The Journey of Solo Female Filipino World Traveler Pia Dina Montemayor

Introduction to a Passionate Explorer

Meet Pia, a dynamic and adventurous Filipina who has journeyed from the bustling streets of Las Piñas City in Metro Manila to the farthest corners of the globe. A pioneer scholar with a degree in Business Administration major in Economics from Dr. Filemon C. Aguilar Memorial College, Pia furthered her education with a master’s degree in Special Education from the Philippine Normal University. In 2007, she embarked on a new chapter, moving to the United Arab Emirates, to work as a Special Educator. Since then, Dubai has been her home base, from where she has launched numerous adventures.

The Spark of Wanderlust & Years of Unforgettable Journeys

The travel bug bit Pia in 2010 during her first trip to Egypt. The sight of the Great Pyramids ignited a passion within her to explore the world. The following year saw travels to Turkey, India, and China, revealing the ease of traveling from the Middle East. This accessibility transformed into a fervent quest to explore more, and the rest, as they say, is history.

Among the myriad of experiences, some stand out for their sheer wonder and uniqueness. Unforgettable moments for her include experiencing snow for the first time in Georgia in December 2015, witnessing cherry blossoms in South Korea in March 2015, and exploring the stunning landscapes of New Zealand and Iceland in 2019.

From July 2022 to August 2023, Pia took a one-year sabbatical to travel the world, visiting an astounding 58 countries: 44 new and 14 revisited. This sabbatical was a whirlwind of discovery, broadening her horizons and deepening her love for travel, as she had already visited 66 countries prior to starting this trip. The expedition to Antarctica during this period was a surreal adventure for her, marking the completion of visiting all seven continents.

Overcoming Challenges

Traveling extensively required careful financial planning. Pia diligently saved 20% of her salary, prioritizing travel over luxury items. This disciplined approach ensured she could indulge in her passion without financial strain, making travel the only "luxury" she allowed herself.

Traveling comes with its set of challenges, especially for someone with a "weak" passport considered with a low passport index. Pia uses only a Philippine passport to travel, so the tedious visa processes and the sometimes-daunting questions posed by immigration officials were hurdles she had to overcome. There were also scary moments, such as a nerve-wracking night bus journey in Africa, where Pia was one of six women and the only non-local passenger, with other people trying to mob her and pull her luggage from her.

As a solo female traveler, Pia has learned the importance of courage, financial planning, and maintaining good health. Her travels have shown that with these three essentials—time, health, and money—along with a sprinkle of bravery, anyone can achieve their travel dreams. She has proven to herself that she can do it—and she did it!

Recognition and Achievements

Among her personal travel accomplishments are completing visits to all the New Seven Wonders of the World in 2022, which took her 11 years to achieve, as well as exploring all the "Stans" countries in 2023.

Pia was nominated as a finalist for the Biggest Low Passport Index Traveller during the 2023 Nomadmania Travel Awards in Lviv, Ukraine. This was a moment of great pride for her, being the sole Filipino nominee in all categories, an honor akin to an Oscar nomination in the travel world. As of June 2024, Pia has visited an impressive 126 countries and territories, 110 of which are United Nations member countries.

Travel Plans

Looking ahead, Pia plans to visit the USA for six weeks, starting in New York and ending in Los Angeles while visiting as many states as she can. Her goal is to visit all 50 states in America within the next decade and explore all Caribbean countries and territories. These ambitions reflect an unquenchable thirst for new experiences and adventures.

Advice for Aspiring Filipino Travelers

Pia encourages aspiring Filipino travelers to seize the moment and explore the world. Saving for travel, not waiting until retirement, and being a responsible traveler are key pieces of advice. Embrace the local culture, appreciate the beauty of nature and architecture, and see the goodness in people. Travel not only broadens your horizons but also transforms your perspective on life.

Join Pia on her incredible journey via ismepiadina on Youtube and Instagram so you can be inspired to embark on your own adventures. Follow her travels and learn from her experiences as she continues to explore the world, one country at a time. #piastravels #filipinoworldtravelers