by JC Aquino
Written in front of the Red Castle, where the ducks and pigeons are frolicking by the pondside as some children roam around. It was a cool winter afternoon under a clear blue sky.
The year 2016 is about to end in less than a month, and we welcome 2017 with a better and brighter outlook in life and in travel. To others, 2016 might be a year of great travels and adventures, while some are looking forward to a more worthwhile year in 2017. There are a lot of things you can start next year to be able to travel and see more of the Philippines, and even the world. Here are some things you can do next year to prepare yourself for a worthwhile and well traveled year.
Save More.
Image Credit: Ken Teegardin
How saving my money in the bank and just letting it sit there get me to places? Saving money will get you to places because the better your savings profile is, the higher the chances that you’ll get approved when applying for a VISA. Securing a VISA is necessary for your future travels, especially to countries beyond Southeast Asia. I’m sure you could see yourself in Japan or Korea next year, or maybe even Italy or the United Kingdom.
In experiencing the local scene, saving up will prevent you from being broke in your travels. This is not really about planning ahead. After all, it is often the case that the more you plan for a trip in the Philippines, the less likely it would be for the trip to come to fruition. Let’s just say saving more will keep you covered in case of surprises or emergencies (travels, that is).
Travel More.
Image Credit: Suloka
This is more appropriate for international endeavors. This is quite an understandable requirement, as a well-stamped passport gives the impression that you travel a lot and that you are not a stranger to the international scene. If you’re aiming to go on an international journey but don’t know where to start, we have a lot of wonderful neighboring countries and territories where you can immerse yourself without having too much of a shock in terms of experience and personal expenses.
Now, how am I going to save more if I travel more? You don’t have to go very far from the Philippines to travel more. You just need the stamps and experience, and with a lot of seat sales around, you’ll still be able to save up and see more beyond the country.
Subscribe More.
Image Credit: Dweedon1
Subscribing to travel websites, airline companies, and hotels can give you really good deals. Seat sales come very often, along with hotel promos offering big discounts. Some may find subscribing an annoying thing, especially if it floods your e-mail, so it would be wise to choose the companies and groups that you’ll subscribe to.
Inspire More.
Let travel be your inspiration rather than an addiction. The travel bug might have bitten you hard, and there might be no cure for it, but you should remind yourself to have realistic expectations to make sure all your objectives in life will be met.
Learn More.
Image Credit: Mojpe
Traveling is not just a mere spectacle to the eyes. It is something holistic and deep if you’ll just look at it with a wider perspective and an open mind. Travel not just to be in another place, but to make the most of your experiences and learn from them. Each destination comes with a lesson and realization; you just have to find it for yourself.
The year 2016 has been such a rollercoaster experience, both in life and in the travel scene. While no one knows for sure what adventures 2017 will bring us, I’d say just bring it on. We’ll be ready, and we will get by.
