Colby Lee Burke is a professional travel writer who divides his time between Charleston, South Carolina and Portland, Oregon. His work has been featured in a wide variety of newspapers and magazines as well as online. Burke has a unique talent for capturing the spirit of the places he visits. He has visited dozens of countries, and his favorite is Scotland. When he travels in the United States, his favorite place to visit is Hilton Head.
Burke grew up in Portland and attended the University of Oregon, majoring in English. While he was still in college, he began writing travel pieces for local publications. His work became popular and he was soon receiving assignments from larger publications on the West Coast. His articles about Yosemite National Park appeared in a prominent national magazine, and Burke has had a successful career ever since.
Burke’s pieces center around such diverse topics as art, architecture, nature, and culture. He especially enjoys writing about local music events. His journalism has attracted a following, and he has won several awards for his writing. Colby Lee Burke Hilton Head has also written fiction for several literary magazines. He is working on a novel to be published next year. His unique talents with both fiction and nonfiction make him a force to be reckoned with in the world of writing.
What is your favorite thing about traveling?
My favorite thing about traveling is the change in perspective. I love seeing life through someone else’s eyes. I like to put myself in someone else’s shoes and imagine what their life must be like. This gives me a new perspective on writing a travel piece. I try to explore each city in the same way as a local resident.
Is traveling something you consider a hobby or a lifestyle? How did you get started?
Travel is definitely my lifestyle. I have apartments in Charleston and Portland so I can experience the best of both cities. I enjoy being at home, but I always have an itchy feeling that makes me want to get out and explore. Being a travel writer is the perfect job for me.
Do you have any exciting travel dates or itinerary planned for the future?
I am planning a trip to Antarctica next year. I can’t wait to see an entirely new part of the world. I plan to write about the life and experiences of the people living at McMurdo Station. I also want to get out in nature and see the local landscapes and wildlife.
What are some travel tips you’d give to an inexperienced traveler?
Plan your trips in advance, but give yourself room to explore. It’s unfortunate when novice travelers overuse their guidebooks and forget to explore on their own. Whenever a friend travels abroad, I remind them to let their curiosity take them to new places. Also, I recommend that new travelers take advantage of the perks offered by their credit card companies. There are a lot of great deals to be had if you know where to look.
Where would you like to go?
I’ve never been to China. I’m fascinated by the culture and the people. I am hoping to get there in the coming year. I would also love to travel to the South Pacific. I haven’t been able to convince anyone that I should write about a beach resort in Bali, but I hope that I can get there on my own someday.
Where would you like to revisit?
I love going to Scotland. The wild landscapes are gorgeous, and the sense of history is amazing. My favorite city is Edinburgh. I also love exploring the Highlands. Scottish food has a bad reputation thanks to haggis, but it’s actually very good.
Do you travel alone? Why?
I generally do travel alone. Most of my employers wouldn’t pay for me to take a companion with me. When I travel I try to visit friends so I have some social interaction. Mostly, I’m fine being on my own. It’s nice to be able to follow my own curiosity and not have to negotiate where I’m going next. When I do take a companion with me, it’s a nice change of pace.
If you could pick the top three places every person should go, what would they be?
Within the United States, I would recommend that everyone travel to Alaska. The wilderness is amazing, and the people are very friendly. You will be amazed by the variety in the natural landscapes. Abroad, I recommend that everyone go to London and Florence. London has the most fascinating blend of historical and modern buildings. I love that you can stand in a castle and see modern skyscrapers across the river. I recommend Florence to anyone who has an interest in art and architecture.
Do you travel light or do you pack up the house?
I always travel light. I try to get away without checking a bag. I’ve lost too much luggage over the years. As long as I have my laptop, my camera, and enough clothes, I’m fine. I always bring a few books to read as well.
