Be it with friends or family, travel time is something I always look forward to. I especially enjoyed it as a child. I remember how the clan would take the bus and go to the hot springs or enjoy the cool breeze in Baguio. On several occasions, we went to the beaches at the far end of Roxas Boulevard. These are the memories we cherish as a family even now. After all, these trips were bonding moments, memories to cherish, and explorations that widened our horizons. They were great learning experiences, too. Here are some things I learned from these trips:
T – To follow instructions.
When I was around 10 years old, we took a small raft and paddled out to the open sea. Although everyone had a lifejacket on, we were given specific instructions to stay within an arm’s length of the banca. One aunt insisted that she was too old to follow instructions and so she went beyond the boundary. A short while later, we noticed that she had drifted very far away. Thankfully, my dad and mom were good swimmers and they were able to rescue her!
R – Really know where you are going.
At the age of 12, I joined my parents on their company outing. One of the supervisors insisted that that he knew the way to the beach. However, he did not. We lost half a day’s time searching for the right place. Finally, we ended up in a completely different resort because we lost our way.
I – Impatience doesn’t work.
Once I joined my dad at a convention. Upon reaching the hotel, we learned that it was fully booked as there was an intercity government convention and numerous guests had extended their stay, so some of our groups’ reservations were canceled.
P – Pick food wisely.
Sometimes we go pot luck when the clan travels. What food to bring is important. I learned that adobo can withstand the challenge of the trip without spoiling.
S – Stay flexible.
During my teens, we were with family friends at Liliw falls in Laguna. There was no way we could get cold drinks. A friend suggested we put a case of soft drinks in the flowing water. A few minutes later, we were all enjoying cold drinks.
There’s so much to learn when we travel. Have fun!
