Cole McNamara

17/03/2026

Every journey starts the same way, with a step-into the unknown. A one-way ticket, a packed bag, to a place you've only every seen through a screen. For me, that place was The Philippines. Over 7000 islands scattered-across the ocean, each one promising something different. Hidden lagoons, and jungles that feel untouched. Roads that lead you to places you never planned to find.

Travel here isn't just about where you go. It's about how it feels along the way - early mornings chasing the light, long boat rights across open water, and conversations with strangers that don't stay strangers for long. You don't just visit The Philippines, you move through it - island-to-island, moment-to-moment, never quite knowing what's next. That's the beauty of it, because sometimes, the best parts of a journey are the ones you never plan.

This is The Philippines, and this is what it feels like to explore it!

08/03/2026

When I’m solo travelling, these two backpacks are always with me. 🎒

One carries my life — clothes, gear, and everything I need for the journey.
The other carries the story — camera, drone, and the tools that let me capture the moments I’ll never forget.

Two backpacks. One adventure. 🌍

08/03/2026

There’s a moment when you solo travel that no one talks about 👇

Not the airport excitement.
Not the perfect Instagram photo.

It’s when you’re somewhere far from home and it suddenly hits you — you’re actually doing it.

You booked the flight. You stepped into the unknown on your own. You realize this travel lifestyle is something that fulfills you more than anything in the world. Something that nobody can understand unless they’re literally beside you in that moment, because you can’t understand it unless you’re in that exact spot, living in the moment.

I call this a “Goosebump Moment”. For me, it’s happened on a boat as I’m cruising across the ocean-into the sunset somewhere Southeast Asia. It’s when it finally hits me. I’m doing it. I’m living the life that I thought was once a dream.

You’re living a lifestyle some people would only dream of. Travel for me isn’t a 5-star all-inclusive beach resort with a pool where some people stay for a week, and call a “Vacation”. Travel for me is trekking-into this place in the world called “Southeast Asia”. A place I never knew existed, but once discovered, made me fall in love with rough and rugged travel. A camera, 2 backpacks, hostels, late nights, and meeting the most wholesome people that were once strangers, then your best friends.

Solo travel doesn’t just change where you are. It changes who you are.

I hope this post reaches someone who has never solo travelled. Someone who has never flown on a plane like I once did, or never left their comfort zone. Everyone in your life will talk you out of it. Don’t be scared. Fear will stop you from discovering what you never knew existed. Book that flight, because your future self will thank you! ✈️

08/03/2026

07/03/2026

07/03/2026

Hey, you can land this plane right here! Cancun was my first international trip. The Cancun strip looks wicked from above. Today, just flying-by though, as I’m on my way to Belize 🇧🇿

06/03/2026

Toronto, Ontario, Canada

28/02/2026

Solo travel isn’t about being alone. It’s the complete opposite. It’s about discovering how connected the world really is. There’s something powerful about stepping off a plane with no one waiting for you — and realizing that you don’t need to know anyone yet. Because the magic of solo travel is that you will.
You meet people in the most unexpected places. On a plane. On a bus. On a boat. On a group tour you almost didn’t book. At a hostel when you ask, “Is it ok if I sit here?”
Suddenly, strangers become stories. Stories become laughter. Laughter becomes friendships you never saw coming.
Solo travel teaches you how to say yes. Yes to the sunset hike. Yes to sharing a table.
Yes to the random invite to explore an island on a scooter tomorrow morning.
You realize everyone else is looking for the same connection. The world is full of people just one conversation away from becoming part of your journey. Solo travel opens you. It reminds you that home isn’t always a place — sometimes it’s the people you meet along the way. And the most beautiful part? Every trip is another chance to turn complete strangers into lifelong friends.
GO SOLO!

26/02/2026

🌴 Welcome To Sohoton Cove, Siargao, Philippines! 🌊

Sohoton Cove is one of the Philippines’ most stunning hidden gems! Located in the picturesque province of Surigao del Norte, this breathtaking destination offers a unique blend of natural beauty, adventure, and tranquility. If you’re looking for a place that combines crystal-clear waters, awe-inspiring limestone cliffs, and incredible wildlife, Sohoton Cove should be at the top of your travel bucket list!

Why should you visit Sohoton Cove?

1. Explore the enchanting caves, where you can marvel at ancient stalactites and stalagmites that have formed over centuries.

2. Swim with stingless jellyfish in their natural habitat at a safe distance.

3. The cove offers a variety of activities including kayaking, cliff diving, and island hopping.

4. Sohoton Cove is still relatively undiscovered compared to other popular destinations in the Philippines, making it a truly hidden paradise.

So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags, and get ready to explore Sohoton Cove!

I booked my tour using Get Your Guide (🔗 Link in Bio)

25/02/2026

I like my shakes! Mad Monkey makes the best!

25/02/2026

Filipinos are the friendliest & coolest people in the world!