Here's What These Pinays Learned When They Went On Solo Road Trips

Going on a solo trip can seem scary and daunting, but when life throws you a curve ball, it might be just what you need to get back on track. We interviewed three Pinays who braved the highways and drove solo to the great outdoors. Read their stories below. 

1. Nicole, 35

At the time, I had just ended a long-term relationship. We were together for five years before we split, and everything reminded me of him. I decided to go on a hiking trip to Taal Volcano. I've always been a nature girl, but never had the chance to hike with my ex. I knew it would be a new experience that would help me recuperate.

Driving to Tagaytay was easy enough, but winding through the narrow road to Talisay Bay was definitely challenging. Later on, when I finally hiked up the crater, I felt victorious. I had forgotten how fulfilling it is to be surrounded by nature.

It was the perfect adventure, and I’d recommend it to anyone who needs a quick reset.

2. Mara, 28

I was going through a really stressful month in the office, and I had a sudden itch to leave the city. Surfing in La Union has always helped me destress. I wanted to do something I had never done before, and that was to go on a beach trip by myself.

I was scared at first because it was going to be a four-hour drive at the very least. But I’ve always loved driving so I decided to just go for it, and I swear, it was the best decision I’ve done this year. I prepared my own road trip playlist, sang my way to LU, and already felt recharged by the time I got there.

I stayed in San Juan Surf, and went surfing twice a day for two days. When I just needed to chill and relax, I would sit back and read a book by the shore. There’s just something calming about long drives, and adding the beach to the equation left me feeling rejuvenated and ready to go back to work.

3. Raiza, 32

I’m a big extrovert, and I usually hate being alone. One day, though, I just felt like going on a quick getaway—I was tired of the pollution and congestion in Manila. Some friends had told me about Kwentong Dagat. It's an all-vegan resort in San Felipe, Zambales. When I heard about its plant-based meals and meditaton classes, I knew that it would be the perfect place to destress from the toxic city.

I drove there over the weekend. Surprisingly, it was an effortless and easy trip. I checked in just on time, and stayed in one of their comfy nipa cottages.

What I especially loved about the place was that everything is natural and sustainable. They even have an outdoor kitchen where you can prepare and cook your own meals. Definitely worth the drive!

These fearless women have proven that road trips can be fun and fulfilling on your own—especially when you're headed to somewhere lush with greenery or surrounded by pristine waters. Apart from a playlist of your favorite songs, snacks, and a thermos of your favorite coffee, you'll need an efficient vehicle that works to help preserve nature. 

The All-New Corolla Altis features refined modern aesthetics, upgraded mechanics, and comfy, sleek interiors. It also has a hybrid variant, which partly runs on electricity and maximizes fuel efficiency. In other words, you can take it on long drives to the mountains or the beach and reduce your carbon footprint while you're at it.

The hybrid electric variant features a self-charging battery, which is powered through its engine and activates during smooth, long drives (no need to plug in!). You can easily detect its shift to electric propulsion once you hear the distinct hum that turns into a soft vibration. Needless to say, you can enjoy a quiet, peaceful ride every single time.

The hybrid is the only variant in the Corolla Altis range that is built with Toyota Safety Sense, with features like dynamic radar cruise control and lane tracing assist to keep you secure and stress-free wherever you're headed.

The All-New Corolla Altis is affordable, trendy, and up-to-date with the latest hybrid technology. It's the perfect city-to-getaway car for any independent, nature-loving Cosmo girl.

Visit the Toyota website and follow them on Instagram to learn more about the All-New Corolla Altis.

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