A Leap of Faith and Sea of Dreams: Mangala’s Solo Journey to the Philippines
“Are you sure you will be okay travelling alone?” my sister had asked, her concern evident over our video call the night before my departure.
I smiled, though a part of me shared her worries. “I have to do this, Akka. It has been on my basket list forever. Plus, Thrillophilia’s team has been incredibly supportive - they have planned everything. I will be fine.”
Fine. A small word that carried so much uncertainty. As I boarded the flight to Manila, I clutched my travel journey, a gift from a friend who had scribbled “ADVENTURE AWAITS!” on the first page. The Philippines was calling me and despite the nervous flutter in my stomach, I was ready to answer.
The moment I stepped off the plane in Manila, my nerves began to settle. A warm smile from the representative who greeted me eased my nervousness. “Welcome to the Philippines, Madam Mangala!” he said cheerfully, helping me with my luggage and documents. By the time we reached my hotel, I felt like I had made my first friend in this vibrant country.
That evening, as the Manila Bay cruise set sail, I stood on the deck and the city lights shimmered on the water like a sea of fireflies. “So, this is what solo travel feels like,” I whispered to myself, the breeze carrying my words into the night.
Manila was Indeed a City of Stories
The next morning began with a steaming cup of local coffee that jolted me awake, ready to explore Manila. My guide for the day was a cheerful woman named Eliza, who greeted me with, “Let us unravel the secrets of Manila, shall we?”
Our first stop was Rizal Park, where I stood before the monument of Jose Rizal and imagined the sacrifices of a hero who had shaped the nation. The park was alive with families enjoying picnics, couples walking hand in hand, and children chasing bubbles.
“Do you know what this park is sometimes called?” Eliza asked, breaking my daydream.
“No, tell me,” I replied curiously.
“Luneta. It is where history is deeply rooted in romance,” she said with a wink, pointing at a couple seated under a tree.
From there, we explored Fort Santiago, which stood as a silent witness to centuries of history. While walking through its cobblestone paths, I was lost in thought. “How many stories must these walls hold?” I murmured aloud.
“Countless,” Eliza answered as if reading my mind. “And they are all yours to imagine.”
The day ended at Manila Ocean Park. I could not resist giggling like a child as sea lions performed tricks and manta rays glided gracefully in massive tanks. “This is pure magic,” I thought, watching the underwater world come alive.
From Manila to Boracay, It was a Paradise.
As my plane descended towards Caticlan Airport, I pressed my face against the window to catch my first glimpse of Boracay. The white sands and turquoise waters on the island were as dazzling as I had imagined.
My hotel in Boracay was also like a dream - a cosy heaven with a private balcony overlooking the ocean. “You will fall in love with Boracay,” the receptionist assured me as I checked in. Little did she know, I already had.
During that evening, I wandered down the beach and let the cool sand squash between my toes. I also came across a tiny cafe where a guitarist was playing a soulful melody. Taking a seat, I ordered a halo-halo (a local dessert). “First time in Boracay?” the waiter asked as he served it. “Yes, and it is everything I hoped for,” I replied with a smile, savouring the layers of sweet and icy goodness.
There were Hundreds of Adventurers in the Heart of Boracay.
The next day was one for the books. After a delicious breakfast, I joined a group for an island-hopping tour. Our boat skimmed over the crystal-clear waters, and I could not help but stretch my arms wide to let the salty breeze whip through my hair.
At Puka Beach, I collected shells like a kid and admired their intricate patterns. “Nature’s jewellery box,” I said aloud, earning a laugh from a fellow traveller.
The real thrill came when we stopped for water sports. “You have to try scuba diving,” one of the instructors urged. I hesitated, but his enthusiasm was contagious. Before I knew it, I was suited up and descending into an underwater wonderland.
“Breathtaking,” I thought as schools of fish moved around me, their colours vibrant against the coral backdrop. Emerging from the water, I exclaimed, “I never knew the ocean could hold such treasures!”
The adrenaline rush continued with a banana boat ride that had me laughing until my sides hurt and kayaking along the serene coastline. As the day came to an end, I found a hammock under a palm tree and simply lay there, listening to the rhythm of the waves.
It was a Farewell Filled with Gratitude.
On my last morning in Boracay, I took one final walk along the ocean. The rising sun painted the sky in soft hues of orange and pink, and the ocean mirrored its glow. Sitting on the sand, I pulled out my travel journey and began writing:
This trip was not just a journey to a new place; it was a journey to a new me. From the bustling streets of Manila to the tranquil shores of Boracay, I discovered the beauty of the Philippines and the strength and joy of being my own companion.”
As I boarded the flight back home, I felt a bittersweet mix of emotions - sad to leave but grateful for the memories I was taking with me. The Philippines had given me more than I had ever dreamt: adventure, serenity, and above all, a newfound confidence in myself.
Read more: Thrillophilia Philippines Reviews