Chris Tharp

With Us Since
2023
Photo of Chris Tharp
Follow
Location
Busan, Korea
School
Cornish College of the Arts
Expertise
Korea, Japan, Mongolia, Mexican street food stalls & cantinas, Off-The-Beaten-Path destinations
  • Chris has lived, traveled, and eaten his way around South Korea and the surrounding region for two decades.
  • He is the winner of 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.
  • In addition to his many published articles, he is also the author of three books: "The Cuttlefish" (2025), "The Worst Motorcycle in Laos" (2014), and "Dispatches from the Peninsula" (2011).

Experience

Since moving to South Korea, Chris has carved out a niche as an award-winning writer, covering topics ranging from unique travel destinations to delicious local cuisines. 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. 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. Chris has been with Static Media since 2024 and has contributed to several of its brands, including Islands, Explore, and PlanetWare.

Education

Chris holds a bachelor's degree in theater from Seattle's Cornish College of the Arts.

PlanetWare Editorial Policies

PlanetWare content is created by an experienced team of writers and editors from diverse backgrounds. Occasionally, outside field experts contribute exclusive commentary to enrich our work. Our aim is to provide readers with well-rounded, thoughtful travel resources that are both inspiring and practical.

Our editors consistently review and update articles to ensure they provide current, relevant, and useful information. Complete information on our editorial process available here.

Stories By Chris Tharp