Dive into the daily realities and unique experiences of building a life beyond borders. From cultural observations to navigating new systems, find stories that capture the essence of living far from home.
Finding home abroad changed how I understand what “home” truly means. I once believed home was a place — a house, a neighborhood, the rhythm of daily life with familiar faces. But after leaving the Philippines to live and work overseas, I realized that when you’re living between places, home becomes something deeper — something you build […]
A Personal Journey Through the Philippines, Thailand, and Life Abroad as an OFW Introduction: From Simplicity to Strategy As someone building a life abroad, my relationship with money has been a fascinating journey of constant evolution. It’s certainly not what I expected when I first left the Philippines, and it’s shifted dramatically through my years
OFW Japan Finances: How Moving to Japan Changed My Relationship With Money Read More »
Filipino turon cravings can hit out of nowhere—sometimes wrapped in sugar and banana. It all started when a friend sent me a photo of this crispy, golden treat made with banana and sugar wrapped in a spring roll wrapper. She asked, “Gusto mo ba nito?” (Do you want some?) I didn’t hesitate. Of course, I said
Introduction: The Power of Solitude I’ve experienced the power of solitude deeply since I started living alone abroad. As someone working in Japan, spending time alone isn’t just something that happens—it’s something I’ve come to appreciate. I’ve discovered that the power of solitude lies not in isolation, but in self-reflection, peace, and healing. Unlike loneliness, solitude brings clarity, creativity, and emotional growth. Back
The Surprising Power of Solitude: Why Being Alone Is Good for Growth Read More »
A Heartfelt Tradition Honoring Teachers If you’ve ever studied or taught in Thailand, you’ve likely witnessed one of the most touching school traditions — the Wai Kru Ceremony. Held in most Thai schools every June or July, this beautiful ceremony marks the beginning of the academic year. More than just a school event, it’s a powerful cultural
Wai Kru Ceremony in Thailand: Teacher Appreciation Read More »
Last March 24, I finally checked something off my bucket list — experiencing snow for the very first time. I flew to Sapporo, Hokkaido not just to explore, but to breathe, reset, and reward myself after one of the toughest school years I’ve had so far. As someone born and raised in a tropical country, snow has
Krispy Kreme is officially back in Fukuoka — and I couldn’t resist! The new branch opened on the same day as the ONE FUKUOKA BUILDING, right in the basement level, and the timing couldn’t have been better. I went there to pick up a dozen classic glazed donuts for my friend’s birthday celebration. There was a long
A story of nerves, lessons, and quiet breakthroughs. A Stranger in a Familiar Dream I arrived in Thailand in 2010 with hope tucked into my suitcase. It was my first time flying — both domestic and international — and I had no idea what to expect beyond what friends had shared. It was midnight when
How I Started Teaching in Thailand as a Filipino Read More »
My First Flight Abroad I took my first flight abroad in 2010—and it changed everything. Until then, I had never even taken a domestic flight—let alone traveled internationally. That day wasn’t just about going to another country; it was about leaving behind fear, frustration, and the life I had outgrown. I was headed to Thailand,
This is my personal story of why I became an OFW. Looking back, I now understand that it wasn’t just about finding work abroad—it was about reclaiming hope and creating a better future when all doors seemed closed. In 2010, I reached a breaking point—fresh out of college and full of ambition. However, I was stuck
