I don’t just travel to escape. I travel to connect, to grow, and to remind myself on the beauty of living.
The Incredible Soul Behind Wandering Emerald
Hello there! I’m Merald Ayson, a Filipino travel enthusiast, digital nomad, and storyteller at heart. Born and raised in the Philippines, I’ve turned my passion for exploration into a way of life—combining my professional pursuits with a deep love for travel and discovery.
By day, I’m a technopreneur and multipotentialite, working across global projects as a web developer, digital marketer, operations management expert, and financial advisor. By night—or whenever inspiration strikes—I’m a travel blogger chronicling my adventures across the Philippines and beyond.
My Story
Who Am I?
Great question—I’ve actually been trying to figure that out myself!
I hold a degree in Industrial Engineering, but my career path has been anything but linear. From the manufacturing industry to tech and finance, I’ve worn so many hats that even my closest friends aren’t always sure what I’m up to next!
Being naturally curious and passionate about multiple fields, I discovered freelancing at 18, driven by the need to support my studies and my family. That experience opened doors to multiple industries, helping me build a diverse skill set and shape a career that aligns with my passions. Today, I’m a digital nomad thriving on freedom—working remotely, traveling intentionally, and living life on my own terms.
After the COVID-19 pandemic, I embraced the unknown, fully stepping away from the corporate grind to build a career (and a life) that grants me freedom in all aspects: time freedom, location freedom, and financial freedom. It’s not magic—it’s a mix of resilience, calculated risks, and faith in life’s beautiful unpredictability.
Beyond Work and Travel
Apart from exploring new destinations—whether deep in the city or out in nature—I’m a huge fan of books and movies, especially sci-fi and fantasy (though I’ve recently developed a love for horror!). I was once a heavy gamer and even part of a national team. I’m also a cat person and own a Siamese cat (Rain), but I also have an Aspin dog (Lucky) and a White Lovebird (Zilla), making my home a lively mix of personalities. I’m an ambivert—equally energized by deep conversations and quiet solitude. Giving back is also a core part of who I am, and I actively volunteer for various organizations, including initiatives supporting the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
The Story Behind Wandering Emerald
Wandering Emerald was born from my desire to document my travels and immortalize my stories—not just as a collection of destinations, but as moments that shaped who I am. Every trip, every mountain climbed, and every border crossed has taught me something about freedom, purpose, and the beauty of living intentionally.
Why “Wandering Emerald”?
The name comes from my own—Merald, derived from emerald, the vibrant green gemstone known for its rarity, clarity, and connection to nature.
To me, the emerald symbolizes growth, renewal, and the pursuit of truth—much like how travel renews the soul and helps us rediscover who we are. Its rich green hue reminds me of forests I’ve wandered, mountains I’ve conquered, and the calm energy of nature that grounds me.
Wandering Emerald is both a reflection of my name and a mirror of my journey—a personal evolution from dreamer to doer, from seeker to storyteller. It represents a life lived with intention, curiosity, and courage, and a belief that through wandering, we find clarity—not just in the world, but within ourselves.
Because to wander is not to be lost—it’s to be alive, evolving, and endlessly discovering.
My Memorable Firsts
Growing up in a financially challenged household, travel wasn’t on my radar. My early “adventures” were limited to nearby provinces, courtesy of my relatives’ beach trips and school organizations and competitions I was involved with. But in 2018, something changed.
I organized my first post-graduation trip with my batchmates to Bataan’s Five Fingers Island Coves, and the raw experience was pure magic. Soon after, I ticked Baguio City off my bucket list with my first corporate colleagues, and that sense of wonder ignited a fire in me.
My first official job brought its own adventures, including my first-ever flight in 2019—a business trip to Cebu. I was a nervous wreck as I flew solo, and it was my first time riding an airplane back then, but I was also in awe of the possibilities that travel offered! Then, like many of us, the pandemic hit, forcing me to pause and reset. What came next was a leap of faith that reshaped my life.
The Evolution of My Travels
In late 2021, I visited Boracay for the first time. Post-pandemic, the vibrant energy of the island reignited my wanderlust. That trip sparked a dream: to explore every Philippine province and, one day, the entire world.
I started close to home, roaming Luzon, then expanded my horizons to the southern Philippines. By 2023, I’d embarked on my first international adventure to Hong Kong, quickly followed by trips to Singapore and Indonesia. In 2024, I ventured further into Southeast Asia and East Asia, ticking off Malaysia, Vietnam, Brunei, the Borneo, Macau, and Taiwan.
Solo travels, slow travels, and purposeful journeys—each experience taught me something new. Today, I’m on a mission to see as much of this world as possible, with dreams of someday stepping foot on the icy expanse of Antarctica.
Taipei, Taiwan
My favorite city so far! It has everything. Life felt so easy and laid back here despite it being a modern city.
Boracay, Philippines
My first love! Chilling at Boracay has become a yearly tradition for me. I just had my fourth visit!
Hoi An, Vietnam
The best foods are here! I’d definitely go back to explore Vietnam’s northern and southern regions!
My Love for Freedom
Freedom is my ultimate currency. I’ve known the grind of working tirelessly just to make ends meet. Through self-discovery and meditation, I realized success isn’t about material wealth—it’s about waking up without an alarm, doing what you love, doing it anywhere you want, and living life on your terms.
My definition of wealth? A peaceful mind, a passport full of stamps, and a well-lived life free of regrets!
What You’ll Find on My Blog
Through Wandering Emerald, I share stories and insights that blend adventure with meaning:
🌏 Soulful travel stories that go beyond postcards and checklists
🧭 Travel guides and itineraries to help you plan your own adventures
💻 Tips for digital nomads navigating remote work and slow travel
✨ Reflections on freedom, growth, and living intentionally
Whether you’re a fellow wanderer, a dreamer planning your first trip, or someone seeking inspiration for a life of freedom, you’re home here.
The Mission
My mission is simple:
To inspire others to explore, live meaningfully, and create a life that aligns with who they truly are.
Because the world isn’t just meant to be seen—it’s meant to be felt, lived, and shared.
So here’s to wandering with purpose, living with soul, and chasing the kind of freedom that transforms us.
✨ Let’s keep wandering, together.
Fun Travel Facts About Me (2025 Edition)
– Most underrated country: Vietnam
– Favorite island: Mam-on, Siargao, Philippines
– Favorite hotel: Shangri-La Boracay, Philippines
– Best countries for digital nomads: Malaysia, Thailand
– Best city to live in: Taipei, Taiwan
– Best food: Vietnam (pho is life!)
– Best beaches: Philippines (no bias!)
– Best wildlife: Sabah, Malaysian Borneo
– Mother mountain: Marlboro Hills, Sagada
– Most challenging hike: A rainy Mt. Pulag!
– Most memorable bus ride: 10 hours from BSB Brunei to KK Malaysia with 8 passport stamps!
Have questions, ideas, or opportunities to share?
I’d love to hear from you! Whether you’re looking to collaborate, need travel advice, or just want to connect, feel free to reach out. Let’s start a conversation!