September 16, 2018—CAMBODIA

I flew to Cambodia to see my cousin and childhood best friend, Mishael. We hadn’t seen each other in years since we left the Philippines. Life pulled us in different directions. I moved to Canada, and she migrated to Saipan, USA.

But here we are...finally reunited!

Despite being quiet, she’s an extrovert—outgoing, confident, and naturally connecting with people. I’m more of an introvert, but I’m actually the talkative one. I prefer small circles and familiar vibes. Even though we’re different, we’ve always clicked. We share the same heart and the same dream: to travel the world together.

MY FAVORITE CHILDHOOD MEMORIES

When we were kids, we were inseparable. We lived at our grandma’s place and basically grew up side by side—cousins and best friends. She’s an only child, and with her mom working overseas, we stuck together like sisters. We even wore matching clothes because we were always together.

I gave her a shirt from Canada, and she gave me one from Saipan (at Monsoon Kitchen. )

Twinning in Cambodian tees at Siem Reap Airport— just like old times!

THE BLANKET

I’ll never forget how we used to hide under the blanket whenever our Lola Deling scolded us (“Lola” is the Filipino word for grandmother). We thought the blanket made us invisible… But really, we were just two giggling kids trying not to get caught.

THE BOXING MATCHES

Yes, boxing! All because of Manny Pacquiao, a Filipino boxing legend.

Uncle Victor used to make us box in the yard with gloves that were probably way too big. It was fun at first, all light punches and giggles… until one of us got too carried away. The hits got stronger, and we’d both end up crying. The funny thing is, we never got mad at each other. Not even once. We’ve always been patient with each other, and I think that’s why we’re such great travel buddies.

The sunset ditched us, but we stayed for the laughs.

Waiting for sunset with our tuk-tuk driver and guide, Sot Sorith.

Angkor Wat under the midday sun. It was too hot for photos. :)

Cambodia was even more special because I got to explore it with our friends who flew all the way from the Philippines to join us.

Ta Prohm Temple was definitely one of my favorite spots in Cambodia. It was calm, quiet, and so unique. It’s the one with all the huge tree roots growing over the ruins. There’s something so cool about how the trees and the old stones are all mixed together. It's total jungle vibes! I also felt a little starstruck knowing that my favorite Hollywood actress, Angelina Jolie, once stood in the same place. (Yep, Tomb Raider was filmed there!).

We spotted this super talented artist in front of Angkor Wat selling his art on the ground.

Met a kid while roaming the temple. She was super sweet and friendly.

Morning Tuk-tuk ride.

Peaceful moments at Angkor Wat. People dressed in white, offering flowers and prayers.

ANGKOR WAT

Saying Goodbye (For Now)

My cousin flew back to Saipan, but I still had one more day left in Cambodia. Luckily, I wasn’t alone. Sot Sorith stayed with me until the very end. On my last day, he took me to a local spot and made me try Cambodian beer.

We never really fight. When we travel, we don't argue or get frustrated with each other. We’re both patient and give each other space.

We share the same travel energy. Traveling with her is easy because we’re always on the same page. We naturally match each other's mood and pace throughout the trip.

We can just be ourselves. We share the same kind of craziness and sense of humor.

TA PROHM TEMPLE

Tourist mode on!

Snapping the moment

If you're the type of traveler who doesn't like going solo and loves having company, it's important to choose someone reliable and easy to get along with. Travel buddies matter because they make the whole trip better.

Traveling with my childhood best friend was such an amazing time. I'm always thankful to God that I get to share my travel adventures with the people who matter to me.

Life gets busy, and we all go our own way. But moments like this—traveling together, sharing meals, laughing, and watching sunsets—remind me how special our bond is.

Do you have a travel buddy or a memorable trip with someone special?

Share your favorite photo together and send it to me. I'd love to hear your stories and see your best travel moments!

Thanks for hanging out! Happy travels!

Reasons Why I Love Traveling with My Childhood Best Friend

Traveling is not always smooth. Plans can change, things go wrong, and you get tired, hungry, or lost. But when you’re with someone who really knows you, it makes the trip easier and more enjoyable.

TEMPLE HOPPING WITH A STRANGER

Our trip wasn’t exactly planned. We had no itinerary, no strict schedule. We met Sot Sorith right outside our hotel. I know people say, “Don’t talk to strangers,” but sometimes your heart just knows. He was our tuk-tuk driver and also became our guide, our photographer, and our go-to guy for everything. He patiently drove us from temple to temple, waited for us as we explored, and always made sure we were comfortable.

One of the most unforgettable parts of our trip was our visit to Pre Rup Temple. We went there hoping to catch a golden sunset, but things didn’t go as planned.

Tried Cambodian beer for the first time

ANGKOR THOM GATE

BAYON

BANTAEY SAMRE

BANTAEY SREI

We really enjoyed walking around, just looking up at those massive roots. And the best part?

A kind local offered to take our photos. He didn’t ask for anything, just helped us happily.

PRE RUP TEMPLE

More temples!!

One of the highlights of our trip was visiting Angkor Wat, one of the most beautiful temples in Cambodia. It’s popular because it’s the largest religious monument in the world and a symbol of Cambodia’s history and culture.

Inside the temple, you’ll be amazed by the detailed carvings on the walls. It’s really cool to see up close! I wish I got some pictures there!

She's my travel photographer. Always ready for the camera. She never gets tired of taking photos and never complains.

I bought this Khmer bamboo flute from one of the kid vendors

POSTCARD FROM YOU

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