For years, international travel felt impossible to me. Not the kind of impossible that fades with time – but the kind that quietly convinces me that traveling abroad is for other people.

Let me walk you back for a second.

The past years have been quite a challenge for my husband and I, financially. We got married in 2023. Moved out of his parents’ house and rented an apartment a week after our marriage (for context, newly married Filipino couples normally stay at the parents’ house to prepare for their dream home). Bought a townhouse near his hometown (downpayment must be paid in cash to move in).

All of these happening while our savings are running thin. And, we still need to support both of our families. So, going abroad? Never crossed our minds. Even honeymoon was skipped. ☹

Until blessings came pouring in 2025. We first did a local travel via car (I'll share it next time). My husband’s family invited us to join them for their travel abroad – and it’s in Thailand! Yup, it was our first international trip. We were unsure first if we can do it since we were on the process of rebuilding our finances. But we decided that it will be our treat to ourselves for surviving the past years. 🥹

First-Time International Travel: Fear, Excitement, and Arrival

They say, "Nothing prepares you for your first time leaving the country." When I say I researched more for this than I did for my thesis…believe me, I mean it. Printed out every document the Immigration Officer (IO) might look for. I even photocopied my valid ID and signed it three times like I’m going to sell a property to the IO. I tried to act natural while waiting in line (made it look like it’s not my first time). The IO waved at me, greeted her warmly then handed her my document. Questions were asked. Then the officer stamped my passport and gave me a nod. That – alone – feels like a win.

When we arrived in Bangkok, all the fear and anxiety softened. Bangkok became the perfect place for a first international trip: lively, affordable, and surprisingly kind to beginners. It also helped that the faces around us felt familiar, since it’s a Southeast Asian country too.

Day 1: Hello, Bangkok!

As soon as we checked in ourselves at The Quarter Ari by UHG, we dove straight into the local flavors.

For our first meal, we tried their famous pad kra pao, tangy tom yum, and creamy Thai milk tea at a small restaurant just beside our hotel. We went back to our rooms to freshen up.

And as night fell, we headed to Jodd’s Fair Night Market, where the streets came alive with lights, music, and the smell of countless local treats.

We sampled everything we could except the fried insects. It was the perfect way to kick off our Bangkok adventure.

Day 2: Street Food Belly, Buffet Belly, All the Bellies

Our second day in Bangkok started with a visit to the famous Chatuchak Weekend Market, where we wandered through countless stalls and picked up unique local products.

I love perfume and I couldn’t resist buying the Butterfly Thai perfume.

The street food there was irresistible – we just had to try the mango sticky rice, and wow…I loved it! Not too sweet – just the right amount of sweetness, creaminess, and fruity flavor.

In the afternoon, we headed to Iconsiam Mall for a very different experience: a ride on the Chao Phraya Princess River cruise.

We were lost at the start since we didn’t know that there are a lot of ferries offering the river cruise. Asked few of the staff, then we queued in line as we wait for our boat.

As we drifted along the river, we were all amazed by the city lights and saw various temples.

We got a buffet dinner on board while watching live performances – singers performing songs from different countries, making the night feel lively and unforgettable.

As for the food, honestly, it was just okay. No wow factor or anything.

By the end of the day, what matters is that we experienced both the bustling streets and the elegant side of Bangkok – all in one day.

TRAVEL TIP: Book tickets in advanced. We booked ours via Klook.

I'll share the rest of our trip in Part 2 - can't wait to tell you what happened next.

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