by JC Aquino
Written in front of the Arch of Septimius Severus, under overcast skies and blustery winds and fine drizzle. Where the destination once flocked by tourists is now like a ghost town filled with columns and marble pieces. In the place where time stood still, and the ruins survived to tell a story.
The year 2016 has come to an end, and a new year has come with a more hopeful and brighter outlook. Now that we’re starting on a clean slate, who’s up for the challenge that we recommend? This six-point challenge can be a tough thing to complete, but we know you’re tough enough and that you can do it.
“If it doesn’t challenge you, it doesn’t change you.”
– Fred DeVito
Image Credit: Wikipedia
Hike one local Philippine summit.
Hiking is one of the growing adventure ideas that both new and experienced hikers and travelers engage in. Over the past few years, more and more summits in the Philippines have been conquered by adventurers, thanks to organized trips and the power of social media to promote such activities. If hiking is not your thing, or if you are on the verge of considering going on a hike, I’d say go for it, and conquer one Philippine summit this year. It doesn’t have to be the highest you can climb. What’s important is to realize that the goal that keeps on running through your head is way overdue to be accomplished.
Image Credit: Shankar
Eat two dishes you’ve never tried before.
The Philippines has a generous helping of amazing dishes that make for the gastronomic adventure you’re longing for. This year, we recommend that you to sink your teeth into two dishes you’ve never tried before. They don’t have to be the exotic ones, especially if you’re not the adventurous type when it comes to food. Just be sure that you’re not missing out on the local cuisine. From the Ilocos empanada, Bagnet, and Balut to Tamilok and Tuslob-Buwa, take your pick.
Image Credit: Alexas Fotos / Pixabay
Have a three-day unplugged vacation.
We now live in an era in which Wi-Fi connectivity is contending to be part of Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs. But you know what? We’d like to recommend that you take a three-day unplugged vacation. When we say unplugged, we mean no Wi-Fi and extremely low or null access to gadgets. You need a digital detoxification at least once a year. So put that phone down, and pack your bags for a well-deserved unplugged vacation.
Image Credit: Kreuzfeld / Pixabay
Visit four beaches.
This can be an easy challenge if you have an idea about the fantastic beaches in the Philippines and where to find them. The Philippines has more than 36,000-kilometer shoreline, and there’s definitely a portion in store for everyone. If you’re the town mouse type of person who’s been living in the city your entire life, this is a great opportunity to explore nearby shores and just get sun-kissed!
Explore five new provinces.
Image Credit: Wikipedia
We have eighty-one provinces in the Philippines, and this is one of the more popular Philippine-centric bucket list items for avid travelers. Now, why five provinces? This is because provinces are accessible and are adjacent to each other wherever you are in the country. Some may say that it can be a difficult challenge, but we say you just have to immerse yourself further. We spoke with numerous travelers who have conquered the northernmost and the southernmost provinces of the country but never really got the chance to explore the middle part. They have passed by these provinces but never really visited them, and we think this is the perfect time for a detour.
Image Credit: Alexas Fotos / Pixabay
Establish a six-digit savings account.
Now, for the final challenge, we prioritize the establishment and growth of your savings account. Why? Because this is a holistic goal that prepares you not only for financial emergencies, but also for bigger travel goals in the future. It gives you the security and peace of mind that you will not end up broke even if you go on travel splurges every once in a while.
