The Healing Journey: Mental Wellness Through Travel with Seasoned Hoteliers

As the new year unfolds, it’s easy to get swept up in the rush of resolutions, deadlines, and the constant demands of daily life. But for seasoned hoteliers Allan Vale, Executive Chef, and Roselle Reyes, Director of Sales and Marketing, the beginning of each year represents something far more precious: a chance to pause, breathe, and realign. Each January, they embark on a deeply personal journey across the Philippines—one that prioritizes mental wellness, nurturing peace of mind, and reconnecting with both nature and themselves.

Their travels are not just about exploring beautiful landscapes or visiting famous destinations. For Allan and Roselle, these trips are intentional pauses, a practice of self-care that invites reflection, rejuvenation, and emotional clarity. In a world that constantly demands more from us, they’ve discovered that travel is one of the most powerful ways to nourish the mind, reset the spirit, and reconnect with what truly matters.

Baguio: A Fresh Start Amidst Pine Trees

Their journey began in Baguio, the “Summer Capital of the Philippines,” where the cool, crisp mountain air is a breath of fresh life for anyone seeking a reprieve from the chaos of everyday existence. As they arrived in the city, they were enveloped in the calming embrace of its towering pine trees and serene vistas. In Baguio, time seemed to slow down.

One of the most soul-soothing moments of their trip came at the Baguio Cathedral. Here, Allan and Roselle took a moment of quiet reflection, seeking blessings for their journey ahead. In the peaceful ambiance of the cathedral, with its sweeping views of the city, they were reminded that true peace comes from within. As Roselle puts it, “When you take a moment to pause, you not only find clarity but also gratitude for the present.” It was a moment of grounding, a gentle invitation to let go of the distractions of life and reset their minds.

And then came New Year’s Eve—a time when the city of Baguio truly comes alive with celebration. The excitement of the crowd was infectious as Allan and Roselle stood alongside the locals, watching the 10-minute fireworks display light up the skies. The brilliant colors, bursting above the city’s hills, painted the night with a sense of joy, renewal, and hope. It was a reminder that no matter how tumultuous the year may have been, every new year brings with it the opportunity for growth, healing, and starting fresh. For Allan and Roselle, watching the fireworks with the community was not just about ringing in a new year—it was about embracing the present moment, savoring the connection to others, and celebrating life’s simple but beautiful gifts.

La Trinidad: Simplicity, Nature, and Reconnection

After the fireworks, Allan and Roselle made their way to La Trinidad, a quiet town known for its lush strawberry fields and peaceful landscapes. It was here, surrounded by nature, that they felt the true meaning of slowing down. In La Trinidad, they found a sense of simplicity and grounding that many people yearn for.

It was the perfect setting for a night under the stars in a camping area, where the refreshing coolness of the highlands embraced them. As they slept under the vast night sky, they woke up to the sound of birds and the crisp mountain air, feeling recharged and ready to face the new year. Roselle reflected, “In these moments of quiet solitude, you realize how essential it is to reconnect with nature. It’s in these spaces that we find clarity, peace, and the mental reset we need.”

Sagada: Embracing the Beauty of Stillness

The journey continued further into the mountains, to the remote town of Sagada. Known for its mesmerizing landscapes and tranquil atmosphere, Sagada welcomed Allan and Roselle with open arms. As they hiked through the hills of Marlboro, stood in awe at the stunning Blue Soil, and visited the Echo Valley, they were reminded of the immense beauty that exists in stillness. It was in these quiet, untouched places that they discovered the deep peace that nature can offer.

While Sagada is famously known for its breathtaking sunrise and sunset views, the weather during Allan and Roselle’s visit didn’t cooperate. Although they were unable to witness the iconic vistas, the experience only deepened their appreciation for the impermanence of nature and the importance of acceptance in their journey. As Roselle shared, “It’s a reminder that not everything will unfold as we expect, and that’s okay. Sometimes, the beauty of travel lies not in the picture-perfect moments, but in embracing whatever comes your way with an open heart.”

One of the most profound experiences in Sagada was tasting the local delicacies—Pinikpikan (a traditional chicken dish), mountain tea, and lemon pie. These simple, flavorful foods were not just nourishment for the body; they were a celebration of the land and the people who call it home. Allan and Roselle savored