How to travel amid a pandemic and in the new normal, according to Drew Arellano

As "Biyahe ni Drew" returns to TV this November, the TV show is set to show what travelling is like amid the new normal.

In a virtual interview with the press, Drew shared some stories on their team's recent travel, how they were able to do it safely amid the pandemic, and even gave us tips!

1. Call the LGU of your destination

Since guidelines usually vary depending on the place you will be visiting, Drew said it's always best to contact the local government unit first (LGU) to know the protocols you need to follow.

"Always contact the LGU of that place na gustong puntahan," Drew told GMA News Online.

Drew said it's become the show's job "to inform the people that the gates are open but people have to follow a certain set of guidelines that the LGU will post."

According to the travel host, there are LGUs, that "actually ask for a swab test, a medical certificate, your itinerary — not just for us but for all travellers entering the sector, so it really depends on the LGU."

"One of the reasons we're excited is we wanna inform the people na ok guys puwede na," he added.

2. Follow usual rules

Aside from the requirements and guidelines set by the LGUs, Drew said people shouldn't forget the usual and basic guidelines: wear masks, bring alcohol, wash your hands frequently, and practice social distancing.

"We follow the travelling guidelines, we always wear a mask, always wash your hands, you do social distancing," he said.

3. Travel with a purpose

If people used to travel just for the sake of it, Drew said one of the things that changed amid the new normal, is having a purpose to your biyahe.

"It's also how we look at tourism na. We are travelling with a purpose. [It could be for] our mental health or whatever, but at the same time we're also helping our LGUs with their businesses concerning tourism," he said.

"'Eto 'yung mga livelihood ng maraming tao and I think na it goes hand in hand. We support each other, I'm happy, you're happy that we're buying from you but at the same time we're travelling within the guidelines set by the LGU," he added.

4. Don't forget your sense of adventure

After having travelled to nearby provinces, Drew said "it's scarier on social media, more than anything."

"Sometimes it's good to be on the praning side, but not to the point na you can't stretch your legs anymore, not to the point na it's not very good to your health anymore."

Drew reminded those who want to travel, "don't forget, don't ever forget your sense of adventure. Just work within the guidelines of the LGU."

Drew, who admits to being an adventure freak, said "if there's no sense of adventure I think the travel would be medyo mas boring, so yeah." — LA, GMA News

"Biyahe ni Drew" is set to return this Friday, November 13, at 9:15 P.M. on GMA News TV.