Janmay is an adventurous Filipina who moved to Canada 3 years ago to start a new life. Canada did not disappoint; her move opened up more opportunities in work and adventure. She has always enjoyed outdoor activities such as camping, canoeing, cycling and most especially hiking. She loves nature, the beach, mountains and lakes, so it’s easy to see why the Rockies are her happy place. She loves hiking in the mountains with her friends, and they go as much as they can on their days off.
When she is not on the trail, she works as a licensed practical nurse. She was a registered nurse back in the Philippines and is now working her way up to practice her profession again. She sees it as a bit of a challenge but refuses to give up. She also volunteers in a long term care facility as a visiting companion on her spare time, as providing care is her passion.
Living so close to the Canadian Rockies must be an amazing experience; there are endless opportunities for adventure year-round. What are some of your favorite spots for adventure, and what makes them so special?
I feel so blessed living close to the mountains. I love the Kananaskis, Banff and Yoho. But the most special place for me is Lake O’Hara in Yoho National Park. My boyfriend and I camp and hike there. It is so gorgeous; I just love that place. Sarrail Ridge is one of my favorite places too, and I recommend hiking there. It offers magnificent views of Upper Kananaskis Lakes. Tower of Babel in Banff is another hike I recommend. I am in awe with the beauty of Moraine Lake, and the Tower of babel hike shows stunning views of the lake from above. Hikes around Spray Lakes are great as well.
What is it about the parks in the Canadian Rockies that keeps you coming back?
Definitely the scenic views and the crips fresh air. I came from the Philippines, a tropical country. We didn’t have turquoise lakes and rocky mountains. Every time I go to the Rockies, I feel so happy and am always in a “WOW” mode. It is just so gorgeous here. I love this country; this is my home now.
How did you get involved in hiking, and how has it made such a positive impact on your life?
I had never hiked before until I came to Canada three years ago. I met a lot of people along the way and together we conquered the mountains. It all started when Jen and I met Timi, who loves the Canadian Rockies as much as we do. She invited us to go for a hike to Barrier Lake and from there it began. We hiked almost every week and our group became bigger and bigger. Being active outdoors made me become a stronger person physically, emotionally and mentally. I’ve learned to never give up in any obstacles in life. Just one step at a time and you will surely get to the summit.
I am not a professional hiker but am just a simple girl who loves to hike recreationally. So for me there are hikes that I find really hard that may be easier to other people. The most challenging hike by far was Mt. Lady McDonald in Canmore. I found it challenging because we did the hike in March, when it was still winter. It was really hard scrambling when it was cold. But I have learned my lesson: be prepared for the weather and dress appropriately.
What is it about hiking that keeps you coming back to the trails?
It feeds my soul. It’s like an addiction, a good addiction. Once you start hiking, you get hooked into it.
What are some of the most memorable stories from your travels and adventures?
All the quality time with the love of my life is memorable for me. I am blessed to have a boyfriend who shares the same interests with me. Our Trip to Lake O’Hara is the most memorable so far. It was July 2016. We decided to go camping in Yoho National Park. We didn’t have any plans at all; we just went to the visitor center to try to book a camp site. We were about to book the Takakkaw falls camp site and just before we were about to pay , the staff said there was a cancelled camping spot in Lake O’Hara. We were both surprised and booked it right away. (Just so you know, it takes months to book a camp site in lake O’Hara). I tried it this year but I had no luck. Anyway, we camped, hiked and explored the area. It was so beautiful!
We at This Adventure Life want our readers to live life fearlessly in the pursuit of living their ideal life. What would your advice be for someone who wants to live fearlessly and pursue their wildest dreams?
Never give up and don’t rush a thing. If you have “impossible” dreams don’t lose hope. Always be positive and you will reach your goal. It might not be easy but it will be worth it.
I am excited to share to you that I am going to IRELAND for two weeks with my boyfriend! I am very excited and I cant wait to share my adventure there with you guys. I am going there to meet my boyfriend’s family.
At This Adventure Life we celebrate the lives and stories of the people who live life fearlessly. #livefearlessly