I’ve always dreamt of exploring another country. If I had the time and money to travel outside the Philippines, I would prioritize visiting Asian countries and immersing myself in their culture.
I had no idea that I would check something off my bucket list in my mid-20s, right before my birthday last year.It was a mix of excitement and nervousness. All I could think about were those awful immigration stories.
Countdown before my flight
4 weeks before
Going to Singapore during that time was a spur-of-the-moment decision. @gabbiebi and I were talking about Singapore, and the next thing we knew, we were already planning an itinerary.
The funny part? I was unemployed then. I had just quit my job and was totally enjoying my newfound freedom. Planning international travel while jobless? Bold move, right? Unemployed first time solo travelers often get flagged by immigration. Did I regret quitting my job? Nope. I knew I was destined for something better.
3 weeks before
That’s what people said when I mentioned flying solo to Singapore as a first-timer while unemployed. But I booked the flight anyway. My motto? Book that flight and worry about the rest later! 🤘🏼😁
So, how to avoid being a red flag?
I joined several travel groups on Facebook to ask questions. A solo, first-time female traveler without a job could raise suspicions.
According to my research, I needed either a job with proof of employment or a companion to support me. I chose to go by myself, so I applied for jobs that week, feeling confident I’d secure one soon.
2 weeks before
According to my research, it seems I need to prepare for immigration by providing proof of my accommodation and booked activities.
These are the supporting documents I gathered to prove that I’m only going on vacation.
- Return ticket
- Booking confirmations (@gabbiebi and I booked Universal Studios Singapore, Skyline Luge, etc.)
- Invitation Letter from @gabbiebi and Affidavit of Support, acknowledged by the Philippine Embassy in Singapore
- Pictures of me and @gabbiebi to prove relationship
- Travel insurance
- Detailed itinerary
- Bank Statements (just in case)
Regarding my work? I attended a couple of interviews and got a remote job with great pay right in time!
1 week before
@gabbiebi would call and pretend to be the immigration officer, grilling me on details.
I got the AOS just in time because my friend from Singapore brought it during her trip to the Philippines. I bought everything I needed and was super excited! My new job was understanding about my trip, they even provided a certificate of employment in case the immigration asks for it.
The Flight
I arrived at the airport at 5 am for a 10 am flight. I updated my parents and Gabbie, who were also worried about me getting offloaded. I paid the travel tax, and checked in.
At immigration, I faced the same questions Gabbie had prepped me for. The officer asked for my passport and travel details. When he asked about my job, I had my employment certificate and proof of my salary ready. Thank goodness I’m already employed! He even joked about applying for a job at my company! We were already laughing, so I felt a bit more relaxed. And after a few more questions and showing my AOS, he stamped my passport and said, “Enjoy!”
I was smiling as I walked away, but then another officer approached me. I was freaking out inside, but I kept my cool as she double-checked my documents. Minutes later, she reassured me that I was good to go. I let out a sigh of relief. Finally, it's real. I'm going to Singapore.
I was like waiting forever for the gates to open. After boarding the plane, I checked my seat and made myself at ease. I picked the window seat for my first solo flight. Not sure if I got lucky, but there’s no one next to me.
Starving, I was grateful for the pre-booked meal. After eating, I looked out the window and fell asleep.
Finally, I arrived in Singapore! True to everyone’s words, Changi Airport was truly impressive.
I went ahead and joined the line for the Automated Immigration Lanes. Since it was my first time, I observed how others were doing it. I managed to finish my turn in just 2 minutes. It was such an incredible experience, I'm still in awe. I’m actually in Singapore! 🫶🏼
I went ahead to get my luggage and waited for @gabbiebi. While she was still on her way to the airport from work, I made myself comfortable on the chairs and plugged in my phone to charge. Cool airport! Free WiFi and charging ports. I was looking forward to binge-watching some series on Disney+, but to my disappointment, I couldn’t access the app when I opened it. I stayed on TikTok instead.
Just a few minutes later, @gabbiebi arrived and we had dinner at the airport before going to her place.
And that’s how I made it to Singapore! If you’re in a similar situation, here’s my advice:
- Book that flight! 😁
- Be prepared, even overprepared. Better safe than sorry!
- Get to the airport early. Who knows how long the check-in and immigration lines will be?
- If you’re not sure about something, it’s okay to ask for help.
What’s your advice for those traveling solo for the first time?
Until my next out of the country trip!
All images are mine unless otherwise stated.
Banner created on Canva