Jodi Sta. Maria got to share her experience with travel with tourism college students.
"A few days ago, I was given the opportunity to talk about one of my life's passions in front of the students of the UP Asian Institute of Tourism," she posted on her Instagram page.
The actress relayed that she discussed how travel can also be a source of learning. "I had a wonderful time sharing how travel can change one's perspective in life and the many lessons it quietly teaches along the way," she stated.
What made the event more special for Jodi was being able to team up with a journalist she looks up to for the talk.
"The talk was moderated by one of the journalists I grew up watching and respecting, @abnerpmercado. It was such a joy meeting a kindred spirit. I even told him, 'Kuya Abner, masaya ako malaman na pareho pala tayong makati ang paa.' And before we knew it, we were already talking about future trips," she said.
The Kapamilya star expressed her gratitude to Abner and the students for giving her the opportunity to share her love for travel. "Thank you for this opportunity, Kuya Abner. Mabuhay ka. And to the students of UP AIT wishing you all the best. Godspeed on the journeys ahead."
In her post, Jodi also highlighted the essence of tourism. "I'm truly grateful for the opportunity to share one of my life's passions with the younger generation. Because tourism does more than bring people to places," she remarked.
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The actress pointed out that tourism has a big impact on economics and society. "It creates livelihood. It creates opportunities. It creates hope. And when we travel with open hearts, we begin to care more about the world and the people in it," she said. "We open doors not only for ourselves but for others too."
Jodi added that "you never really leave a place you love."
She concluded her post: "You carry a part of it with you… and leave a part of yourself there. So… handa ka na bang gumala?"