Traveler: Travel Junkie of the Month

Home / Travel Junkie of the Month

Tampilkan postingan dengan label Travel Junkie of the Month. Tampilkan semua postingan

Travel Junkie of the Month: Ana Gonzales

During my younger years (sige, to be specific mga 10-12 years ago haha) super active ko na sa social media and online shopping. One of the first online stores that offered handmade kikay products back then is Anagon.

Anagon is proudly owned and managed by Ana Gonzales. I met her through Candymag.com's online forum called TeenTalk. Surprisingly, the site is still up. Check my profile here. LOL. I remember buying stuff from her back in college, kahit nga yung sister ko namimili rin pala sa kanya before.

Anyway, Ana is one of my favorite fashion bloggers. Check out her blog: The Fashionista Commuter. Apart from fashion blogging and running her own business, ang dami ding iba pang raket ni girl.

She's one of the founders of Bloggers United, also one of the hosts for MadHouseMNL's MadTVPh and occasionally an instructor for CraftMNL. The list could go on and on but one thing's for sure, Ana is a talented person. The best part of it all, very down to earth. Siya talaga ang magandang example for someone who's beautiful inside and out! Naks! ;) And since Ana shares our love for traveling, of course deserve niya ang title din na maging Travel Junkie! Check out our Q&A below:

In one word, define travel. -- Discovery? Haha. :D Dami ko pang ibang naiisip, but siguro discovery - of new things, people, and even more of yourself. Okay, haba na sa one word nun hehe!

Ana spent 8 days living with the Sumilao farmers in Bukidnon back in March 2009.

Could you describe the importance of travel? -- There is more to life, that's why I travel. I enjoy dipping myself in things that I am not used to, in a way it can be both positive (to get to know MORE things like culture, food, fashion, people, etc), or negative (my own limits and topak)... But the thing is, I expose myself to newness and to change, which is important from time to time.

White water rafting in Cagayan de Oro

How often do you fly, and on what airline? -- Out of country, at least once a year, no preference! I enjoy traveling in different airlines, and discover which has better food, economy seats, even magazine and FA uniform, haha!
Do you have a preferred day or time when traveling? - None as well, but mas sulit for me if night travel or super early morning para no time to waste. I just sleep sa byahe, and then pag dating sa destination, sugod na agad!
Who books your plane tickets and lodging? Are they personal or through a travel agency? -- I have to admit I am not into pre-travel requisites so my kabarkada or my Ate will do it for me, haha. I am more of the free-rider type. Pag sinabi ng friend ko non, "Ay pupunta ako ng Davao", or "May work ako next week sa CDO", I'll go with her agad agad without thinking twice, basta ayos na ang flight and lodging. Kaladkarin, hehe. Budget nalang iisipin ko.
What’s the weirdest question you got from an immigration officer? -- None naman.
Window or Aisle? -- Any, actually. Basta hindi masikip or madikit katabi ko, lol. I am usually the type who will ask my travel buddy for his or her preference, paka gentleman lang hahaha.

Check out one of her latest #OOTD (outfit of the day).

Are you a light or heavy packer? -- I TRY to be a light packer na, before I have to bring so much things for my "ootd" like hats and different pairs of shoes para bagay, only to regret it kasi bibili at bibili din naman ako kung nasan ako, hehe.
How do you pass the time on a flight? -- Avail ako ng avail ng lahat! First, I browse the inflight magazines. I also order cup noodles (for local flights), or request for more munchies and water. For longer travel hours, I sleep. If I can't, I watch the movies or listen to music until makatulog.

Here's Ana celebrating New Years Eve in Times Square, New York City.

In what country or region do you enjoy spending your favorite travel season, and why? -- I've been there once palang naman, but New York City will most probably be one of my "will go back to" travel destination. Locally, I love Boracay and Baguio talaga, hindi ako magsasawa and halos every year andun nako. Haha!
Tell us about your most recent journey? -- I just got home last night from a sponsored trip to Baguio with some blog friends and media people. It was super fun and sulit coz Azalea Residences (check out Ana's review of Azalea Residences here.) really prepared a good itinerary for us na different from all my other Baguio trips before. Out of country, it was in the States last December-January, a totally different experience coz it was winter, my whole family was with me, and it was the longest I've been away from home.
Where have you traveled and where do you plan to go next? -- Simula nung I graduated college and I earn my own money na, I vowed to "tick" a lot of places just so I can explore different sites even with different travel buddies--starting with Philippine destinations (Coron, Cebu, Davao, Boracay, Palawan, Sagada, LU, Bukidnon, CDO), Asian Countries (Hong Kong, Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Singapore), and then States.

Ana getting ready to dive in the coral blue waters of Honda Bay, Puerto Princesa, Palawan. That's Dos Palmas Island Resort and Spa in the background.

What is your ultimate travel destination? -- Japan next year (Feb-March) for Cherry Blossoms season. Goal is to go back to the US and visit the other States and spend more time in LA with my friends, and of course: Europa! Note to Ana: Make sure you book tickets ng second week of March til April, snow season pa ang January to February!)
Travel Tip -- Ipon lang ng ipon, but when you get there--go and splurge! Bawal na mag tipid (you've done your part na before your trip), so eat that "wala sa Manila" dish and wag masyadong mag rely kay 7eleven, hoard sa shoppingan... bawal mag regret when you get home. And of course, document everything and wag lang yung pang Instagram. Bring a quality camera, take lots of photos AND videos. Keep the receipts, tickets, etc in one box. And of course, be a good travel buddy by being friendly but assertive, open to try new things, patient, and flexible.

Thank you for being an inspiration, Ana! Hopefully we get to travel again soon! ;)

Travel Junkie of the Month: Stephen Tagud

2GO 2GO Travel Bali Boracay Denmark Dubai ItsMoreFunInThePhilippines Monte Carlo Stephen Rey Tagud Travel Junkie Travel Junkie of the Month Traveling United Kingdom

2GO Travel is one of the largest, premier land and sea-travel provider in the Philippines. I remember when I got an invite from 2GO almost a year ago to join their trip to Iloilo and Bacolod, it was one of the most awesome group trips ever. Thank you once again to Stephen Tagud for making it possible. :)

Stephen is one of the youngest and most successful entrepreneurs I've met. At 32 years old, he is the Vice President and Passage Commercial Officer of 2GO.

According to his profile at 2GO: He completed his undergraduate studies from University of Nevada Las Vegas, USA where he graduated Cum Laude. He also earned his post-graduate studies from the Swiss Hotel Management School “Les Roches” of Bulche, Switzerland and from the Universidad Europa de Madrid with a degree of Master in Business Administration major in International Hospitality Management, Finance & Marketing.

Wow. I've always wanted to go back to school, like to study abroad. I even submitted an application for a school based in Sydney, Australia but then I'll be needing (drum roll please........) $3,500AUD for that. Eeeep @_@! Moving on, check out my Q&A with Stephen and be inspired to study hard, work hard and travel while you're young. ;)

In one word, define travel. -- In a few words; "The essence of living!"
Could you describe the importance of travel? -- It allows you to grow and be open to all the richness and diversity in the world!

Stephen posing with The Little Mermaid in Copenhagen, Denmark and Stonehenge, United Kingdom

How often do you fly, and on what airline? -- I fly to the USA every 3/4 months, and I always use Philippine Airlines because of the direct MNL-LAX flight. I fly to Europe (Nice, France/Monaco) always with Emirates (with their awesome Limo pick-up/drop off service) at least twice a year (fall and late spring), since the South of France/Monaco is my normal "escape" from life. For work, I also travel around Asia; HongKong, Singapore, etc.. (using various air carriers). But I travel a lot domestically (I prefer to book with PAL), especially in our major ports of Cebu, Bacolod, Iloilo, Caticlan and Cagayan De Oro.. sometimes even only for a day or a few hours.
Do you have a preferred day or time when traveling? -- When flying domestically, I prefer to take a late morning flight. When flying to the US or Europe, I prefer a late evening flight so i can still work during the day.

Stephen at the dessert safari in Dubai, UAE and Bali, Indonesia

Who books your plane tickets and lodging? Are they personal or through a travel agency? -- For work-related travel, my secretary does the booking. She knows all my preferences, seat preference, special meal preference, etc. But when I travel for leisure, I always book online.
What’s the weirdest question you got from an immigration officer? -- Are you sure you are Filipino?
Window or Aisle? -- Aisle seat
Are you a light or heavy packer? -- I can say "medium-packer," since I tend to pack a little extra, just in case there are pop-up cocktail parties or soirées I have to attend. And also to anticipate "wardrobe changes" from day to evening wear.

"House party in Monte Carlo with friends."

How do you pass the time on a flight? -- I usually catch up on reading, mostly the Harvard Business Review or any book that I am working on. I can hardly sleep on any airline even if the seat is a "lay-flat" bed. So books and sometimes I check out the movies showing.
In what country or region do you enjoy spending your favorite travel season, and why? -- I always enjoy spring and fall in the South of France due to its perfect weather, gorgeous views, the food & wine festivals (i.e. Truffle Season) and most charity galas that I have to attend with friends. Summer in Switzerland is great since I do like to hike up the Swiss alps and it is never too hot up there. December and the holidays are always best spent with family in California, USA. Also, I love going to Boracay or Palawan during the beginning of the year where the weather in the Philippines is not too hot or crowded with tourists. For me, nothing beats the perfect white-sand beaches of the Philippines!

"My fave beach in the world, BORACAY!"

Tell us about your most recent journey? -- Last week, I spent a weekend back home in California (Los Angeles and San Diego) for 4 nights only. It was great to see and spend quality time with family and friends even if work only allowed literally a weekend short trip!
Where have you traveled and where do you plan to go next? -- I have been to most regions of the world since I was an international student in Europe and the USA before. I had the opportunity to see most of what I have wanted to see in the world. Well, with the exception of Antartica, of course, which, maybe one day I will go on an expedition to explore that region! This coming Christmas and New Year season, me and my family will explore New Zealand.
What is your ultimate travel destination? -- My most favorite so far is Iceland. There is something about the glaciers that are very calming to my senses! And just basking in the milky-blue waters of The Blue Lagoon is just rejuvinating! I always come back to that country when I need a good recharging. Also, the South of France (Monaco) has become my second home, so spending leisurely evenings with friends over great food, a few bottles of Champagne and having a fun night out in Monte Carlo is always at the top of my list!
Travel Tip -- ALWAYS keep 2 wallets separate (one in your check-in and one in your hand-carry bag), with each one containing at least ONE Photo ID and a Credit Card, just in case you lose one. Also, keep a photocopy of your passport and keep it in your check-in bag, again just in case you lose your passport, It is easier to process lost passports if you have a copy of the original one. Oh, and one last thing, don't forget to bring your "common sense" when traveling! ;)

Travel Junkie of the Month: Ryan Cardona

Batanes Batanes Tours BISUMI Tours and Services Carlos Celdran Discover Batanes Ryan Cardona The Travel Junkie Travel Junkie Travel Junkie of the Month Traveling Vakul

Blogger's Note: Sorry for the delay, original Travel Junkie of the Month for September took forever to reply so I had to change at the very last minute. Moving on...

Traveling solo for the first time made me realize that no man is an island, no one is self-sufficient; everyone relies on others. So when I went to Batanes, I relied on Ryan Cardona and his team.

When you google about Batanes, you'll find local travel blogs posting about Ryan Cardona. I remember we had dinner at Casa Napoli when Ryan told me that he used to work with another travel agency before starting his own.

He now runs BISUMI Tours and Services. BISUMI stands for the 6 municipalities of Batanes namely Basco, Itbayat, Sabtang, Uyugan, Mahatao, and Ivana.

I signed up for a 3-day tour with BISUMI and Ryan's team definitely made me feel at home despite the fact that I traveled alone.

Believe it or not, I think Ivatans are the most resilient, most honest, most friendly people in this country. No wonder I fell in love Batanes, it literally felt like heaven here on earth. ;) Let's move on to our Q&A shall we?

In one word, define travel. -- Learn!
Could you describe the importance of travel? -- Just like learning, it goes with you every day, you experience new things, you develop your confidence and make your time manageable...it is your ultimate guide on the ways and hows.
How often do you fly, and on what airline? -- From now? Hehe. Every other month! :) I appreciate PAL, for the seat sales and getting a chance to explore, experience an enjoy my travels.
Do you have a preferred day or time when traveling? -- Early birds! Usually early morning on a weekday.
Who books your plane tickets and lodging? Are they personal or through a travel agency? -- I've my travel agents in Manila who do the bookings. Thanks to fellow travelers who inform me when and how to get seat sales! BIG thanks!
What’s the weirdest question you got from an immigration officer? -- No comment!
Window or Aisle? -- Window. I love taking pictures, I love taking aerial shots but i seldom upload them. Why? They're mine. Get yours! Book a flight! :)
Are you a light or heavy packer? -- I use to carry the whole thing. I'm a heavyweight but not a heavy packer.
How do you pass the time on a flight? -- I used to bring my iPod and automatically turn to music mode.

Ryan with daughters Rhean and Yancy

In what country or region do you enjoy spending your favorite travel season, and why? -- I enjoyed my family trip when we stayed at Hotel H2O plus had the ultimate adventure at the Manila Ocean Park.

Ryan with Carlos Celdran

Tell us about your most recent journey? -- Few days back, I got the chance to join and experience Manila's Walk This Way tour with the famous guide Carlos Celdran. It's an educational tour of Intramuros area down to the oldest church St. Agustin and others.
Where have you traveled and where do you plan to go next? -- I visited almost all parts of Cagayan Valley back in college. But, I'll try not to visit down south unless I finish my mission of exploring other islands up north.

Here's Ryan showing off the men's version of the vakul. He's wearing the alugong (hat) and the dinung (body gear) that serves as protection from the heat and rain.

What is your ultimate travel destination? -- I want to set my foot at Lanyu Island or what they call Orchid Island which is now part of Taiwan. According to research, it used to be part of Batanes Group of Islands.
Travel Tip -- Always ask a question. Let your voice be heard! Remember that traveling is learning. So keep moving, keep traveling and keep learning! Dios Mamajes!

If interested to go on a tour then contact Ryan Cardona of BISUMI Tours and Services at +63 998 988 5898.

Travel Junkie of the Month: Jonathan Yabut

Air Asia Zest AirAsia Ernest Zacharevic Europe From Grit To Great Jonathan Allen Yabut Malaysia Penang Pico de Loro The Apprentice Asia Travel Junkie Travel Junkie of the Month Traveling

Jonathan Yabut explains the difference of working hard from working smart during his TEDx Talks last November 2013 at UP Diliman, "Working hard and not working smart is going from point A to point B of EDSA and taking pride that you've gone 30 or 1 hour to traverse the entire thing when you could've downloaded Waze app."

The man has a point and then I realized that hey, I do work smart. I always outsmart Metro Manila traffic with the help of Waze. ;) Anyway, I met Jonathan late last year when Air Asia announced their partnership with Zest Air. Prior to that, I knew him as the first winner of The Apprentice Asia.

To be honest, I haven't seen a single episode of The Apprentice franchise but I do know what the show is about. Btw, happy anniversary Jonathan! Can't believe it's been a year! I remember trending ng bongga ang #AAJon last year while waiting for the announcement of the winner! ;) Congrats again!

Moving on, I've spent a few short moments with this guy. He's nice, friendly and very down to earth. Walang ere ng kayabangan. The way he speaks, very engaging. Makikinig ka talaga. He's probably one of the best inspirational speakers of our generation. ;)

Apart from being Air Asia's Chief of Staff, he's also a weekly columnist for Yahoo! Philippines where he writes articles for his blog: From Grit To Great. To make this long introduction short, this man is a GENIUS. Period. Need I say more? Let's move on to our Q&A!

In In one word, define travel. -- Hirap nito ah! Ok, here's a boring and corny answer :p Travel = fun
Could you describe the importance of travel? -- I always say to people that whenever you buy a plane/car/train/etc ticket, you just don't buy the transportation service, you purchase an experience or a memory that will forever change and be part of who you are.

Jonathan with the other contestants of The Apprentice Asia.

How often do you fly, and on what airline? -- Weekly. Can I say the obvious? :p Of course, AirAsia. I like Middle Eastern Airlines like Etihad and Emirates too as they're very generous and they spoil even their cabin class passengers.
Do you have a preferred day or time when traveling? -- Day. Specifically the 4pm-8pm window time because this is the time when I'm most unproductive so it's better to spend it in transit. Hate red eye flights but I do take them too when I don't have a choice!
Who books your plane tickets and lodging? Are they personal or through a travel agency? -- This question sounds like a thesis is being cooked, lol. Anyway, I usually book mine if personal. If business, like most companies, we have a system that books for employees.
What’s the weirdest question you got from an immigration officer? -- "Are you that guy who won The Voice Asia?" (well, there's no such thing as The Voice Asia)
Window or Aisle? -- Aisle. I dont wanna disturb people whenever I take a leak...and i always do! Plus, faster to get out of the plane.
Are you a light or heavy packer? -- Light. I rarely check-in my baggage. Saves a lot of time and effort. Saves you from the chance of losing all your personal stuff especially for a leisure trip.

Jonathan enjoying the pool with friends at Pico de Loro. Friends pala kayo ni Farrah, classmate ko siya nung grade 5 sa St. Paul! ;)

How do you pass the time on a flight? -- Work of course! I make sure my laptop and phone are always fully charged. When work gets too much of me, I watch TV series or play games (recently, I've been hooked again with Dungeon Keeper 2! Classic!!). When all batteries are gone, I read a paperback. These days, I'm happily reading Dan Ariely's "The Honest Truth About Dishonesty".

In what country or region do you enjoy spending your favorite travel season, and why? -- Summer in Europe. Sun rises very early, and sets only by 9pm or 10pm so your time and money is worth it because you have more time to go around (sunlight is the best light for photos!)
Tell us about your most recent journey? -- I've been to Penang (Malaysia) a few weeks back and it blew my mind! The city is bustling with street art and food. It has a World Heritage Site full of colonial decrepit houses that have been preserved (and are still being used) for centuries now. I'm surprised it's not much as heard as other Southeast Asian cities but it will get traction soon. I will be back in that city for the Georgetown Festival in August.

Lithuanian artist Ernest Zacharevic gives life to century old walls by creating beautiful murals around Penang's capital, Georgetown.

Where have you traveled and where do you plan to go next? -- Been to all continents except Africa and The Americas. My favorites so far are Barcelona, Bali and Beijing---those 3 places have changed me in one way or another. Never been to Japan and India so I'm crossing that out this year!
What is your ultimate travel destination? -- (Summoning the voice of Alicia Keys).... New York!!!
Travel Tip -- Always prepare for a trip so you maximize the destination. Some folks do it cowboy style and just travel where the winds blows them, but it really pays to research and identify the must see, must eat, and must experience places. I'll give you an example---I can't believe that I've met Western tourists who visit Manila and never visit Intramuros because "they didn't hear" about it. Most likely, those people didn't research at all and I pity that!

I am truly inspired by the achievements of Jonathan. He is a living example of his favorite word, GRIT. Kitang-kita mo yung passion and perseverance at such a young age! This guy has got a long way to go. Who knows, maybe he'll be the next president of the Philippines by 2040? :)

U P D A T E S ! ! !

Jonathan finally launched his latest book From Grit to Great which shares his life journey to becoming Asia's first Apprentice! :)

Written in a casual and funny style that Jonathan is known for, From Grit to Great is a delightful treat for aspiring students, rockstar yuppies, and budding entrepreneurs looking for inspiration and motivation on "making it big". It’s the book where business meets wit.

From August to September 2014, all books sold in Indiegogo will come in limited edition paperback with Jonathan's personally handwritten signature and whatever dedication you want him to write on the book. ;)

They will donate proceeds from the book sales to organizations in Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines and Vietnam. These partners cater to their mission of improving the quality of teaching or providing financial assistance to less-privileged but promising students of Southeast Asia. So what are you waiting for?

PRE-ORDER THE BOOK NOW! :)

Travel Junkie of the Month: Pam Pastor

Brooklyn Bridge Hobbiton London New York New Zealand Pajammy Pam Pastor Platform 9 3/4 Polish Police The Harry Potter Shop Travel Junkie of the Month Traveling

I started blogging back in 2003 when I was actively posting entries in an online forum that's called NastyForums.com. Don't judge! It's the first domain I bought online using my hard earned money during high school.

Why nasty? I was so hooked with the Destiny's Child song Nasty Girl (2001) that my first ever email add back then was nastygirl28[at]yahoo.com.

Go and click the link to see how it looked like back in 2003. If I'm not mistaken it's a porn site now or something. Moving on...

After graduating from high school, my love for online forums gradually disappeared and moved on with blogs. Our next Travel Junkie of the Month have been or will always be my favorite blogger in the whole universe. Please give a warm applause and cyber hugs to Ms. Pam Pastor!

I have no idea how I ended up in Pam's blogspot but it was the first link I'd visit after I'm done checking my Friendster. Her life was an open book back then, she literally blogged about anything under the sun. From lovelife, family, travels and even her obsession with flipflops, nandun lahat. I love her writing style, very engaging, it's as if I'm reading the diary of a close friend.

Pam influenced me on a lot of things. First, I remember collecting limited edition pairs of Havaianas and wearing them to school kahit na bawal. Second, I also tried doing that 365 photos in a year project. Of course I failed at first but then succeeded few years after, check out my own version of The365DaysProj. Third, her latest blog Polish Police is all about nail polish. As expected, I'm slowly upgrading my nail polish collection to Chanel ever since I read about the Peridot. Paolo (my boyfriend) was very supportive too when he got me a Chanel Taboo. O, di ba? I am obsessed with Pam Pastor. Buti na lang she agreed to be my next featured Travel Junkie of the Month. Thank you so much Pam! :) Di ko na papahabain pa 'to, check out our Q and A below:

Here's Pam on the movie set of The Lord of the Rings, Hobbiton in New Zealand.

In one word, define travel. -- Adventure.
Could you describe the importance of travel? -- We get such limited time in this world so I feel that it's necessary to see and experience as much of it as we can.
How often do you fly, and on what airline? -- Several times a year. When I travel for work, the airline choice isn't up to me. For personal trips, I usually fly Cathay.
Do you have a preferred day or time when traveling? -- I like really early flights (they usually mean that I stay up all night and then relax during the flight) or really late flights. Red eye flights are sexy. Or maybe I'm just weird.
Who books your plane tickets and lodging? Are they personal or through a travel agency? -- No travel agency, everything done online.
What’s the weirdest question you got from an immigration officer? -- "Are you auditioning?" When I said I was going to LA to visit the set of CSI. I wasn't but yeah, I've always wanted to play a dead body on the show. I've met some really funny immigration officers over the years. Luckily, except for a couple of people in South Korea, they've always been nice.
Window or Aisle? -- Window. Comfortable sleep is more important to me than toilet access.
Are you a light or heavy packer? -- Neither. I like packing all the things I need (plus a few extras, just in case) but I also make sure I leave space for shopping.
How do you pass the time on a flight? -- I sleep, read, transcribe interviews, write and watch a lot of movies and TV shows.

Pam at the Brooklyn Bridge.

In what country or region do you enjoy spending your favorite travel season, and why? -- New York in the fall. Or spring. New York anytime. I used to say three weeks in New York weren't enough, then I went for six weeks. Still not enough. I love how you can never run out of things to do there. Anything can happen in that place. I'm crazy, New York is crazy - we're a good match.
Tell us about your most recent journey. -- I spent three weeks in New York in April and May on vacation. And then I went to London for nine days in May and June for work. I really enjoyed both trips. In New York, I joined the Easter Parade, stalked Dominique Ansel and the cast of Orange Is The New Black, ate my way around Brooklyn, met John Green, Gillian Flynn and Ruth Reichl and geeked out at Random House. I also spent a couple of weekends in Atlantic City and Philadelphia. In London, I watched West End shows, did a lot of interviews, discovered strawberry beer and joined the Harry Potter and Jack the Ripper walking tours. I also took the train to Great Missenden to visit Roald Dahl's museum. -- OMG, I LOVE YOUR JOB!

Shopping with friends in London at The Harry Potter Shop, Platform 9 3/4.

Where have you traveled and where do you plan to go next? -- Cambodia with friends. And possibly Florida for my birthday because I really really want to go to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter World in Universal Studios.
What is your ultimate travel destination? -- Strangely, I don't really have a travel bucket list. I'm up for anything and I'd love to go anywhere I haven't been to before. I enjoy falling in love with new places.
What kind of souvenirs do you buy? -- I've never really been the ref magnets or touristy t-shirt kind of person. I usually buy things that are unique to the place. I always always buy books (Strand Book Store in New York is one of my favorite places in the world. I can spend hours and hours there.) I also try to buy Doc Martens in every destination - they become my souvenir. I like wearing shoes that remind me of special places.
Travel Tip -- Don't let other tourists make your plans for you. Yes, everyone wants to see the Eiffel Tower and the Golden Gate Bridge. Go see them but don't be afraid to veer away from the popular attractions too. Research! Discover your own treasures, find your own secret spots. Enjoy every second. Leave stress at home. If you don't let little annoyances bother you, you'll be a happier traveler. Don't be afraid to try new things. Eat new things. Leap from your comfort zone. Say yes to adventure.

Photos provided by Pam. To be honest, I haven't formally met Ms. Pastor. I've seen her in person though, mostly inside the mall. Kaya lang I'm too shy to say hi! That's why I'm so thankful that she answered random travel questions from a stranger like me. It goes to show that she's a really nice person not just online but in real life. Thank you so much, Pam! Please continue inspiring and spreading good vibes to everyone. I hope I get to meet you someday. :)

Travel Junkie of the Month: Chuvaness

Cathay Pacific Cecile Zamora Cecile Zamora-Van Straten Chuvaness Manila Ritz-Carlton Hotel Ritz-Carlton Hotel Tokyo Tokyo Travel Junkie Travel Junkie of the Month Traveling

The Travel Junkie officially turns 3 this June 2014 and I'm kicking it off by launching the latest segment in my blog called Travel Junkie of the Month!

Please give a warm welcome to our first ever featured Travel Junkie of the Month: Cecile Zamora-Van Straten (CVS) also known as Chuvaness!

I started reading Chuvaness back in 2008. CVS is a genius, and very influential too! I started liking things posted on her blog, thanks to her creative writing/marketing skills. But of course, I couldn't afford all of them di ba! Hehe.

In 2010, I created one of the most viral Facebook page that made headlines. I remember sending the link to CVS in Twitter and next thing you know, she blogged about it and said: "Whoever started KA's despedida party is a genius." -- To be honest, it was one of those days where I literally got scared for my life. It's not cool getting random calls and messages from haters ha. Anyway, I've learned my lesson and vowed to never ever do something stupid online ever again. *wink wink*

Going back to our Travel Junkie of the Month, I've prepared a list of questions for CVS and she was kind enough to answer despite her busy schedule:

In one word, define travel. -- Hirap naman. Google na lang!
Describe the importance of travel. -- Destressing, learning about other cultures, finding oneself, discovering new things, seeing, smelling, tasting, feeling things you have never had before.

Cathay Pacific's First Class Seats

How often do you fly, and on what airline? -- Three times a year? I prefer Cathay Pacific.
Do you have a preferred day or time when traveling? -- I prefer to leave around 11:00 AM if Manila and around 4:00 PM if abroad. In Manila I need my blowdry, and abroad I like to leave after lunch. I don’t like stress.
Who books your plane tickets and lodging? -- I book my tickets online and accommodations through my dad’s office where I can get corporate rates.
What’s the weirdest question you got from an immigration officer? -- Wala naman.
Window or Aisle? -- I prefer a seat nearest to the toilet because I go quite often.
Are you a light or heavy packer? -- Definitely not light.
How do you pass the time on a flight? -- I pray, browse the duty free catalog, read, and sleep.

View from the Ritz-Carlton Hotel in Tokyo.

In what country or region do you enjoy spending your favorite travel season, and why? -- Tokyo, because I'm Japanese inside.
Tell us about your most recent journey. -- 8 days in Tokyo with the boys. My longest in Tokyo yet. I don’t get tired of Tokyo.

Ben, Jeroen and Markus Van Straten

Where have you traveled and where do you plan to go next? -- I’m going to Sweden for H&M.
What is your ultimate travel destination? -- I like Paris. I want to get to know the city more. If only I didnt fear flying so much. Scandinavia I like.

Cecile Zamora-Van Straten

Why are you so fond of Japanese culture? -- Because I’m Japanese inside.
Travel Tip -- Have a travel kit that you never unpack. Mine is a carry on that includes everything like hairdryer, mirror, toiletries, brushes, bandaids, sanitary pads-that are only for travel. So it shortens my packing worries. It’s ready to go.

Photos grabbed from Chuvaness. Thanks again Ms. C! You're the best! Hope I get to meet you again in the coming days or months.

Anyway, how do you like this new section of my blog? Have a person in mind for the next Travel Junkie of the month? Leave your comments and suggestion below!