SUMMIT: Simple, Useful Mountain Manuals for Inspired Travelers
Hello, Fellow Travelers!
Welcome to our very first blog series: SUMMIT, which stands for Simple, Useful Mountain Manuals for Inspired Travelers. It’s a title that’s very close to my heart and a nod to my absolute love for the great outdoors.
In this series, I’ll be sharing practical tips and guides to help you explore the mountains safely. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or someone who has never laced up a pair of hiking boots, you are welcome here! We believe that the trails are for everyone, and there is zero discrimination on this blog.
A Little Bit About Me
My name is Polly, and for a long time, I’ve dreamed of reaching the peak of Mt. Apo in my hometown. To be perfectly honest, I don’t claim to be a “hiking ninja.” In fact, I remember exactly how overwhelming it feels to be a complete beginner. I probably wouldn’t have even started if it weren’t for my friends, who practically dragged me to my first trail.
That “mother mountain” for me was Mt. Balagbag back in 2014. I originally went just to prepare for another upcoming 21km run, but something clicked. I fell in love with the rhythm of the climb and the clarity of the mountain air. Fast forward to today, and I have 14 mountains under my belt—most of which I’ve revisited two or three times because the views (and the challenge) never get old.
| DISCLAIMER |
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| While I love sharing what I’ve learned from my climbs, please keep in mind that the content in this series is for informational and inspirational purposes only. Every mountain and every hiker is different! I am not a certified professional guide or medical expert, and my advice is based solely on my own personal experiences. Because conditions on the trail can change quickly, I highly recommend consulting with local experts and ensuring you are in good physical health before starting any trek. Hike smart and stay safe! |
I’ll be adding new posts to the SUMMIT series right here, one by one. I’m taking a relaxed approach to this project—quality over speed! Since there’s no strict deadline, it might take a few years to fully document every peak and lesson learned. Think of it as a slow-burn adventure we can enjoy together over time.
Until then, I hope you find these guides useful for your own journeys. Enjoy the climb!
Episodes
1. Here’s Why You Suck at Hiking: The 30 Most Common Mistakes by Newbie Hikers
2. Ultimate Hiking Checklist: Must-Have Essentials for a Perfect Day Hike
3. Leave No Trace: Why It Matters and How You Can Protect Nature
Polly Amora
Polly Amora is the señorita behind GoldenIslandSenorita.Net. A corporate warrior by day, and a perpetual explorer by heart. She is a lifelong learner who is very outgoing, speaks four languages, loud & outspoken, and loves to have adventures in the mountains, on the beach, and in the city. You can throw her anywhere, and she'll handle it like a pro. Ice cream and bourbon are two of her weaknesses.
