I want to visit all the provinces in the Philippines. You might think I have a rather simple ambition. Why the Philippines when most Pinoys would want to travel the world? Don’t get me wrong, I’d like to travel the world as much as the next Pinoy. The reason is simple, I believe in the saying ‘Huwag maging dayuhan sa sariling bayan’ (Dont’t be a stranger in your own country). Don’t you think you should too? Before you pack your bags and leave this country for good, don’t you think she deserves a second look? Here are the top 5 reasons why you should travel around the Philippines.

1. You will see the beauty of the Philippines.

As a country, we often overlook the things we have. We dream of things foreign not knowing that we may have far better. You may stand in awe when you see Niagara Falls but have you seen the Ifugao Rice Terraces? Dived the Tubbataha Reef? Climbed Mount Apo? Navigated the Puerto Princesa Underground River?

Don’t brag about seeing a foreign land when you can’t even brag about your country. May be when you’ve seen her beauty you will think fondly of her when you’re in a foreign land.

2. It’s an opportunity to learn another culture.

Living in an archipelago maybe the reason why it’s so hard for us Pinoys to unite. It’s quite difficult to shake off regionalism. Experiencing a culture so different yet so Pinoy will make you realize that the things we value are the same things that our fellow Pinoys value. Like family, education, and freedom. We may speak different languages but we are Pinoys just the same. By experiencing how they live, you will learn to respect the culture of Pinoys from other provinces.

3. You will learn to trust in the goodness of Pinoys.

Are there any left to trust? Yes! I’ve seen it with my own eyes. My latest trip to Palawan have shown me that indeed, Pinoys are kind by heart. Anywhere in the world there are always those who will try to cheat on you and Pinoys are no exception. But generally speaking, there are still a lot of us who can still be trusted, ever willing to help those who are in need.

4. Tourism creates jobs.

Where there are a lot of tourists, the economy flourishes. Pinoys as tourists are spenders. Souvenir shops would prefer us over foreign tourists. We never forget to bring something to those left back home. Every pasalubong we buy is somebody else’ source of living.

5. You will be changed.

Traveling makes you experience a new culture, gain friends, and makes you a different person. Traveling destroys prejudice and creates a new set of beliefs. Traveling in general gives us a different perspective, like looking at the same thing with different eyes.

Why not start with your province? I’m sure you haven’t discovered all the grooves and corners of your hometown. While tourists spend money to visit your place, there’s no reason for you not to. Personally, I promised that every summer I will visit a place I haven’t been before. Why shouldn’t you?