The Visa Requirement: Epic Journey Through The Philippines

Introduction

Welcome to a deeper dive into the captivating chronicles of my recent visa misadventures, set against the stunning backdrop of the Philippines visa requirement. you’ve been following my escapades in Europe and Thailand, you might be wondering if my travel life is an endless saga of visa mishaps. But fret not, because, within this narrative, we’ll not only explore the complexities of my tumultuous journey but also unearth invaluable insights to ensure your future travels are seamless and devoid of unnecessary hurdles. So, fasten your seatbelts as we embark on this enthralling odyssey through the Philippines.

Visas in Asia

As the great Britney Spears once sang, “Oops, I did it again.” While it’s true that travel could be a breeze with a professional planner at your service, my solo adventures often throw me into the intricate labyrinth of travel planning. My visa misadventures are starting to resemble battle scars, a testament to the resilience of a seasoned traveler.

In this particular tale, we rewind to 2018, a year in which I was exploring various Asian destinations, including the captivating archipelago of Indonesia. It was during my stay in Thailand that news of an impending cyclone forced me into swift action.

Next Stop: Jakarta

In Jakarta, Indonesia, I sought refuge for a brief 4-5 days, believing I had successfully eluded the relentless cyclone that had pursued me from Thailand. Little did I know that Mother Nature had her own plans, and once again, I found myself facing the wrath of the cyclone, thousands of miles away from the comforts of home. I was ill-equipped to deal with potential flooding, tsunamis, and logistical nightmares, forcing me to chart a new course.

By this point in my journey, I had become somewhat of a visa expert, meticulously selecting destinations that didn’t require one. Check and mate.

Visa, What Visa?

With little forethought, I hastily booked a budget-friendly ticket to the Philippines, making it my new strategy to outrun the cyclone. The very next day, I found myself at the airport, naively assuming that, like many countries, I could enter with just my trusty passport. Alas, little did I know that my negligence would soon catch up with me.

Upon arrival at the airport, the airline staff requested my passport and visa. My bewildered expression betrayed my ignorance of visa requirement. The resounding response was a definitive “No.” There would be no visa on arrival for me. My only option was to apply for an e-visa online, expedite the process with a hefty additional fee of $300, and pray I could make my flight on time. Cue the anxiety!

Thankfully, I managed to fill out the necessary paperwork, pay the substantial fee, and frantically contact the authorities. After being passed from one official to another, I miraculously secured my visa in the nick of time. However, the story didn’t end there.

Read More: Visas Done Wrong-The Philippines; Best Visa Screwup

Entering the Philippines – visa requirements

Upon arriving in Manila, I located my accommodations—a cozy Airbnb I had booked for a comfortable three-week stay. While I believed I had successfully outmaneuvered the cyclone, my choice of Airbnb wasn’t exactly in the best neighborhood. Undeterred, I chuckled at my rationale: “I was running from a cyclone; beggars can’t be choosers.”

As I adapted to my surroundings, my family back home informed me of a massive earthquake that had struck the Philippines. Surprisingly, I hadn’t felt a thing, and they knew I was safe. However, fate had another twist in store for me.

Within a day or so, as I lay in bed, the entire building began to sway. It was no longer a cyclone or an earthquake; it was both! Staying in an older, questionably constructed building on the 36th floor, I was far from reassured. Walking down 36 flights of stairs in pajamas during the night wasn’t an appealing option. I survived the ordeal, but I couldn’t help but wonder how many of my nine lives I had already used up.

Visas and Natural Disasters

While this narrative began as a visa-related adventure, it threw in a few natural disasters for added excitement. Traveling with me is never dull! So, what have I learned from these thrilling experiences? 

While I can’t prevent natural disasters, I can offer advice for navigating the visa process. Research the requirements for your destination thoroughly. Contact the country’s embassy if you’re unsure, or consider using a visa company for assistance.

Lessons from My Travels

After navigating visa snafus in Thailand, Europe, and the Philippines, I’ve emerged with valuable lessons learned. While I can’t promise to never make another mistake, I’m determined to make my future travels as smooth as possible. Here are some takeaways from my journeys:

1. Research Is Key: Before embarking on any international trip, do your due diligence. Check visa requirements, entry restrictions, and any potential natural disasters or seasonal challenges that might affect your plans.
2. Embassy Outreach: If you’re unsure about visa requirements, don’t hesitate to contact the embassy or consulate of your destination country. They can provide you with up-to-date information and guidance.
3. Consider Visa Services: If navigating visa applications seems daunting, consider using a reputable visa service. These professionals can streamline the process, saving you time and hassle.
4. Travel Insurance: Invest in comprehensive travel insurance that covers unexpected events, including natural disasters. It’s a safety net that can provide peace of mind in uncertain situations.

Final Thoughts

After enduring visa mishaps in Thailand, Europe, and the Philippines, I’m determined to avoid repeating those errors. However, as any seasoned traveler knows, there are no guarantees in the world of globetrotting. If you haven’t already, you can read about my Thailand visa misadventure and my European visa mishap to gain further insights into the unpredictable nature of travel. Fingers crossed that I’ve reached my limit for visa troubles and natural disasters, allowing me to enjoy the remaining portion of this trip in peace. Inshallah!  Now that you understand what not to do, always remember to Travel Till You Drop!