When I think back to my most memorable travel experiences, a few special moments always stand out. Each trip holds a unique place in my heart, offering not just beautiful sights but personal growth and meaningful memories.
It was 2010, and as an 18th birthday gift, my mom surprised me with a trip to Japan—thanks to Cebu Pacific’s piso fare sale. We were on a tight budget, but that didn’t stop us. Armed with cup noodles and a sense of adventure, we spent three unforgettable days in Japan. One memory that stands out is a kind Japanese man, my mom’s pen pal, who shared some food with us as a gesture of hospitality. We also relied heavily on the hotel’s free coffee to fuel our days. It wasn’t a luxurious trip by any means, but it was filled with heartwarming moments.
In May 2014, my company gifted us a free trip to Hong Kong. I only had ₱7,000 in cash and had to find a currency exchange spot—a rookie mistake, I know! It was a lesson in budgeting. I maximized the free hotel breakfast, planned every meal carefully, and even used up my last coin on souvenirs. I also got a lot of support and freebies from my kind officemates who have come together to help me with some fares and food. Despite the tight funds, the trip was amazing. It showed me that it’s not about how much you spend but the memories you make.
My birthday in 2017 was spent in Tagaytay with my partner. It was our first solo trip, and I planned everything from start to finish. But what made this trip more memorable was its timing—August 2017 was the last month my sister was home before she was hospitalized until her passing later that year. This trip holds a personal, bittersweet significance, one I reflect on often.
Fast forward to December 2018: I found myself in Japan again, this time for my partner’s sister’s 18th birthday celebration. It felt like a world of difference from my first visit. One core memory? Getting lost in a massive Don Quijote store without internet! My partner’s family waited patiently at the entrance until I finally found my way back.
Beginning 2022, my experiences with Transform-CX and MLAM opened new doors for work and leisure travel. Trips to Palawan, Manila, and Villa Escudero became unforgettable memories. The seafood mukbang in Palawan and our video brainstorming session with Ms. Arlene Durana were highlights. In Manila, I had the chance to rediscover the city through the eyes of Marina Tiopisto, which renewed my appreciation for my home. Villa Escudero offered first-time experiences like eating by a waterfall and riding a carabao, combined with a cultural show that took me back to my high school days.
Japan called me back in 2023 for my first international solo trip with my partner. This time, we planned meticulously, and the trip felt like a reward for all the hard work we’d put in over the years. It also reinforced a deep sense of fulfillment in our careers, knowing we’d earned every moment of that experience.
Looking ahead, we’re already planning another trip to Japan in November 2024. I can’t wait to make more memories and continue our tradition of exploring this beautiful country.
While many trips have left an impact, the most transformative was our 2023 Japan trip. It marked ten years since I began my professional journey, and the fast-paced nature of life up to that point had been overwhelming. Slowing down in Japan helped me realize that I want to keep working hard so I can continue visiting the places I love, especially Japan, at least once a year.
Japan is undoubtedly my top choice. If I had to pick three cities, I’d recommend Tokyo, Osaka, and Nagoya. As someone who grew up watching anime, Japan has always been a dream destination. Their discipline as a culture, the cleanliness of their surroundings, and their politeness, even in traffic, always leave me in awe. It makes me dream of a day when the Philippines could mirror such organization and discipline.
One habit that adds meaning to my travels is taking photos. Before the age of social media, I’d print them out, but today, sharing them online allows me to relive those moments over and over. Photos help me hold onto memories, making me feel as if I’m transported back to those special times.
It would have to be Japan! As you can probably tell from all my trips, Japan holds a special place in my heart. It’s a country I connect with on so many levels, from culture to lifestyle.
Planning is everything. Traveling without a plan is like going to war without a weapon. Always research your destination thoroughly and be ready with a Plan B in case Plan A doesn’t go as expected. Trust me, it makes all the difference.
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Read more about my 2017 Tagaytay travel here
About the Featured Photo:
The original image is a from Pexels.