure to be other places around the country that should be on this list. We would love to hear your recommendations.

Travel safety is a big concern for all of us. Fortunately, the safety of air travel is each airline’s major priority. Airports have stricter health and safety measures too. Don’t decide on a destination yet. Booking flights have undergone a lot of changes in the new normal. Read up on the new requirements and processes first. Don’t want to go too far? Consider going on a road trip instead.

Updated. First published on Pinoy Smart Living on 08.16.2019.
Feature Image: Original Photo by Adrianna Calvo from Pexels.

Jul

2020

Things to Consider Before Booking a Flight in The New Normal

Reading Time: 3 minutes

As we adapt to the new normal, travel opportunities are slowly opening up. However, expect some major changes as they intensified safety measures. Airline companies are now adapting to the new normal in air travel. Travelers also have things to consider before booking a flight in the new normal.

For both domestic travel and international travel, here are some factors that will impact your travel plans.

Reduced Destination Choices

Many countries have issued a “no travel” advisory for its citizens as well as for foreign visitors. Countries who have reopened their borders may sometimes decide to close them again when covid cases in their areas suddenly spike. Your travel destination may suddenly become unreachable even if you’ve already booked your ticket. Uncertainties such as these will be part of the travel experience for a while. Expect more cancelled flights due to your destination suddenly banning travel to their areas.

Now that there’s less of the world open to travel, you might need to adjust your dream of traveling the world for the time being. Exploring your own backyard through a road trip might be a good way to flex your travel muscles without dampening your wanderlust.

New Airline Routes

Due to the uncertainty in access to different destinations, airline routes will also be adjusted accordingly. Target destinations will be destinations that are least affected or have no reported covid cases. Some of these territories are not popular destinations. These include Kiribati, Marshal Islands, Micronesia, Nauru, Palau, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Turkmenistan, Tuvalu and Vanuatu. All of these territories have no reported cases of covid.

If exploring new destinations is a good idea to you, then see if your favorite airline is already offering flights to these areas. Do your research too so you know whether these areas already allow foreign travel and what each place has to offer. Other destinations with less or reduced covid cases are also opening up for travel.

Rapid Testing in Airports

Airline companies are now conducting rapid tests for all of its staff before flights. Airline companies also require travelers to undergo the same test. You need to get to the airport even earlier than before. This may be a little inconvenient for some of us but it ensures the health and safety of everyone on board. We should be grateful for it instead.

Adjusted Baggage Standards

As part of the drive to encourage less contact and social distancing, passenger baggage standards have also been adjusted. Only 2kg are allowed for carry-on baggage from the original 7kg. The good news is, 5kg has been added to the free baggage allowance (FBA). Passengers are encouraged to carry as little on them as possible in-flight. This will also make it more convenient to carry out frequent disinfecting procedures in the cabin.

This means a change in how you pack your travel bags. Carefully consider what to pack on your carry-on bag. Some must-have items need to be relegated to your FBA instead. For carry-on essentials, carry only up to 10, 100ml bottles of sanitizers with up to 70% alcohol.

Pre-Flight and Post-Flight Requirements

Here are some more things that you need to consider before booking a flight in the new normal. Pre-flight online check-in is required. Face masks are required at all times. Cabin seating will follow social distancing standards. In-flight meals will be simplified. Meals in sealed packaging and beverages will be offered only on demand. However, hand sanitizers will always be available. Passengers will fill-out health forms to document travel/health history.

Aside from these procedures, you may be required to undergo rapid testing at the airport of your destination. Expect more stringent safety and health measures in your travel destinations.

More Expensive But Safer Travel

With all these changes to how we travel, one thing is certain. Airline companies will have to make-up for investing in new safety measures. At the same time, they need to reduce their passenger capacities and flight destinations. Ultimately this will result in more expensive tickets. Travel will still be safer than before. However, you may have to categorize it as a luxury item in your budget from now on. Expect hotels to follow the same trend. They will be more expensive but they will be intensifying their safety and health measures to ensure the safety of their customers.

The pandemic has transformed how we go about travel. These are some of the things you need to consider before booking a flight in the new normal. While it will feel inconvenient at times; it’s these little things that make travel safe for everyone. Remember to do your part too. If everyone cooperates, our travel experience will be safe and enjoyable.

Once you’re off the plane, don’t forget some travel rules that you need to observe. Travel is an important experience that we all need to indulge in from time to time. It helps us see the world from a different perspective. It also helps transforms us for the better as well.

Feature Image: Original Photo by Andrea Piacquadio from Pexels.