CHERRYLAN "Cherry" Palo, a fearless solo backpacker and travel vlogger from Davao City, has captured the hearts of over 100,000 followers, inspiring others to embrace adventure and explore the world on their terms.
Cherry's journey began in her teenage years, driven by a longing to experience the world beyond her small town. With limited resources, she made a plan: earn money and travel. "After high school, at 16, I immediately got a job. My goal was to make money for my travels," she recalls.
Her first job as a call center agent helped fund her education while sparking a growing passion for travel. "I would browse travel blogs, and it became my joy to plan my adventures," she says in the vernacular.
By 2016, Cherry's first backpacking trip to Cebu and Bohol with her best friend marked a turning point, igniting a passion that would shape her life.
The pandemic became another pivotal moment for Cherry. Transitioning to virtual assistance gave her the flexibility to travel. But solo travel intimidated her at first. "I had the money, everything, but what I lacked was courage," she admits.
Despite her doubts, Cherry leaped, booking a solo trip to Thailand in February 2024. "I would regret not doing what I can while I'm young," she says, emphasizing the importance of taking risks.
In 2024 alone, she traveled to seven countries, including Vietnam, Singapore, Indonesia, and Malaysia. Yet, Siargao remains a favorite. "It’s my second home. I met so many travelers there who inspired me even more."
Palawan, especially El Nido, also holds a special place in her heart. "Palawan is insanely beautiful, especially the water. El Nido is breathtaking," she says. For Cherry, traveling is more than just visiting beautiful places; it’s about connecting with cultures and people.
Backpacker's philosophy
Cherry’s approach to travel is spontaneous and minimalist. "I'm not much of a planner. I figure things out once I get there," she explains. When it comes to essentials, her advice is simple: “Courage and a thick face.”
Budgeting is key to her travel philosophy. “I eat at local eateries, where the locals eat. It’s more budget-friendly,” she shares.
As a vlogger, Cherry encourages others, particularly younger generations, to embrace frugality and resourcefulness in their travel journeys. "Traveling opens your mind and brings opportunities."
Overcoming battles
For Cherry, backpacking is more than an adventure—it’s a healing journey. She described it as life-changing, not just for the memories, but for the time it gave her to reflect and heal from childhood trauma.
Cherry emphasized the importance of self-trust, noting that while she once doubted her ability to travel solo, she realized she would never know unless she tried.
She encourages aspiring travelers to start small, save consistently, and spend wisely, as some may have the money but lack courage, while others have the courage but lack funds.
Her final advice: "Immerse yourself in the journey; sometimes getting lost is the best part."
The Dabawenya spirit
Cherry attributes her curiosity about the world to Davao’s natural beauty. “Davao has so much to offer—waterfalls, beaches, Samal, and Buda. It made me wonder what other beautiful places exist in the world,” she said.
Through her growing platform, Cherry proves that with determination, courage, and curiosity, dreams can take you anywhere. Her journey is a testament to the power of self-belief and a relentless pursuit of adventure. KBP