Christian LeBlanc
Have you ever had the desire to escape from your mundane life and experience adventures one destination at a time? Christian LeBlanc did just that. The Canadian daily vlogger quit his corporate job and embarked in journeys, fulfilling his passion for creating films and sharing his daily adventures to the world through “Lost LeBlanc”. Stuck with your travel plans? Here are a few of his travel tips and what he thinks about his visit to the Philippines.
WHY THE PHILIPPINES?
Who or what encouraged you to take your first trip to the Philippines?
When I was backpacking 3 years ago, I hadn’t met anyone that had been to the Philippines but every now and then I would see a photo on Instagram of a beautiful white sand beach surrounded by incredible blue water or a photo of the mesmerizing lagoons in Palawan and I decided it was time to go off the main tourist track. Instagram is really the main reason.
You mentioned in one of your videos that you stayed in the country for five months, what made you stay for that long?
I have visited the Philippines on three separate occasions now and have spent around 4 months in the country. The second longest I’ve spent in any country in Southeast Asia right after Thailand. The main reason is the people and the landscapes. I have never met such kind-hearted people who will go out of their way to say hi, smile and make you feel welcomed! And it really doesn’t hurt that there are over 7,000 beautiful islands to be explored. I love knowing that often times, people are seeing these places for the first time on my channel.
In the many times you have visited the country, what do you consider your most memorable moments?
Most memorable may have been a night I had in Romblon recently. I watched a fiery sunset on a remote beach known as “BonBon”. When the sun had set, I decided to go for a swim. As I began to swim, the water started glowing around me. Turns out there were bio-luminescent plankton in that region!
Why do you consider the Philippines “the hidden gem” of Southeast Asia?
I think that most people think Thailand, or Vietnam or Singapore when they are planning their trips to Southeast Asia. Most people completely overlook the Philippines which, in all honesty, is actually a great thing for travelers. It’s the reason it’s so pristine and one of my top travel picks. However, I have certainly seen a rise in the tourism over the past 3 years so maybe it’s now time for the Philippines to get their much-deserved attention.
What are the most beautiful things you have seen while in the country?
I would say it’s a tie between El Nido and Coron but because Coron has much less tourism, Coron is the clear overall winner for me. I also recently had a trip to Siargao and that island is breathtaking!
Why do you make an effort to learn the Filipino language?
I love being able to communicate with the locals and even though most Filipino’s speak English quite well, I think it’s great to show them you respect their culture and way of life.
How easy is it to go around the country and work your way from island to island?
For the most part, it’s very easy. You can affordably hire private transfers and shuttles and there are often reliable transport services in the busier areas. But I think the thing that helps most getting around the country is the willingness of the Filipino people to help!
Are the islands worth the visit? Is it safe for foreign travelers?
100 percent of the visit! This is definitely one of the safest countries I have traveled.
HOW TO TRAVEL
What do you look for in the places and countries you visit?
Beaches, blue water, warm weather, unique stories to be told.
How do you ensure that your itinerary brings in the experience without going over the budget? Do you also scout for affordable airfares?
One of the great things for westerners visiting the Philippines is that it can be every affordable. I usually pay for my big expenses such as accommodation and transportation online which allows me to actively track how much I have spent. With those expenses in mind, I just ask myself how much I have left for my daily expenses like food, drinks, and activities. If I find myself running tight on budget, you make compromises. Maybe you visit during low season or eat at the affordable street food restaurants more often. There are always ways to cut costs!
How do carriers like Cebu Pacific, with its year-round affordable flights, help you reach and discover more places?
Getting around the Philippines by air is definitely the best method, especially considering everything is separated by islands! And best of all, it can be very affordable. On my recent trip, I took about 10 Cebu Pacific flights and they all ran early or landed on time. It definitely made getting around the country super easy.
How convenient was it to explore the country with the airline’s widest network of destinations?
My recent trip was all about finding those hidden gems so it was definitely a relief to see Cebu Pacific had flight options for even my most remote island adventures.
How was your experience flying with Cebu Pacific? Were you able to try their mobile check-in features?
I can definitely see that the airline prides itself on having a fun and caring environment for travelers. Definitely appreciated the extra level of care I experienced with all of the staff.
Do you have a list of must-haves for adventure travelers like yourself?
I would say the things you will need are:
– Sunblock (you will get burned if you don’t apply it generously!)
– A reliable backpack/suitcase (you do not want a broken bag or luggage mid travel – this is from experience haha)
– A smile! This is the best way you will meet locals and other travelers. Just say hi and let the rest happen.
What are your tips for aspiring travelers on how to travel more and experience more in their travels?
I really love the movie “Yes Man” featuring Jim Carrey. It’s all about the mindset of saying YES. Sometimes it can be uncomfortable to say yes but this is how you get to see new things, experience new places, meet new people and create unimaginable memories. Go out of your comfort zone and that is when your travels will really start! /PR
