Mt. Bromo, East Java, Indonesia
Hello there and welcome to my creative space!
My name is Johanna Marie Frejoles. Most people call me Hanna, Ning, or Miss Bean. I am currently based in Cebu, Philippines.
Bean in Transit is a blog about the places I've explored, the trails I've traversed, and the people I've met along the way.
My Story
Born and raised in the Philippines. Growing up in a conservative environment, I discovered early on that I have a wild spirit and a restless soul. I spent a good part of my childhood just reading books and travel magazines, immersing myself in the stories of far-off lands and dreaming of the day I could explore them myself. This passion for travel has stayed with me, shaping my outlook on life and inspiring me to document my adventures.
Going to an unfamiliar place, introducing my palate to foreign food, and immersing myself in a new culture is an adventure I always look forward to. There's always something to explore, there's always something to learn.
A few years ago, I realized that the confines of an office cubicle stifled my creativity and passion, so I worked towards finding a way to fulfill my dream of traveling while still earning a living. I decided to become a digital nomad, allowing me the freedom to work anywhere at my own pace and time. While it was exciting at first, I eventually found it exhausting, especially constantly meeting new people and never seeing them again. I started questioning the purpose of my travels.
So, I decided to slow down, but still work remotely. Lately, I've been enjoying my life at the southernmost tip of Cebu. I spend my days gardening, writing, and hanging out with my dogs. I also love taking long walks along the beach or in the mountains.
I don’t have specific plans to visit all the provinces in the Philippines or travel to as many countries in the world. When I do travel, it's usually because I'm inspired by thoughts of certain places. I strive to travel with a purpose and set clear intentions because I want my travels to hold real value in my life. I make sure to understand the 'why' behind my travels, as I believe it's important to have a reason for traveling. Otherwise, what is the point at all?
In this blog, you will find travel narratives about almost anything. Some days, you will find me writing about my extreme adventures. Other times, I'll share travel mishaps that I'll never forget.
I can assure you that the stories you find here are genuine travel experiences coming straight from my heart.
Why Bean in Transit?
My last name is a Spanish word for ‘beans’. Hence, the name ‘Miss Bean’. In life, whether we travel or not, we are always in transit.
Awards and Recognitions
- Founder’s Choice of 2021 – 14th Best Cebu Blogs Awards
- 3rd Place Blog of the Year Award – Globe Media Excellence Awards 2020
- Globe Media Excellence Awards 2020 – Blog of the Year Finalist
- Best Cebu Quarantine Article 2021 – Finalist
- Cebu Content Creators Blogger of the Year 2018
- Best Cebu Blogs Awards – Best Creative Writing in a Blog Award 2017
- Top 10 Cebu Blogger Influencer for 2016
- Best Cebu Travel Blog Finalist 2015
- Best Cebu Travel Blog Finalist 2014
- Best Cebu Photo Blog Finalist 2014