Welcome to my blog, Altair Gem Travels! This space is all about my solo and budget-friendly travel adventures—and this is just the beginning.
As a kid, I was often scolded for being a "lakwatsera" (wanderer) whenever I snuck off with friends or skipped school (it only happened a few times, I promise). Back then, those rare escapes were my way of tasting freedom. But for most of my life, travel was out of reach. Between being a student, a working single mom, and juggling responsibilities, I didn’t have the time—or the budget—to explore beyond my daily routines. While my peers posted photos of their trips across the Philippines and beyond, I could only admire their adventures from afar and quietly dream that one day I’d embark on my own.
That "one day" finally came. As my kids grew older and more independent, I had more freedom and fewer responsibilities keeping me tethered to home. It was then I realized: that life truly does begin at forty. With my newfound freedom, I decided to take my first steps into the world of solo travel and let me tell you, it’s been an exhilarating journey of self-discovery and adventure.
Where It All Began
My initiation into the world of travel didn’t start with a grand vacation but rather something small and practical. During a busy phase at work, I became a regular at my company’s sleeping quarters, spending five days at work and returning home only on my rest days. Lugging around a huge backpack taught me a lot about packing light and smart. From that experience, I picked up key essentials that are now my go-to for weekend travel:
- Toiletries (toilet paper, wet wipes, and personal hygiene items)
- A change of clothes
- A compact and versatile bath towel
- Foldable slippers
- An inflatable pillow
- Comfortable and multi-purpose shoes
That time of my life gave me the confidence to travel on a shoestring budget and taught me that careful planning can turn even the simplest trips into memorable experiences.
Why Altair Gem Travels?
The name AltairGem reflects two things I’m passionate about: alternate and affordable ways to travel (Altair) and a nod to my zodiac sign, Gemini (Gem). This blog isn’t just about destinations; it’s about embracing the mindset of a budget traveller and finding joy in every journey, no matter how short.
What to Expect Here
AltairGem Travels is a space for sharing my weekend travel stories, budget hacks, and solo adventures. I’ll also sprinkle in bits of culture and language I’ve picked up along the way and some must-try local cuisines. My goal is to inspire you to step out of your comfort zone, even if it’s just for a weekend.
Thank you for joining me on this journey. Whether you’re a fellow wanderer, a budget-savvy traveller, or someone who dreams of taking that first solo trip, I hope this blog will spark your adventures. See you in my next post!
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