Vera (Travelbee) Hermono
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Bio: I grew up in a big city Jakarta, Indonesia. While I have always loved to travel the world and fascinated with all the different cultures, I was not an outdoor person before the pandemics. I have a nerd analytical brain who tend to “calculate” risks and someone who was so afraid of bugs (seriously!). While sports were always part of my life and I do exercise regularly, they are mostly indoor exercises (i.e.: reformer pilates and yoga), because it’s “predictable” and “safe” in my mind.
In 2020, when the pandemic hits, I started to do some walk/ easy hike as an exercise and something in the nature kept calling me to come back. After a while, I begin to feel a peaceful sense of clarity when I am out there with the nature and truly appreciate it. Suddenly, I have a new lens of those around me and the bugs do not bother me anymore. Couple weeks later, I found the 52-peak club via FB and decided to join. It was one of the best life-changing decisions in my life.
Age: 38
Why did you joined: To challenge myself, be healthy, and to connect with the nature. My first hike was with Branch at Kraft Mtn. on November 2020. Believe or not, I was struggling. I kept thinking, “This is quite a challenge and categorized as “high risk”, but I am always up for a challenge! I am going to get better somehow and will gain something out of this.” What I did not know back then is I will gain so much more than just a life challenge after my decision that day.
Date Completed all 52 Peaks: Feb. 13, 2022
Toughest Peak: Maybe the 5 peaks Mummy- Head to Toe just because it’s such a loooong hike.
Favorite Hike: White Rock Hills via Tunnel Vision, Holiday Peak, White Pinnacle, Mescalito Direct
How did you feel once you became a 53er: I feel so accomplished and humbled by the whole experience. I give the credits mostly to everyone around me, they helped me and mentored me throughout this journey and making it possible. I am truly grateful for all of the great leaders in the club and all of my hiking families.
Advice for new hikers: : Always be humble and be open to advice. Don’t compare yourself with anyone, focus on your own growth instead. Respect all leaders and never give up!
In 2020, when the pandemic hits, I started to do some walk/ easy hike as an exercise and something in the nature kept calling me to come back. After a while, I begin to feel a peaceful sense of clarity when I am out there with the nature and truly appreciate it. Suddenly, I have a new lens of those around me and the bugs do not bother me anymore. Couple weeks later, I found the 52-peak club via FB and decided to join. It was one of the best life-changing decisions in my life.
Age: 38
Why did you joined: To challenge myself, be healthy, and to connect with the nature. My first hike was with Branch at Kraft Mtn. on November 2020. Believe or not, I was struggling. I kept thinking, “This is quite a challenge and categorized as “high risk”, but I am always up for a challenge! I am going to get better somehow and will gain something out of this.” What I did not know back then is I will gain so much more than just a life challenge after my decision that day.
Date Completed all 52 Peaks: Feb. 13, 2022
Toughest Peak: Maybe the 5 peaks Mummy- Head to Toe just because it’s such a loooong hike.
Favorite Hike: White Rock Hills via Tunnel Vision, Holiday Peak, White Pinnacle, Mescalito Direct
How did you feel once you became a 53er: I feel so accomplished and humbled by the whole experience. I give the credits mostly to everyone around me, they helped me and mentored me throughout this journey and making it possible. I am truly grateful for all of the great leaders in the club and all of my hiking families.
Advice for new hikers: : Always be humble and be open to advice. Don’t compare yourself with anyone, focus on your own growth instead. Respect all leaders and never give up!