Tired of scrolling through endless “best places to travel” articles that are either unrealistic or not family-friendly? As a freelancer nearing 47, I’ve always dreamt of an epic family adventure, but juggling work and budget constraints always seemed to get in the way.
But what if I told you it’s possible to explore the best places to travel with your family, even on a freelancer’s budget? That’s exactly what we’re setting out to do.
This guide isn’t just another travel wishlist. It’s our family’s 3-year plan to explore 13 incredible destinations across the Philippines, South Korea, and Japan. We’ll share our itinerary, budget-friendly tips, and how we’re making it happen while still managing our freelance careers.
Why These Are the Best Places to Travel
Each of these countries offers a unique blend of experiences that are perfect for families:
Philippines: Pristine beaches, hidden gems, and affordable adventures.
South Korea: Vibrant cities, ancient temples, and delicious cuisine.
Japan: Modern technology, rich traditions, and iconic landmarks.
Our Journey Begins
It’s a big dream, but we know it’s possible. My recent travel to Seoul South Korea, a gift from God, has shown me that amazing things can happen when we step out in faith. While it’s our desire to complete this 3-year adventure, we ultimately trust that God’s plan will prevail.
So, if you’re a fellow freelancer with a family and a travel bug, come along for the ride! We hope our journey inspires you to dream big and trust that even the most ambitious plans can unfold with God’s guidance.
Why the Philippines, South Korea, & Japan?
These three countries emerged as the perfect trio for our family travel bucket list:
Philippines:
The allure of white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life is irresistible.
We’re also eager to discover some hidden gem travel destinations that might not be on everyone’s radar.
South Korea
The blend of rich history, modern cities, stunning natural landscapes, and delicious cuisine is a huge draw. It’s a place where ancient traditions meet K-pop culture, offering something for everyone. As a family with kids, we’re particularly excited to visit the best places to travel with family in South Korea.
Japan
A country of contrasts, where ancient temples coexist with futuristic cities. Japan offers a unique cultural experience, with its own distinct cuisine, traditions, and natural beauty. We’re excited to explore family-friendly destinations in Japan like Tokyo Disneyland and immerse ourselves in Japanese culture.
Crafting Our Itinerary: 13 Must-Visit Destinations
Here’s a sneak peek at the destinations we’re most excited about:
Best Places to Travel Philippines
Island Hopping Tour Boracay: Island hopping and beach bumming at this best vacation place in the Philippines.
El Nido Island Hopping : El Nido, Palawan: Exploring hidden lagoons and limestone cliffs.
Puerto Princesa Underground River: A UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-see best vacation destination in the Philippines.
Camayan Beach Resort: A relaxing day trip from Manila with stunning views.
Bohol Countryside Tour: Chocolate Hills, tarsiers, and scenic landscapes.
Best Places to South Korea
Busan and Gyeongju Day Tour: Explore two beautiful cities in one day.
Edelweiss Swiss Theme Park: A taste of Switzerland in South Korea.
Busan Drama Movie Tour: Visit filming locations from popular K-dramas.
Bukchon Hanok Village: Traditional Korean houses and charming streets.
Jeju Island Sunrise Tour: Witness the stunning sunrise over a volcanic island.
Best Places to Visit in Japan
Tokyo Disneyland/DisneySea: A magical experience for the whole family.
Legoland Japan Resort: Fun for kids and adults who love LEGOs.
Osaka Castle: A historic landmark and symbol of Osaka.
Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, Kyoto: A serene bamboo grove with walking trails.
Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park: A somber but important reminder of history.
Budgeting for Our Adventure
Since we’re both freelancers, we’re creating a budget that balances our income with our travel goals. We’re looking for ways to save on flights and accommodations, researching free activities, and taking advantage of travel deals when we can.
Making it Happen: Our 3-Year Plan
We’re breaking down our travel goals into smaller trips each year, starting with domestic travel in the Philippines and then venturing to South Korea and Japan in the following years. We’re also researching visas and other travel requirements to ensure a smooth journey.
Why We’re Sharing Our Journey
Our hope is that our adventure inspires you to dream big and trust in the possibilities that lie ahead. We believe that with faith and a willingness to take that first step, incredible things can happen.
Our journey isn’t just about ticking off destinations on a list; it’s about embracing the unexpected and trusting in God’s plan for our family.
We want to show you that financial stability and unforgettable adventures aren’t mutually exclusive, and that even the most ambitious dreams can become a reality when we align our desires with God’s will.