Site icon Travel Up

About

Hi. I’m Kara Santos, a freelance writer and photographer based in Manila, Philippines. My blog Travel Up is my online journal, where I write mostly about local and international travel destinations, extreme adventures, motorcycling and food trips.

I’ve traveled to all 81 provinces of the Philippines from the northernmost inhabited island (Itbayat, Batanes) to the southernmost province (Tawi-Tawi). Though I prefer traveling to local destinations, I’ve also traveled internationally for work and personal trips.

I’m active in the motorcycle travel scene in the country. I’ve been riding since 2011, the same time I started this blog. I currently have two bikes: Chocobo, a Yamaha Mio Fino scooter and Fenrir, a Suzuki Thunder 125 scrambler custom bike. Whenever I travel to other places for work and have free time, I always try to rent either a motorcycle or bicycle to explore differently.

Over the last five years, my blog Travel Up has gained online recognition as one of the Top Travel Blogs in the Philippines. My Facebook Fan page has grown over 100,000 fans organically, ensuring a wide reach and high engagement on social media.

Since I started freelancing in 2008, my work has been published in various local and international publications including broadsheets, print, lifestyle, in-flight magazines & online media. As a freelance writer, I’m always on the lookout for new destinations and activities to feature. I can ensure mainstream media coverage for partner establishments, sponsors and clients beyond my blog.

View Print portfolio & magazine tear sheets here.

Why “Travel Up”?

The name of my blog is inspired by the video game concept of leveling up, gaining experience points, exploring new areas, meeting new people, and attaining higher levels by completing tasks and challenges.

Since I’ve started this blog, I’ve embarked on several travel-related sidequests including collecting (photos of) hotel room keys and beer I’ve tried. When I’m not on the road, I can usually be found at home playing video games. I’m a big fan of the Final Fantasy series, RPGs & puzzle platformers.

Advertorials & Sponsored Content

I am open to advertisers and sponsored content related to travel, adventure, tourism and the outdoors. For advertising inquiries and collaborations, please email me at kara.m.santos@gmail.com. You can also find me on the following social media channels:

Exit mobile version