I ain’t gonna tell you to quit your job and embark on a long term travel, nor will I tell you to hate your job. I don’t think I have the credibility yet to urge you to do that, unless I am a full-time traveler, blogger, travel writer or entrepreneur maybe. I don’t like to eat my words because sooner or later I may have to go back to work. So I say, don’t curse your work, use your salary to save money for your travels! 
I don't wanna be alone. I wanna be left alone. -Audrey Hepburn-
When I started posting photos of my solo travel back in 2008 on my Facebook account, I expected some people to raise their eyebrows.
It wasn’t until I started to blog about my solo travels that my family and friends realize that I am not alone. In the context of Philippine society, female solo travel is not well-known, or should I say, considered against the norms. So it doesn’t really surprise me that people usually ask me, “why are you traveling alone?” In our country they find it weird or crazy! I tell you, it can get a bit annoying to answer the same question overtime.
It wasn’t until I embarked on my 1st solo travel outside the Philippines when I learned to take “pride” in being a solo female traveler, thanks to the foreigner solo female travelers I met on the road. There’s just a lot of them out there, and mind you, they don’t travel for days or weeks, but for months or even years! Now if in the Philippines people ask me why I travel alone, outside the country people are surprised as well as to why a poor Filipina, an Asian from a 3rd world country is traveling alone. As we all know, they’re so used to Filipinos going abroad to work but it’s very rare for them to encounter Filipino solo tourists. Sadly, we’re one of the most highly discriminated race, I could attest to that , I’ve experienced it a couple of times whenever I’m entering a foreign border alone. One of my greatest agony is convincing the immigration officers that I am visiting their country as a tourist and not to work there illegally. They should be proud to have Filipinos in their workforce!
Language... has created the word "loneliness" to express the pain of being alone. And it has created the word "solitude" to express the glory of being alone. -Paul Johannes Tillich, The Eternal Now
I dream that one day, when you type the word “Pinay” or “Filipina” in Google, travel blogs and Philippines travels will come up on the 1st page instead of some porn sites or mail order brides for foreigners. (That said, please keep visiting my site to help me get into Google page 1! haha ) Seriously, I know somewhere out there, under the same sky, there are Filipina girls who wants to travel but are just too scared to go against the society’s norms. I am no solo female travel expert, nor am I a feminist activist, but when I started this blog, my goal is to help encourage and inspire fellow Filipinas to travel and so long as I’m here, I shall stick to that goal.
I’ve had received e-mails, and personal messages about solo female travel, and those messages inspire me to keep on going. Now the usual question is, “how do I start traveling solo, can you give me some tips?”. I’ll attempt to answer this question based on my experience, if you feel like I missed something or you wanna add something that would be of help, please feel free to comment, do leave a mark on this site. I’d highly appreciate your feedbacks. 
Life is either a daring adventure or nothing. -Helen Keller-
Tips on Starting Your First Female Solo Travel:
1. Plan. It’s only one word yet the most powerful when it comes to embarking on your first solo trip. Plan your destination, your budget, how to get there, where you’re staying, etc. I suggest choose a domestic destination, choose Philippines for your 1st solo trip! I am no big fan of planning travels, but looking back at my misadventures, the wasted time and wasted money, it would’ve been avoided if I had done one important thing – and that is pre-plan my travels. And when you plan, please make sure there’s always Plan B!
2. Bring a map. When people ask me what’s my secret in my solo travels, I only have one answer–>I have a map. I’m a big fan of EZ Map for my local travels. I know it’s a bit old school, but I find it safer than consulting Google Earth in your travel gadget. Besides you won’t risk loosing your expensive gadgets to thieves. But of course, it’s all up to you, if you don’t wanna spend Php99 on each province for EZ Maps, they have a bigger book for Php600+ which covers the entire Philippines but if you wanna use Google Earth , go ahead! I find it comprehensive as well. Nowadays, GPS is fast becoming the latest gadget, but since I can’t afford that, I’ll stick with the map for now. But please, when you use your map, be a little discreet if possible, you don’t wanna attract unwanted attention by flaunting your a tourist.
3. Ask the locals. Preferably ask women or girls. Ask 3 or more people, if you get the same answers, then most likely that’s correct!
4. Tell at least one person that you trust (a family member or a friend maybe) about your travel plan, where you are going, your route, your departure and estimated arrival. Write it down and hand it to them, or e-mail it to them, do not display it in public places. Avoid live status updates on social networking sites like Facebook or Twitter for security purposes, unless you wanna be stalked!
5. Keep a mobile phone with you and store important phone numbers like police station #, embassy #, hospitals, etc. This is really helpful during emergencies.
6. Photocopy your passport and other travel documents. Keep the original in your locker at your hostel. That way for when a suspicious person ask you for your ID with the intent of stealing it, your documents are secure.
7. Dress appropriately and wear the right shoes or sandals. Avoid showing off or letting everyone notice you’re a tourists for your own security. Respect differences, research about cultural & religious outfit taboos on your destination.
8. Bring a tripod rather than keep asking strangers to take your photo, be careful, they might run away with your expensive camera! If you badly need someone to take your photo, then ask a fellow tourist, they will most likely understand. What I do when someone asks me to take their photo (usually couples or family), I use it as an opportunity to ask them to take my photo as well.
10. As humanly as possible, pack light. Remember you’ll carry your backpack or luggage on your own. Recently I stayed in a mixed dorms and most women complain, “I have a lot of stuff! I don’t know why?”. One of them even sent 5 KG of her luggage back home but still she’s got like 15 KG with her! So, do bring only the essential stuff, leave your jewelry at home to avoid attracting unwanted attention.
11. Keep your money in a security waist wallet or secret body wallet. Hide them in separate places. Always count your money when making transactions at money exchange centers and ask for receipt.
12. Trust your instinct! If you think you’ll be in trouble or you think you’re talking with a suspicious stranger, then leave! Avoid dark places or walking alone in remote places at night. Avoid drinking booze or juices or whatever drinks offered by strangers.
13. Bring a whistle to attract attention when you’re in trouble or a pepper spray (take note though that some countries like Singapore prohibit bringing in pepper spray).
14. Promote the Philippines. As a Filipina, be a good example. So start traveling in our country so you can brag how beautiful the Philippines is when you start traveling abroad. I just noticed that some Filipino travelers get too ecstatic traveling the world but has forgotten to explore their own country, so when the foreign tourists asks them about the best destinations in the Philippines, they don’t know what to say. There’s nothing wrong in exploring the world but please never forget your roots.
15. Avoid disclosing your alone and not married. I usually say, I’ll meet my friends there or someone is waiting for me. If a suspicious guy asks if your married, say yes to avoid unwanted attention. You can buy a fake ring to flaunt as your wedding ring.
16. Lastly, bring an open mind and a big heart!
Spend some time alone every day. - Tenzin Gyatso, the 14th Dalai Lama-
Nothing is as hard as it first appears, same goes with embarking on your 1st solo travel. I have one favor though..if you happen to push through with your 1st solo travel, please let me know by leaving a mark on this post. I don’t mean to be ethnocentric or gender centric in this post, but there’s a lot of solo female travel sites out there mainly concentrated to the Western female solo travelers, I’ll leave it to the experts. I wanna write something for the Filipinas from the point of view of a local, that’s the least I can do to show my sincere appreciation for nurturing my desire to keep on exploring despite all the uncertainty.
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About the Blogger : Gael is a Filipina solo adventurer, a dream chaser and a student of life. Her (mis) adventures are documented in this blog. Follow her on Facebook and Twitter.
For advertisement, partnerships and sponsorship, click here. or email me at thepinaysolobackpacker(at)yahoo(dot)com.
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Great post Ate Jill! One of the few travelers and bloggers that I idolize, kudos Sis! Proud of you! Ingat parati
)
thank you Gel for your support and for sharing this post and for everything. Malapet na pala ulit tau magkita, malapet na ang June! =) ayan akala tuloy nila Jill yung name ko dahil sau! hahaha
love following your post! can’t wait for more idol. God bless!
salamat Maria! =) will write more about this topic soon! =)
Hi,
I started solo travelling just a month ago. my first stop was in bora. i plan to go around pinas in 2years. thanks to your post, i’m more inspired now to travel alone. i actually like it better, i get to meet a lot of people and appreciate the beauty of God’s creation. your guide will surely help me on my next stop: palawan.
will follow from now on. go go solo travellers!
Hi Laiza! thank you for sharing your story. I am deeply touched to hear more Filipinas can do it on their own. Yes, definitely, Palawan is one of the safest destination for solo traveler. I suggest you head to El Nido. I have a guide here somewhere. =)
Hello, ”Ate Jill”! I don’t really know if that’s you’re real name but that’s what Jack wrote above.
Anyway, I really would like to thank you for inspiring me to pursue what I really wanted and that is to travel. I wanna be a solo backpacker like you after I graduated college. Whew! I still got one year to go!
You just don’t know how much I’ve become a fan of yours ever since I read this blog. I was actually looking for some travel packages in Pundaquit and came upon your blog yesterday. I was so glad I found some cool travel blog by my fellow Filipina. And you know what, I really appreciate your concern for Mother Earth. I find it annoying when people throw their trash everywhere. You know outside the jeep windows. You name it. They do it all the time.
Maybe, it would really be awesome if I knew you personally. But then, I don’t. I just wish you were. Seriously. I really wish we were like mutual friends. Not virtual.
I love you and this blog! Please continue to inspire other Filipinas like me! How I wish I was you. For real.
XOXO
S.M.C.A.
awww! thanks sis! =) will write more! thank you so much for the leaving a comment here. I hope we can travel together one day! =)
wow, inspiring!
teynk Mr.Havenhunter! regards to Mrs.Havenhunter! =)
no one does this better than you. kaya naman di kami papayag na di magjoin sa carnival ang Pinay Solo Backpacker!
Mishu girlet! Kita kits pag uwi mo! (bati na tayo ulit) hehe
hahaha kaya nga hinabol ko tlga to kase natakot ako baka warlahin nyo ako ni Nina. haha
all wise advise. i would also like to add that always have a plan c as well. and if you mapped out your route, make sure you have another way to get to your destination, in case that route is close for unforseen event or situation.
nice! thank you for the feedback Photocache! cheers to all Pinay! =)
I was really moved by this post Gael. This inspired me to pursue my dream to travel alone someday. I hope this would uplift our image as pinays. I do hope na sana dumating yung time na hindi na puro mga mail order brides for foreigners yung makikita mo sa mga search engines when you type the word Filipina but more on travel sites na yung lalabas sa first page. We will continue to support you! Go go go!
thank you Lovely! =) I’m sure kapag ikaw nagala wala kang problema sa immigration kase your pretty and posh-looking! =) keep exploring!
thnx Lovely! makes me think tuloy if you’ve ever had a problem sa immigration kase you’re pretty and posh looking, I’m sure lage d ka na tinatanong! =) Cheers to all Pinay travelers!
Well said my dear
for me, we should not take advantage of #4. We have to at least let our family or a trusted friend where we’re going para in case of emergency, alam nila saan tayo pupulutin. Lesson learned from 127 hours hehe
haha salamat! lage mu saken pinapaalala yan. miss na kita! =)
lovely post Gael!
There’s always a certain joy in traveling alone..di ma explain
safe travels!
awww! thanks Nathalie for always dropping by! =)
I had to comment because I share your dream of eliminating from search engines the association of the word “Filipina” with some porn site. If only we could encourage more bloggers to blog positive things about the Philippines and using the keyword “Filipina” maybe we could push down those porn sites. Thank you and Good Luck in your endeavor, your blog was one of my inspirations in starting lakbaybaguio.
maraming salamat! =) actually tama ka, d lng s travel bsta mga bagay na ikaka proud ng Pinas, anything that can push down those bad porn sites.
yes I think I am now inspired to help push down those porn sites, making it now as one of my goals. Sana magsamasama tayo para sa layuning ito
Hi Gael, miss you na. Hope to see you again. This is a very informative and practical travel tips. I especially like #14 (both of them). ^__^
Travel is such an eye-opener, and one can never have enough of it, well, at least in my case. Yun nga lang, it can make me grow so restless when Im stuck in daily grind.
Ive always been a fan of yours. At dumarami na kami. Sana makapagpapic ako with you, sabay autograph na rin, hihihi.
mmmmwaaaaaaahhh…..
haha lintias! sukat daw diri sako nagpaimod. nag-agda man kuta, short notice man! hmmp! I ddnt see Ces in SG. sayang! My bad, i wish i can see you all soon. Thank you for dropping by. True, I do feel restless that’s why I like to slow down and talk, too bad you guys are so far. =( Old friends are the best, I will always remember that. =) I miss you so much! =(
Bilib talaga ako sa’yo Gael when it comes to your advocacy on Pinay solo traveling.
A lot of females admire your courage and zest to travel despite the many ‘negative’ (I like to call it ignorant) comments. Go on and continue doing what you love as you inspire a lot of people (di lang babae) to travel and find purpose while doing so. I love your entries here because of how captivating you retell your stories.
Will share this post 
PAK! natumbok mo…
you inspire (challenge) me to travel solo. nakakahiya man aminin but you are gutsier than me when traveling solo, i still tend to second guess my capabilities when im flying solo. but this post fueled the drive
… that i can nail solo travels too…
konti na nga lang parang gusto ko na rin maging pinay! hahahaha
Ron, im a fan (of your comments)! Hahahaha
hi!
i have tried traveling alone last year in some islands in antique. it was the most adventurous and risky thing that i’ve done, since nobody knew where i was, and it was my first time to do a lot of crazy things, like ride a motorbike with a complete stranger, be left in the middle of nowhere without signs of civilization except for a small sari-sari store, spend overnight (without dinner) on a boat, and experience a 3-hour ride on a pumpboat without a life-vest (i don’t even know how to swim). i guess i was indeed out of my mind when i made that trip. i was lucky that i got back home safe and sound. but credit also goes to the friendly locals whom i’ve met along the way, especially this old lady who sort of adopted me in some parts of the trip (i call her “nanay” and we still text each other once in a while), the boat’s kapitan and his crew for letting me stay and take up their “bedspace” (deeply appreciated their hardowork as they took turns in pumping the boat’s engine or oil or whatever it was the ENTIRE night), and the friendly tricycle driver who finally brought me to my destination. the only regret that i have was not being able to take pictures for fear that the locals might see me as an easy prey. overall, it was an uplifting experience.
since then, i’ve been dreaming of doing the same thing again. i’m thinking of having a 3-4 day break from work and go to some place where i can again have my own adventure. any suggestions? sadly, budget will be a little tight for my next trip. i would like to go to a place where it is relatively safe for female solo travelers like me. is palawan a good place?
ahhh! you made me miss Antique! I can relate with all that, the Philippines is really a safe place for solo travelers, thanks to the warm and helpful locals! And thank you Hannah for sharing your story with us! Mabuhay ang Pinay! =)
Like the photos and the tips
Im a solo female traveler as well, it is not always easy but its not difficult either, so much fun and never really alone 
so good luck!
cool! thank you so much for dropping by girl! keep on exploring! =)
Solo travel isn’t everyone’s cup of tea and you’re right, it’s even rarer to find someone from the Philippines doing so. I salute the few brave Pinays – like you – who blaze the path to independent travel. Mabuhay ang Pinay!
oh thank you so much Sir! =) Hows your vacation po? I’m sure it’s a blast! Keep the posts coming!
Thanks for this post! I’m a Pinay who travels solo as well and I can totally related to what you were saying about being badgered incessantly on why I travel alone. People often think I’m depressed or I’m trying to get away from something. I just bumped into your blog today through another Pinoy travel blog and it feels so great to know that I’m not alone (and crazy!) in doing solo travels.
it always feels good to hear frm another Filipina traveler. keep it up! thank you for leaving a mark here. =)
hi gael!
winner! very inspiring! congratz!
thank you dear! keep exploring!
Awesome tips Gael. Actually I’m really happy to discover PTB. For the longest time I didn’t know any other Pinay except one who travelled solo. it’s really not hard since you meet so many people on the road. And about the search results on pinay it is so disheartening to see it. Usually too people think I’m Chinese, Thai or half-Japanese when I travel so I correct them and they are so surprised I’m not a DH or nurse. We are truly a travel minority which is sad kasi we get so much visa restrictions.
Oh, I thought u have a US Visa kaya you can travel freely. True, there’s nothing wrong w/ being DH or Nurse, kaya lng the visa restrictions kakainis! =( I was so glad when I came up with your site plus the fact you use the word Pinay in your domain name, even though your based outside Pinas, you’ve always been proud of your roots and I salute you for that Grace! =)
ikaw na gael
(insert worship icon here)
these are truly great tips coming from a truly great solo traveler.
have a blessed lenten break
you’re back na tlga atty! ayan, balik ka na sa PTB! =)
Hi ate gael,
i always wanna travel alone but i have friends who shared the same passion.. kaya i may not have the chance to do this pa.. but im sooo looking forward to it…
thanks for the tips… =)
happy travel!!
haha yeah. kahet 1 time lng. Good that you have frnds w/ you to acompany you when you travel.
nice read gael
…kakarelate talaga. It’s really fun to travel with friends but it’s a different travel high when you go out alone.
Now I need to get myself that fake ring for next month’s solo plans
haha I’ll make sure I -email you next time when I hit SG.
.. applicable din naman sa male solo travel yung tips mo gael.
.. had my first solo leisurely (have travelled alone many times for work) travel last month in malaysia (kk-pen-kl) and i felt good about it after the trip. i missed a lot of your tips like i had no map with me, i did asked some locals but most of them just shrugged at my questions (i think i pick the wrong kind of people to ask), i forgot to bring my tripod, i did not packed light, but i did trusted my instincts!
.. stay safe on your travels gael.
Hi Gael: (Gael ba o Jill, nalilito ako)
This is a v comprehensive article on how to travel alone, with specific focus on pinays. I hope this will inspire more Filipinas to go on their own journeys.
Like you, dream ko rin na maiba ang image ng Filipina sa net. Hence my decision to put “Filipina” sa aking blog. I’m not really into this “rah-rah-Pinoy-ako-thing, as I think it reeks of token nationalism. Plus I don’t want to put myself in a box as I refused to be defined by my race, ethnicity or nationality. Kaya dati I don’t bother putting “Filipina” in our About Us page. But later, I decided to use “Filipina” na after discovering how bad our image is sa web. I hate hate hate those dating and porno sites.
I hope that your blog, my blog and the blog of other Filipina travelers will help in changing this negative image.
it was destiny for Gael to write this entry for the blog carnival. i don’t know anyone who’s more perfect for this them than you. i always tell you how inspirational you are to young kids out there! make them proud! go! go! go!
hehe thank you Jerik! =) PTB will always be a part of me. I’ll miss you all. =)
Thanks for this. True. Some would really raise their eyebrows whenever I tell i’ll travel solo. But it’s fun!
Would love to travel solo outside the country soon. 
Great tips Gael, I think this not only applies to women but most of your tips applies to every solo traveler out there. =)
Thanks for the Tips… I like to travel solo too..:)
Ibang level ka na tagala Gael, isa ka sa mga pioneer pinay female travel bloggers na humble at at inspiring. Continue to inspire other people but I won’t wish for you to continue traveling solo. I have another plan
Galing mo naman Gael. I’m proud para sayo.
Hi Gael!
…I hope I can venture on my long-planned-solo-trip soon! I was wondering if u could help me by suggesting some places to start with….thanks! more power! and God Bless! GOOD JOB btw. thanks a lot po.
You inspire me in so many ways. I love your courage, I wanna steal it lol…for some time now, I’m hunting for a good place to start my first solo-trip and I never fail to browse your blogs. I sooo love and envy ur blogs
Hi Rose! sure! if you’re based in Luzon, try Sagada,or Baguio, Zambales or Laguna, there’s a lot of places actually, but for a starter. I’d normally suggest Sagada!
I will be writing a more comprehensive post abt this. =) thnx for your kind words and your time. =)
Hi! Wow! Great tips!
I really agree on all of them. Except that I didn’t have a tripod then, but I get what you mean on that. I just did my first solo backpacking trip last month. Vietnam- Cambodia- Laos- Thailand. Though I just passed through Vietnam and Thailand. I just would like to add some of the things I learned on my trip as well if you don’t mind 
I’m no expert though. Feel free to disagree 
Having a plan really helps specially if you have limited time. But it’s good to be flexible as well. Go with the flow as they say. For my trip, I made some major changes in my plan due to asking locals, fellow travellers on the best way to go to the next place, what places/ things are better to do etc. Torch light- helpful for night travel. Wet Ones- essential if traveling overnight and if not staying/ just passing through/ substitute for a bath. Hehe. Book in advance if possible to avail of the guesthouse’s free pick up service. Share a taxi- gain a friend, save some money. A map would be helpful. Or just walk around and get lost, good way to know the place, you’ll find your way anyway, eventually. hehehe. Oh, and have a good backpack- it’s no fun having to carry 7kgs or more on your back while going around. If you’re going to make calls, cheaper to buy a prepaid SIM in the country you’re in rather than using your postpaid phone. I also availed of a travel insurance, just in case. And research a lot
Just venting out: Even the the Philippine immigration is hard to convince. I was asked a lot of questions before having my passport stamped when I was about to leave the country. Kulang nalang hingan ako ng certificate of employment. ID nalang hiningi. hehehe. Hindi din sila makapaniwala that I’m female alone travelling. Oh and how I envy those who can travel for months and years!
Continue inspiring us Pinays
Idol! Hoping I get to travel as much as you do. My next plan is to do Philippines – just like what you said 
Will definitely continue to read your blog of adventures:)
wow! thank you po for the very comprehensive info. =) girl, you’re not alone, ang hirap tlga nila i-convince, nung una ako din, kaya ginawa ko yung pinsan ko na taga immigration din pinapunta ko sa airport kahet off nya. haha good thing muntik na ako ma late sa flight ko kaya d na ako tinanong that time. pero lately when I show my work ID, they let me pass agad, and I was wondering why, kase normally dame tlga tanong, then pagpasok ko, kaya pala kase our bank has a lot of ads sa airport. haha
very helpful tip and i think its effective!
take care always! thank you
hey,
thanks for this blog.i got inspired now to take on my very first solo travel to ilocos norte , maybe third quarter of this year.any tips going there? thanks
Hi,
I am a girl, and I am a backpacker.
I have been enjoying your posts, especially this post. It is very useful.
Thank you very much..
Go go go solo backpacker!!
Hi,
I came across your site when searching for Palaui and then this page Solo Female Travel 101 : A Guide for Filipinas piqued me. I’ve read blogs/articles about female solo traveler but none of them is about pinay’s on the road. I can relate to some of your “road” experiences and sentiments like:“…outside the country people are surprised as well as to why a poor Filipina, an Asian from a 3rd world is traveling alone” and “…they’re so used to Filipino going abroad to work but its very rare for them to encounter Filipino solo tourist”.
Traveling solo for the first time is daunting, domestically, I tried it twice, my first was in Puerto Gallera – just for a weekend. Followed by a day tour in Samal Island. Last year, I signed up as volunteer (English Teacher) in Ubon Ratchathani, NE Thailand for almost 2 weeks. Before going back home, I allotted 3days/2nights side trip to Champasak, Southern Laos. Solo or not, every travel entails thorough planning and so I concur to your travel tips #1 – 16! If I may add, it would be helpful too if we familiarize ourselves to local- non English- language, so bring along a list of local phrases (with English Translation of course). When asking locals in their language, they are thrilled with the effort and become extra hospitable:o)
Thanks for the input Carol! =) Pre-planning would save one a lot of time and money, but I myself is not a huge fan of planning. haha Sometimes though it’s fun but could turn into a big disappointment whenever I’m lacking funds. And yeah, with regard to learning the local language, that’s relaly a good point. I kinda missed that out. Thnx for dropping by!
Kudos to you Ms. Gael,
I love what you do, for being proud to be Filipina and yes one of this days when one search for Pinay in Google you’ll top the list……
You inspired me to travel more….
After reading this, all I did was nod in agreement. It’s my way of saying, well said.
I have been traveling alone for a few years now. There are a lot of us out there, Filipino women who, for our own personal reasons, has enjoyed traveling alone. As for me, I just got tired of waiting on people.
Continue with your advocacy. Speak for us who preferred to tread the wonders of nature and experience the beauty of every culture anonymously. Make every Filipina realize how empowered they can become.
All the best!
hello! you visited my blog a few months ago, and asked about Punta Bulata. Punta Bulata is at the boundary of Cauayan and Sipalay in Negros Occidental. i enjoy traveling alone, too. i started with long bus rides in the 80′s without a fixed destination. traveled abroad solo a couple of times. a Pinay traveling solo is like going to a bar alone on a Friday night to listen to some good live music. you’d get hit on at the bar, no doubt, but you’re safe as long as you use common sense, and a sense of humor.:p
I love this… Thank you for the info.. I’m planning on doing a solo backpacking in a month or 2.. I hope it’s okay to contact you…
Wow, you really inspired me to travel solo. I really need to go somewhere and you’ve just given me the “push” I need. So now I’m thinking, Boracay or Bantayan? Thanks and good luck on your next trip!
Hi! thanks for these great tips! I’m just actually going to start my solo trips for the rest of 2011 and I chose Corregidor as my first stop. I figured it’s a good starters for a first time-solo back packer wannabe. But I still have yet to decide on my second trip. Any suggestion? I’m not looking for beaches, I’m actually looking for a culture rich destination here in our country. I hope you cld help me. Thanks is advance!:)
Hi Sam. Visit Sagada. =)
great tips.. i really love your site..it’s really helpful..i also love traveling but most of my trip were on a group with friends..mas tipid…hehe. i tried a solo trip once…its really different..i will do it more in the future..haha kapag pinayagan ng family..
more power and more trips…looking for a more tips..
Hi,
I had done my first solo backpacking last December 2009 and it was all worth it….
I’ll be doing it again but this time not just only one place I’ll visit but the whole Philippines in one year.. hehehe
Im very inspired in the short Documentary “a map for saturday”. That’s why the wanderlust in me is creeping me again and saying that I should the Solo Backpacking again..
Hello Gael! This is a very handy entry for female solo travelers. I hope to travel solo someday. I really really want to but my resources (time, money and stuff) don’t allow me yet. Someday. I am so inspired to do this
I’ll let you know when I finally do.
I have done my first solo backpacking (in SG) last year and even spent the New Year’s there. Met a lot of people and learned tons about myself. After that experience, I have planned lots of solo traveling for the next months.
hi Marriane! =) thanks for sharing your story. Looking forward to more of your solo trips! =)
Hi Gael. Sa dami nang mga nababasa kong blogs, lahay kayo nakaka inspire talaga! Galing niyo kasi magsulat. Hindi ko pa na experience to travel literally alone pero I’m hoping soon para naman I could feel and share it with others too, how does it really feel to be in solo. I hope I have the guts to do that.
Thanks for the inspiration..
I searched for backpacking 101 and already read so much info about it. But what made curious when I googled Backpacking + Filipina and your site came up.
I love that you are honest about your opinion about ‘mail order brides’ and porn sites. Honestly I ran into few troubles with my big mouth about it. Nowadays I have to watch my tongue so as not to offend Filipinas. I have joined several Filipina organization but after 2 or 3 times I stop checking for activities because I could not relate to their conversation as majority of them are ‘mail order brides’ specially if you live in places like Australia and USA.
Reading your site made me think that I’m not just alone in this. Since I was a kid I’ve always been gutsy and independent. I completed schooling on my own and have travelled paying all expenses on my own.
I had backpack all throughout South East Asia, few trips in Europe and have lived in five countries. And you are right about the curiousity for female Asian backpacker, you get that distinct look from strangers staring at you like you are crazy.
Nowadays Im into peakbagging. I joined a group that would go up the mountains, eat lunch at the top and come down. I have several mountains done already but I have so many still in my to do list. I plan to do the world’s mountain landmarks like Kilimanjaro and who knows I might be able to do Mt. Everest.
It would be great to also meet fellow Pinays in California doing the same thing as I do. I also hope that there are more Pinays in the world who would be in this activities the soonest so we can enjoy outdoors more.
Have fun in your future travels.
Monique
aka female_expat
Hey this is a great article…..we would love to have you as a guest writer for our website if possible in guiding and helping Female solo backpackers coming to India.
Regards
Manu
Hi Manu! I’d love to but I hvnt been to India yet. If my trip pushes through, I can wite for you aftr. More power!
Hi Manu!
It’s an honor, but I hvnt been to India by myself. I will contact you once I’m able to travel to India alone. thanks for dropping by! 
I like your article too much. It encourages me more to travel alone. Most trips ,I joined alone in the Philippines and the first time I went to travel alone was just this year. and what makes most people raise their eyebrow is I travel alone even if Im married. any solo married women traveller out there?
Hi Gael! This is brilliant and very inspiring! I keep on reading this again and again to encourage myself to pursue a solo SEA trip. Got my plane tickets booked but still undecided if I’ll go on a group tour or if I’ll just do it myself. Been taken aback by some recent immigration woes that happened to fellow female travelers. Hope I can make it happen!
winner!
di ko alam pano sisimulan pagtravel mag isa. as i tagged along my kids before. now, i am free-er. kaya i will make most of my time. inantay ko sanang lumaki ang mga anak ko at kami ang lalakbay. minsan kasama ko ang little boylet ko. (6yo). per minsan naisip ko, gawin ko nang magbyahe mag isa.para maraming marating. nagsimula na ako. am super inspired by you. the best ang “pinay-as traveller concept.
planning to start my own solo adventure
really inspiring post pero small-time muna ako so I can get the hang of it, of course Pinas muna! there are a so many sights to see and things to discover dito and I’m really excited to begin! keep it up and godbless!
Hi Pinay Solo Backpacker!
All I can say is you’re an amazing woman. Challenging society’s norms regarding women is not an easy task but here you are doing your thing – which inspires me to do the same. Enjoyed reading your posts
Thanks and God Bless! Four thumbs up! (2 sa kamay 2 sa paa)
I can’t help but read this post over again. Hehe.
Thanks for always inspiring!
Happy Travels!
Hi Gael!
Your blog is so inspiring. I so wanted to travel the world, but not alone. Reading your blog changed me. I
Hi Mia, thanks also for dropping by. you go girl! keep exploring!
Hi! I first came to your blog via BNP, and I’m so glad I did. Been thinking of travelling alone for months now but can’t find enough courage yet. After reading your posts and your solo adventures i got inspired, planning to do it soon, hopefully this coming month-end. Thanks for the tips, keep on posting and inspiring us. Love your photos too, all nicely captured!
Hi Gael–
We haven’t met. But I’m proud to have a colleague like you. Having a job in a corporate world and at the same time maintaining a great blog like this requires a LOT of time and effort. Well done to you!
See you soon.
~Gail~
Ate Gail!!!!
Mustasa Kalabasa! ;p
I got thi blogsite from my officemate and when he shared your name, I instantly felt and really thought that I know you..your name sounded so familiar haha..and just to check my initial statement..I googled your name and..voila!! Ikaw nga!!..;)))
Am proud to say that..;)) I hope someday soon I will be able to do traveling alone hehe..i always thought it seems really fun and now reading your blogs made me realize that it is really fun..;)) Regards and always have a loaded fun and inspiring travel!! 
)
It’s me..one of the crazy and silly freshie of Kamia back in ’02! Hehe, magkatabi hometowns natin!
Just want to say that you’re doing a great job for making a blog like this..very helpful and inspiring!!
haha wow! Phines! of course naalala kita. salamat at naalala mu pa ako.
add mu ko sa FB dali. haha yngat pirmi! 
muah
Hi there! I’m planning to travel solo in Vietnam early next year. Your blog is very informative. I almost forgot the “whistle”! Thank you.
Hello Gael,
Thanks for this post! Nagkalakas tuloy ako ng loob na magtravel mag-isa. Lagi nalang kasi ako namomroblema when it comes to planning trips with my friends. Lagi di natutuloy. Kahit gusto ko pumunta di makapunta dahil takot mag-isa. I always have to find someone who is willing to go with me.
Good thing I found your blog, you inspired me and I enjoyed reading your posts.
Hi,
Wow! Two thumbs up for you. I’ve been longing to travel alone, however, I am quite hesitant. You have moved me to pursue my dream to travel solo.
Safe travels!
I’m about to go to SG tomorrow but since I’m from Baguio, I’ve to set off at midnight pa to catch my flight tomorrow. This is my first solo travel, and I AM SCARED SHITLESS RIGHT NOW. But I’m determined to see this through. Thank you for this post.
Hi! I’ve been meaning to travel solo but I just don’t know how to start. I’ll look for a place that’s safe and probably just near Manila. I’ll let you know. And I’ll read more of your blogs to learn too. Thanks!
yey! i’m excited for you! i’d be glad to hear about it. pls drop by again and let me know!
Now that I read your blog, I’m relieved…I am planning to travel solo in Japan. I’ve been planning about this since I’m still in college. I’ll stay there just for a few days. Now that I am already working it’s still my dream to visit the beautiful place of Japan! Since I started working, I never experience any vacation! Now, I want it to come true! I really want to experience the adventure but there are times that I am really scared. I learned from a friend that Japanese people are insecure. Most of them don’t speak english. It’s going to be difficult for me since I don’t speak Japanese. Well, maybe,its going to be a lot of fun though….goodluck to me!
I WANT TO TRAVEL ALONE! I’ve been dreaming, thinking and planning to travel alone and I just don’t have much “tapang” to do it! And by reading your blog, WOOOOH! I HAVE TO MAKE IT POSSIBLE! Thank you for inspiring us and letting people understand that there’s nothing wrong if you travel alone! MORE POWER!
p.s.
Hope to meet you!
I’ve been planning to travel solo since 2 years ago but haven’t sincerely thought about it. Mostly because I often get lost in Metro Manila even though I was raised here (spoiled kid). So what are the chances of getting lost someplace I’ve never been :p But now I think I need a break and seriously considering a solo travel, one or two weeks from now. My first option is Sagada since I’m not really looking for a beach and it’s been suggested multiple times already for 1st timers. I’m looking for more options, not limited to plane rides, like Cebu. Any other suggestions?
Iloilo, it’s cheap and people are kind there. and you can also cross to Guimaras and Bacolod!
Hi Gael, I came across your site since I am looking for a connecting flight from KK, Malaysia to Brunei somebody told me that I can cross Brunei as easy coming from KK. When I google it your site is on the list.
I started my solo backpacking in December 2010 (Singapore) and January 2011 (KL, Malaysia). And I was surprise on your article because I get the same comments and reactions. But, when I started doing my backpacking here in PH people are more surprise and wonders why I am travelling solo. So, I was creative enough to come-up with an alibi, because I cannot give my real personal info.
When, am reading your article it was very interesting, load of information, and now, after reading this, I could say that I have other inputs to improve my solo travel journey within and outside the PH.
Moreso, am not quite certain if you are related to Reig Hilotin, he mentioned you before, I meet him in one of my climb.
But not the less, as a traveler and it will be an opportunity to meet a fellow- traveler, and I hope, maybe we can bump each other in one our destination.
You go girl!
As of now I can’t afford to travel on my own so i ask some of my friends to travel with me to have someone to share the expenses with.. haha… hope i can go solo too in a year or two though…
this really inspires me and convinced me more to push through with my travel plans… hope to see you in one of my travels!
Copied. Ayus. Ang tapang ko tuloy lumayas (ng may paalam) (#4) Haha.
ipprint ko ‘to. tas ibblog ko rin ung first travel ko.
i love reading ur blogs and it inspires me to be like u…
thanks dear! you can do it too!:) happy travels!
wow. good job!!
planning to get on a trip alone this year too.
wish me luck!
Hi Gael! Kumusta? Nice website!!!
Although I used to travel alone for work, my first ever solo trip (for fun) was in Cebu last February for by birthday. Went to The tourist spots by myself. enjoyed the Sky Adventures by myself. I even had buffet dinner all by myself (while most of the customers are with their friends/families). Said trip got me out of my comfort zone. Such a liberating feeling! After that, I became more independent and adventurous. I am now a big fan of travelling solo. I call it my alone time.
Hi Gael!
Last year I happen to read your blog. I was so inspired to travel alone. Just a week ago, my dream came true. I went to Batanes alone. I also met a fellow female solo traveler there. Thank you for inspiring us. I can’t wait to explore the world!
wow! congratulations! grabeh at Batanes pa! I’m so ingiit! wishing you more travels this year, solo or not!
Hi Ms. Gael,
Thank you for the post! I’ve planned to email you personally regarding what you typed in the post above, specifically for dreaming of better search results when you type “pinay/filipina” in search engines. I did not see an email ad, or hindi lang ako naghanap mabuti sa site mo. I typed those words and it came back awful. Mas mataas pa ang rank ng mga “how to find a filipina wife” sites kaysa sa mga travel or cultural sites ng Pinas.
I hope to see sites like this way up in the list. I went backpacking solo early this year, at tama ka, exhilirating yung experience. I’ve been blogging for a few months (very few talaga dapat yung ilagay ko e) just to share the joy (na actually umaapaw kaya kelangan talagang ilabas through some medium), and now the frustration (unfortunately). I’m gonna start visiting your blog/other pinoy blogs more often para mainspire pa ako. Thanks again.
Mas mahaba pa ata yung comment ko dito kaysa sa mga posts ko, anyway salamat talaga.
hi gael,
I am planning to go to Kota Kinabalu sometime in JUly. And I am doing it alone (excited!) I was searching on the net on how to survive solo travelling and i am so lucky to have found a blog that is made by a Filipina. have you been to KK?If yes, can you give me tips on where to go in KK and other things to watch out for?I would like to communicate with you through email so I can share with you my solo travels. Can I have your email address?thanks
..i’ll keep that tip in mind…but I don’t i’ll travel alone..i would always love to bring my baby with me..she is just 2years old..but i think when she’s older kami na ang buddy buddy..
…my first time here…love your blog!
cool! i always wonder how it feels to travel with a baby. i know someone who travels with her toddler. thanks for dropping by. happy travels!
You Inspired me! Thank you for those tips! I am also planning to travel solo here in our country… Love your blog! More Power!
hi, great blog! I’ve never thought of traveling alone, I’d say i’m not the type. the reasons vary from safety issues, to financial issues to family trusting you and the list can go on and on. But reading your blog made me realized that I can do it! Well at least, try it and see if I can be that type. In all my travels, it’s always been with friends or family but there’s always a first and that first will commence soon! thanks so much for sharing your experiences and tips. more power to you and to all solo travelers!
Spot on post Gael! And very honest.
i enjoyed reading your story and tips! it is really a big help. i am planning to travel alone. i hope you’ll post some places that is safe for first timers like me, your budget, and also of what to bring. thank you so much.Godbless kapwa pinay!
When I googled for solo female traveler, your blog was the only Filipina on the first page results! I’m embarking on my first solo trip next year to mark my 24th birthday. I’ve already booked my flight to KL and as early as now, I’m having jitters. Coming from our conservative and prejudiced society, women are not encouraged to travel alone. And this thinking is something I must overcome! I have fears for my safety (the what ifs) but I’m doing it anyway. Thank you for your tips. You are indeed a source of inspiration
Hi Kay, I’m happy to hear that. Na-excite naman ako for you. I hope you can share your story too when you return. Take care always.Happy travels!
I stumbled upon this blog entry again and was surprised to see that you replied to my comment! Kinilig ako. Haha. Thanks for the encouragement! I saved na this link so I can go back here and tell you about my experience.
Hi Kay, thank you din! keep me updated!
I was a really awkward traveler during my first few solo trips, but since I’ve read tried your tips(especially about the part about saying you’re married), I felt more at ease and empowered. Thanks so much!
At what age did you start travelling alone? And what I’m really curious about is, how did you tell your parents? O_O I really really really do want to travel alone, and for my first travel I’d like to go to Calicoan Island Samar. Please email me
Inspired by your blog, I just had my first solo travel (South Cotabato and Sarangani Prov) 2 weeks ago. It’s perhaps one of the most liberating experiences one can have. I wish I had done it earlier like when I was only 22 (I’m 27) but I guess I had to learn alot first from my group travels to be able to travel alone. Oh, and I’m already planning for my next solo travel! Agusan and Surigao del Sur, here I come. Thanks for all your tips and insights, they are really very helpful.
thank you so much Charemsa, I think I received your tweet before right?
So glad you enjoyed your first solo travel. yes, group travel is also great and we learn a lot as we experience more trips. i honesty am so touched when I heard stories from fellow pinay travelers. have a blast on your next trip! take care always dear. 
Love your blog! Just got back from my first solo trip abroad as well and you are right, it was so liberating
Always PRAY.
I did a first solo trip in Baguio… that’s really one of a kind experienced! hahaha.. I’m planning for a 2nd trip but until now I’m undecided where to go! I badly need to plan! I’m getting older (i’m 22)
I know I’m too young and can travel to alot of places here and in abroad! Keep inspiring us PINAYS! Godbless… :* love this blog! 
)
i’ve been travelling alone since my eldest child went to college. first i travel alone to visit her, kasi she went to college to a different city. i felt good when i did it and parang na-addict.
then i tried going to manila ( i am from mindanao) for a little business adventure… namili sa divisoria and i had some extra time so i went up to baguio alone and enjoyed it. just like you said, travel light. tama yan kasi you don’t need to always check on all your items from time to time if complete pa. bringing a backpack and a small sling bag for your money and cellphone and camera. i did not bring my laptop. since i dont have a facebook account i never share my pictures. i just uploaded it sa aking computer.
marami rami na rin akong place sa pilipinas na napuntahan and sometimes kasama ko ang youngest daughter ko (14 yo.
one tip especially if you are planning to travel overseas. scan your passport, birth certificate and other identification and other important papers and send it to your email add so if you need to print it anytime, all you have to do is look for an internet connection to download and print it. this also goes for those who are applying for job (kahit temporary may nai-submit ka sa employer.
hi gael.just got interested when i saw your solo backpackkers.the pictures are so amazing.ive experience it once,in hongkong ok naman.like to read your blog.it ispire me.parang gusto ko na uli mag travel at the right time.pero may takot din.sana i can be with somebody who is willing to join me.and yung mga low budggeted trip lang.maybe im not as young as you are.but im sure kaya pa.i prepare local travel.if you know somebody who is willing to travel with a companion pls…let me know.more power to you and your blog,thanks
hi susan, i’m jojo from cebu.. nabasa ko yung comment mo dito and i said why not try to talk to you. i’ve been wanting to travel but i’m a little bit scared so it would be good if i’ll have a partner.. i’m girl btw.. i hope you’re still interested.. let me know.. thanks..
This is a great guide. I traveled solo to Camsur and Dapitan and there are really joys to traveling alone. Do you have a list of top destinations for solo pinay travelers? really appreciate this.
Happy New Year!
This is wonderful! I’d also like to add – if you know anyone close to your destination, also inform them that you will be around. This helps a lot if you need help or info. If you are invited to people’s homes, get to know the local culture first about visiting. Always be a polite guest and leave before your welcome is over.
I first traveled alone around Germany in 1991 and basically did all of the things on your list. I had a grant to attend a conference and took the opportunity to travel on a shoestring budget after the “free” part was over. I agree about the maps + research on local norms! That time, the Berlin wall had just fallen, and I must have been the first Filipina they saw at the Bauhaus in Dessau. Strangely enough, some Germans thought I was American because I spoke English.
Anyway, after that I always took opportunities to travel alone through all these years. I encouraged my daughter to do a solo Asian vacation after she graduated from college and before she got married. Now that I am a grandmother, I want my granddaughter to also experience traveling alone. Mabuhay ang Filipina solo travelers!
Tama… Napagod na ako sumagot sa dakilang tanong ng bayan na “baket mag-isa ka lang?”. hahaha
I had my fair share of solo travels too and had done most of what you have written and Im clocking miles again to start my 2013 on a solo trip.
I remember when I was in India, we had difficulty explaining to the rickshaw driver where in the map is the Philippines and few foreigners are surprised that we are there to travel as backpackers.
I share your sentiments and looking forward to the day the we able to change the meaning of being a Filipina.
Hey ur on the 1st page of google already!! So happy for u! Btw im planning my 1st solo trip as well, and came across ur blog! thanks for those tips!!
my 1st solo trip would be vietnam and cambodia..though i hve friends living there ofcourse they have works and other stuff to do so basically i could spend time with them after office hours and have the day tour by myself.. it would be a short trip that was impulsively booked by me..so yeah that’s wat happened..well im just glad to see your blog!! 
Hi!
I just want to ask. I’ve been bothered for quite a long time now about my life, I’m 19 and I’m thinking of going somewhere I can be alone and think things out. I don’t have much of a budget but I can save money for a trip If needed. Can you give me some ideas about places here in the Philippines where I can go to? Secured places with serene ambiance at a lower costs? Thank you po! ^_______________^
hi, i am Jojo, i’ve been wanting to travel alone but i’m scared. i’m scared that i’ll be lonely on my travel. i am a shy person and i don’t easily make friends. i don’t talk unless someone talk to me first. any advice on how can i develop this weakness of mine? also i want to go to bora but with the price, it scares me. do you know any cheap places and best things to do there that won’t cost much? what other places that you can recommend for first time solo backpacker? thank you and i hope you’ll help me coz it’s one of my dreams..
will write an article about that soon. thanks for dropping by.
this blog is really inspiring….i did a lot of research on tips for solo traveller and i this one is the best.
thank you for your kind words. i hope to hear your solo adventure story in the future. keep safe always!
I was looking for a new place in the Philippines where I can travel alone safely and got to this site. I’m glad to find out that there are Filipinas who appreciate the solitude and the stength you acquire in doing things your own.
I plan to do a backpack trip to Europe but my friends think I’m crazy and now offering to come along to share the cost as well.
Just another tip: if you can afford it, do get a travel insurance. If just in case you become a victim of theft (i hope not though) during your adventures then you can still do some claim for your valuable possessions.
I have been detained (was incarcerated for 18hrs!!) in Malaysia at one point in time for loosing my passport + my entire handbag. That experience slowed me down for awhile but now I’m back to travelling again though now just diving most of the time.
Go go go Filipinas!!! Go travel the earth with your dainty feet and leave your footprints behind.
thanks for the additional info. yes, i forgot about the travel insurance which is really imporatnt especially for long journeys. thank you for sharing your experience and have a blast in Europe.
Hi gael!!
I was inspired by your blog. Actualy i was searching kung saan magandang place na pwedeng puntahan alone. and i saw your blog.Eversince gusto ko talaga mag travel alone lalu n sa iba’t ibang lugar sa pilipinas. Isa yun sa dream ko. Im an OFW and im going home. And since na inspired mo ako mas malakas na loob ko ngayn para i-pursue yung dream ko. Sobrang thank you sa mga tips mo babaunin ko talaga yan. Sobrang excited na ako umuwi ng pinas!!
Go pinay solo backpacker!!!!
Hello to all,
This is amazing. I would like to commend ‘Jill’ for doing and believing the things she love..
Just like you, I always thought of travelling.. I want to explore the Philippines first.
But sometimes it’s hard to find travel companions who would enjoy what you want to do, or go to. Or try things you never tried before.
So, I am facinated on the fact that, women can travel alone without people raising eyebrows.
I don’t believe in the norms, and free-spirited women should pursue their passions in life. Besides, life is too short!
I also enjoy being in a group when travelling.
My first solo travel is Boracay, due to some life’s cirscumtances, I was left alone..
At first, I don’t want to go, I swear. But I want to see the beach, and I already have plance ticket so I decided to go and I enjoyed it!
I even go island hopping!!!
Next week I’ll be climbing Mt. Pulag with other fellow climbers.
I’m very excited to meet new people and make friends along the way..
“The adventure is out there!”
-From the movie ‘UP’
~Anne
Hi! This is a great blog! Planning my first solo adventure. Just started with my first job and already wanna quit. This will be a nice opportunity to clear the mind. First solo travel will be in Baguio/Sagada. Hope to have a fun and adventurous trip like yours.
i started my first solo backpacking in daranak, yesterday i went to tagaytay. i saved this blog page of yours coz keeping ur tips and i am inpired to continue my travel adventures. my next target is backpacking baguio
wish u safety in all your travels
keep it up
I’m excited for you Aendi. keep it up! happy adventures!
Hi Gael,
I share the appreciation and awe of all who dropped their comments in your blog. I agree to all your tips. But I want to emphasize the necessity of common sense when backpacking or traveling alone.
Traveling should always be an enriching experience so much more when it was successfully undertaken alone…
Angkor Wat is a wonderful place to see., Good luck to your next trips.