A Little Slice of Paradise

May log weekend in Korea - Buddha's birthday and Children's Day - afforded many a chunk of much needed respite to bring in the spring season. I for one was I desperate need of time away from work, the city and the daily grind that continues to feel never ending. 

Friends and family alike were nervous for the ferry ride to and from the islandof Jeju   after the recent tragedy. Little did we all know the bus ride to the ferry would prove to be the more dangerous portion of the trip. Our bus was cut off, swerved and was sideswiped by a semi. The semis side view mirror smashed through one of the bus windows, spidering the other windows on the same side. Luckily, when we landed all wheels back onto pavement the other bus prevented momentum from flipping us over and no one was injured.

Though our trip leader acted more as a tourist than a trip leader, our tours and stay in Jeju was fantastic. You always meet some very interesting characters and complainers along the way; this just added to the comical feel of our adventures. You can only look on the bright side, especially when you are on vacation!

Sitting on the sandy beach, listening to the waves crashing, children playing and feeling the warmth of the sunrays through the windchill I felt at home. The mountains. The smell of the sea. The relaxed, island time vibe. This trip has been truly spectacular. I never want to go back to the gray, drabbiness, conformity, monotonous, blah that is the mainland style.

I will definitely be trying very hard to bring the island time vibe into everyday here until I depart ...

A Welcomed Sense of Calm

The peacefulness and serenity of this temple truly resonates throughout your being. A sense of calm, a sense of presence, a sense of gratitude and appreciate overwhelm you positively. It creates a feeling of wanting to throw in the towel and go vagabond. And really what is there to stop us? Oh right, those pesky societal pressures we are continually bombarded with. Regardless of the life lessons I was to learn through my current job abroad, this place welcomes me. In the same breathe I am saddened that I was unable to be in a place like this on a daily basis. Something to strive for ...

Loveland; Jeju

If you're missing decent amount of sexual images with a focus in male genitalia, then Loveland is the place for you! Though the park is much smaller than anticipated, one can definitely take in an eyeful! With how convservative Koreans are about certain things, it is fascinating how many similar parks there are in Korea. Jeju has been no exception, and definitely does not disappoint.

Insadong

Travelled to a Korean tourist place last night. Was quaint and super cute. Many alleys left to be explored. I will definitely be returning. They sell many "I love Korea" paraphinelia, tea pot sets etc. There was no shortage of cafés and restaurants to choose from as well.

Tried some green tea made in Jeju. Such a wide variety of flavours! A bit pricey but will need to head back and purchase some.

It is also home to the only Starbucks which has NO English in the sign as well.

Explored an open air-esque market area too.