Faces of WildChina | Cheryl 王偲懿

Every month, we unveil the creative minds behind the scenes at WildChina, giving you a glimpse into the magic-makers of our company. These individuals are the architects of unforgettable experiences, the wizards who turn dreams of extraordinary journeys into reality.

This month, meet Cheryl! Born in Chengdu and with a background in global communication from her studies in Shanghai, she has a sharp eye for detail and a love for fostering authentic connections. Cheryl brings warmth and creativity to every travel experience she designs, helping travelers connect meaningfully with the people and cultures they encounter.  

Where are you from and where do you live now? 

I was born and continue to live in Chengdu, a city known for its pandas and its delicious spicy Sichuan cuisine. I also spent three years in Shanghai while completing a postgraduate degree in global communication and Russian at Shanghai International Studies University. Both cities have a special place in my heart. 

Cheryl, an alum of Shanghai International Studies University, is pictured here outside one of the university’s classrooms 

Was there a specific moment in your life when you realized travel was what you wanted to do for work? 

There have been many moments that made me realize that travel is what I want to dedicate my life to, but some are particularly vivid. I remember a champagne party on the Jinshanling Great Wall, surrounded by stunning wild scenery. Another impactful experience was studying Ming Dynasty murals at the Fahai Temple, guided by an expert who preserved the artwork by keeping us in near darkness. I also cherish the time spent with a Beijing local in his authentic Hutong courtyard, fully immersed in his world, surrounded by his crickets, birds and other interesting pets. 

Cheryl celebrating at the Jianshanling section of the Great Wall. 

Throughout your career, was there one piece of advice you received that impacted how you do your job? 

"The devil is in the details." In our line of work, every small detail matters. We are the behind-the-scenes heroes, ensuring that every trip is not just smooth logistically but also extraordinary and memorable. Sometimes, something as simple as having an umbrella ready on a rainy day can determine the success of a trip. 

What is the best travel experience you’ve had so far? 

My trip to Türkiye with a friend is a travel experience that truly stands out. I planned the entire journey myself, taking us through Istanbul, Cappadocia, and Fethiye. The highlight of the trip was an incredible hot air balloon ride over Cappadocia's surreal landscape. I also have fond memories of the gentle breeze and playful seagulls as we cruised along the Bosphorus Strait. 

Cheryl smiling at Qionghai Lake in Xichang, Liangshan Yi Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province 

What is the most memorable trip you’ve planned for a traveler (client)? 

The most memorable trip I have planned was for a couple who traveled with us in April. It was a last-minute booking, which made it quite a challenge, but with the dedication and expertise of my colleagues, the trip was a great success. What made this experience truly special was arranging a delightful lunch in Suzhou and surprising the couple with West Lake Longjing Tea as a gift, an unexpected gesture they genuinely appreciated. 

What is the coolest WOW moment you’ve done for a traveler (client)? 

I worked closely with Rosewood Beijing to set up a stunning experience on the Jinshanling Great Wall. We arranged a beautiful display of non-alcoholic wine, flowers, and an elegantly set table under an umbrella. The setting, combined with the dramatic backdrop of the Great Wall, turned the rainy day into an unforgettable moment for our guests. 

Cheryl admiring the "Swan Lake" of the Shanghai International Studies University 

If you had to pick one thing that makes a trip outstanding (not just good, but great), what would it be? 

If I had to pick one thing that makes a trip truly outstanding, it would be connecting with local people. As our founder Mei believes, true luxury is found in genuine, life-enhancing experiences and the chance to connect with others on a meaningful level. Building authentic relationships between travelers and locals can elevate a good trip into an extraordinary, once-in-a-lifetime experience. 

Tell us three places on your travel bucket list and why. 

My travel interests have shifted from exploring vibrant cities to a deeper fascination with nature and wildlife. I have developed a passion for free diving and dream of seeing whales up close one day. By 2035, I hope to embark on a safari trip in Tanzania, experience whale watching in Mauritius, and witness the awe-inspiring Northern Lights in Iceland. 

Cheryl relaxing at a coffee shop in the heart of Leshan City 

What do you do when you aren’t working? 

On weekends, I enjoy playing badminton with friends. I have a variety of hobbies that keep me busy, including hiking, reading novels, watching talk shows, attending pop concerts, and watching fantasy movies. I am also eager to learn how to play the keyboard and form a band with friends soon. 

What’s a fun fact about you that most people don’t know? 

I am a huge Disney fan and once had an annual pass to Shanghai Disneyland. One of my favorite memories was visiting Disneyland during Halloween, where I dressed up as my favorite cartoon character with friends. It was a magical experience!