Before I continue with my Siem Reap tales, I have to let out a huge cyber whoop of excitement.

I just found out that Cebu Pacific, one of the Philippines’ leading budget airlines, is planning to open flight routes to Melbourne, Australia and Moscow, Russia in 2014.

Yes, you read it right–RUSSIA!!! The number one country on my 2015 Eastern Europe trip. It’s a sign: all roads do lead to Russia. For me, at least.

Now, all I need to work on is my funds. No matter how cheap the airfare might be, the actual travel cost is bound to be rather hefty, especially considering that Moscow’s not exactly known as a cheap place to visit.

A lot of people have asked me why I’m so keen on going there. It’s simple, really. First, there’s the St. Basil’s Cathedral (need I add more?). And there’s the fact that East Europe’s so different from what I’ve seen in the West.

Not that I’ve already exhausted all the places I want to see in Western Europe.

But before I get to fantasizing about Russia, there’s the pesky problem of my job. Rather, the lack of one. I’ve actually started doing freelance work writing SEO articles, but that’s more for the practice and experience.

I’ve promised myself that I wouldn’t book another flight until I can say that I’m gainfully employed again. It’s quite a struggle since both CebuPac and AirPhil keep sending me texts and emails about one promo fare after the other. Talk about temptation.

I’m sticking true to my word, though, no matter how hard it is. At least I’ve got my Malaysia-Singapore trip in September to look forward to. I booked it on the first of January — figured it would be a good way to fire up another year of more travels and exploration. To sate my wanderlust ’til then, I’m planning on a local trip with my Cambodia buddies this summer–something that doesn’t require a plane ride. Aaand, well I’m crossing my fingers that I’ll be able to book another trip for later this year, either to Visayas or abroad.

Guess this means I should keep my eyes on the goals–a new full time job (hopefully I can start by April/May, after my classes have ended) and a decently padded bank account.

Let’s do this!