As a travel writer, I normally receive random messages from readers. And one of them is from Matej – a traveler from Slovakia. He shared how he enjoyed his 2-week travel in the Philippines, with his wife Jana. The couple loves going to new places, doing something fun and adventurous and meeting new people. So far, they have been to the Caribbean, Europe, Middle East and few other countries in South East Asia. I used the opportunity to interview Matej about their trip in the country because as a traveler myself, I like to see the Philippines through the eyes of foreign travelers.
Image credit to Matej Kunc.What made you choose the Philippines?
We were drawn to the Philippines because I had seen so many beautiful pictures of the landscape and we did some reading about this country so we were really excited and decided to visit the Philippines as our next destination.
If you’re going to promote one place in the Philippines, which one is it? And why?
The Philippines offers a wonderful mix of pristine white-sand beaches, beautiful landscapes etc and for us isn’t easy to say which island is the best because we spent there only 2 weeks.
But for everyone who wants to visit the Philippines, visit Palawan. An absolute highlight is El Nido. El Nido is not just a tropical beach paradise, it’s a place like no other. With breathtaking views of nature and friendly outgoing locals.
Image credit to Matej Kunc.Your travel tips for foreigners who would like to visit the Philippines.
In our opinion, the Philippines is a relatively undiscovered travel destination. There are too many places to see but it’s impossible to do in 14 days. We have visited Palawan, Boracay, Bohol and Panglao.
We had only one “negative” experience during our trip. Public transport and flight schedules are notoriously unreliable. They changed our flight time 3 times. Friendliest people we’ve met during our travels across Asia were in the Philippines. They are very friendly, extremely welcoming and over 90% of Filipinos speak English. So establishing contact with locals is the best way, how to stay on budget while on a trip to the Philippines.
What were your expectations before you came here (Philippines)?
We didn’t think a lot and we didn’t expect anything. We wanted to wait to be surprised, and see what would happen, and take it as it is.
And where do you think the Philippines can improve more when it comes to attracting more foreign visitors?
The places in the Southern part of the Philippines has peace and order problem so it’s one of them.
Image credit to Matej Kunc.I see that you travel with your partner/ wife, what do you think is the best thing about traveling with a partner?
It’s simple. Some people prefer traveling alone because they want more freedom but if you travel with partner/friend there is always someone to talk to. Happiness is doubled when is shared.
Your video is absolutely amazing, what is your favorite part while doing/ taking videos? And any challenges?
I like everything from filming to editing. I’d classify myself as an amateur film-maker. I just bought my first camera last year so I still must learn a lot how to do.
Capturing photos and videos can be a great way of keeping the memories of your travels intact and a great way to tell your story.
Image credit to Matej Kunc.As a traveler, what’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned while traveling in the Philippines?
Traveling gives you a new perspective that’s different from just reading about it.
We met a lot of poor people with a smile on their face even when their life isn’t easy. It may sound cliche but the purpose of life is to live in joy and through love.
Everything else is just a means to that end.
If you want to see more from Matej and Jana’s trip, watch their awesome video below or check out their vimeo channel here!
If you like what you read, please share! And also follow us through our Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest accounts for updates. Keep on travelling y’all!
Palawan sounds amazing. Pity about your flight problems, though! Love your connection with the Philippine people who stay friendly and approachable despite their hardships.
The one blog that I follow diligently! and you guys never cease to amaze me. beautiful pics as usual!
The pictured of the Philippines look really beautiful and I enjoyed reading the little interview you did with Matej and Jana. I totally agree on the point that traveling as a couple is doubling your happiness – I really love to explore new places with my partner in crime.
Thanks and Greetings
Have never been to the Philippines but from the photos alone it looks magical – look how blue the water and sky are! So beautiful. El Nido seems like the perfect place to kick back and relax.
The Philippines are high on our bucket list and Palawan especially. We didn’t know about the flights and transport issues so thanks for sharing. Changing your flights 3 times is a bit much…. Must be frustrating.
I love hearing about different experiences. The Philipines was never really on my bucket list, but nor was Indonesia and I loved visiting there last year. Maybe I’ll try to get to the Philipines sometime in the future.
This is such an interesting interview! I keep hearing good things about El Nido and after reading this I just wanna hop on a plane to the Philippines ASAP. The second sunset photo is absolutely beautiful by the way. In fact they’re all stunning captures. The video is super well-edited too and the music and sound go so perfectly with the beautiful scenery. Is he a travel blogger too or does he have an online photo journal somewhere because I’d definitely love to follow along his beautiful adventures!
You can follow his journey from their vimeo account I tagged 🙂
I was lucky to be in the Philippines for three years. It’s such a beautiful place. Palawan was my absolute favourite. The beaches are to die for.
I have never been to the Philippines, but have read so much about it that it actually feels like home. But yes some day would love to get there and explore this beautiful country. It was indeed nice to read the perspective of the Philippines from a foreign travelers view, considering that we intend to get there some day. I can see that there is so much to see that probably a month would not be enough too.
Great interview – I love hearing the perspectives of other first time travelers to regions I’ve also been to. Though I didn’t get to Palawan, and do hear it’s just incredible, so it was great to hear it was your highlight too! Totally agree that the people of the Philippines are the biggest draw – they’re the friendliest, kindest and most welcoming people I’ve ever encountered overseas, and this is the biggest part I think of the Philippine experience.
I watched their video and it’s amazing! I’m still not set on doing videos regularly but their video sure gave me inspiration. I love how they are able to show the many facets of the Philippines.
I am proud of our country even if it has many flaws. We have a long way to go but we have so much beauty to offer. Here’s to me hoping that there would be more Matej and Jana who would come to our country, enjoy their stay, and share their experience to the rest of the world.