People can easily find books about travel. When you open a book with a pretty cover at a book store, you can see pictures of beauty spots and writings about the writer’s special experiences. As you see those books, have you ever been envious of the writer of the book? Travel writers seem to have freedom and romanticism. Let’s listen to  Lee Dong-mi, a travel writer, about her difficulties which are hidden in our sight.-Ed.
 
CBT: What is the most impressive travel destination?
Lee Dong-mi: During travel, I have met people with unique values and smart men. Kim Young-gap was not an ordinary photographer. I came to know about him through his gallery by chance. However, I was taught by him. He loved Jeju Island and tried to take pictures of its beauty all his life. When I went to travel, I looked around impatiently to follow an itinerary. I went past really beautiful sights, and I just snapped a picture. He made me reflect on myself.
CBT: Do you have difficulties in working as a travel writer?
Lee: Many people see lovely sceneries in books, and say “If I was there, I would be very happy.” However, a writer brings several pieces of heavy equipment to take a great picture. They may have to climb a mountain in spite of the terrible heat. Also, when they first begin the work, they suffer from financial problems. Because they have to pay the costs for equipment and the other expenses. It is also difficult  looking for a publishing company to publish the writer’s writing.
You shouldn’t become a travel writer with a vague yearning and envy. Travel has always been my passion. I don’t work to make money. Money is just an ancillary element following my work. Travel writers should really enjoy the journey. Besides, the writer should have perseverance to catch the best scenery.
CBT: What is the fascination of the job?
Lee: The illusion which many people think of may be a little right. Although it is arduous work, lovely sceneries and heartwarming people make me happy. Also, I learned through meeting with them. I have always experienced studying history for travel on historic subjects. In addition, I study pictures, music, food and so on through travel. Experience with novelties changes me for the better. I look forward to myself with age, because the older I am, the more my experience and knowledge will be accumulated.
CBT: Please give some advice to CBNU students.
Lee: I hope that CBNU students search for their favorite works. If you can find favorite works, you can enjoy your work with passion. I often collect data abroad. However, after marriage, I had to take care of children. Therefore, I decided to travel in Korea, and I selected Seoul. Seoul is a big city that I can approach easily without a car, and a book that helped foreigners with Seoul has not been released. Seoul was the best selection in limited surroundings for me. After releasing the book, reader’s reactions were good. Do your best in the present condition. No matter how difficult it is to seek employment, I believe that good results will await you.