Every place has a story—and so do we.

Hi, I’m Mary Rosalie “Mae” Olandesca, and welcome to The Other Side of Mae.

I’m so happy you’re here.

If you’ve ever found yourself slowing down to admire a beautiful view, taking the scenic route just because, or discovering that life’s greatest lessons often come from the most unexpected moments, then you’ve found your kind of place.

This blog is where I share beautiful places, everyday beauty, and meaningful stories—because I believe they all have the power to remind us that life is worth celebrating.

Why “The Other Side of Mae”?

People often know us by our careers, our titles, or the roles we play in life.

But there’s always another side.

The side that dreams.

The side that wonders.

The side that notices beauty in quiet places, finds joy in simple moments, and believes every journey has something to teach us.

The Other Side of Mae is that part of me.

It’s where my love for storytelling, travel, photography, and reflection comes together. It’s a place where I can share not only where I’ve been, but also what those places have taught me.

Because every destination tells a story.

And every story has the power to change us.

My Story

People often think starting over means leaving everything behind.

For me, it meant discovering a new side of myself.

Back in the Philippines, I had already built a fulfilling professional life. I’m a licensed chemical engineer who also became a university professor, owned a perfumery business, and worked as a business coach. I had a career I was proud of and a future that felt certain.

Then life invited me to begin again.

Moving to Canada as an international student meant becoming a student once more. Like many newcomers, I accepted whatever honest work came my way. I worked in a warehouse, where every shift tested my strength, and later in hotel housekeeping, where I discovered unexpected joy in serving others and learning something new every day.

Those experiences humbled me, strengthened me, and reminded me that no work is ever beneath us when it’s helping build a better future.

Today, I’m grateful to work as a Cosmetic Regulatory Specialist—a role that brings together my scientific background and years of perseverance.

But my career is only one chapter of my story.

I’ve never stopped writing.

I’ve never stopped exploring.

I’ve never stopped believing that the world is full of beautiful places waiting to be discovered and meaningful stories waiting to be told.

Why I Write

I don’t write because I’ve figured life out.

I write because I’m still discovering it.

Some days that discovery happens while hiking through the Canadian Rockies.

Other days it’s during a quiet walk through a small town, watching wildlife in the forest, or noticing the way sunlight falls across a familiar path.

The more I explore, the more I realize that beauty isn’t reserved for famous destinations.

It’s found in everyday moments.

And those moments often become the stories we remember most.

That’s what I hope you’ll find here.

Not just travel ideas.

Not just beautiful photographs.

But a different way of seeing the world.

A reminder to slow down.

To notice more.

To celebrate the ordinary.

And to embrace every new beginning with curiosity and hope.

Let’s Journey Together

Whether you’re here to discover hidden gems, find inspiration for your next adventure, or simply pause for a few quiet moments, I’m grateful you’ve found your way to this little corner of the internet.

I hope The Other Side of Mae encourages you to explore beautiful places, discover everyday beauty, and reflect on the meaningful stories unfolding in your own life.

Because beautiful places help us discover everyday beauty, and everyday beauty leads us to life’s most meaningful stories.

Thank you for being here.

I can’t wait to continue the journey with you.

With gratitude,

Mae

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Fun Facts About Me:

🇵🇭 Born and raised in the Philippines
🇨🇦 Now exploring life and beautiful places in Canada
🧪 Licensed Chemical Engineer turned Cosmetic Regulatory Specialist
✍️ Writer since 2011
🥾 Happiest on a hiking trail
📸 Never goes anywhere without a camera
☕ Always ready for a cozy café after an adventure
😊 Known by many names—but you can simply call me Mae