Early Exit EXPLORER

This week has easily been one of the best since I started my travels. Tuesday marked the beginning of something I had been looking forward to from the moment I arrived in the Philippines—scuba diving. I signed up for a two-day course that required four dives to become certified. At first, it was nerve-wracking. Breathing underwater doesn’t feel natural, and there’s definitely a mental hurdle you have to get over. But as the dives went on, it became easier, almost second nature.

Being able to stay underwater for an extended period and truly take in the environment was an incredible experience. I saw turtles, sea snakes, and all kinds of marine life. It’s hard to describe how surreal it feels to be in that world—it’s quiet, peaceful, and completely different from anything on land. I’m really glad I pushed myself to do it. After finishing the course, I was even invited to take an advanced class that would allow me to dive deeper. I haven’t decided yet, but it’s definitely something I’m considering.

Later in the week, my friend Armani and I took a trip to Moalboal, about a three-hour drive from Cebu, to attend a local fiesta. A fiesta is a community celebration where people come together to give thanks and honor their patron saint, Saint John of Nepomuk. Before the celebration officially started, we spent time with some locals who ended up showing us something I never would have found on my own—a hidden cave where people go to swim in fresh spring water and explore.

The cave, known as Moalboal Busay Cave, was an experience in itself. It was my first time exploring a cave, and I won’t lie—I was a little nervous. I’ve seen enough movies to know that cave exploring doesn’t always end well, but I decided to go for it anyway. Once inside, that nervousness turned into excitement. It was peaceful, a little surreal, and honestly just really cool to be somewhere so different from what I’m used to. More than anything, it was nice being around good, laid-back people and just enjoying the moment.

This week reminded me of something important. Solo travel is great, and I’ve learned a lot about myself because of it. But traveling with the right person can take the experience to another level. Without Armani and his connection to the locals, I wouldn’t have experienced half of what I did this past weekend. As someone who’s naturally introverted and tends to keep to himself, I probably wouldn’t have stepped into those situations on my own. It made me realize that sometimes the best experiences come from being open to people and letting things happen naturally.