Hello + welcome to episode 160! In this captivating episode of the Winging It Travel Podcast, host James Hammond welcomes Leah Arao, a Filipino-American traveller + co-host of the Ticket 2 Anywhere podcast. Join them as they dive deep into Leah's fascinating travel experiences and recent journey to the Philippines, where she reconnects with her heritage + uncovers the hidden gems of this stunning archipelago. Leah's stories from Balabac, an untouched paradise in Palawan, are reminiscent of Thailand decades ago, hinting at its potential as the next big travel hotspot for adventure seekers and wanderlust-filled backpackers. As they explore Leah's travel anecdotes, listeners will gain valuable insights into the logistics of navigating the Philippines, including the essential need for registered tours in certain regions and the unique challenges of getting around the islands. Leah shares her personal travel planning tips, making this episode a treasure trove of travel advice for those looking to embark on their own adventures. They cover all the budget discussion points, too! The conversation also highlights the vibrant Filipino culture, particularly through its rich culinary traditions, showcasing how travel can be a gateway to understanding and appreciating diverse cultures. Leah emphasizes the importance of travel for personal growth and self-discovery, making a case for why everyone should consider stepping outside their comfort zones, even if it means starting small in their solo travel journeys. Listeners can expect to hear about Leah's adventures as a backpacker, her experiences with hitchhiking, and the camaraderie found within the vibrant backpacker community in the Philippines. This episode is packed with travel inspiration, making it an essential listen for anyone interested in adventure travel or looking for travel recommendations. So, if you're ready to embrace the spirit of winging it and discover the beauty of the Philippines through Leah's eyes, tune in to this episode for an engaging travel conversation that promises to inspire your next adventure. This episode is your ticket to exploring the world, one story at a time. Ticket 2 Anywhere Podcast Website LAinFlight Newsletter Winging It Travel PodcastWebsiteCreditsHost/Producer/Creator/Writer/Composer/Editor - James HammondPodcast Art Design - Swamp Soup Company - Harry UttonSupport Winging ItBuy Me A Coffee - Here Merch Store - Here Buy My Digital Travel Planner - HereAffiliate Links If you book anything using my resources link below, I get a tiny commission, which helps the podcast. https://www.wingingittravelpodcast.com/resourcesThanks! Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.