Filipino anthropologist Raizel Pauline Albano has introduced 44 self-guided audio walking tours in 44 different cities and municipalities across the Philippines. These tours, accessible via the izi.TRAVEL app, offer travelers an insightful journey through the country’s most famous tourist attractions while promoting sustainability by reducing vehicle use.
“Traveling does not have to be at the cost of the environment. Through our self-paced walking tours, we help reduce our carbon footprint—one foot at a time,” Albano stated, emphasizing her commitment to eco-friendly tourism. Each tour, featuring around six commentaries on key attractions, is offered for a modest fee of P65.
Albano’s passion for travel began in her childhood, growing into a deep appreciation for new experiences in everyday life. “Every day is indeed a novel experience… I can’t say that I have a certain love for travel—it’s a love for experiencing life,” she expressed. Albano’s journey into sharing her travel experiences began with her blog Anthro on Foot, started during her university days in 2008.
Despite her extensive travels, Albano maintains that travel is a privilege and is cautious not to portray it unrealistically. Her inspiration for the audio tour project stemmed from her own enjoyment of self-paced, affordable walking tours. “I had the chance to try these free walking tours overseas and I thoroughly enjoyed them, so I thought of starting one in the Philippines,” she shared.
Balancing her role as a mother and professional, Albano began recording for the tours in January 2020. With assistance from a small team, including a research and editorial assistant and her brother Renrich, she completed her initial goal by January 2024. Funding from the UNESCO Silk Roads Youth Research Grant played a crucial role in sustaining the project.
Albano recommends starting with a tour of one’s hometown to appreciate the value of one’s roots. She finds it challenging to pick a favorite, asserting that each destination, like every individual, has a unique story to tell.
You can check out the audio tours through this link.
