School
Cornish College Of The Arts
Expertise
East Asia, The Western U.S., Off-The-Beaten-Path Destination
- Chris won the Solas Awards Men's Gold for outstanding travel writing and made the Travel Media Awards shortlist in 2021 for Specialist Travel Writer of the Year.
- He has lived, traveled, and eaten his way around South Korea and the surrounding region for two decades now.
- In addition to East Asian explorations, Chris fell in love with Mexico, where he's traveled top to bottom, diving into the intoxicating landscape, local culture, and mind-blowing regional cuisine.
Experience
Since moving to South Korea, Chris has carved out a niche as an award-winning writer. He's contributed to publications like National Geographic Traveller (UK), The Telegraph, Wanderlust, CNN Travel, Condé Nast Traveler, Fodor's, Travel + Leisure, and many more. He is the author of two books: "Dispatches from the Peninsula" (2011) and "The Worst Motorcycle in Laos" (2014).
Education
Chris holds a BFA from Seattle's Cornish College of the Arts.
Explore's content is created by qualified and experienced writers and editors, bolstered by outside field experts. Our mission is to provide readers with well-rounded and accurate information by way of entertaining and engaging articles that deliver a diversity of content, including everything from detailed guides for exotic locales to easily accessible information on domestic travel.
Our editors consistently review and update articles to ensure they're providing current, relevant, and useful information. Complete information on our editorial process available here.
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Destinations
By Chris Tharp
Spend your Colorado vacation in a cozy mountain town that blends stunning views with a great wine scene. Here's where to find this one-of-a-kind destination.
By Chris Tharp
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Travel Guides
By Chris Tharp
California has plenty of tourist-friendly destinations, but many of its state parks remain wildly underrated, including this one by a beautiful lake.
By Chris Tharp
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Travel Guides
By Chris Tharp
The camping enthusiasts among us should make a point to visit this National Forest in New Mexico, home to the state's highest mountain peak.
By Chris Tharp
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Travel Guides
By Chris Tharp
Oregon is not just misty mountains and trendy cities. This unexpected high-desert landscape near Bend is a unique “badlands” wilderness worth exploring.
By Chris Tharp
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Travel Guides
By Chris Tharp
Visit this scenic state park in Oregon where a river winds through dramatic canyons and the unique landscapes are perfect for hiking, paddling, and camping.
By Chris Tharp
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Travel Guides
By Chris Tharp
Being polite in Italy can come with some tasty benefits. When dining at Italian restaurants, practice good etiquette by remembering these bread-based manners.
By Chris Tharp
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Destinations
By Chris Tharp
Dive into clear, cool waters when you visit Texas Hill Country. This stunning park in the heart of the region features a fantastic natural swimming hole.
By Chris Tharp
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Travel Guides
By Chris Tharp
Arizona promises outdoorsy travelers endless adventure opportunities. One of those offerings features "sky islands" in an underappreciated national forest.
By Chris Tharp
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The numbers are in, and they spotlight a Southern interstate as one of America's riskiest roads to drive on. Discover what makes this route so hazardous.
By Chris Tharp
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Travel Guides
By Chris Tharp
Those in the mood for lakeside outdoor fun and relaxation should check out this hidden gem to be found in the lake-filled U.S. state of Minnesota.
By Chris Tharp
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Travel Guides
By Chris Tharp
Visitors to U.S. national parks may be tempted to buy an America the Beautiful yearly pass, but just avoid this mistake when you display it in your car.
By Chris Tharp
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Travel Guides
By Chris Tharp
Visit one of the best state parks in Texas for a nature-filled getaway with camping, amazing swimming spots, hiking trails, and the chance to spot armadillos.
By Chris Tharp
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Destinations
By Chris Tharp
Are you heading to Japan? Here's why packing this common type of footwear could lead to some disapproving glances from locals throughout your trip.
By Chris Tharp
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Destinations
By Chris Tharp
Not far from Portland, a lush Washington destination beckons travelers looking for unique waterfall views. Here's where you can find it and what to do there.
By Chris Tharp
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Travel Guides
By Chris Tharp
Visit this stunning lake in Oregon known for its crystal clear water, where you can hike, paddle, swim, fish, or soak in serene natural hot springs.
By Chris Tharp
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Travel Guides
By Chris Tharp
Here’s why leaving your car or RV hood closed while camping in the desert could invite unexpected trouble, and how you can avoid this unpleasant surprise.
By Chris Tharp
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Destinations
By Chris Tharp
Here's what to know about this important drinking etiquette in South Korea so you can blend in like a local and enjoy the country's vibrant nightlife.
By Chris Tharp
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Inspiration
By Chris Tharp
Journey into the mountains to find the natural wonder some people refer to as Mexico's Grand Canyon. Here's what makes this outdoorsy attraction so special.
By Chris Tharp
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Destinations
By Chris Tharp
Dive into refreshing waters at one of Oregon's most stunning lakes. Here, you'll find waterfalls, mountain scenery, and even a natural rock water slide.
By Chris Tharp
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Travel Guides
By Chris Tharp
Visit this rugged Michigan gem for primitive camping, scenic hikes, kayaking, waterfalls, and a pebbly, peaceful hidden beach far from the crowds.
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Travel Guides
By Chris Tharp
If this stunning national park is on your bucket list, you should visit before an important access trail closes for long-term renovations in 2026.
By Chris Tharp
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Travel Guides
By Chris Tharp
This charming Oregon town is famous for its proximity to the beach and some of the most gorgeous landscapes in the Pacific Northwest. Here's why you should go.
By Chris Tharp
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Travel Guides
By Chris Tharp
Highway 89 takes you to the north entrance of Yellowstone National Park. It's also referred to as a "bloodbath." Here's why and what is being done to change it.
By Chris Tharp
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Travel Guides
By Chris Tharp
Learn why you need to stay up to date with Mexico's confusing entry requirements, as frequent changes can affect your travel plans if you're not prepared.
By Chris Tharp
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Travel Guides
By Chris Tharp
Capitol Reef National Park in Utah offers plenty of untamed beauty, but you can still have a comfortable camping trip at this developed site with amenities.
By Chris Tharp
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Travel Guides
By Chris Tharp
California’s new generator ban is set to change the way RV campers power their trips. Here’s what you need to know to be prepared and stay compliant.
By Chris Tharp
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Destinations
By Chris Tharp
Before you get behind the wheel in Japan on a rainy day, make sure you're aware of this unusual law that could lead to fines or even legal trouble.
By Chris Tharp
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