I was interviewed way back for MoneySense’s summer edition about Sagada. And I’m just thrilled to see my name on their site.
Be alone or meet new friends in Sagada
This product development officer did not mind hiking up north just to be with Mother Nature
MJ Ces, a product development officer for a paper company, shares he already made four trips to Sagada – once even by himself. He fell in love with the place and was even joined by friends who were willing to sweat, take long walks, get dirty, but breathe fresh air, taste good food, and meet nice people.
MJ recommends traveling alone for those who would like to spend time alone with nature and meet new friends. The only downside of being a lone traveler is you do not have anyone else to share expenses with, especially when hiring guides.
On all his Sagada trips, he carries with him around P3,000, spending on transportation (Manila-Banaue bus costs P462, Banaue-Sagada jeepney/bus fare is P250, Sagada-Baguio bus fare is P250, and Baguio-Manila bus fare is P385); lodging (P150 per night); food (around P400); guide fee (P500for Sumaguing Cave). All in all, he spends on average P2,400, with enough money for pasalubong. “Bring only cash as there is no ATM in Sagada and the shops there do not take credit cards,” MJ advises.
Lodging in Sagada is relatively cheap, a per night stay in a dormitory-type room costs P150. At Ganduyan Inn, you can get a single-bed room for P200 a night. The St. Joseph’s Inn is a bit more expensive because of better amenities, like a hot shower…
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{ 6 comments… read them below or add one }
It is always a good feeling to see our site reviewed in other’s blog or site. This is about interview.. make’s us feel like a start.. enjoy it!
You are so cool I think you’re hot ;o)
Congratulations and thanks for visiting Only in Silence. Happy blogging! ;o)
@ Atniz
You’re welcome.
@ Abelle
Thanks! Thanks! Thanks!
I’ve always wanted to go to Sagada yet it’s really hard to convince my friends to come along =P After reading your post, I’m quite convinced that it’s safe naman to travel alone (note: solo female)
I have a few questions which I hope you won’t mind answering=)
1. what chances (in percentage i guess) would a solo traveler have in finding a group that would let him/her join them to share the guide fees?
2. is it safe to be leaving your bulky stuff at the room and just bring a daypack when you head out for the day? if yes, can anyone
recommend which guesthouses are these?
3. do all jeeps coming from banaue headed to bontoc make stops to the view points?
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@monc
Hi. Sorry if it took me a while to reply. Anyway, here goes…
1. I once joined a group (they were 4 members) and in my experience and based on my observation with other solo visitors, it’s very easy to find other people who would be willing to share the expenses with you.
These expenses usually pertain to guide fees and vehicle rental.
So if you’re asking for percentage, I’d say 90% you’ll be able to find a group who would gladly share expenses with you.
2. I’ve never lost anything at Sagada. If you want peace of mind, especially if you’re traveling alone, get a solo room. All the inns are trustworthy. I highly suggest St. Joseph’s Inn. They have excellent rooms for single occupancy. They’re small but cozy and secured well enough.
3. Not all make a stopover especially if the jeeps are running late. Better make a request before the jeep leaves.
It is safe to travel alone to Sagada. I guarantee you that.
- MJ
wow, sikat ka na! congrats.hehe. i’ve never been to sagada but I heard a lot of good things about the place.
Hi MJ!
Thanks for the reply, now all I have to worry about is the weather on the coming long weekend! Thanks much! Really appreciate the reply =)