Melo Villareal
Nathan Allen was born in Arizona and grew up in California, in the U.S. He always had a fear of flying, and ironically his first flight was all the way to London from California! During his year long stay in the Philippines, he started a travel blog called “I Dreamed Of This”. His blogpost about his honest observation about the Philippines is one of the most shared Philippine Travel related article in Social Media today.
Nathan in Bantayan Island, Philippines
Learn more about Nathan by reading his interesting responses to our travel questionnaire below.
When did you start traveling, inspirations?
I have had a wandering spirit for many years, but just started exploring overseas in 2011. Now I have the travel bug for good!
Batad Rice Terraces, Philippines
Destinations on your Bucket List?
The countries of Africa, Central and South America.
Beach or Mountain?
I love both!
How often do you travel by air / land?
I travel by land if possible, I don’t want to miss all the scenery!
Death Valley, California – USA
What’s your favorite airport?
Everybody’s favourite – Changi in Singapore!
What is your favorite Hotel?
I really enjoyed Holiday Park Hotel in Baguio! Tune hotels have always been good to me also:)
Death Valley, California
What is your preferred Airline?
I like Virgin Air
How do you beat jet lag / Motion sickness?
When I was a kid, my mom would give me a Coke when my stomach was upset. It might have just been in my mind, but it seemed to help. Raw ginger is what I use on boat trips now. It’s a miracle cure for an upset stomach!
Nathan in Legazpi, Bicol
What are your favorite travel gadgets?
I don’t have many – just my iPod with photos and music, and my Kindle loaded with books.
Any Tips on how to travel light?
I bring few clothes and wash them frequently. I only bring the bare necessities, and buy what I need as I go. Ebooks are much lighter than real books, too!
Best Backpack Brand?
I have an old North Face backpack that has treated me very well! It will never die. Haha.
Top 3 Philippine Destinations?
El Nido, Siquijor, and Sagada…so far:)
Things you love about the Philippines?
I love the beautiful beaches and mountain provinces, and the warmth and hospitality of the people.
Things you hate about the Philippines?
Traffic, air pollution, inefficiency, mosquitos (those are worldwide, though:)
Nathan Allen in Sagada Burial Cave
What made you decide to visit the Philippines?
A world-traveling Swiss couple told me it was their favourite country!
Top 3 International Destinations?
1. Hoi An, Vietnam 2. Varanasi, India 3. Paris, France
Favorite Travel Quote : “Instead of wondering when your next vacation is, create a life you don’t have to escape from.”
I just want to thank Melo and Out Of Town Blog for featuring me. I have been a reader since I first arrived in the Philippines in 2012!
