Wanderlust

Of all of the countries that I have visited, it is Japan that I truly enjoy and love, from its cuisine — which is second to Filipino food — to its culture, serenity, precision, connectivity, safety and value for money.

- MARIANNE GO

I think for most Filipinos, Japan is the top destination because it offers the best value in terms of accommodations, food, transportation and even shopping. It is also the safest country with a fast and efficient transport system that tourists can safely navigate on their own.

In the past, Hong Kong was a favorite destination for me because it was less than a two-hour flight, visa-free and a shopping destination. Unfortunately, because of its size, there is not much more for me to explore and I no longer shop as much. It has also lost some of the night-time vibrancy that I used to enjoy in Lan Kwai Fong and Wanchai, or maybe I have just gotten older and now prefer more scenic and serene options.

Singapore, likewise, has lost its appeal for me because it has gotten so expensive. Even in the past, my biggest concern was its warm climate, similar to what we have here in the Philippines and no cold season to enjoy.

I would love to travel more to China, but the language barrier is a major hurdle and I do not really enjoy guided tours that set a very tight and regimented schedule. I love to meander and explore and discover things for myself.

Europe is beautiful and continues to be a prime destination, but nowadays, the cost has increased, primarily because of the higher airfare. Safety is also a major factor with the notoriety and proliferation of pickpockets and scammers. A Middle East conflict is also a major deterrent.