We started planning as four and I ended up alone in the airport in October 2010.

The sun was still asleep when I arrived at the Silay City Airport. Though I armed myself with research on my destinations (Bacolod and Silay), I was a bit anxious. Talk about first time jitters. But good thing, I approached the staff at the airport to ask where the vans going to Bacolod City were. (My post on How to go to Bacolod City)

The anxiety turned into excitement when the van left the airport. Most of the passengers came home just in time for the MassKara Festival. It would be my first time as well to witness and document the colorful festival in the City of Smiles. I’ve been wanting to visit this for the longest time. Thankfully, I bought my airfare six months before the festival.

It was just 6 o’clock in the morning when I arrived at Check Inn Pension. I was so early and rooms weren’t available yet. So, the staff advised me to just leave my luggage in their safekeeping. I was hesitant at first, but I can’t bring my heavy backpack around. So, I agreed and gave my trust.

I went out to find something to eat. Only Jollibee was open during that time. (haha. fastfood. I was craving for La Paz Batchoy, which I ate on my second breakfast the following day.)

I returned to Check Inn and got my room earlier than the 2pm check-in time. After resting for an hour, I got up and walked to the Tourism Office of Bacolod City. I got my Photographer’s pass and asked them about directions going to Silay for my next itinerary. They were all surprised and worried when they learned that I was traveling solo. “If you need help, just contact us,” said Sharleen, one of the Tourism officers who gave her number.

From the Tourism Office, I headed to Manokan Country for lunch. Finally, authentic inasal…here I come! Eating alone was not a problem for me.

Next stop was the Negros Museum. Thanks to my very helpful GPS. I found out that it was a bit far. So I rode a multicab and paid 7 pesos.  For 50 pesos, I got a glimpse of Negros Occidental’s history. Too bad, picture taking was not allowed in the second floor where they kept most of the interesting antique pieces. I only got a picture of the art installation in the ground floor.

Next on the itinerary was the provincial capitol, which was a few steps away.  As I was walking, I noticed that they have an eco-park across the capitol. There’s an aviary inside but nothing much to see. So I proceeded and saw the American-inspired architecture of the capitol overlooking the lagoon park. Families flock the area even in the afternoon, where they spend time resting and bonding with their kids.

The first day ended early as rain fell. I would have went out during the night but the ‘dark’ environment in downtown Bacolod (Quiapo-like environment) prevented me to do so. Yes,  I was afraid.

But the following day, fear turned into courage.  It felt liberating to commute alone going to Silay City. The locals were very friendly and assisted me enough for me to get to my destination: Balay Negrense. I didn’t expect that my solo travel would led me to meet new friends. I was not alone after all. (This needs a separate post. Long story.)

Third day in Bacolod City was the MassKara Festival itself. I learned that Karlo and Estan were there as well. I happily captured the smiles of the MassKara dancers along with Karlo and his other photographer friends. It was a tiring yet fulfilling day.

On my last day, I went to buy pasalubongs (e.g. Napoleones and souvenir shirts). I hailed a multicab and told the driver to drop me off at this certain street. I was the only passenger left when the driver realized that we’ve missed the street. Nonetheless, he still returned to the street and I alighted. I was very grateful. If it happened in Manila, the driver would probably tell me to just take another ride. There are still few good people in this world.

Napoleones

I didn’t regret taking the chance to pursue my trip even if I was alone.

LESSONS LEARNED:

1. Don’t be afraid. Go out of your comfort zones.

2. Don’t hesitate to ask. The locals will be willing to help you. (In this case, the Negrenses did.)

3. Traveling solo is liberating and teaches independence.

4. Traveling solo allows you to reflect and enjoy your “me-time”.

5. It is you who control your own time. You travel at your own pace.

This is Tripadora’s entry to Pinoy Travel Bloggers’ Blog Carnival themed Traveling Solo.

Nina Fuentes of justwandering.org hosts April’s Pinoy Travel Bloggers’ Blog Carnival