Traveling has always been more than just a hobby for Cheryl Besas—it’s a lifelong passion. Long before Instagram feeds and travel vlogs became mainstream, Cheryl’s curiosity was sparked by books and documentaries that revealed the beauty of different landscapes and cultures. “Back then, there wasn’t social media like Instagram to get travel inspirations,” she shares. “But travel stories and beautiful images ignited a deep curiosity in me to go and experience these wonderful places myself.”
Now a seasoned traveler, Cheryl’s love for exploring new destinations continues to drive her, fueled by a desire to meet people from different walks of life and immerse herself in the diverse cultures that make each place unique.
From Nervous Beginnings to Confident Explorer
Cheryl’s first solo travel experience was in Singapore, and while it came with a mix of excitement and nerves, it marked the beginning of her journey into self-discovery. “I was in my early 20s then, and the freedom of planning my own itinerary and making spontaneous decisions was incredibly liberating,” she recalls. Exploring Orchard Road, snapping pictures by the iconic Merlion, and savoring the famous local dish, Chilli Crab, Cheryl found independence in solo travel.
That trip not only boosted her confidence but also deepened her passion for exploring new corners of the globe. For Cheryl, the journey was more than just visiting places—it was about finding herself and expanding her understanding of the world.
Choosing the Perfect Destination
When it comes to picking her next travel destination, Cheryl takes a balanced approach of careful research and instinctive spontaneity. “I usually start by thinking about the kind of experience I want. Sometimes I’m looking for a relaxing beach getaway, other times it’s about exploring tourist spots or trying out new cuisines,” she explains.
Cheryl often turns to travel blogs, vlogs, and social media for inspiration, using these platforms to learn about destinations’ best attractions and local events. But while she considers factors like weather, festivals, and budget, Cheryl ultimately follows her heart to places that excite her and offer something new.
Discovering Hidden Gems: Rovinj, Croatia
One of Cheryl’s most cherished discoveries was the coastal town of Rovinj, Croatia, which she considers an underrated gem. “Zagreb usually gets all the attention, but Rovinj’s old town offers a charming and authentic experience,” she says.
With its picturesque riverfront, vibrant culture, and narrow streets lined with colorful buildings, cozy cafés, and bustling local markets, Rovinj captured Cheryl’s heart. It offered her a glimpse into the local way of life and remains one of her favorite destinations off the beaten path.
The Best Travel Advice: Embrace the Unexpected
For Cheryl, the best travel advice she’s ever received is simple: embrace spontaneity. While she believes in having a plan in place, some of her most memorable travel experiences have come from unplanned adventures. “Allowing yourself to deviate from your schedule often leads to the most enriching and authentic moments,” she says.
Whether it’s a chance encounter with locals or an unexpected detour to an undiscovered spot, Cheryl has learned that the key to truly experiencing a destination is to remain open to what the journey has in store.
Budgeting for Luxury Travel
Though Cheryl prefers luxury travel, she’s also a savvy planner. “My travel budget always starts with an estimate of overall costs—flights, accommodations, food, transportation, and activities,” she explains. She uses various travel apps to find the best deals and ensure her trips remain within budget.
Despite her love for luxurious stays, Cheryl sticks to a clear financial plan, always leaving room for a contingency fund to cover any unexpected expenses along the way. It’s this balance of indulgence and careful planning that allows her to fully enjoy her travels without worry.
Tech-Savvy Traveler: The Power of Travel Apps
For Cheryl, technology plays a vital role in streamlining her travel experiences. “Google Maps is my go-to app for navigating new places, finding local attractions, and reading reviews,” she says. For booking flights and accommodations, Cheryl turns to apps like Skyscanner, Agoda, and Booking.com, which allow her to compare prices and secure the best deals.
These tools have become invaluable in her travel planning, helping her to make informed decisions and maximize her time at each destination.
Staying Safe on the Road
Cheryl is meticulous when it comes to ensuring her safety while traveling. Preparation and awareness are key elements of her approach. “I always research the destination beforehand, including local safety tips and travel advisories,” she explains.
She also makes sure to keep important documents—such as her passport and emergency contacts—secure, with copies stored in separate locations. For Cheryl, travel insurance is non-negotiable, and knowing the location of the nearest embassy is always part of her research.
By staying informed and cautious, Cheryl ensures she can enjoy her travels with greater peace of mind.
The Challenge of Being a Travel Influencer
As someone who has a growing online presence, Cheryl faces the unique challenge of balancing content creation with living in the moment. “It’s tough to constantly capture high-quality photos and videos while still fully enjoying myself in a destination,” she admits.
The pressure to maintain a consistent online presence and engage with followers can sometimes be overwhelming, but Cheryl remains authentic. She has developed a routine that allows her to set aside dedicated time for content creation while still savoring her travel experiences. This balance between content creation and personal enjoyment is key to maintaining her authenticity as a travel influencer.
Balancing Work and Travel
In addition to being a travel enthusiast and influencer, Cheryl is also a general manager at a law firm. Balancing the demands of her professional life with her passion for travel requires careful organization. “I set clear boundaries for work, ensuring tasks are completed in advance and delegating duties when needed,” she shares.
Cheryl relies on constant communication with her team and a flexible approach to work commitments, allowing her to maintain productivity while still enjoying her travel adventures. For her, the key to a fulfilling life is finding harmony between work and wanderlust.
Cheryl Besas exemplifies the modern traveler—someone who navigates the challenges of work-life balance while exploring the world with passion and purpose. Her dedication to both her professional life and her love for travel shows that with the right approach, it’s possible to embrace both adventure and responsibility, creating a life that is both enriching and fulfilling.
