My home base in Mataki
When I first landed in the Philippines, I was met with an overwhelming sense of hospitality—a warmth that immediately set this country apart. The way Filipinos treat foreigners is nothing short of exceptional. There’s an effort to ensure you’re respected, safe, and comfortable, no matter where you come from or what you’re dealing with. For me, traveling alone with epilepsy, that sense of safety has been a blessing.
This trip wasn’t just about exploring a new country—it was about indulging myself in a culture entirely different from my own while embracing the independence that comes with solo travel. There’s something uniquely enlightening about being alone in a foreign place. Whether I’m in touch with loved ones back home or not, the sense of adventure and freedom I feel here is unparalleled.
CEBU CITY TO MAKATI
My journey started in Cebu City, where I stayed for a couple of weeks before heading to Makati. Originally, I planned to stay in Makati as my home base while traveling to other parts of the Philippines. But when my preferred spot wasn’t available for the dates I wanted, I decided to spend some time in Cebu instead. What I thought would just be a filler stop turned out to be an eye-opening experience. This was my first landing point, and although this was a new area, I’d heard a lot about it. Many travelers profess their love for the area.
Cebu City has an innocence to it, one that comes from being a university-centered location. There’s a youthful energy here, but it’s paired with an easygoing nature that makes it feel like nothing is ever too urgent. Life seems to flow at a steady, unhurried pace. You’ll see students strolling between classes, hanging out in small cafés, or gathering at food stalls in a way that’s both lively and refreshingly simple. It’s the kind of vibe that reminds you of a simpler time—a life less complicated, less chaotic.
BGC VS. MAKATI
My journey through the Philippines started in Cebu City, but as I stand here in the heart of Bonifacio Global City, or BGC, I can’t help but reflect on how different each place feels. BGC is breathtaking—modern, polished, almost too perfect. It’s the kind of place where you’d expect to find rooftop brunches and designer stores at every turn. But while it’s amazing to visit, for me, it lacks a certain soul.
Makati, on the other hand, has layers. It’s a place built on culture and history, and you feel it everywhere—on the streets, in the markets, and even in the way people carry themselves. It didn’t just pop up out of nowhere; it grew from something real. It was once a small trading post along the river and evolved into this mix of old and new, where the past isn’t erased but woven into the present. That’s what makes Makati stand out. It’s not trying to be something; it just is. And that authenticity is what keeps me grounded and inspired here.
At this exploratory and transitionary phase of my life, I need the fast-paced lifestyle of a place like Makati, where each day carries a sense of purpose and the drive to achieve something meaningful. Cebu might be great for slowing down, but Makati is where I feel alive. The skyscrapers, the energy, the chaos of it all—it’s the kind of environment that fuels me.
Those couple of weeks gave me a chance to pause, reflect, and enjoy a different pace of life before diving into the whirlwind of Makati. It’s a place I’ll always appreciate, and one day I’ll certainly be returning—probably with a rocking chair.
LIVING BIG IN A LAND OF SMALLER PORTIONS
As someone from California who’s heavily into an active lifestyle, being 6'2" in the Philippines has been... let’s just say, noticeable. The average Filipino man is 5'4", so I’m towering over most crowds here—and that’s not even the funniest part. The portion sizes are predictably smaller, which has been a running theme for me in almost every country outside the US.
Back home, portions are big enough to feed a family of four, but here, I’ve had to get creative to maintain my workouts and nutrition. My solution? Daily smoothies with milk and an entire jar of peanut butter. It’s not glamorous, but it’s effective. This one concoction helps me knock out a good chunk of my calorie and protein goals, fuels my workouts, and still leaves room for me to go out and enjoy the food Makati has to offer.
The food here is fantastic, flavorful and rich in culture—but let’s face it, when you’re trying to hit 4,500 calories a day, you need a backup plan. My smoothie has become a reliable anchor to keep me going while I explore the culinary gems of this city.
EVERYDAY ADVENTURES IN A NEW CULTURE
Simple, everyday tasks—what might be a routine stop at Starbucks back home—have taken on a new charm. The customs are familiar yet distinct, like a mirror reflecting an alternate version of your usual life. It’s refreshing, but it also challenges you to adapt and learn.
This constant rush of adapting to the unexpected, paired with the tropical unpredictability of the weather, has brought a thrill to even the simplest days. One moment, you’re strolling through the streets, enjoying the sunshine; the next, you’re dashing for cover from a sudden downpour. That element of unpredictability, combined with the vibrant energy of the Philippines, adds a layer of excitement to every day.
TRAVEL PREPARATIONS AND MEDICATION CHALLENGES
As someone managing epilepsy, the prep for a trip like this starts long before the flight. While booking flights and finding accommodations are relatively straightforward, ensuring I had enough medication for the journey required careful planning. Traveling across the world without a doctor nearby meant I had to double-check every detail:
Do I have enough medication to last the trip?
What’s the best way to keep up with my routine while adjusting to a 16-hour time difference?
More tips: here
These aren’t things the average traveler needs to worry about, but for me, they’re non-negotiable. Even though my seizures are treated and medicated, I couldn’t ignore the increased risks of traveling alone. Recognizing these dangers didn’t discourage me but motivated me to take extra steps for safety—staying in well-populated areas, keeping emergency contacts handy, and making sure someone always knew where I was.
REFLECTIONS ON SOLO TRAVEL & FINDING MEANING
As I settle into my second month here, I’ve realized that traveling with epilepsy isn’t just about managing the risks—it’s about embracing the opportunities, and even more so, the independence that comes with solo travel. Being alone here has taught me more than I expected—not just about navigating a foreign country but about myself.
The tropical, often unpredictable weather adds an element of uncertainty to every day. Plans can shift, and routines go out the window, but that’s what makes the adventure exciting. It’s in this uncertainty that I’ve found the most joy. Exploring new cultures, stepping out of my comfort zone, and immersing myself in a life so different from my own—it’s these moments that give me meaning.
Even while enjoying the comforts of a more luxurious lifestyle, I’ve been reminded to appreciate the small things. The things that might feel routine back home—a cup of coffee, a cool breeze after a humid day—suddenly feel extraordinary here. That shift in perspective, that ability to find joy in the little things, is what traveling solo has always done for me.
The warmth of the locals, the beauty of the islands, and the thrill of navigating the unknown have made this trip unforgettable. Solo travel isn’t just about being physically alone; it’s about stepping into a world of endless possibilities and carrying those lessons with you long after you leave.
THE HOSPITALITY OF THE PHILIPPINES
If there’s one thing that stands out above all else, it’s the way Filipinos welcome you. This might just be the most hospitable country I’ve visited. There’s an unspoken understanding here that guests should feel valued and protected. It’s woven into the culture, evident in the way locals go out of their way to ensure you’re comfortable.
Whether it’s a friendly chat at a café or a taxi driver ensuring you get to your destination safely, the kindness is consistent and genuine. For someone like me, who’s traveling with a condition that often requires extra care and attention, this hospitality makes a world of difference. It’s not just about being welcomed—it’s about feeling like the people around you have your back. That sense of security is priceless when you’re halfway across the world, managing a condition that demands constant vigilance.
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