Join Mariel as she inspires us to dive headfirst into new cultures while exploring new destinations and reminding us all to savor every moment of our travels. 🗺️✨

Hi, Mariel! Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?

Hi! I’m Mariel, after learning how to paint when I was in college, I started my interest in the arts. History as well has been a passion of mine so I decided to move to London to take up courses related to Art and History before moving back to Manila. Currently, I’m currently working as the project coordinator of the Lopez Museum and Library.

During my free time, I love binging the latest K-dramas and reading, also a huge K-pop fan! Lately been into working out, skincare, drawing, and adding more records to my Vinyl collection, but always had the biggest passion for traveling.

Why do you think it’s important to fully live in the moment when traveling?

I feel like one of the highlights of traveling rather than of course taking in all the beautiful sights and eating all the delicious food is immersing yourself in a completely new culture and experience. Each country always has its own unique charm and story and I believe the best way to experience a new place is to be completely present in the moment.

What are your top 3 tips on how to stay present and mindful while on vacation?

• Keep off social media if you can – I try to make an effort to only open social media to post the photos/videos I take and try to avoid scrolling. Personally, I’m on my phone a lot scrolling on Instagram/TikTok for hours while I’m home haha! So when I travel I try to take a bit of a cleanse to fully live in the moment and appreciate my surroundings more. 

• Trying something new – whether it be cuisine, activity, location, or experience.

• Interacting with locals – Talking to someone from a new country is another way of immersing yourself in the culture of a new place by hearing the stories of those who live there.

Your top 3 must-haves that ensure you enjoy every moment of your travels:

• Traveling with friends/family!

• A good book to enjoy while on vacation

• Confidence ℅ my favorite Wink laser treatment to enjoy my vacation! 

How does Wink help you truly enjoy your vacation and be present in the moment?

When traveling, I love to be in the best mindset I can be and wink gives me the confidence and comfort in my own skin which makes my trip sooo much better!

Follow Mariel's adventures here.