Join me on my inspiring adventure through my blog, where I share hiking tips, conservation stories, and personal reflections. With a focus on sustainable practices, community engagement, and a dash of humor, my goal is to ignite your passion for hiking and conservation. Embark on this journey with me, and let’s stay green together!
Daily writing prompt
What could you let go of, for the sake of harmony?
My name is Teng, and I’m beyond excited to welcome you to my personal blog! This is where I get to share my love for mountains, storytelling, and environmental conservation. Whether you’re an experienced hiker, a budding adventurer, or someone who simply loves our beautiful planet, this blog is your go-to space for inspiration, practical tips, and a community of like-minded folks.
About Me Born in the bustling city of Manila and raised in the peaceful province of Bulacan, I’ve always been captivated by the beauty and majesty of mountains. My hiking journey kicked off in 2012, but it’s been a bit of an on-and-off relationship thanks to work and the glorious challenges of adulting. Picture this: my first hike, I overpacked like I was moving to the mountains permanently. I brought my kikay kit (yes, makeup essentials!), and absolutely zero preparation for the actual hike. Lesson learned: mascara isn’t much use when you’re climbing a peak!
Despite those initial missteps, I discovered that hiking is always a personal experience—no two stories are alike, just like no two mountains are the same.
Finding My Passion for Environmental Protection It wasn’t just the stunning views and the physical challenge that drew me back to the mountains time and again. There were pivotal moments on the trails that ignited a deeper passion for understanding and protecting the environment.
One day, while hiking up Mt. Pulag, I stumbled upon a beautiful clearing littered with trash. It was heartbreaking to see such a pristine place marred by human negligence. How could a place so breathtaking, where the clouds kiss the peaks and the grass sways gently in the wind, be treated with such disregard? As I bent down to pick up the trash, I couldn't help but ask myself: What kind of legacy are we leaving behind?
This moment planted the seed of my commitment to leave no trace and to advocate for cleaner trails. It wasn't just about picking up litter—it was about respecting nature and ensuring that future generations can enjoy these magnificent landscapes just as we do. Each piece of trash I picked up felt like a small step towards combating the larger issues of climate change and environmental degradation that we hear about in the news every day.
From that day on, my hikes became more than just adventures. They turned into missions to protect and preserve the beauty of our natural world. I started educating myself about sustainable hiking practices and sharing what I learned with fellow hikers. It was a natural extension of my passion for teaching—helping others to understand the impact of their actions and how they could make a difference.
I’ve always been passionate about learning and teaching. I even worked as a corporate trainer for a while, helping others grow and thrive. Once upon a time, I dreamed of being a university professor, a medical surgeon, or a clinical psychologist. Life had other plans, but my passion for learning and teaching remained strong. Now, I bring that passion into my hiking and conservation efforts.
Recently, I leveled up my outdoor game by becoming a certified Leave No Trace Level 1 Instructor. This means I get to teach others about the principles of minimal impact and responsible outdoor practices. It’s my way of giving back to the community and ensuring that we can all enjoy nature while preserving it for future generations—because the only thing we should leave behind are footprints and maybe a few laughs.
What to Expect from This Blog This blog is a blend of my passions and experiences, aimed at inspiring and educating fellow hikers and nature lovers. Here’s what you can look forward to:
1. Trail Guides and Hiking Tips Detailed guides to some of the best hiking trails in the Philippines and beyond. Practical tips for beginners and seasoned hikers, from packing essentials to safety measures.
2. Eco-Friendly Hiking Practices Advice on how to minimize your environmental footprint while enjoying the great outdoors. Tips on sustainable gear, waste management, and Leave No Trace principles.
3. Conservation Stories and Efforts Highlighting local and global conservation initiatives. Personal stories and interviews with environmental advocates and experts.
4. Personal Adventures and Reflections Sharing my own hiking experiences, including the highs and lows of the trail. Reflecting on the lessons learned and the profound connections made with nature.
5. Community and Engagement Encouraging a sense of community among readers through interactive challenges, Q&A sessions, and guest contributions. Providing a platform for fellow hikers to share their stories and tips.
This will be tough work and a challenge, but it’s not impossible. I am committed to thorough research, crediting sources, and fact-checking all the information I share. I believe in the power of knowledge and the importance of accuracy, especially when it comes to conservation and sustainable practices.
I also encourage collaboration and feedback from you, the readers. Together, we can continuously educate and inspire the outdoor and mountaineering community in the Philippines. Your insights and experiences are invaluable, and I look forward to learning and growing with you.
Join Me on This Journey My hope is that this blog not only serves as a resource for practical information but also ignites a passion for hiking and conservation within each of you. By sharing my journey, I aim to create a community where we can learn from each other, support sustainable practices, and collectively work towards preserving the natural beauty of our world.
Thank you for joining me on this adventure. I am excited to connect with all of you, hear your stories, and embark on this journey together. And remember, no matter how steep the climb, there’s always room for a little humor and a lot of heart.
