Getting There: Shop Around and Ask for Help

The first expense you will incur when studying abroad, is getting abroad. As far as traveling costs there are several ways to make them more affordable. There are some scholarships available that will specifically cover the traveling cost portion of your study abroad experience. When looking to buy your plane ticket make sure you compare rates with several different flight companies. Also try to avoid buying anything while you are in the middle of flying. Food on the plane can be very overpriced and expensive and there is nothing special about it so save your appetite and money for when you land. If you have close friends or family members who travel often you may even consider seeing if they will transfer any frequent flyer miles they have over to you. This can tremendously help you save on travel costs.

Start Up Costs: Buy from a Returning Student

Once you are in your host country, you will usually have the somewhat large one-time expense of getting set up. Whether you are staying on campus or renting an apartment, you will have to buy certain necessities. Bedding, cookware, and even furniture may be on your list of must-buys. Since you are planning on only staying a relatively short time, these costs can be large and you may not be able to recoup your money. The biggest favor you can do yourself is to find a student who is currently in your country of destination who is about to come home. They will undoubtedly have furniture, cookware, and bedding that they cannot take home with them. Offer to buy their things at a discounted price. You win, and they win. Win-win.

Traveling While Abroad: Use Student Discounts

Once abroad, you will want to travel around and see the sights. Remember to stretch your dollar (or Euro, or Peso, etc) and take advantage of student discounts. Everywhere you go, ask if there is a student discount. Bus fares, train tickets, hostels, concerts, and movies all may have discounted prices for students. Don’t be shy. The savings really add up and will allow you to see so much more! Also check for school-sponsored trips. Tours and even weekend long outings are sometimes offered by schools for very cheap costs. You have so many costs as students, make sure you use the perks.

Some of the costs that come with studying abroad are there and cannot be avoided. Of course you are going to have to eat, clothe yourself, stay somewhere and pay tuition. However there are definitely ways to save up for these things. You can also take advantage of trying to minimize the amount of money that you spend on traveling since this is where you can save the bulk of your money. By looking into a saving budget and smart travel planning your study abroad experience can and will become affordable and enjoyable.

Amanda Perkins writes and edits the Study Abroad website ClassAbroad.com. She enjoys traveling, learning, and writing. She recently published a piece on Study Abroad Funding.

Going in and out of Don Salvador Benedicto is as easy as taking a bus ride from the Northern Negros terminal in Bacolod. It’s a 42 km long trip and for a mere Php68 you could get there in 45 minutes. The buses travel in intervals, so if you’re running late, you could always catch the next one.

• Take the San Carlos bus (you may take the non-aircon one or the air-conditioned bus). Tell the bus conductor that you are heading to Don Salvador Benedicto and let them drop you at the Viewing Deck.

• The Lion statue erected by the Lion’s Club is your marker. Go ahead and explore the Viewing Deck. Take into consideration that below it is another floor. There’s a restroom, some tables and chairs with a similar view.
• Wait for the next bus and ride on. Tell the bus conductor to drop you off at the Viewing Deck of Malatan-og Falls.
  • Fish crackers and other snacks are available. You could buy water and food from the “mobile” vendors that are stationed in that area.
  • You could check in with the local Tourism Office to help you with the trekking. You could leave your things in the office once they’ll assign you with a guide.
• Take another bus ride to get to San Carlos (for the sake of viewing the Chocolate Hills). Tell the bus conductor that you want to see the Prosperidad Hills in San Carlos.
• Lastly, you could either head to San Carlos to spend the night or you may take a bus ride back to Bacolod City.

I spent around Php300 for the whole trip. That’s because I took another alternative. The guide I provided above will help you have a smooth journey. If you want to follow my “semi-failed” attempt, do so at your own risk.

• I hitched a free ride from Bacolod to Don Salvador Benedicto.
• Near the marker of the road to San Carlos, I chartered a single motorcycle.
  • I negotiated with the driver and we arrived at a total of Php250 for a round trip covering the Viewing Deck and Malatan-og Falls including unlimited stops.
  • It was a pretty decent deal considering that the spots are far from one another.
• Ride from the marker back to the Viewing Deck. Let the driver wait.

• Walk a few kilometers upwards or ask the driver to drop you at the spot that you wanted. There are different places to see and all it needs is your creativity and keen eye.
• Proceed to the Malatanog Falls’ Viewing Deck or head to the Tourism Office to get a guide.
  • You may tell the driver to wait for 2 hours or if he wants to join in your trek, you may politely ask him to.
  • Never trek alone or without a guide
  • Never trek after sunset.
• Tell the driver to drop you off at the Codiawan Bridge.
• Get back to the marker.
• You may grab a good cup of coffee (Php50 because I bought one for the driver as well) while waiting for the bus back to Bacolod.
  • You could go to San Carlos to see the Prosperidad Hills but you may want to talk to the driver for additional fees. (Or take the bus)
• Hitch a free ride back to Bacolod.

Hope this could help in your itinerary planning phase. Don’t forget to check out other sites for reference. Or you may contact me for more information.  Happy Traveling!

These were the exact words that I wrote on my travel journal to describe my experience with Negros Occidental’s Little Baguio. It was such splendor that I was blown away by its simplicity. More so, I just sat there for hours and had my peace.

The scene from the Viewing Deck on a cloudy day.

My Favorite Spot on the Viewing Deck

Don Salvador Benedicto is dubbed as the “Summer Capital of Negros Occidental” because of its cool temperature. It is good timing to escape the fierce heat from the city and enjoy a more laid-back visit to the highlands of this province. You will feel that complete transition from the bustling street scene filled with people to a long and winding road lined with pine trees. That’s the unique welcome you will receive when you get to this destination.

The Pine Trees along the Highway.

Lion’s Club Marker

This place is so captivating because of the multitude of man-made rice terraces that are mini versions of the popular Banaue Rice Terraces of the Ifugao Province in the Philippines. Don Salvador boasts a little of everything in the country. The various shades of luscious-green illuminated the beauty of these staircases of nature. The best view for me can be seen from the farthest point of the Viewing Deck

The Customary Shot

The plantation is not limited to the Viewing Deck alone. If you happen to walk along the highway (probably a few kilometers), you will see more terraces sitting mutely on the base of the mountains.

Alternative View of the Rice Terraces in a different setting.

The altering color of green hues in the photo are caused by the clouds’ shadows.

Further along the route of Don Salvador to San Carlos, is the locally known “Cigarette Falls” called Malatan-og Falls. From the accessible viewpoint, the shape of this waterfall is similar to that of its name, a cigarette stick. It is stunningly positioned in the middle of the mountain range which gave it that contrasting look

The Malatan-og Falls

Trekking towards the falls will take approximately 30-45 minutes depending on the weather as well. If the bipolar weather decides to shower upon heaps of rain, then it is advised not to push through with the trek. That was my unfortunate event. However, if it is dry and sunny, you could ask for a guide from the Tourism Office to accompany you in your journey. (Note that the ground will be a bit slippery when rain drizzles).

I got the chance to marvel at the site from the deck but it did not stop me from exploring more of Don Salvador. Walking further and further, I managed to pass by the Codiawan Bridge and went down to have a glimpse of the river. It was not a huge river but it is a small stream of fresh water that piqued my curiosity. I wanted to know where it originates. I thought it was from the Malatan-og Falls but sadly, it was not. It was too steep to trek to that side and I could not risk it – although it would be great to know where it came from though.

The clouds once more hovered over me and the rain slowly poured. I went to the nearest community and had a hot cup of coffee with the locals. Mind you, the people there are very friendly and hospitable. They are speaking a bit of recognizable Cebuano and Hiligaynon dialects. Out of the blue, I asked them about the “Chocolate Hills” in their area and they told me that it is far from where we were. It is already located near San Carlos.

The shy Mt. Kanlaon from a distance.

In the city full of heat and unavoidable trickling of perspiration, a trip to Don Salvador Benedicto is never a waste of time. It is a moment to convene with nature and discover peace in you and around you. Live in a world of serenity and avoid noise even for just a day.

Do you want to know how to get to Don Salvador Benedicto? You could read a detailed guide on a separate article to be published within the week here.

Of course, even if you are someone who is trying to further your career prospects by studying abroad, that doesn’t mean you can’t take a little time off from time to time in order to explore your surroundings. Remember that a rested mind is also a productive mind.

Here are three of the best places to visit if you are planning to study abroad:

France

France is one of the most popular places to study abroad due to its rich culture and historical legacies. In Paris alone, students studying abroad have easy access to sites such as the Louvre, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Arc de Triomphe. Furthermore, students studying abroad in France also have relatively convenient access to the entire country and much of Germany via the European rail system. Although France does have something of a reputation for being unkind to foreigners, that reputation is more than a little bit overblown and easily avoided provided that students remain polite.

Italy

Italy is another good choice to go for much the same reasons as France. Namely, it is home to many of the most popular tourist destinations on the planet. Students intending to head to Italy are spoiled when it comes to choosing a city that boasts local attractions. Although the most famous, such as Rome and Florence, are some of the most popular destinations for both students and tourists, other cities such as Bologna, Pisa, and Milan are also worth considering. Of course, the attractions of Italy are not limited to cultural sites such as the Colosseum in Rome, but also extend to include the beautiful scenery of its countryside.

United Kingdom

The good thing about studying abroad in the United Kingdom and other English-speaking countries is the sense of familiarity. Not being able to speak the local language is one of the biggest barriers to being able to enjoy the time spent abroad, causing mounting frustration that can ultimately see the student holed up in the residence and whiling away the time until the year is up. Studying abroad in the United Kingdom offers a neat solution to that problem and provides another benefit in that students have an easier time adjusting to the local culture. Furthermore, the United Kingdom is a country well worth visiting in its own right. Although London is the usual mecca, with famous attractions such as the British Museum and the Tower of London, the United Kingdom also boasts other interesting destinations such as Stonehenge and the Roman baths in the city of Bath.

About the Author:

Alan Li, a frequent contributor to college website DegreeJungle.com, spent a year studying abroad in England while going through college. Although it took him a bit of time to adjust to the local food, the overall experience proved to be both educational and entertaining.

(Read about my general rule in Avoiding Unwanted Male Attention)

The scenario: I was on the far side of the bench, minding my own business, when suddenly a man (mid-20s) sat beside me. The first few minutes were in silence. The tall, fair-skinned man started to converse with me. “What are you doing?” He said in tagalog. I just kept quiet (following the general rule of what traditional parents would say – “Don’t talk to strangers”). The man again took his time and asked another question: “Hi Miss, could you help me with this ticket?” The relaxed and somehow annoyed me helped him with his problem. After a few minutes, surprisingly, the man asked me for my number and if I am free “tonight.”

If you were in a situation like this, here are some of my “tested and proven” ways to avoid strangers:

Do Something to Keep You Busy

People that are observing will not bother to approach you for a question because you are doing something – and you look busy. They will tend to think twice and simply walk away. They really don’t want to disturb you. Now, you are safe from unknown men and women coming towards you.

Don’t Entertain if You Don’t Want to

Shutting up is one way of silently saying “Back off. I don’t want to talk to you.” Some people will get this instantly and will leave you alone and some will definitely push your buttons. It’s in your judgment if you want to talk or not but this rule covers it.

(Read about a similar post in Dealing with Strangers)

Never Disclose Your Real Name

I use an alias in creepy settings. The reason for this is simple – to avoid being too personal on people you barely know. I know you’ll find this weird but I will tell them my real name if in case we’ll be friends. Haha

Tell Them About Your Jealous Boyfriend

This is my favorite. I don’t have a boyfriend (yet), but I ALWAYS say that I have one jealous-type. This would usually scare men away and this is how I avoid strangers, basically. Majority of the men I have encountered are looking for single girls. That just bought me a ticket to freedom from those I am not interested with.

(Read about a similar strategy I did with The Guy Named Nathan)

Make an Excuse And Leave

If all else fails, just use your creative brain to make a perfectly good excuse and leave them. One acceptable excuse is “Sorry, I need to make a very important call.” Grab your things and go. Clean and simple.

So, what followed the scenario? The moment the man asked me if I was free on that night, I told him that I have to ask my boyfriend if we have plans in the evening. I then made an excuse that I need to go to the restroom and I left him there. I transferred to another vacant seat at the back and put on my scarf to somehow alter my identity a little bit.

There are more than 6 billion people in the world and roughly 0.000005% of them are the ones whom you personally know. The remaining 99.999995% are all strangers.

That’s it! I hope you’ll find this useful (especially to female solo travelers).

Sitting there under the shadows of the Screw Pine tree and adoring the wonderful view of the pure, crystalline blue waters, I could not help but hum Diana Krall’s version of “The Boy From Ipanema.” I was waiting for that lucky man to pass by and make me drop my jaw in astonishment but nobody arrived. A date with God’s creation, perhaps? It was the 14th of February, and I, alone was pouring all of my Valentine’s Day love to an uninhabited island.

The only island at the Southernmost part of Antique is the beautiful, picturesque, Nogas Island. Virgin, unspoiled, and is a natural reserve for marine life, birds, and thriving mangroves. He (the island) is a small wonder that boasts its white sand beaches, coral reefs bursting with colors, and that untouched “garden” of life underwater. No wonder it was love at first sight for the both of us.

My love affair did not stop there on the coast. As I walked along the long stretch of white sand, I saw an inviting pathway of coral rocks under the canopy of fragrant Frangipani (Calachuchi) trees leading to a lighthouse.

Just like in the romantic movies where the groom patiently waits for his soon-to-be-wife to join him in the altar, the trees bear witness to that slow, meaningful walk of the bride to her groom. Thus, slowly, I walked towards the lighthouse, adoring the trees and the whole masterpiece of nature. One step after another, I was listening to the sound of the waves and chirping of the birds singing the song of my “hypothetical” wedding.

I arrived at the abandoned Light Station. I took a deep breath and I entered the lighthouse. I lifted my head up and saw an amazing view of the clear sky, framed by the pillars of the concrete structure. The stairway to the top of the lighthouse lured me into exploring its solitude in the center of the island.

On the viewing deck was an enchanting view of the neighboring town of Anini-y. A breath-taking view of the green mountains and the crisp color of turquoise in the sea was exemplified by the island’s flourishing trees. I took one more deep breath and I climbed down.

At the center of the island, on the viewing deck of the lighthouse. 

Tucked at the side of the lighthouse was a trail. I followed it and it brought me to this huge Banyan Tree (also known locally as the balete tree or the “lunok”). The climbing roots and branches enticed me to move even closer. To me, it resembled a woman with an uncombed hair. She sat there, waiting for people to take an interest in her.

I went back to the beach and explored once more. Mangroves at the far end of the beach, just near the Banyan tree, were stunning. That was simply “life” consistently blossoming in the island.

The Screw Pine tree near the beach was my perfect little spot as its cascading shadow shielded me from the heat of the sun. The tiny hermit crabs crawling beside me were my companion. I was back to where I started… In solitude, I pondered on so many thoughts about life and that queasy feeling of being in love.

The Screw Pine fruit (looks like a pineapple)

Feeling the warmth of the sun, smelling the fragrance of Calachuchi, and adoring the wondrous seascape were truly enough for me to embrace that thing called “love.” I hope someday, I could share this experience with a person that could satisfy me like Nogas did. With that, here’s to falling in love with life and in travel.

More photos here.

As the song  continued… “Oh, but I watch him so sadly. How can I tell him I love him? Yes, I would give my heart gladly, but each day when he walks to the sea, he looks straight ahead not at me…”

How to get to Nogas Island:

• From the Molo Bus terminal (at San Pedro St.), take the bus en route to Anini-y and tell the bus conductor that you are headed to Sira-an Hot Spring and Health Resort (starting point of Nogas Island escapade) – the fare is around Php80 to Php90. It’s a 2-hour trip.
• Pay your entrance fee of Php20 at the Sira-an front desk and let them know that you are going to Nogas Island.
  • If you are traveling solo, ask if there are other people who will go to Nogas Island. You will pay around Php50 to Php100 (roundtrip) and you will be sharing the boat with other travelers. 5-10 people could fit on the outrigger boat.
  • The boat rental is Php500 – of course, I paid the whole amount since I was the only one brave enough to spend Valentine’s Day alone and on an island Make sure to have your friends and families to bond with
  • There’s another Php20 for environmental fee
  • Oh, and tell your boat man what time he will pick you up for your trip back to Sira-an
• I suggest you’ll have lunch at the Sira-an Hotspring Restaurant. There are plenty of available meals there. The Nogas Island has literally nothing there to provide you with refreshments and snacks. Php50-Php100 meals
• There are snorkeling sets for rent. I believe they are only limited. It’s Php100 per set.
• If you are headed back to Iloilo, there’s a Ceres bus that passes by around 4:30pm to 5pm. Make sure to catch it. Else, you could spend the night in Sira-an.

The relaxing ambience of the place lured me into several states of “staying in.” The bed, the lighting, the setup – it was inviting me to shut my eyes and enjoy a nap. Incredibly, I was very comfortable with my stay. Too comfortable that I managed to wander around the vast property even under the sizzling afternoon heat. It is so unique and just a few meters (literally) away from the known Baybay beach, this little palace is perfect for any occasion you have in mind.

Their top-notch amenities include:

• Free Wi-fi
• A beautiful 32 inch LCD TV
• Mini Bar
• Hot and Cold Shower
• All Air-conditioned Rooms
• 24 Hours Standby Generator
• A Wide Area for Parking
• Good Room Service

If you are wondering about the price to pay for all of these “comfort-rest-inducing” inclusions, the following are the rates (as of December 2012):

Economy Room – Php1,800 -Yes, very cozy with four beds. The price already covers a complimentary breakfast for 2 and the 4 people could share the whole room.

Family Room – Php 3,800 – This room has a leading staircase to the balcony. It looks like a miniature house and it is pretty much a minimalistic, warm, feel to it. Up to 8 people are allowed to share the room and the whole payment covers 4 complimentary breakfast.

De Luxe Room – Php2,000 – A fun and up-beat setting which includes a queen bed and a smaller one (single) on the side. Included is a little sofa to spoil you. Complimentary breakfast for 3 people is included.

Suite Room – Php2,500 – One fascinating king sized bed awaits your entrance with a mini sofa within reach. Stunning setup. Complimentary breakfast for 2 is included.

Itching to have a fiesta of seafood flavors in your mouth? Bitoy’s Balay Barbekyuhan Restaurant and Rocco’s Coffee Shop are always within reach. Plus some other delectable treats found in an array of restaurants lingering in Baybay beach.

Why not book at The Grand Gazebo if you’re in Roxas City, Capiz? This will definitely give you a chance to experience the warmth you are longing for – even away from home. I do recommend this awesome place for you and your family!

For more information: Call (036) 643-0796 / 522-7726
E-mail them at gazebodormitel@yahoo.com.ph / grandgazebo@gmail.com
Visit their website at http://grandgazebo.blogspot.com

After a few minutes of the car’s steepy, uphill climb, we arrived at the White House of Samal. There stood a fence built with egg-colored limestone and native wood, a closed gate with missing planks, and a vast piece of land rooted with remarkable history. From a distance you could now see a grotesque mansion, sitting perfectly atop, with a stellar view of the marvelous blue sky towering over Davao city.

Brief History

Hilario Camino “Moncado” Del Prado – supreme Commander in Chief of the Filipino Crusaders World Army (FCWA), might have stayed in this now-idyllic house (or what’s left of it). The massive building served as a headquarters in the mid-1930′s, when the group “Monacadistas” were established. These so-called group still exists in the country today, but small in number – all with their own culture and religion.

Today

From a “purely white” house erected in the 20th century, to a more grungy looking abode, this place parked all of its treasures right there from where it stands. Remnants of a glorious past were hung on its walls, pictures, notes, maps, and other items, provide the mansion with its rustic touch.

Outside is a pleasurable view of the Davao gulf, along with the thin dark hues of the Mt. Apo hiding behind the clouds. (Inhaling deeply to cleanse my lungs – away goes the sickening smell of urea).

Because the place is an off-beaten path (for some), efforts to restore this great mansion could not be recognized. Aside from the family that I met who takes good care of the house, nothing could ever stop the power of little creatures known as “termites.” And because the house is fully built with a strong type of wood, I suppose, it will take a few more decades for this to be crumbling down.

The fact that this simple landmark survived the many natural happenings in a span of nearly a century, I hope some organizations will look into some papers to rescue this house from continuous deterioration.

And for that customary self-portrait (for most travel bloggers), I have this:

Granted that I have a fortune to spend, I would consider purchasing the property myself! Lol!

I took a few days to unwind, see the beach, feel the tiny pebbles on my feet, and stare at the beautiful sun. The funny thing about unwinding is that your mind is in constant relaxation, constant balance that somehow several “unexpected” thoughts tend to invade and disturb your chi.

“Philippines to Fiji Islands with a connecting flight in South Korea will cost about [insert estimated dollar amount here], are you prepared to shoulder the other fees aside from that? Are you really concerned about your future since all of your money is poured on travel fees, plane tickets, hostels? Why on Earth don’t you have a Retirement Account set up? Do you want to starve and be homeless when you retire?”

- Yes. These guilt-inducing questions gave me chills.

So? Why am I boggled with these self-depreciating questions? 

I’m guilty, that’s why. I am too attached to the present that I neglected the thought of my life after 40 years. And yes, I am in a state of panic – though I’m exaggerating a bit.

Financial Illiteracy

That would be me holding a paper with a huge red F marked with red ink.

Financial Illiteracy – the state of a person who has no idea, clue, or knowledge about the basics of Finance.

Of course, as kids, we were taught about the benefits of “Saving,” right? Your mom gave you Php20 and you save Php5 so that by the end of the week, you could purchase a double-scoop ice cream from the canteen. Right? Saving.

But I’m not a kid anymore. The mindset that I have for so many years about Saving remained the same. I’m not saving enough. I’m not financially educated enough. I’m lost.

Why am I reacting this way?

• I lack financial habits
• I lack knowledge about the concepts of financial planning, setting aside emergency funds, retirement accounts, etc.
• I don’t know anything about the basics of spending plan or terms such as “tax deferred savings”
• I have a slight idea about Taxes in general but I don’t know a thing or two about “gross income,” “taxable income,” and “taxes due”
• I have little knowledge about investing and the stock market only because I forced myself to learn about these things.
• I just hate myself for not asking all of these when I was in college.

Knowing the tiny details about saving is not enough to propel you to your life (my life) most especially to a life with your soon-to-be-husband-and-kids. Long term? Saving will not be the only item of your list.

How are we to implement our financial goals?

Should I just save and not splurge myself into life’s pleasures? Should I invest my money in stocks? Should I dwell into other businesses? Should I just join online poker games and maybe even head to Cheekybingo to test my luck and win me millions? Should I just wait for the fat nimbus cloud to drop rolled bills from the sky?

I guess the only resort for me now is to supply answers to my own questions. Financial decisions in whatever scope should be governed by a good rationale.

FACT: Only 10% of Filipinos are consciously saving up for retirement.

Are you?

“Our ambition should be to rule ourselves, the true kingdom for each one of us; and true progress is to know more, and be more, and to do more.”

- Oscar Wilde

Regine is a traveler. A young woman strapped onto a black backpack, unsure of her surroundings, making sense about life, curious about the world. A baby learning how to walk and finding her way around the house, hopeful of making those first steps, hopeful of discovering the way, hopeful of starting a journey. She is a little girl who draws the Earth with her blue and green crayons, placing herself atop, embellishing her triangle fuchsia dress with glitters and pompoms – a girl forever envisioning her dreams.

Regine is a practical traveler. A child who is unafraid to barter a set of sticker collections to buy a pink bicycle with training wheels. A small wonder who exchanges excellent exam grades to a trip around the zoo, petting a giraffe for the first time in her life. A girl who finds a way to get what she wants without throwing any tantrums. A young woman who works around the internet industry, utilizing artistic talents to purchase plane tickets. A young adult who does not easily abandon her life plans.

Regine is a friendly traveler. She is not a confused, adolescent, rebel. She is a girl who holds on to her companion firmly, never letting go. A little toddler who screams out your name when she finds herself lost in the middle of a department store. A pre-pubescent girl who shares tales about her boy crush sitting across her in Social Studies class. A young woman who seeks companionship, who loves interesting conversations, who never stops being a sociable human being.

But Regine can be a perplexed traveler. She is a girl who could not find herself, constantly seeking for directions, and expecting you to teach her about life. A young girl who is confused about her options of watching a boy band concert or heading to a white-sand beach. A child ever so careless about making mistakes. A young woman who does not know where she’s headed to. Uncertain about the future.

And Regine is intermittently a growing traveler. A child who learns. A child who spells the word “qualm” correctly without missing the silent “L.” A chubby girl who stops walking after seeing a blinking red light along the pedestrian lane. A  young, innocent child who listens intently to the instructions of her grade-school teacher. A young woman who embraces change. A young woman who readily opens a new chapter of her life, everyday, every month, every year. A young woman who nevertheless, seeks for humble and new beginnings after a lesson-filled end.

Then Regine is a traveler starting anew. A child reaching a new level of development and maturity. A girl now prepared to ride her pink bicycle without the training wheels. A young girl ready to have her first kiss. A young adolescent all set for the school year. A young adult starting fresh. A young adult ready to be free again, ready to share her discovery, ready to learn, ready to jump of a cliff and dive onto the blue waters. A young, inspired, traveler excited to dwell into a world of mystery, an archipelago full of charm. A young traveler who will carry a year’s worth of learning to a whole new level. A young, passionate, artistic, traveler who will constantly ask this question: “Where to next?”

So, Regine is a traveler who still dreams, a traveler who aspires, and a traveler who has a great deal of ambition…

I love ambitious travelers.

This particular post is my entry to the Pinoy Travel Blogger’s Blog Carnival for January 2013. The theme for this month is “New Beginnings” proudly hosted by my friend, Roj Braga of Adventuroj.

** This is a feature article I am experimenting with. It is more of a creative entry rather than the usual “I hope my 2013 would be better…” post. Indeed 2013 will be a new beginning of everything. A hopeful year for me as a newbie traveler and blogger…