MANILA, Philippines - Traveling, for some, is a welcome diversion. For others, it’s a lifelong passion. Ask Patty Laurel, preschool teacher-turned-college professor, media personality and avid traveler at heart. Driven by her goal to match her current age with the number of countries she has visited, Patty makes sure to squeeze in two to three trips a year. “I came up with the idea when I was filling up a visa application form. As I was listing the number of countries I’ve visited, I realized that I was just about two countries shy of my age at that time,†recounted Patty. She documents and shares a slice of each of her jet-setting experiences in her blog, quite a task given the number of times she goes in and out of the country — be it for work or personal reasons, quick weekend getaways or month-long excursions, solo or with a group.
Having traveled to 30 countries just a year shy of turning the big 3-0, Patty has amassed a wealth of experience that only a globetrotting lifestyle can offer. “Aside from being immersed in different cultures, reliving history, and enjoying art and food, the best thing traveling has taught me is humility,†she reveals. “You realize that you are but a small entity in this big, big universe.†When it comes to Asia, Patty names Japan, Thailand and Hong Kong as the places she can’t get enough of. “I’m just fascinated by the culture of Japan, the food in Thailand, and the shopping in Hong Kong,†she says.
Locally, she favors Cebu and Davao, the latter being the gateway to her mom’s hometown, Mati, Davao Oriental. She also notes that missing opportunities to see the world can make one complacent. “You think you know your environment so well, so you feel you can go through life blindfolded,†Patty shares in one blog post. “But when you’re in a new place, every person is a stranger and every day is a new adventure. Travel is the best life teacher.â€
When it comes to traveling, money is always a main factor to consider. For a cash-savvy gal like Patty, traveling on a tight budget brings out the best of her creative side. “When you have limited funds, you must have unlimited imagination to make things work,†she says. Patty makes sure to allot at least six months of planning before a trip. Doing so helps her grab early bird rates and promo fare deals, and also gives her ample time to save up for pocket money. “More people are now connected to the outside world thanks to airlines like Cebu Pacific that make travel more accessible and affordable,†she adds. “When I was younger, travel always seemed like a luxury. Thanks to the influx of Cebu Pacific’s Piso fares and seat sales —more Pinoys can experience the beauty of travel without going over budget,†says Patty.
Flying to 32 domestic and 19 international destinations, Cebu Pacific, the country’s largest low-cost carrier, helps more Filipinos explore the world around them. Cebu Pacific is the pioneer of low fares in the Philippines, offering Filipino travelers year-round low fares and great value flights for 16 years running.