Kindness Story of a Tour Guide

If all of us would just see and experience the same thing in a particular place, then most probably we would just be sharing the same story as we go home. Nothing unusual. Kinda average. But once something unexpected happened, then that trip becomes more memorable. Horrible if it's a misfortune. Or outstanding if it's a misfortune that turned to be a blessing in disguise.

I'll never get tired of telling everybody my Ilocos hysteria turned blessed birthday experience. It was an unexpected solo travel, and there I was- traveling with insufficient money, no ATM card, and no cellphone on hand, and the best part it's all happening on my birthday! WTF! Wow, That's Fantastic! ♥

As I realized I cant shoulder all the expenses alone, I started to get worried. I wished I had settled an all inclusive holidays for a less hassle free trip. Too late for that. So I decided to still pursue the tricycle tour I made with Mang Arnel. I made an arrangement with this tour guide prior to my trip that's why it would be a loss of income on his part if I wont show up. Mang Arnel insisted that I must see Kabigan Falls. I told him I'd love too, but I cant afford the fees. What he did? He drove me to the site and paid P120 for my fees (kahit sya na daw ang magbayad, basta makita ko yung falls)! Im surprised. And he even accompanied me down the falls though for sure he has seen this place a hundred times (wala daw kasi magpipicture sakin kasi wala akong kasama). Along with the other tourguide, they took extra care of me as the rain poured hard that time. I had goosebumps as I saw these two people struggle to take a picture of me. Im so thankful for what he did, but I cant even treat him for some softdrinks.

2 tourguides struggled in the rain just to make this shot possible!

Come lunch time, I started to feel very hungry. But what can I do, the money left in my pocket was just enough for the ride back to the airport. I thought of skipping lunch but then Mang Arnel drove me to a small eatery. Sabi nya, "kain ka na, ako bahala sayo."

Grabe, I was teary eyed. I was almost shaking in tears (and hunger) as I was eating. That lunch may not even cost a lot, but that's the grandest birthday treat I ever had. I felt very blessed for this special experience. This is one of the most memorable birthday I ever had.. Uuhhm well of course the Bali birthday trip is another story. ^_^

Im proud to share that QTV11 has featured Mang Arnel in the show Brigada.

and Im more proud that this story has inspired other people too:

http://www.amazingmusings.com/2011/03/super-ilocos-tour-guide-mang-arnel.html
http://www.lakas.com.ph/2011/05/experiencing-filipino-hospitality/
http://nshimaservings.com/colorful-past-weekend-a-raok-birthday/

Reblogged for Pinoy Travel Bloggers’ Blog Carnival for the month of September with the theme “Unforgettable Human Encounters on the Road” compiled by Marky Ramone Go of Nomadic Experiences.

For a more detailed Ilocos trip, click here.