2020-2021 America Pandemic Adventures Filipino Solo Trip

living my dream as Solo Backpacker during Covid-19 Pandemic, the #newnormal of tourism
November 26, 2020 to June 19, 2021 (205 days)

"Live a life to inspire, live a life with sense of accomplishment, live a life you will remember" - Mang Andoy

Coronavirus has changed the way we travel, this pandemic has brought significant challenges to global travel industry. My Covid-19 travel adventure begun from the moment it was gradually spreading from Asia. My first pandemic journey (January to February 2020) was in Chile, Uruguay, United States and Philippines. Surprisingly, the itinerary I created on this trip was my first around the World, 360 degrees tour (circumnavigated the Earth from Middle East to America back to Asia). Then, while most of the countries worldwide was on the beginning of 1st wave, my second pandemic journey (September to October 2020) was in Philippines, United States, Dominican Republic, Haiti and Ukraine. Like most of other employees worldwide, I lost my beloved job also due to huge effect to aviation industry (business re-structuring). Even so, I am forever grateful and proud of my four years in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. Finally, while the surge of the 1st wave continuous, my third pandemic journey (November 2020 to June 2021) was this Latin America trip. Based on this, I traveled to 23 countries across 4 continents with more than 25 sets of Covid-19 Test (mostly nasal swab PCR) ALL NEGATIVE RESULT.

Despite the challenge of #newnormal, I accomplished my itinerary beyond my expectation. I just finished seven months of solo backpacking to these wonderful countries of American Continent (Nov. 2020 to Jun. 2021) with Covid19 vaccine Sinopharm (Aug. 2020 in Abu Dhabi, UAE) and J&J  Janssen (May 2021 in Boston, US). Another proud bucket list achievement; having a Philippine passport on a tight budget, all first time visits traveled from United States down to South America, language barrier, currency exchange, changing airport/land border entry/exit requirements, sudden flight cancellations and of course, the pandemic protocol on tourism and transportation.

Some of my top accomplishment on this journey are Completed the World's Seven New Wonders, all-DIY budget solo hikes (World's youngest volcano, Central America highest peaks and some Ecuador's top mountain), visited every country's signature landmarks, elusive Ecuador visa application using my mobile phone only, pandemic travel techniques and having all negative result for more than 25 sets of Covid-19 PCR Nasal Swab Test.

205 days, 15 countries, 20 Covid19 Tests.

Traveled from Abu Dhabi to Mexico then Central America, South America, United States and Manila. 

MARAMING SALAMAT, MUCHAS GRACIAS, THANK YOU VERY MUCH!!! 

MEXICO, BELIZE, GUATEMALA, EL SALVADOR, HONDURAS, NICARAGUA, COSTA RICA, PANAMA, COLOMBIA, BOLIVIA, PARAGUAY, PERU, ECUADOR, GUYANA AND UNITED STATES #opentheeconomy #newnormal #pandemictraveling #goodvibes #lakbay100 #mexico #belize #guatemala #elsalvador #honduras #nicaragua #costarica #panama #colombia #bolivia #paraguay #peru #ecuador #guyana #unitedstates #philippines #northamerica #centralamerica #southamerica #america #pinoytraveler #backpacking #bucketlist 

2020-2021 America Pandemic Adventures Filipino Solo Trip

Pandemic Travel Tips in Solo Backpacking the United States

2020-2021 America Pandemic Adventures Filipino Solo Trip

May 08 to May 24, 2021

Pandemic Summer Solo Trip in United States Itinerary

United States served also as the 15th country on my 2020-2021 America Pandemic Adventures Filipino Solo Trip, the new normal of traveling.

My Covid19 Preparation: Sinopharm Covid19 Vaccinated (2-shots) since Aug. 2020. http://www.theviewingdeck.com/2020/09/covid-19-phase-iii-inactivated-trial.html

Visa: Philippine passport holders need to apply before travel, I have US B2 Visa (2019-2029). http://www.theviewingdeck.com/2019/06/how-to-apply-for-united-states-b-2.html

Country of Origin: Guyana / Arrival Airport: Miami, Florida 

Departure Airport: New York, New York / Country of Next Destination: Philippines (Homeland)

Airport Immigration Issues: After two hours of long queueing in Immigration lane, I was assigned on a Lady Officer with tough interrogation. Knowing that I came from Guyana and Ecuador on a holiday vacation only as a Philippine passport obviously gave her a doubt on my capability to do so. Her interrogation ended by inserting a yellow slip with comment "intensive" and endorsed to another Lady Officer to bring me to their office. Inside I saw a lot of stranded passengers which are heavily interrogated. Again, same set of questions were provided. This experience was exactly the same when I arrived in Tel Aviv Airport, Israel last 2013 (Solo Backpacker also). In a matter of around 10 minutes I was given again a yellow slip but this time it has an authorize to enter remark. Even though I'm used to this kind of treatment, I still feel bad and sad while walking for the next assigned boarding gate.  

Places Visited: Miami (Florida), Washington DC, Alexandria (Virginia), Wilmington (Delaware), Baltimore (Maryland), Trenton (New Jersey), Philadelphia (Pennsylvania), Boston (Massachusetts), New Haven (Connecticut) and NYC, Niagara (New York)

1. If you are Philippine passport holder, ensure that there's at least 3 to 4 hours transit in between arrival coming from international flight going to domestic flight. In my case, I did not make the flight to Buffalo, New York coming from Miami due to more than 2 hours queueing in Immigration. You should have a Plan B of your alternate destination in case of re-booking. My plan B was going to Washington DC. 

2. In my opinion, aside of long queueing, be prepared of the Immigration Officer "intensive interrogation" especially if traveling alone, traveling for so long, country of origin is not a usual destination and don't have any US resident friends/relatives.

3. For cheapest fare, book Greyhound (bus) and Amtrak (train) trip in advance, much better if its almost a month before the intended trip date. The closer the date, the expensive fare you will get. Greyhound has a reasonable fare than Amtrak but Amtrak has a lot of destination and departures available. 

4. Failed to visit Niagara Falls on initial part of the plan before the outbound flight due to flight offload experience courtesy of American Airlines, Miami to Charlotte transit then Buffalo. Despite my flight ticket was a regular fare, they gave priority to other passengers unfortunately. I'm mad because; (1) it's my dream to see the Niagara Falls, (2) wasted flight from MIA to BUF, (3) my Greyhound overnight bus booking worth $82 was wasted also, (4) I need to book for hotel in Washington DC because I arrived early, (5) destroyed my mood to travel. I filed an email complaint, AA just gave me 10,000 bonus miles instead of the refund I requested. 

5. Philippine government suspended all flights coming from UAE from May 15 to 31 (due to Covid19 India variant) , declared only just 2 days before my flight departure (May 16). My outbound flight is transit in Abu Dhabi, UAE. As such, I bought new flights (QF, 5J) for a whooping 1,200 USD just to get home in soonest. My credit card limit was max-out  

6. FREE Covid19 Vaccine and PCR Test (I saved $100 per test) anywhere in United States, especially in New York City Manhattan its everywhere. I took my another vaccine, Janssen in CVS Pharmacy (Boston branch). My previous Covid19 vaccine (Sinopharm) is not documented since it was for volunteer purpose although it was done as standard two-shot. I took three sets of PCR Test (Nasal Swab) in Manhattan's CityMD, LabQ and Metropolitan Drugstore with 1-2 days result processing. No out of pocket cost for all of those. 

7. On airport arrival, United States requires Negative Covid19 Test (Antigen/PCR) only within 72 hours validity.

8. On airport departure, my next destination Philippines transit to Doha and Hongkong requires only Negative Covid19 Test (PCR) within 72 hours validity. United States provides FREE Covid19 PCR Test with 1-2 days result (physical passport is always required as identification).

Pandemic Travel Tips in Solo Backpacking the United States 

16 Days Pandemic Summer Solo Trip in United States

2020-2021 America Pandemic Adventures Filipino Solo Trip

May 08 to May 24, 2021

Day 164: May 08, 2021 Sat / United States 0

American Airlines flight tickets 395 USD

Greyhound May 09 Buffalo to DC 80 USD

Amtrak May 10 Washington to Philadel 37 USD

Amtrak May 11 Philadel, Wilmington, Balti 53 USD

Greyhound May 12 Philadelphia to Boston 42 USD

Greyhound May 14 Boston, New Haven, NY 40 USD

Duo Housing 1 night 30 USD pd

Philadelphia Apple Hostel 2 nights 75 USD pd

Boston Homestel 1 night 54 USD pd

Central Park West Hostel 2 nights 95 USD

1504H ETD Georgetown UTC -0400H; flight AA1512

1945H ETA Miami UTC -0400H; 10hr transit

More than 2 hours long queueing; flight re-sked

IO Intensive Query, brought inside their office 

TOTAL: $XX + 826 USD

Day 165: May 09, 2021 Sun / United States 01

0615H ETD Miami; flight AA373 OFFLOADED; Dunkin Donuts breakfast 7

0850H ETD Miami; flight AA2878

1127H ETA Washington DC; metro to hostel 10; Walk to Union Station for MARC train query

McDo snacks 8; metro to King St Old Town; Alexandria, Virginia Walk 3 hours; metro charge 2.5

1600H Washington DC National Mall; US Capitol, National Museum of Natural History, Smithsonian Building, Washington Monument, White House, World War II Memorial, Lincoln Memorial 

WASHINGTON DC MAGNET (8) 3 ✓ ;Refreshments 3; dinner 11; Duo Housing 1 night $30 (cc) 

TOTAL: $44.5

Day 166: May 10, 2021 Mon / United States 02 

1100H Check out hostel; metro charge 4.5; Pentagon City walk; McDo lunch 8

VIRGINIA MAGNET (9) 5.5 ✓

1705H ETD Washington DC; Amtrak 2 hours

1900H ETA Philadelphia; walk to hostel; McDo 7; Metro 2.5; walk to hostel; Penn's Landing; dinner 3.5

Apple Hostel 2 nights $75 (cc) 

TOTAL: $31

Day 167: May 11, 2021 Tue / United States 03

0615H Breakfast 2.5; metro 2.5

0740H ETD Philadelphia; Amtrak 0.5 hour 

0759H ETA Wilmington; Wilmington, Delaware 3 hours; DELAWARE MAGNET (10) 5 ✓

1132H ETD Wilmington; Amtrak 1 hour 

1221H ETA Baltimore; McDo lunch 6.5; Baltimore, Maryland 5 hours; MARYLAND MAGNET (11) 4 ✓

1748H ETD Baltimore; Amtrak 1 hour 

1900H ETA Philadelphia; metro 2.5; Apple Hostel; dinner 6.5

TOTAL: $29.5

Day 168: May 12, 2021 Wed / United States 04

0900H Breakfast 3.5; Hostel Check-out; metro 5.5; Trenton, New Jersey 5 hours; McDo lunch 6

NEW JERSEY MAGNET (12) 4 ✓

1500H ETD Trenton; metro 5.5; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 5 hours; snacks 5

PENNSYLVANIA MAGNET (13) 4.5 ✓; BOOK J&J COVID19 VACCINE (passport to bring) 

2345H ETD Philadelphia; Greyhound 12.5 hours

TOTAL: $34

Day 169: May 13, 2021 Thu / United States 05

1220H ETA Boston; metro to hostel 2.5; Dunkin Donuts breakfast 6

Boston Homestel; metro to Harvard 2.5; Boston, Massachusetts 7 hours; lunch 8

MASSACHUSETTS MAGNET (14) 7.5 ✓; 1700H PASSPORT / YELLOWCARD / CVS COVAX J&J 

Boston Homestel 1 night $52; metro 2.5; dinner 9

TOTAL: $38

Day 170: May 14, 2021 Fri / United States 06

0800H ETD Hostel; metro 2.5

0900H ETD Boston; Greyhound 3.5 hours 

1220H ETA New Haven; Dunkin Donuts snacks 7.5; New Haven, Connecticut 4 hours 

CONNECTICUT MAGNET (15) 4 ✓

1655H ETD New Haven; Greyhound 2.5 hours 

1920H ETA New York; Jollibee dinner 9.5; metro 3; Central Park West Hostel 2 nights 95 USD

FLIGHTS FROM UAE SUSPENDED MAY 15-31  

TOTAL: $26.5

Day 171: May 15, 2021 Sat / United States 07

Greyhound Bus NYC to BUF 65 USD; Greyhound Bus BUF to BRA 55 USD

Statue City Cruises 24 USD; McDo lunch 7.5; Central Park Walk; snacks 5

New York, New York 12 hours ; NEW YORK MAGNET (16) 3.5 ✓

Central Park West Hostel; McDo dinner 8.5

TOTAL: $24.5 + 144 USD

Day 172: May 16, 2021 Sun / United States 08

1100H Hostel Checkout (leave backpack); metro 3; Dunkin Donuts breakfast 4.5

1200H Statue City Cruises to Liberty / Ellis Island

1400H Back to Battery Park; Biryani lunch 7; Manhattan random walks; souvenirs 6

Champion shirt 26; dinner 13; walk to bus station 

TOTAL: $59.5 

Day 173: May 17, 2021 Mon / United States 09

0115H ETD New York; Greyhound 9 hours

1015H ETA Buffalo; bus #40 2

1200H Niagara Falls; walk to hostel; lunch 15; Niagara Falls Afternoon Trip; snacks 4.5

Gorge View Hostel 1 night 29 USD; dinner 11

TOTAL: $32.5 + 29 USD

Day 174: May 18, 2021 Tue / United States 10

Jazz on Columbus Circle Hostel 3 nights 126 USD

1100H Hostel check-out; bus #40 2

1200H Buffalo walk tour; snacks 5

1730H ETD Buffalo; Greyhound 9 hours 

TOTAL: $7 + 948 USD

Day 175: May 19, 2021 Wed / United States 11

Cebu Pacific flight 325 USD

0200H ETA New York; Dunkin Donuts breakfast 7; Jazz on Columbus Circle Hostel 3 nights 

1000H 24TH COVID19 TEST (PCR); CityMD FOC

Manhattan random walk; Jollibee lunch 9.5; Central Park walk; snacks 3; dinner 8.5

TOTAL: $28 + 325 USD

Day 176: May 20, 2021 Thu / United States 12

Breakfast 5; lunch 6; dinner 10.5; Central Park random walk; Jazz on Columbus Circle Hostel

TOTAL: $21.5

Day 177: May 21, 2021 Fri / United States 13

1030H 25TH COVID19 TEST (PCR); CTS FOC; Breakfast 6; metro to Brooklyn 3; lunch 11

WTC 9/11 Memorial, Brooklyn Bridge

1630H 26TH COVID19 TEST (PCR); LabQ FOC

Central Park random walk; dinner 8.5; Jazz on Columbus Circle Hostel

TOTAL: $28.5

Day 178: May 22, 2021 Sat / United States 14

1100H Hostel check-out; breakfast 5.5

1200H 27TH COVID19 TEST (PCR); MetroDrug FOC; Central Park random walk; lunch 12

1430H ETD Manhattan; metro line C to airport 3

1600H ETA Howard Beach JFK Airport; airtrain 8

1630H ETA New York JFK Airport; OFFLOADED DUE TO HKIA TRANSIT ISSUE  

TOTAL: $28.5

Day 179: May 23, 2021 Sun / United States 15

BA-Cozy AirBnB Cancelation Charges 58 USD; Metrocard recharge 20; McDonald's breakfast 9

NJ Train to Newark 30.5; Dunkin Donuts snacks 7.5

1530H ETD Manhattan; metro to airport

1700H ETA JFK Airport; failed check-in again; CHANGE FLIGHT DATE BY STAFF TRAVEL ONLY  

TOTAL: $67 + 58 USD

Day 180: May 24, 2021 Mon / United States 16

1300H ETD New York UTC -0400H; flight 1501; Breakfast 4; lunch 8.5

1602H ETA Fort Lauderdale; 3 hours transit 

1928H ETD Fort Lauderdale; flight 1255

2253H ETA Guayaquil UTC -0500H

TOTAL: $12.5

GRAND TOTAL: $534 (May 24) / CREDIT CARD: $1,518 (May 23)

16 Days Pandemic Summer Solo Trip in United States

Miami City Transit Visit

2nd Wave of Pandemic Adventure and 1st time in Caribbean

October 07 to October 15, 2020

This trip was very spontaneous. My original plan was to cross the border of Dominican Republic through Ouanaminthe in Haiti. Unfortunately, the border was closed which was why the Caribe Tours bus station is closed. I just booked my ticket just night before the flight.

Miami, officially the City of Miami, is a metropolis located in southeastern Florida in the United States. It is the second most populous metropolis on the East coast of the United States, and it is the seventh largest in the country. The city is an economic powerhouse, serving as the financial and business capital of Latin America. Miami is a major center and leader in finance, commerce, culture, arts, and international trade. Miami is nicknamed the "Capital of Latin America" and is the largest city with a Cuban-American plurality.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Miami

Day 5: October 11, 2020 Sunday / Miami Transit

0952H Port Au Prince UTC -0400H; flight AA1181

1157H ETA Miami UTC -0400H; 6hr transit

Miami aftenoon tour; bus #150 to South Beach

Miami South Beach; Burger King $10; souvenirs $17

1830H ETA Miami Airport; dinner $17

2030H ETD Miami; flight AA1511

2245H ETA Santo Domingo; Uber to hostel $16

TOTAL: $60

Miami City Transit Visit

New York City Transit Visit

2nd Wave of Pandemic Adventure and 1st time in Caribbean

October 07 to October 15, 2020

Almost all international arrivals in New York JFK airport require 14 days quarantine except for transit passengers. I just know only that I can go out of the airport the moment I arrived in JFK (I thought I will just stay inside the airport). Good thing I have around 8 hours to stroll around the city as the metro is operational only until 0100L. This is my first time visiting New York and my 7th state in United States.

New York City (NYC), often called simply New York, is the most populous city in the United States. New York City has been described as the cultural, financial, and media capital of the world, significantly influencing commerce, entertainment, research, technology, education, politics, tourism, art, fashion, and sports. Home to the headquarters of the United Nations, New York is an important center for international diplomacy.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_York_City

Day 1: October 07, 2020 Wednesday / New York Transit

0810H ETD Abu Dhabi UTC +0400H; flight EY101

1420H ETA New York UTC - 0400H; 18hr transit

14 days quarantine not required for transit passengers with less than 24 hours of stay

AirTrain+Subway 11.5 drop to Charles St Station

World Trade Center Museum; Staten Island Ferry Ride free

Subway to Times Square 3; Fridge Magnet 4.5

The Vessel, Empire State Building, McDo 8

2230H ETD Times Square; Subway to AirTrain 11

TOTAL: $38

Day 2: October 08, 2020 Thursday / Haiti

0100H ETA New York JFK Airport Terminal 5

0959H ETD New York UTC -0400H; flight B61835

1340H ETA Port Au Prince UTC -0400H

New York City Transit Visit

Circumnavigated the World from UAE to America back to Asia

an Overseas Filipino Worker vacation leave to Uruguay, Chile, United States and Philippines

January 24 to February 08, 2020

Around the World from Philippines to America back to Asia (2nd Circumnavigation) (2024)

Circumnavigation refers to the complete navigation around an entire island, continent or astronomical body (planet). The first circumnavigation of Earth was the Magellan-Elcano expedition, which sailed from Seville, Spain in 1519-1522, after crossing the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian oceans. In my case, I started my flight from the Middle East where I am presently working, and plan to pass the three continents. From Dubai, I went on a very long flight to South America, went up to the Westernmost side of North America, went to my Homeland and finally back to my workplace. The actual objectives of this trip (which also served as my 2020 Birthday get-away) were to continue the beyond #lakbay100 quest, to explore the Easter Island by biking, witness the Northern Lights in Alaska, and re-visit the newly cleaned Boracay Island. 

TWO WEEKS SOLO TRIP WORLD CIRCUMNAVIGATION ITINERARY 2020

Note: Philippine passport holders need to have Uruguay, Chile and United States Tourist visa before travel
Jan. 24 Fri Flight from Dubai, UAE (UTC +0400H) to Sao Paolo, Brazil (UTC -0300H)

Jan. 25 Sat Flight from Sao Paolo, Brazil to Montevideo, Uruguay (UTC -0300H)
Jan. 26 Sun Flight from Montevideo, Uruguay to Santiago, Chile (UTC -0300H)
Jan. 29 Wed Flight from Santiago, Chile to Easter Island, Chile (UTC -0500H)
Jan. 31 Fri Flight from Santiago, Chile to Lima, Peru (UTC -0500H) and Los Angeles, US (UTC -0800H)
Feb. 01 Sat Flight from Los Angeles, US to Alaska, US (UTC -0900H)
Feb. 02 Sun Flight from Alaska, US to Seattle, US (UTC -0800H)
Feb. 03 Mon Flight from Seattle, US to Seoul, South Korea (UTC +0900H)
Feb. 04 Tue Flight from Seoul, South Korea to Manila, Philippines (UTC +0800H)
Feb. 08 Sat Flight from Manila, Philippines to Abu Dhabi, UAE (UTC +0400H)

Circumnavigated the World from UAE to America back to Asia (2020 Vacation Leave)

Seattle, Washington Short Morning Visit

5 Days Solo Trip in Winter United States

January 31 to February 04, 2020

Extremely Cold Fairbanks, Alaska Short Visit

Day 3: February 2, 2020 Sunday / Fairbanks Northern Lights
2032H ETA Seattle UTC -0800H; metro to hostel $6
Green Tortoise Hostel (University station); dinner $20
Subtotal: $26

Day 4: February 3, 2020 Monday / Seattle morning tour
0530H wake-up, city walk tour; McDo meal $8; Space Needle, Gum Wall
Starbucks The First Store Pike Place $31
0930H ETD Hostel; snacks $8; metro to airport
1100H ETA Seattle airport; souvenir $4
1230H ETD Seattle UTC -0700H; flight OZ271
Subtotal: $51

Seattle, Washington Short Morning Visit

Extremely Cold (-36'C) Short Visit in Fairbanks, Alaska

5 Days Solo Trip in Winter United States

January 31 to February 04, 2020

Los Angeles, California Short Night Visit

This trip was supposedly aiming for the Northern Lights (aurora borealis) chase. Somehow it's a good thing that the Northern Lights did not come out as I cannot withstand the extreme coldness on 2 days I stayed here in Fairbanks. Alaska, United States is now officially holds my record as the COLDEST (-36'C), NORTHERNMOST and WESTERNMOST (UTC -0900H). Thank you Alaska! #fairbanks #alaska #unitedstates #livealifeyouwillremember

Day 2: February 1, 2020 Saturday / Alaska day trip
0000H ETA Los Angeles airport (sleep in airport)
0600H ETD Los Angeles; flight AS453
0900H ETA Seattle UTC -0800H (2hr transit)
1150H ETD Seattle; flight AS123
1450H ETA Fairbanks UTC -0900H; Uber to Hostel $16
Fairbanks night trip (2200H-0300H)
Billie's Backpackers Hostel $40; dinner $27; No Northern Lights appear :(
Subtotal: $83

Day 3: February 2, 2020 Sunday / Fairbanks Northern Lights
1000H ETD Hostel; Pad Thai & McDo $25; Uber to airport $13
1400H ETA Fairbanks airport; souvenir $2
1555H ETD Alaska UTC -0900H; flight AS132
2032H ETA Seattle UTC -0800H
Subtotal: $66

Extremely Cold Fairbanks, Alaska Short Visit

Los Angeles, California Short Night Visit

5 Days Solo Trip in Winter United States

January 31 to February 04, 2020

Introduction and Complete Itinerary of Winter United States Trip

This trip was supposedly almost whole day tour, even includes San Francisco flights. But due to 5 hours delayed flight from LATAM Airline Easter Island to Santiago flight, domino effect to my Los Angeles flight was drastically affected. By the way, I have 2 out of 5 LATAM flights delayed on this 6 days trip in Chile.

Day 1: January 31, 2020 Friday / California short visit
1220H ETD Lima; flight LA2470
1815H ETA Los Angeles UTC -0800H (immigration long queuing)
1930H Los Angeles short visit; dinner $21; LAX metro green line $4
2030H Staples Center (Pico stn, expo line)
2200H Hollywood Boulevard / Walk of Fame (Highland stn, red line)
Universal Studios Hollywood (Universal city stn, red line)
souvenirs $5; uber to LAX terminal 6 $36
Subtotal: $79

Hollywood, California Short Night Visit

How to Apply for United States B2 Tourist Visa as Philippine Passport Holder

an adventure of Pinoy backpacker in processing travel documents

* B2 visa type is for or general pleasure, visit to friends and relatives, medical treatment, and amateur/unpaid participants in cultural or sports events.

* A US visitor visa is customarily granted a validity period of a minimum of three (3) months to a maximum period of ten (10) years. Every visit is however, limited to a maximum stay of six (6) months.

* The issuance of a visa is not a sure-fire guarantee that the applicant will be allowed entry in the US since said holders are still subject to the scrutiny of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) officials who are likewise empowered to deny entry even to valid tourist visa holders.

* The secret to an almost guaranteed approval of a US tourist visa is to BE BRIEF!
* As long as the applicant proves that his intended stay in the US is temporary, then the chances of approval of the visa application are high. Furthermore, applicants must establish the truthfulness of the following circumstances, in order to prove his intention of returning to his country of origin:
    · That he maintains a residence outside the US which he has no intention of abandoning and has social and economic ties in his country of origin
    · That he has means to financially support himself while in the country and will depart at the end of his authorized stay

http://www.manilavisa.com/us-visa/us-tourist-visa/

United States B-2 visa approved (2019-2029)

APPLYING FOR B-2 UNITED STATES VISA AS ORDINARY CITIZEN IN THE PHILIPPINES

http://www.ustraveldocs.com/ph/ph-niv-visaapply.asp

requirements:

1. DS-160 ONLINE NONIMMIGRANT VISA ELECTRONIC APPLICATION

2. PASSPORT – must be valid for at least six months from the date of intended departure from the United States.

3.  PHOTO - 1 pc. 2" x 2" standard photo.  The photo must be in color, taken within the last 6 months

4. Confirmation and Instruction page printed from the website
5. PROOF OF RELATIONSHIP (if applying with/for dependent/s) - Original marriage certificate printed on Philippine National Statistics Office security paper, if applicable (if applying with a spouse and/or child) and original birth certificate printed on Philippine National Statistics Office security paper (for dependent/s).

6. The following supporting documents may or may not be requested from the applicant and are only required at the discretion of the consular officer (must be originals):

   - Bank statements for the last three (3) months and both current and former bank account passbooks

    - Employment certification including salary, tenure and position / Form W-2

    - Income tax return with Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) or bank stamp / Audited financial statement with BIR or bank stamp

    - Pay slips for the last three (3) months / Credit card statements for the prior three months

    - Vehicle registration with official receipt / Land titles (no certified copies please)

    - Pictures of family, home or business / Wedding photos

    - For students, certificate of school registration

    - Certification of membership to legitimate organization(s)

5 Days Solo Trip in Winter United States

2nd visit in United States (California, Washington and Alaska)

January 31 to February 04, 2020

6 Days Solo Trip in Summer United States (July 2019)

My 90th solo backpacking trip, 1st country to visit in North America continent (2nd visit in the United States, 1st visit was in July 2019), 112th country visited on my journey beyond #lakbay100 and of course and usual budget do-it-yourself itinerary from arrival to departure. I did not research that much for this country due also on limited time and laziness.

2020 Annual Leave 1st set 2nd leg; on my journey to visit all the States of USA and farthest place in the western part of the globe at GMT -0900H #livealifeyouwillremember #unitedstates #americandream #thankyouverymuch

The United States of America is a large country in North America is home to the world's third-largest population, with over 318 million people, it includes both densely populated cities with sprawling suburbs and vast, uninhabited natural areas. With its history of mass immigration dating from the 17th century, it is a "melting pot" of cultures from around the world and plays a dominant role in the world's cultural landscape. It's home to a wide array of popular tourist destinations, ranging from the skyscrapers of Manhattan and Chicago to the natural wonders of Yellowstone and Alaska, to the warm, sunny beaches of Florida and Hawaii and the deserts of Arizona.
https://wikitravel.org/en/United_States_of_America

5 Days Solo Trip in Winter United States

Chicago City Day Tour; walking the streets

6 Days Solo Trip in Summer United States (Grand Canyon)

July 05 to 10, 2019 Friday to Wednesday

Las Vegas City Day Tour

US adventure day 4: Chicago city budget day trip #chicago #unitedstates #livealifeyouwillremember
Chicago is the third largest city in the United States. As the hub of the Midwest, Chicago is easy to find with its picturesque skyline calling across the waters of the huge freshwater Lake Michigan, an impressive sight that soon reveals world-class museums and public art. 

Day 5: July 15, 2019 Monday
0350H ETD Hostel; Super Shuttle to airport
0440H ETA Las Vegas Airport
0550H ETD Las Vegas GMT -0700H; flight AA2258
1138H ETA Chicago GMT -0500H; Chicago afternoon tour (7 hours)
Metro day pass 10; blue line bound to City Center; McDo meal 11; Panda Express meal 11
Willis Tower Skydeck Ledge 25; Millennium Park's Cloud Gate (The Bean); walking the streets
1900H ETD Chicago city center
2000H ETA Chicago Airport; souvenir 8
2125H ETD Chicago GMT -0500H; flight EY150
Subtotal: $55

Chicago City Day Tour; walking the streets

Las Vegas City Day Tour; walking the streets

6 Days Solo Trip in Summer United States (Grand Canyon)

July 05 to 10, 2019 Friday to Wednesday

Antelope Canyon Upper and Lower with Lake Powell and Horseshoe Bend

US adventure day 3: sin City of Las Vegas here I come :) #lasvegas #unitedstates #livealifeyouwillremember
Las Vegas is the Entertainment Capital of the World and known also as Sin city. The city features many mega-hotel/casino complexes decorated with lavish care and attention to detail creating a fantasy-like environment.

Day 4: July 14, 2019 Sunday
0430H ETD Hostel; Uber to Flagstaff Airport 39 (card charged)
0600H ETA Flagstaff Airport
0615H ETD Flagstaff GMT -0700H; flight AA3251
0714H ETA Phoenix; 30 mins transit
0750H ETD Phoenix GMT -0700H; flight AA711
0904H ETA Las Vegas GMT -0700H; Super shuttle to hostel roundtrip 20
1000H ETA Las Vegas Hostel; Mcdo Meal 8; Las Vegas day tour; Downtown and the Strip
Souvenir shirts + fridge magnets 35; McDo meal 11; Adult Shows 98; RTC bus card day pass 8
2130H 1st Show start
2345H 2nd Show end
Subtotal: $219

Las Vegas City Day Tour; walking the streets

Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon with Lake Powell and Horseshoe Bend

6 Days Solo Trip in Summer United States (Grand Canyon)

July 05 to 10, 2019 Friday to Wednesday

Grand Canyon Self-guided Hike via Bright Angel Trail

US adventure day 2: combining the upper and lower part of the World's most photogenic slot canyons #antelopecanyon #unitedstates #livealifeyouwillremember

Day 3: July 13, 2019 Saturday
0600H ETD Hostel; paid transpo 150
0815H ETA Lower Antelope jump-off (Kent's Tour)
0830H Lower Antelope tour start
0945H Lower Antelope tour end; refreshments 9
1030H bound to Lake Powell; boat tour 32
1130H Lake Powell Antelope Canyon Wall boat tour start
1230H Lake Powell boat tour end; Chinese Resto Buffet Lunch 26
1700H Upper Antelope tour start
1830H Upper Antelope tour end
1845H Horseshoe Bend overlook 10
2130H ETA Hostel; paid transpo 130
Subtotal: $357

Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon with Lake Powell and Horseshoe Bend

Grand Canyon Self-guided Hike via Bright Angel Trail

6 Days Solo Trip in Summer United States (Grand Canyon)

July 05 to 10, 2019 Friday to Wednesday

Introduction to United Stated and Detailed Itinerary

3 flights with 19 hours travel time on the nearest jump-off to one of the Seven Nature Wonders of the World #grandcanyon #unitedstates

US adventure day 1: 5th among Seven Nature Wonders of the World, 1st time self-guided solo Canyon hiking #lakbay7naturewonders #lakbay100 #lakbayUS #grandcanyon #unitedstates #livealifeyouwillremember

Located in the Northern Arizona, Grand Canyon World Heritage Site encompasses 277 miles (446 km) of the Colorado River and adjacent uplands. One of the most spectacular examples of erosion anywhere in the world, Grand Canyon offers visitors incomparable vistas.

Day 2: July 12, 2019 Friday
0700H ETD Hostel / breakfast; walk to Amtrak
0745H ETD Flagstaff Amtrak 40 (Park Entrance fee included)
0915H ETA Masawik Lodge; blue shuttle to Bright Angel Lodge; souvenir shirt 23; snacks 17
1000H Bright Angel Trail (2,085masl) start descend 
1100H 1.5 mile (2.4km) resthouse (1,745masl)
1145H 3 mile (4.8km) resthouse (1,440masl); snacktime
1210H Start ascend
1310H 1.5 mile (7.2km) resthouse
1440H ETA Bright Angel Lodge (9.6km)
1500H Thunderstorm, delayed Hermits Rest red bus tour for viewing decks; Trailview Overlook, Maricopa, Monave
1815H ETD Grand Canyon 35
2030H ETA Flagstaff Amtrak; walk to Hostel; Fast food dinner 22
Subtotal: $137

Grand Canyon Self-guided Hike via Bright Angel Trail

6 Days Solo Trip in Summer United States (Grand Canyon)

1st visit in United States (Arizona, Nevada, Illinois)

July 05 to 10, 2019 Friday to Wednesday

My 78th solo backpacking trip, 1st country to visit in North America continent, 101st country visited on my journey beyond #lakbay100, 6th continent on my list and of course and usual budget do-it-yourself itinerary from arrival to departure. I did not research that much for this country due also on limited time and laziness.

2019 Annual Leave 2nd set 2nd leg; beyond #lakbay100 goes to 101st and my 6th continent, The United States of America... farthest place in the western part of the globe at GMT -0700H with more than 16hrs nonstop flight :) #livealifeyouwillremember #unitedstates #americandream #thankyouverymuch

The United States of America is a large country in North America is home to the world's third-largest population, with over 318 million people, it includes both densely populated cities with sprawling suburbs and vast, uninhabited natural areas. With its history of mass immigration dating from the 17th century, it is a "melting pot" of cultures from around the world and plays a dominant role in the world's cultural landscape. It's home to a wide array of popular tourist destinations, ranging from the skyscrapers of Manhattan and Chicago to the natural wonders of Yellowstone and Alaska, to the warm, sunny beaches of Florida and Hawaii and the deserts of Arizona.
https://wikitravel.org/en/United_States_of_America

6 Days Solo Trip in Summer United States (Grand Canyon)