Best and Unique Vacation Ever

The WeAreAyala community shares interesting and unique activities so you can have your best and most unforgettable summer vacation this 2022!

Swim like a Mermaid
Meet our own mermaid, Katherine ‘Ket’ Malabanan, a Learning and Development Manager of Entrego, the Ayala Group’s technology-driven business solution provider for the fulfillment and logistics needs of enterprises. From starting out on her own, training under professionals, and finally earning her Scuba Schools International certification as a mermaid instructor, Ket shared that mermaid swimming pushed her outside her comfort zone. But it all paid off. When the pandemic hit, mermaid breathing techniques and meditation helped Ket keep her balance.

“One of the main objectives of Mermaiding is to be able to stay underwater on breath-hold for a longer period. To do so, mermaids must lessen oxygen consumption by lowering the heart rate through relaxation and meditation,” she says.

For aspiring mermaid students, no preparation needed. “I will teach them all the basics needed during class. All they need to do is have fun, find the courage to try new things, and bring their dreams with them because mermaiding teaches us that no dream is too whimsical to be achieved.” Interested students may check out her Facebook and Instagram accounts for class schedules and inquiries.

Fly as an Aerialist
From swimming, let’s fly! Kristina Andrea Veloso, a Communications and Events Brand Manager of Generika Drugstore, is passionate about being “in flight,” which is her way of distressing and keeping her balance in life.

“Experience the thrill of being upside down, and allowing yourself to let go is truly liberating. This is my safe place. No judgment, no body shaming. After I gave birth the second time, I did not think I could slim down, but I was more concerned with my strength. I regained strength—even felt stronger— when I started training again as an aerialist.”

Tina highly recommends this fitness activity to anyone who is trying to reconnect with their bodies and wanting to express themselves through movement. It keeps you fit, helping you tone your muscles and increase your flexibility.

Climb and Hike Mountains
Alfred Abela, Maintenance, Repair, and Operations Procurement Supervisor of Integrated Micro-Electronics, Inc. has conquered more than 40 mountains, including Mt. Apo, the Philippines’ highest mountain; Mt. Pulag, Luzon’s highest peak, and Mt. Kanlaon, the Visayas’ highest mountain. For Alfred, climbing mountains is his way to reconnect with nature and recharge.

“Mountain climbing has been a big part of my life. It has really changed my perspective, and has developed my character to be more persistent, resourceful, and appreciative of life.”

Alfred dishes out these tips for beginners: 1) Keep a fit and healthy body; 2) Study and research about the mountain you decide to climb; 3) Have the right hiking gear and equipment; and most importantly, 4) Go with a trusted companion or hiking buddy.

Whether it be flying like an aerialist, swimming like a mermaid, or conquering mountains, make the best out of your summer 2022 with new skills and memories that you can hold on forever.