Q: Where was the first place you ever visited in Korea?
A: The first place I visited in Korea was Changwon, Gyeongsangnam-do in 2003. It was the first time I was in Korea and my first job in Korea, so I spent the first month exploring the city and becoming familiar with Korean culture including food, language, and customs. Although these days I don't get the chance to visit Changwon often, I always cherish those first memories that I have in Korea and Changwon.

Q: Do you have your own “healing spot” that you visit regularly?
A: I enjoy traveling around Jeollanam-do and going to small cities like Hwasun, Haenam, Damyang, Boseong, and Goheung. Since I was raised in a small town in Canada, I like getting out of the city and experiencing the Korean countryside. If I have the time, not well-known small islands like Jaeun-do, Jeung-do, Wando, and the islands around Sinan are also fantastic locations.

Q: Is there anything in particular that you look for when deciding travel spots in Korea?
A: I tend to stay away from big cities. I prefer small towns and islands to see the more traditional areas of Korea. I find people in the countryside tend to be friendly and not in a hurry. Jeollanam-do has a lot of hidden gems that are unexplored and offer many things to tourists.

By Jeong So-rin, Reporter