Experience the island life with Ruan and let her inspire you to practice conscious traveling in Cebu & Siargao (and everywhere else). 🏝️

TELL US A FUN FACT ABOUT YOURSELF?

After I graduated College, I started traveling domestically and instantly fell in love with Siargao during my stay. After 3 months of my first visit to Siargao, I made the biggest decision of moving to the island. It’s been over 3 years and I’m still here — now with 2 cats, a dog, and a small accommodation business, Single Fin Siargao.

WHAT ARE SOME ACTIVITIES YOU LIKE TO DO? WHAT KEEPS YOU BUSY WHEN YOU’RE NOT EXPLORING?

As a kid, I’ve always loved creating things and crafting. When I’m not out and about, I enjoy sewing things from different fabrics I’ve sourced both in local thrift shops and my travels. Lately, I’ve started learning how to make candles as well!

WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT TRAVELING? WHERE IS YOUR HAPPY PLACE?

What I love the most about traveling is the unfamiliarity — I enjoy seeing new sights, tasting new dishes, and learning about new cultures. I mean, who doesn’t? My happy place would always be our family home in Batangas. Being away for almost the entire year, I would always look forward to coming home; seeing my childhood friends, and spending time with my family and loved ones.

ANY ADVICE ON HOW TO EMBRACE SLOW TRAVEL AND HAVE MORE MINDFUL ADVENTURES?

WHAT ARE SOME WAYS TO HELP US BECOME MORE CONSCIOUS TRAVELERS?

Living in a top tourist destination has taught me so many things but the most important lesson I’ve learned is to leave a positive impact on the community you’ve visited. Enjoy your visit but keep in mind that the place you’re visiting for vacation is someone else’s home. Always respect the locals — they’re there to welcome you and guide you throughout your journey. Be mindful of your actions and remember to always express gratitude.

WHERE WOULD YOU RECOMMEND A QUICK GETAWAY THIS YEAR?

ANY SUGGESTIONS FOR A CLASSIC ROAD TRIP OR AN UNUSUAL (BUT NO LESS INSPIRING) PATH LESS TRAVELED?

As cliché as it may sound, a road trip to the nearest beach is always a great idea. Soaking up some sunshine and swimming in cool waters has always been refreshing! We are very lucky as we have so many beautiful coastal towns to choose from. Living on an archipelago, we can never be too far away from the sea.

ANY ADVICE FOR FREE-SPIRITED WANDERERS WHO ARE STILL A BIT HESITANT TO GET BACK TO TRAVELING?

I usually travel alone and I always remember one thing: to travel smart and responsibly. Travel locally and enjoy the getaway but don’t forget to follow health protocols and check local requirements and restrictions. Always remember that safety is your priority and even the best-laid plans may need to be set aside when something comes up.

WE’RE ALWAYS HAPPY TO HAVE YOU AT WINK! HOW DOES WINK HELP YOU WITH YOUR TRAVELS?

With Wink around, there’s one less thing to worry about! Wink is a total confidence booster and a total time-saver.

Follow Ruan’s adventures here.