What’s the first thing you do on an out of town trip?
Out of town trips are always a great experience, especially if you’re venturing into new places with your loved ones and collecting happy memories. Whenever I go on a trip, the first thing I do after I check in at the hotel is unpack my suitcase, freshen up, check where the nearest church is and check out good, reasonably priced restos that serve great local food.
What about you, what’s the first thing you do on an out-of-town trip?
Caroline Howard, ANC TV host
I check the view and room amenities, especially the bathroom.
Eds Genuino, realtor
After I unpack, I freshen up, put on my comfortable shoes and head out for the nearest grocery and explore the neighborhood.
Joy Ortega, executive assistant of Gov. Manuel Ortega
I shower! I’m super OC about the germs I get from the plane and must shake them off immediately. Of course, that’s also a way to wake me up and get energized to go around. If it’s my first time in a certain place, I study the map and plan out which sights I want to see right away. If not, I check my shopping list and make a strategic dash to the shops. I also look for the nearest grocery store to buy water and snacks.
Alicia Sy, executive editor, Town & Country Philippines
Eat, of course! Once we have brought our bags to the room, and only after I have checked out the hotel’s toiletries (I am big on shampoo, bath gel, lotion and bath salts!), we usually proceed to our first meal. Whether we travel as a family, as a couple, or even on that rare occasion when I am alone, I always do my research and book my restaurants way in advance of our departure. What can I say, when it comes to food, spontaneity is not my strong suit. For me, nothing says “welcome” to a new place like a fantastic meal at one of the city’s best tables.
Tessa Alindogan, interior designer
I would do some research before a trip. So after I make the room my own, I set off for a local meal. That usually marks the beginning of my stay, then I allow the traveler in me to be a tourist and savor the vibes and sights of the place.
Valerie Sotto, businesswoman
After checking in at my hotel and making sure that everything in the room is in order, I grab a city map from the front desk and take a walk to check out the nearby sights. I take in the new scenery while I search for good local restaurants, souvenir shops and other interesting places nearby. And of course, I take a selfie!
Gianna Montinola, VP for corporate affairs at Far Eastern University; co-founder of Hands on Manila, Inc. and PeaceTech Inc.
Even on my travels, I am a creature of habit. Upon checking into a hotel, I unpack most items in my luggage. I hang my clothes in the closet or fold them in drawers. I organize my papers and reading material. Only after these are done will I venture out to enjoy the day.
Nina Garcia, homemaker
Every traveler who arrives at her hotel after a journey longs for the privacy and comfort of a hotel room. In a city far from home, this is home. The first thing I do is go up to my hotel room and check the view from the room, the temperature, make sure it is well ventilated, then I start unpacking.
The first thing I remove from the luggage is my vanity case, the contents of which I lay out in the bathroom sink. I unpack my clothes and shoes and decide which side of the bed I will sleep on as that is where I will put my prayer book, iPad and charger. I place my valuables in the vault and then I freshen up, change clothes as needed, and then go out and find my bearings and explore the city. In my excitement to explore a city, I have disciplined myself to always put everything in order instead of just leaving my suitcase in the room as it often takes its toll on me when I get back.
Cristina Trota Garcia, director, Max’s Group Inc.
If I’m traveling with my family, the first thing we do is to drop our bags in the hotel then look for a great place to eat. If I’m traveling alone, I prefer to unpack my things leisurely, while I enjoy a glass of white wine and room service.
Peewee Reyes Isidro, executive editor, Mega magazine
The first thing I do when I arrive at the hotel is to get WiFi. When I’m abroad, especially for business trips, it’s essential to have constant communication and access to emails and social network, especially with my job!
Ipe Cruz, publisher, Rogue magazine
After an international flight, it’s always good to really freshen up in the room. It helps you start any trip with a clean and rejuvenated mindset!