This could seriously become a non-photo vacation...:S Hopefully in Japan I can upload them...
Note #1: S. Korea is land of the FREE for shopping in beauty shops! They constantly give customers free samples, just for going into the stores and then when you spend money they give you free samples for that too. I bought ONE bottle of nail polish and got a box for 20 cotton make-up pads and some other samples. I only really spent $1.50...
Note #2: For the ladies who love beauty products beware of what you buy, b/c that stuff is freakin' heavy yo! be mindful that you gotta lug that stuff and pass the customs' luggage weight!
EHWA WOMEN'S UNIVERSITY
This is the place to shop for clothes, accessories and whatever! How do the university women even focus on classes when there is a shopping paradise here?!!? Got some clothes and earrings. I only brought 4 tops on this trip, so I literally had to buy clothes LOL.
It was actually hot, so I was wearing sunglasses and a sleeveless blouse and I was shopping some random sales lady ran her hand down my arm and said, "ohhh summer!" RANDOM YO! She was just being friendly, but it kind of caught me off guard. Spent a long time at Cottiny buying earrings because they were all nice. (http://www.cottinyshop.co.kr/shop/main/index.php) Also, I got a free pair b/c of my purchases.
LE BUNNY BLEU (http://www.lebunnybleu.co.kr/seoul/)
I fell in love with this store. I've never wanted to buy a whole collection of shoes before but it happened! I literally wanted to say, I'll take them all. The sales ladies were letting me try on everything and I took a pic of the best ones. No, I didn't buy them all... but I did get three. Pics to come when I can find a dang computer that will let me upload them.
IT AIN'T AN ARCADE, BUT I WON!
I was at one of the beauty stores and noticed they had a crane game. You know what that means right? Sam is gonna play that game. I got a free token from the counter and won some random skin treatment sample thingies.
VENDOR FOOD and DBS PIGEONS
Somehow one forgets/ignores a rumbling stomach while in the midst of shopping. I stopped at a food vendor along the side of the main road and got bbq chicken and onion skewers. I dragged my shopping bags to a seating area and while I was eating OH LUCKY ME...the ahjumma (middle-aged lady) beside me decides to throw some bread and all of a sudden the pigeon plague descends!! @___@ While shooing them away I spill bbq sauce on my pants and ended up relocating away from the pigeon ahjumma. Oh well...I'll have to wash these pants...good thing they were black?
AGNES UNNIE
I was able to reach Agnes unnie earlier in the day. My emails were sent back to me, but Helena unnie gave me her number via email. She was really surprised I was there and said she would come meet me tonight. Ahh but she works 1 1/2 hours away, so she ended up coming really late. I felt bad but it was really nice to see her! We ate bbq pork ribs. Really delicious! We laughed about our memories of my other trips like hiking up the mountain for 2 hours looking for a Buddhist temple, on a smoldering day and ran out of water and shade. LOL. If I survived that I can survive anything!
Afterwards, she left and I went back to the guesthouse and arranged some of my luggage. Wanted to take a bath but got too tired.
Hope all of you are doing well! ^__^
Showing posts with label Korea. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Korea. Show all posts
Monday, April 29, 2013
ASIA REVISITED part III
Cinderella SAM-urai made it home before midnight! Today was a busy day!
LAST NIGHT'S AFTER EFFECTS
As some of you may have read last night, I got soju sodrunk and woke up this morning at 5am still wearing last night's clothes LOL. I took an advil, changed and went back to sleep. I swear advil prevents my hangovers!
ANNE, APGUJEONG AND CELEBRITY SIGHTING!
Called Anne to confirm arrangements. She asked what I wanted to eat and we decided on dakgalbi! :) I love that stuff! We went to Apgujeong to eat and the food was quite delicious. Will upload photos later. After that, we walked around the area. We ended up at a store and there was a candy/toy dispenser inside. If someone puts 500 won in, it dispenses an egg-like container which can contain discounts of 5,000won, 10,000 won, 20,000 won, 30,000 won, free clothes or free headphones.
I was really interested in trying my luck to win the headphones (w/c I found out later, were unavailable) so I changed some money. Anne thought it would be a waste of money, but I had this feeling...I used a 500 won coin and gave Anne the other one. She won 30,000 won off and I won a FREE SHIRT! Heck yeahhh!
While we were shopping around, I was looking out the store window we were in and I saw a tall Asian dude, dressed with a white shirt, black blazer and black pants. There was something about him, that made me think he was a celebrity and then I knew right away. It was Chansung from 2PM! He was directing his manager's van to a nearby store. I couldn't help my curiosity. We went over to the store just to peek, he left soon after coming out from the back and walked right by us. He seemed in a frustrated mood, so I didn't bother doing anything like taking a photo or trying to talk to him. I'm from Toronto, yo! We don't stalk celebs...we just acknowledge...there's a celebrity...cool...on with life!
Yeah...I tried to break in some shoes I bought the other day...failure..got me a blister and since my feet were sore, I bought a pair of toms to rest my footsies. Good investment!
Thanks Anne for lunch and midday snacks! Hanging out with you is always part of my visits!
REUNION, TAXI AND DRAMARAMA
After I separated from Anne, I went home to shower. It had been a hot day and I couldn't stop sweating...not to mention, I had also worn my shirt backwards the entire day!!..luckily it wasn't obvious. I was planning to meet the oppas at 7:30pm. When I got there, slightly late, Song oppa was there :)
He told me Sean oppa had waited since 7pm and just left a short while ago. OOOPS! I thought we were meeting at 7pm! My bad! Song oppa called him back and he and Jinyoung oppa met me to eat. Song oppa had to work so he couldn't come to eat. He looks so different with his hair a lighter colour, short and straightened.
We took a taxi and the old man driver kept turning around to look back at me and smiling at every stop. He told them in Korean that I was pretty and according to Jinyoung oppa, he said I looked like a good Korean wife...whatever that means @__@ LOL! I told the driver no, that's not true but he disagreed. I tuned him out after that...yipes! Jinyoung oppa was sitting in the front, so the driver kept talking to him and I focused on my catching up with Sean oppa.
We went to a place that has really fresh tasting beer. Can't remember the name at the moment. Beer hits me faster, so I only finished a glass and a half and the oppas drank the rest for me.
I had to use the washroom and there was dramarama in there. Two ladies arguing, the younger one crying and upset. I tried to get around them, but they were both caught up in the drama. Later on, the older lady came out and 4 younger guys were trying to calm her down. On top of that at some point another random lady was fighting/beating a guy in the man's washroom, while another guy tried to pull her out of there. Jesus!! Ladies gotta stop drinking to the point where they get crazy like that!! I offered to get as drunk as them and cause a scene too, but thankfully the oppas declined. kekeke
They decided to make sure I got home before midnight. We communicated in English, Korean and Japanese LOL. When we were leaving I tried to pay, but Sean oppa had his card out quickly and Jinyoung oppa gently pushed/pulled me out of the door and told me Sean was paying. Ahhh this happens every time! They are such nice guys! I really feel taken care of when I hang out with them. They dropped me off at the station. I always look forwarding to meeting with them and glad we could arrange something :) Thanks for a nice time guys! Til we meet again!
Big hug to those who actually read this long entry!
-Sam ^__^
LAST NIGHT'S AFTER EFFECTS
As some of you may have read last night, I got soju sodrunk and woke up this morning at 5am still wearing last night's clothes LOL. I took an advil, changed and went back to sleep. I swear advil prevents my hangovers!
ANNE, APGUJEONG AND CELEBRITY SIGHTING!
Called Anne to confirm arrangements. She asked what I wanted to eat and we decided on dakgalbi! :) I love that stuff! We went to Apgujeong to eat and the food was quite delicious. Will upload photos later. After that, we walked around the area. We ended up at a store and there was a candy/toy dispenser inside. If someone puts 500 won in, it dispenses an egg-like container which can contain discounts of 5,000won, 10,000 won, 20,000 won, 30,000 won, free clothes or free headphones.
I was really interested in trying my luck to win the headphones (w/c I found out later, were unavailable) so I changed some money. Anne thought it would be a waste of money, but I had this feeling...I used a 500 won coin and gave Anne the other one. She won 30,000 won off and I won a FREE SHIRT! Heck yeahhh!
While we were shopping around, I was looking out the store window we were in and I saw a tall Asian dude, dressed with a white shirt, black blazer and black pants. There was something about him, that made me think he was a celebrity and then I knew right away. It was Chansung from 2PM! He was directing his manager's van to a nearby store. I couldn't help my curiosity. We went over to the store just to peek, he left soon after coming out from the back and walked right by us. He seemed in a frustrated mood, so I didn't bother doing anything like taking a photo or trying to talk to him. I'm from Toronto, yo! We don't stalk celebs...we just acknowledge...there's a celebrity...cool...on with life!
Yeah...I tried to break in some shoes I bought the other day...failure..got me a blister and since my feet were sore, I bought a pair of toms to rest my footsies. Good investment!
Thanks Anne for lunch and midday snacks! Hanging out with you is always part of my visits!
REUNION, TAXI AND DRAMARAMA
After I separated from Anne, I went home to shower. It had been a hot day and I couldn't stop sweating...not to mention, I had also worn my shirt backwards the entire day!!..luckily it wasn't obvious. I was planning to meet the oppas at 7:30pm. When I got there, slightly late, Song oppa was there :)
He told me Sean oppa had waited since 7pm and just left a short while ago. OOOPS! I thought we were meeting at 7pm! My bad! Song oppa called him back and he and Jinyoung oppa met me to eat. Song oppa had to work so he couldn't come to eat. He looks so different with his hair a lighter colour, short and straightened.
We took a taxi and the old man driver kept turning around to look back at me and smiling at every stop. He told them in Korean that I was pretty and according to Jinyoung oppa, he said I looked like a good Korean wife...whatever that means @__@ LOL! I told the driver no, that's not true but he disagreed. I tuned him out after that...yipes! Jinyoung oppa was sitting in the front, so the driver kept talking to him and I focused on my catching up with Sean oppa.
We went to a place that has really fresh tasting beer. Can't remember the name at the moment. Beer hits me faster, so I only finished a glass and a half and the oppas drank the rest for me.
I had to use the washroom and there was dramarama in there. Two ladies arguing, the younger one crying and upset. I tried to get around them, but they were both caught up in the drama. Later on, the older lady came out and 4 younger guys were trying to calm her down. On top of that at some point another random lady was fighting/beating a guy in the man's washroom, while another guy tried to pull her out of there. Jesus!! Ladies gotta stop drinking to the point where they get crazy like that!! I offered to get as drunk as them and cause a scene too, but thankfully the oppas declined. kekeke
They decided to make sure I got home before midnight. We communicated in English, Korean and Japanese LOL. When we were leaving I tried to pay, but Sean oppa had his card out quickly and Jinyoung oppa gently pushed/pulled me out of the door and told me Sean was paying. Ahhh this happens every time! They are such nice guys! I really feel taken care of when I hang out with them. They dropped me off at the station. I always look forwarding to meeting with them and glad we could arrange something :) Thanks for a nice time guys! Til we meet again!
Big hug to those who actually read this long entry!
-Sam ^__^
ASIA REVISITED part II
Hey Ya'll,
Hope all is well wherever you are!
FINDING FRIENDS AND EATING POO
So yesterday was "find/contact my friends day." I went to Sunny's store Nanishow in Insadong, but found out she sold the store. She is actually living in Australia now but is coincidentally in Korea right now because she's getting married. Dunno, if I'll be able to meet her but I left her a gift. The new owner is one of her friends and I became friends with an employee there named Sujin. She is supernice and even treated me for breakfast. Bought a bunch of stuff there - actually, I always put aside money specifically for that store!
Ok, you read "eating poo" right? They have a special bread there that is in the shape of cartoon poo. Yup ate some of that! Kehehehe. It was good, but so random yo!!
Next stop was Myeongdong. I had tried to contact Song oppa who owns a music store in the station, but my emails came back. It has been 3 years since I last saw him, so I was unsure if he was still there. Lucky it was!! It was also surrounded by a bajillion fangirls buying stuff. I squeezed inside to see that Jinyoung oppa was there.
I don't know why, but I always think that if I haven't been to Korea in a while my friends my forget who I am. We only ever really keep in touch when I visit...but Jinyoung oppa remembered me even before I had to remind him. The funny thing is, he is so shy to use English and my Korean is limited for long conversations, but ironically we can communicate in Japanese better. LOL. He called Sean oppa, who I confused for Song oppa and we arranged to meet tonight for dinner. Song oppa was working in an office in another location, so I didn't get to see him but I'll see him today.
MYEONGDONG
Not much to say about this other than I blew a hole in my wallet...all the Skin Food products and Etude are killing my suitcase and my wallet! I didn't even shop for clothes yet...oh dear...
I ate at a homemade noodle place. I don't remember the name but I took a photo. There are only 4 things on the menu and there was a line-up before and after I ate there. Plus they kept stuffing me with fresh kimchi. I had the handmade noodle soup with dumplings inside. They also sell a dumpling dish, spicy noodles and another dish.
ROBIN & ELAINE
I had made plans with Robin to meet at 8:30pm and so I met him at Seoul 53 Hotel, of which he is a part owner now. He said he'd give me a discount next I visited :) They literally just opened.
We went out for BBQ and soju of course. We caught up and had tons of fun, but soon the soju hit me like a ton of bricks. Then I was ordering pitchers of Asian martinis (water). LOL. Robin made sure I was okay and kept telling me to drink more water. We met up with his friend Elaine and we ate fried chicken and they had beer while I drank more H20. Robin's hyung also came and hung out with us for a bit. They all walked me home and then took a taxi.
I'm really lucky to have made such good friends here.
Now I gotta go, so have a nice day everyone.
-Sam ^__^
p.s. sorry for any grammar/spelling mistakes. don't have time to doublecheck!
Hope all is well wherever you are!
FINDING FRIENDS AND EATING POO
So yesterday was "find/contact my friends day." I went to Sunny's store Nanishow in Insadong, but found out she sold the store. She is actually living in Australia now but is coincidentally in Korea right now because she's getting married. Dunno, if I'll be able to meet her but I left her a gift. The new owner is one of her friends and I became friends with an employee there named Sujin. She is supernice and even treated me for breakfast. Bought a bunch of stuff there - actually, I always put aside money specifically for that store!
Ok, you read "eating poo" right? They have a special bread there that is in the shape of cartoon poo. Yup ate some of that! Kehehehe. It was good, but so random yo!!
Next stop was Myeongdong. I had tried to contact Song oppa who owns a music store in the station, but my emails came back. It has been 3 years since I last saw him, so I was unsure if he was still there. Lucky it was!! It was also surrounded by a bajillion fangirls buying stuff. I squeezed inside to see that Jinyoung oppa was there.
I don't know why, but I always think that if I haven't been to Korea in a while my friends my forget who I am. We only ever really keep in touch when I visit...but Jinyoung oppa remembered me even before I had to remind him. The funny thing is, he is so shy to use English and my Korean is limited for long conversations, but ironically we can communicate in Japanese better. LOL. He called Sean oppa, who I confused for Song oppa and we arranged to meet tonight for dinner. Song oppa was working in an office in another location, so I didn't get to see him but I'll see him today.
MYEONGDONG
Not much to say about this other than I blew a hole in my wallet...all the Skin Food products and Etude are killing my suitcase and my wallet! I didn't even shop for clothes yet...oh dear...
I ate at a homemade noodle place. I don't remember the name but I took a photo. There are only 4 things on the menu and there was a line-up before and after I ate there. Plus they kept stuffing me with fresh kimchi. I had the handmade noodle soup with dumplings inside. They also sell a dumpling dish, spicy noodles and another dish.
ROBIN & ELAINE
I had made plans with Robin to meet at 8:30pm and so I met him at Seoul 53 Hotel, of which he is a part owner now. He said he'd give me a discount next I visited :) They literally just opened.
We went out for BBQ and soju of course. We caught up and had tons of fun, but soon the soju hit me like a ton of bricks. Then I was ordering pitchers of Asian martinis (water). LOL. Robin made sure I was okay and kept telling me to drink more water. We met up with his friend Elaine and we ate fried chicken and they had beer while I drank more H20. Robin's hyung also came and hung out with us for a bit. They all walked me home and then took a taxi.
I'm really lucky to have made such good friends here.
Now I gotta go, so have a nice day everyone.
-Sam ^__^
p.s. sorry for any grammar/spelling mistakes. don't have time to doublecheck!
Monday, March 8, 2010
The Last EPIC Journey Part 9: Insadong, Nanishow & Relaxing with Bonjuk...
The Last EPIC Journey Part 9: Insadong, Nanishow & Relaxing with Bonjuk...
Fri Feb 12/10
ON THE WAY TO INSADONG AND NANISHOW
I have discovered that, on most occasions, when I try to get to a place based on memories of when I was last here...I get lost. We decided to go to Insadong to shop at Nanishow, which is a store that sells really nice, unique jewellery.
My friend Sunny, actually owns the store. Well, I led Chris in the direction of what I thought was the right way to Insadong. After 15 minutes of walking, I realized I was going the wrong way...ooops! We headed back in the opposite direction and eventually found Insadong and the Ssamziegil building. I was happy to see Sunny there and she was happy to see me too. We quickly caught up and I introduced her to Chris. We shopped around her store. There are always so many things I'd like to buy there! I asked Sunny if we could plan to eat lunch or dinner together. Monday is the best day for both our schedules, so we made the plans.
Chris and I bought quite a few pieces and Sunny gave us each a free pair of earrings! She's so nice and am overwhelmed by her generosity. Our initial plan was to shop at Insadong and then go to Ehwa Women's University, but we dropped so much cash at Nanishow, that we didn't want to do anymore major shopping for the day.
Ssamziegil Building
We wandered upstairs so that Chris could see the works of other artisans. We went by the glasses shop again and took these hilarious photos with the glasses on. There is one pic of Chris that makes me laugh out loud every time I see it. She just looks so dazed and confused! Chris took pictures of all the great artistic pieces around the building and I showed her the walls where everyone left their mark and added their own graffiti. Chris and I added our messages and I tried to find the ones Nick and I left last time, but I couldn't remember where they were.
TEAstory
I dragged Chris to a tea shop and we had cinnamon tea and five spice tea with traditional sweets. Everything was great except for the green tea dark chocolate, which was superbittter. Chris was taking pictures of me eating it and we made a photostory of our experience there. We laughed as we took photos. The place had a lovely ambiance and we had a window seat overlooking Insadong street where the shoppers and tourists bustled along.
BONJUK
Ever since Chris saw a porridge restaurant featured in a Korean tv drama called Boys Over Flowers (based on a Japanese manga), she has been craving it. Not to mention, this specific place called Bonjuk were able to land two of the cast members as their spokespeople. Chris was hoping that if we ate there or ordered food, she could score the calendar that featured the onscreen couple. It turns out Bonjuk isn't only a porridge restaurant...there are porridge restaurants and regular restaurants with Korean food. We looked through the menu and selected some dishes. Luckily enough the girls that work there saw our disappointment at not getting a calendar, they gave us the special take out bags with them on it. Chris felt a little compensated haha.
SHWEEEETSS
We ordered food to go and headed back to the guesthouse. We also bought bath salts to take advantage of the tub once we cleaned it. On our way back, Chris noticed another UNIQLO. She loves this store! She walked on, but was disappointed to see that the prices were higher than in Japan. While she perused the racks, I dropped by a bakery and bought a slice of cake to go.
We dropped by another bakery and bought a green tea roll cake. It's vacation time, so we wanted to spoil ourselves. On we continued, until our eyes saw another Bonjuk sign. It turns out that it is a brand new location and won't open until the 16th. Chris wants to drop by and try the food kekeke. Chris also hit the GS store to buy some beer. She bought a few different ones to try them out.
PHONE CARDS SUCK
We told my friend at Beewon that we would come down later to drink together with her. She told us to start ahead as her boss would be coming by. We went upstairs to take baths, eat dinner and relax. We watched some korean tv - mostly music shows and then we headed down to do some drinking in the den. My friend wasn't able to join us and I realized that I had to call Tito Eric and Tita Cynthia to make plans for tomorrow.
It's a long complicated story and all I can say is that I was running in and out of the building trying to buy a phone card to call them. After a lot of wasted time, I ended up asking my friend, the receptionist, to help me call their hotel and connect us to their room! Ah thank goodness! Made the plans and headed back to Chris to drink and eat the vendor food we had purchased. Not too long after, we decided to call it a night. It was a productive day and we were exhausted.
Good Night,
Sam ^__^
Fri Feb 12/10
ON THE WAY TO INSADONG AND NANISHOW
I have discovered that, on most occasions, when I try to get to a place based on memories of when I was last here...I get lost. We decided to go to Insadong to shop at Nanishow, which is a store that sells really nice, unique jewellery.
My friend Sunny, actually owns the store. Well, I led Chris in the direction of what I thought was the right way to Insadong. After 15 minutes of walking, I realized I was going the wrong way...ooops! We headed back in the opposite direction and eventually found Insadong and the Ssamziegil building. I was happy to see Sunny there and she was happy to see me too. We quickly caught up and I introduced her to Chris. We shopped around her store. There are always so many things I'd like to buy there! I asked Sunny if we could plan to eat lunch or dinner together. Monday is the best day for both our schedules, so we made the plans.
Chris and I bought quite a few pieces and Sunny gave us each a free pair of earrings! She's so nice and am overwhelmed by her generosity. Our initial plan was to shop at Insadong and then go to Ehwa Women's University, but we dropped so much cash at Nanishow, that we didn't want to do anymore major shopping for the day.
Ssamziegil Building
We wandered upstairs so that Chris could see the works of other artisans. We went by the glasses shop again and took these hilarious photos with the glasses on. There is one pic of Chris that makes me laugh out loud every time I see it. She just looks so dazed and confused! Chris took pictures of all the great artistic pieces around the building and I showed her the walls where everyone left their mark and added their own graffiti. Chris and I added our messages and I tried to find the ones Nick and I left last time, but I couldn't remember where they were.
TEAstory
I dragged Chris to a tea shop and we had cinnamon tea and five spice tea with traditional sweets. Everything was great except for the green tea dark chocolate, which was superbittter. Chris was taking pictures of me eating it and we made a photostory of our experience there. We laughed as we took photos. The place had a lovely ambiance and we had a window seat overlooking Insadong street where the shoppers and tourists bustled along.
BONJUK
Ever since Chris saw a porridge restaurant featured in a Korean tv drama called Boys Over Flowers (based on a Japanese manga), she has been craving it. Not to mention, this specific place called Bonjuk were able to land two of the cast members as their spokespeople. Chris was hoping that if we ate there or ordered food, she could score the calendar that featured the onscreen couple. It turns out Bonjuk isn't only a porridge restaurant...there are porridge restaurants and regular restaurants with Korean food. We looked through the menu and selected some dishes. Luckily enough the girls that work there saw our disappointment at not getting a calendar, they gave us the special take out bags with them on it. Chris felt a little compensated haha.
SHWEEEETSS
We ordered food to go and headed back to the guesthouse. We also bought bath salts to take advantage of the tub once we cleaned it. On our way back, Chris noticed another UNIQLO. She loves this store! She walked on, but was disappointed to see that the prices were higher than in Japan. While she perused the racks, I dropped by a bakery and bought a slice of cake to go.
We dropped by another bakery and bought a green tea roll cake. It's vacation time, so we wanted to spoil ourselves. On we continued, until our eyes saw another Bonjuk sign. It turns out that it is a brand new location and won't open until the 16th. Chris wants to drop by and try the food kekeke. Chris also hit the GS store to buy some beer. She bought a few different ones to try them out.
PHONE CARDS SUCK
We told my friend at Beewon that we would come down later to drink together with her. She told us to start ahead as her boss would be coming by. We went upstairs to take baths, eat dinner and relax. We watched some korean tv - mostly music shows and then we headed down to do some drinking in the den. My friend wasn't able to join us and I realized that I had to call Tito Eric and Tita Cynthia to make plans for tomorrow.
It's a long complicated story and all I can say is that I was running in and out of the building trying to buy a phone card to call them. After a lot of wasted time, I ended up asking my friend, the receptionist, to help me call their hotel and connect us to their room! Ah thank goodness! Made the plans and headed back to Chris to drink and eat the vendor food we had purchased. Not too long after, we decided to call it a night. It was a productive day and we were exhausted.
Good Night,
Sam ^__^
The Last EPIC Journey Part 8: Snowy Seoul
N.B. I am already back home and these journals have been delayed as we were superbusy and I was very sick at the tail end of the Korean trip and into the Philippines...so sick, we almost didn't make it to the Philippines! It will be in the journals later on.
The Last EPIC Journey Part 8: Snowy Seoul
Thurs. Feb 11/10
Snowy Seoul & Beewon Guesthouse
When we arrived in Seoul it was snowing. The many Japanese people who were on our flight were ecstatic and taking photographs. Japan has not gotten much of it. We found our bus and bought our tickets and were soon on our way to our guesthouse. When we arrived at Beewon, we checked in. The girl at the desk remembered me from previous travels there. Luckily we had a 2nd floor room, because our luggage has already started getting heavy.
While Chris took a shower, I ordered 2 orders of ja jang myun (noodles with black bean sauce and vegetables) and an order of fried mandu (dumplings) delivery. This only cost $11.00. I always order this at some point during my trips to Seoul. So we quickly gobbled this down and got ready to meet Tito Eric and Tita Cynthia. Tito Eric was dad's best friend in school and they only reunited last year. Tito Eric and his wife coincidentally were spending a few days in Seoul for Valentine's Day weekend. We had arranged to meet two days and I would be the tour guide.
Lost
We made it to the Cerestar Mall where the hotel was attached, but we were confused as to where the hotel entrance was. We somehow got lost in the floors in between and were in and out of staircases. I finally asked another person how to get to the right elevators and we were directed to the hotel elevators. We got to their floor, but there was no lobby, so we went back in the elevator and Chris noticed the lobby floor. We finally found them!!
We took them to Myeongdong, since Tito Eric was looking for shoes and we thought Tita Cynthia might like shopping there. It was crazy as always. We popped into CT Records - my friend Song's store. Song and Jin Young were working and we shopped around. I introduced them to Chris and Uncle Eric and Tita Cynthia. Song gave me a free Boys Over Flowers poster for Tita Cynthia.
Chris and I did some shopping and I was able to snag a poster of Hyun Joong who starred in the Korean drama version of Boys Over Flowers for Tita Cynthia at a store called Tony Moly. Apparently we had to spend 10 000 won to get it, but I asked the guy at the cash very nicely ;) Chris has finally seen me in action, using the "dizon charm" to get my way hahaah. She's a fast learner as you will read.
K-BBQ FEAST
We window shopped and power shopped where necessary LOL. Tita Cynthia and Tito Eric were very patient! We stopped by two bakeries to look for snacks. Eventually we got hungry and looked for a restaurant. They had mentioned that they wanted Korean BBQ, so we tried a new restaurant. For some reason we were treated extremely well at this restaurant. I don't know if it was because they were nervous because we were English speakers or what. They called a specific waiter in and he served us the whole night cooking or food, constantly changing the grill and re-filling our side dishes. I used my limited Korean but it seemed that the staff kept checking in to see how we were doing. There was a really random moment when Chris got up from her chair and it tipped and hit the glass wall where we were sitting (probably b/c she had her heavy stuff hanging on it)...well a few of the staff rushed in all worried. I don't know if they were worried about the wall, or if they thought Chris collapsed or something. We were so full afterwards.
We took them back to their hotel in Dongdaemun and then we scooted to the Doota department store. We rushed through as we were tired - Chris especially. We rested for a bit with some smoothies and then headed back to Beewon. We watched a bit of TV before sleeping.
-Sam ^__^
The Last EPIC Journey Part 8: Snowy Seoul
Thurs. Feb 11/10
Snowy Seoul & Beewon Guesthouse
When we arrived in Seoul it was snowing. The many Japanese people who were on our flight were ecstatic and taking photographs. Japan has not gotten much of it. We found our bus and bought our tickets and were soon on our way to our guesthouse. When we arrived at Beewon, we checked in. The girl at the desk remembered me from previous travels there. Luckily we had a 2nd floor room, because our luggage has already started getting heavy.
While Chris took a shower, I ordered 2 orders of ja jang myun (noodles with black bean sauce and vegetables) and an order of fried mandu (dumplings) delivery. This only cost $11.00. I always order this at some point during my trips to Seoul. So we quickly gobbled this down and got ready to meet Tito Eric and Tita Cynthia. Tito Eric was dad's best friend in school and they only reunited last year. Tito Eric and his wife coincidentally were spending a few days in Seoul for Valentine's Day weekend. We had arranged to meet two days and I would be the tour guide.
Lost
We made it to the Cerestar Mall where the hotel was attached, but we were confused as to where the hotel entrance was. We somehow got lost in the floors in between and were in and out of staircases. I finally asked another person how to get to the right elevators and we were directed to the hotel elevators. We got to their floor, but there was no lobby, so we went back in the elevator and Chris noticed the lobby floor. We finally found them!!
We took them to Myeongdong, since Tito Eric was looking for shoes and we thought Tita Cynthia might like shopping there. It was crazy as always. We popped into CT Records - my friend Song's store. Song and Jin Young were working and we shopped around. I introduced them to Chris and Uncle Eric and Tita Cynthia. Song gave me a free Boys Over Flowers poster for Tita Cynthia.
Chris and I did some shopping and I was able to snag a poster of Hyun Joong who starred in the Korean drama version of Boys Over Flowers for Tita Cynthia at a store called Tony Moly. Apparently we had to spend 10 000 won to get it, but I asked the guy at the cash very nicely ;) Chris has finally seen me in action, using the "dizon charm" to get my way hahaah. She's a fast learner as you will read.
K-BBQ FEAST
We window shopped and power shopped where necessary LOL. Tita Cynthia and Tito Eric were very patient! We stopped by two bakeries to look for snacks. Eventually we got hungry and looked for a restaurant. They had mentioned that they wanted Korean BBQ, so we tried a new restaurant. For some reason we were treated extremely well at this restaurant. I don't know if it was because they were nervous because we were English speakers or what. They called a specific waiter in and he served us the whole night cooking or food, constantly changing the grill and re-filling our side dishes. I used my limited Korean but it seemed that the staff kept checking in to see how we were doing. There was a really random moment when Chris got up from her chair and it tipped and hit the glass wall where we were sitting (probably b/c she had her heavy stuff hanging on it)...well a few of the staff rushed in all worried. I don't know if they were worried about the wall, or if they thought Chris collapsed or something. We were so full afterwards.
We took them back to their hotel in Dongdaemun and then we scooted to the Doota department store. We rushed through as we were tired - Chris especially. We rested for a bit with some smoothies and then headed back to Beewon. We watched a bit of TV before sleeping.
-Sam ^__^
Monday, January 4, 2010
And so the travelling begins...yet again
It is less than a month before I am off to Asia again. This time, it is for relaxation before 8 years worth of school and a birthday/christmas/graduation for two years gift to my sister Chris, who I call My-chan. We will be in Japan (mainly Tokyo) from Feb 3rd - 11th, Korea (mainly Seoul) from Feb 11th - 18th and last but not least Philippines from Feb 18 - Mar 5th! I am SUPEREXCITED!!
Normally, as you have probably noticed from previous entries, I just pack the day/night of or just before I leave. It's because I am absent-minded and just know that if I pack early, I'll forget something or will keep packing and unpacking, etc. For some reason, I feel a little bit of finality in this trip - like it's going to be the last big one for a while. Most likely I'm feeling this way, as school is a giant thing looming over my head. I'm going back for something I'm interested in, so I'm happy about that but it will be for soooo long. It'll be worth it in the end I'm sure, but it's a huge thing for me to give up travelling so often. Travelling is my S-A-N-I-T-Y.
With that said, I will eagerly anticipate my trip and fully live by the notion: "GO BIG OR GO HOME"...translation: exactly what it says...I'm not going to not do something because I don't want to spend so much money, etc...I'm going to enjoy this trip!! (like I always do)...but more so because it will be the last EPIC adventure for a bit!
I always like to try something new...so a few things I'm thinking of (and also keeping in mind that my sister's budget is smaller)are: visiting Yokohama, *gulp* trying out a ryokan - i need a lot of courage for that one... I'm still thinking of other things. It would also be nice to cross something off my 26 List, so I'll see what I can do
Normally, as you have probably noticed from previous entries, I just pack the day/night of or just before I leave. It's because I am absent-minded and just know that if I pack early, I'll forget something or will keep packing and unpacking, etc. For some reason, I feel a little bit of finality in this trip - like it's going to be the last big one for a while. Most likely I'm feeling this way, as school is a giant thing looming over my head. I'm going back for something I'm interested in, so I'm happy about that but it will be for soooo long. It'll be worth it in the end I'm sure, but it's a huge thing for me to give up travelling so often. Travelling is my S-A-N-I-T-Y.
With that said, I will eagerly anticipate my trip and fully live by the notion: "GO BIG OR GO HOME"...translation: exactly what it says...I'm not going to not do something because I don't want to spend so much money, etc...I'm going to enjoy this trip!! (like I always do)...but more so because it will be the last EPIC adventure for a bit!
I always like to try something new...so a few things I'm thinking of (and also keeping in mind that my sister's budget is smaller)are: visiting Yokohama, *gulp* trying out a ryokan - i need a lot of courage for that one... I'm still thinking of other things. It would also be nice to cross something off my 26 List, so I'll see what I can do
Monday, August 17, 2009
Installment 5: Missing Wallet?!?!?
Installment 5: Missing Wallet?!?!?
National Museum of Korea
Josie really wanted to go to the National Museum of Korea and I had never been there, so first thing in the morning we went. There were tons of students there and I saw some Japanese students as well. The place is huge and there are pagoda gardens as well. We browsed through the floors and took pictures without flash. I usually walk pretty quickly through museums and Josie takes it in better. I love museums, but I find that I get tired if I am in them too long...don't know why. Took pics of the Korean alphabet, weapons...oh! and the first dictionary in Korean!! What else....just things that I thought looked interesting...plus it would be a waste for Jos and I to take the same pictures.
While she was looking through the Buddhist exhibit, I went to the tea shop to buy some tea. When she finished we decided to try to call Robin. We had tried earlier but no luck. We headed downstairs and decided to call home too. It was nice to hear their voices. We emptied our locker and headed for the pagoda gardens. We were taking pics and I saw a bunch of little kids...sooooo cute! I offered to take a picture for their teachers. Josie headed off to the large pagoda and I was videotaping...then I saw Jos on the other side of the garden. We quickly took more pics and headed back to grab a cab. We had to check out of Beewon.
Where's My Wallet?!?!
So we're in the cab and Jos checks her bag and her wallet is missing. We apologize to the driver (who is younger than all the other driver's we've had...and he says it's ok). Jos goes running back to the museum, with only 5,000 won in her hands... I didn't feel right going ahead without her. So I went back to the museum, with the intention of finding Jos and calling Beewon to tell them the situation and that we were running late.
Before I get to the main lobby, I hear Josie calling my name. She found it!! Thank goodness!! We made the call and Eun-Mi told me Robin called. We called Robin, who sounded ultratired. He might visit Toronto in March...otherwise we'll see him next September. We rushed back to Beewon and checked out.
What's Cooking in Korea?
Jos said she wanted a Korean cookbook. We were going to go to one of the big bookstores, but when we downstairs at Anguk station, we found a small bookstore. They just happened to have some English-Korean ones there, so she was pretty happy. That left us more time to visit Insadong.
Eating Flowers
We were pretty hungry, so Jos kept an eye out for some restaurants. We wanted to do Korean bbq, but alas we couldn't. Jos found a place that had interesting dishes. We had Korean pancake with oysters (Mom you would have loved it!), sundubu (tofu kimchi soup) and I had wild flowers with mixed vegetables and rice (like bimbimbap). It was pretty!
Diamonds Are a Girl's Best Friend
Okay...I didn't buy diamonds...but I bought some nice jewelry. Last year I bought some at a place and I went there again to get more. It's really unique. After eating I went to the jewelry store beside it and made friends with the owner and the girl working there. There stuff was soooo cute and they had white gold so I could wear it. I'm allergic to other metals. They were so nice and gave me discounts. The girl who worked there, Anna, is the same age as me and was talking to me in Korean. She was really friendly and we exchanged emails.
Goodbye Seoul
We headed back to Beewon to quickly re-pack and head to the airport. We took the limo bus 602-1 I think...I can't remember now...and we got there in an hour or so (and that's b/c they didn't pick a lot of ppl up). We had the fastest check-in ever! We were tempted to shop but didn't. Called home and I did yesterday's installment...accidentally only sent it to Jenni and Michelle...oops! Re-sent it just now for the rest of you. There was a 20min delay with the plane, but we finally boarded. They fed us again and I slept for a long time. Jos watched a movie. When I woke up, I had lost one of my new earrings...BOOOOOO...but I found it later when Jos reminded me to check if it fell on my shirt in the washroom. SCORE! Jos was able to tell the cabin crew about her various food allergies.
When we were getting off the plane and Jos was paged. They wanted to assure her that they were trying to make sure she got peanut-free meals. Only one of the several flights we have left is still pending for her peanut-free meal. How efficient and somewhat strange that they felt the need to page us for that. What a great airline. btw...I had cherry ice-cream and it was supergood. One of the crew, gave Josie a mango-passion fruit one as a substitute. Seriously ppl, fly with Singapore Air if you can one day...top notch!
Details of our day in Singapore in the next email. Gotta run. Need to shop, not a lot of time!
-Sam
p.s. thanks if you're still reading and sorry i don't often reply to your replies...i'm always in a rush!
National Museum of Korea
Josie really wanted to go to the National Museum of Korea and I had never been there, so first thing in the morning we went. There were tons of students there and I saw some Japanese students as well. The place is huge and there are pagoda gardens as well. We browsed through the floors and took pictures without flash. I usually walk pretty quickly through museums and Josie takes it in better. I love museums, but I find that I get tired if I am in them too long...don't know why. Took pics of the Korean alphabet, weapons...oh! and the first dictionary in Korean!! What else....just things that I thought looked interesting...plus it would be a waste for Jos and I to take the same pictures.
While she was looking through the Buddhist exhibit, I went to the tea shop to buy some tea. When she finished we decided to try to call Robin. We had tried earlier but no luck. We headed downstairs and decided to call home too. It was nice to hear their voices. We emptied our locker and headed for the pagoda gardens. We were taking pics and I saw a bunch of little kids...sooooo cute! I offered to take a picture for their teachers. Josie headed off to the large pagoda and I was videotaping...then I saw Jos on the other side of the garden. We quickly took more pics and headed back to grab a cab. We had to check out of Beewon.
Where's My Wallet?!?!
So we're in the cab and Jos checks her bag and her wallet is missing. We apologize to the driver (who is younger than all the other driver's we've had...and he says it's ok). Jos goes running back to the museum, with only 5,000 won in her hands... I didn't feel right going ahead without her. So I went back to the museum, with the intention of finding Jos and calling Beewon to tell them the situation and that we were running late.
Before I get to the main lobby, I hear Josie calling my name. She found it!! Thank goodness!! We made the call and Eun-Mi told me Robin called. We called Robin, who sounded ultratired. He might visit Toronto in March...otherwise we'll see him next September. We rushed back to Beewon and checked out.
What's Cooking in Korea?
Jos said she wanted a Korean cookbook. We were going to go to one of the big bookstores, but when we downstairs at Anguk station, we found a small bookstore. They just happened to have some English-Korean ones there, so she was pretty happy. That left us more time to visit Insadong.
Eating Flowers
We were pretty hungry, so Jos kept an eye out for some restaurants. We wanted to do Korean bbq, but alas we couldn't. Jos found a place that had interesting dishes. We had Korean pancake with oysters (Mom you would have loved it!), sundubu (tofu kimchi soup) and I had wild flowers with mixed vegetables and rice (like bimbimbap). It was pretty!
Diamonds Are a Girl's Best Friend
Okay...I didn't buy diamonds...but I bought some nice jewelry. Last year I bought some at a place and I went there again to get more. It's really unique. After eating I went to the jewelry store beside it and made friends with the owner and the girl working there. There stuff was soooo cute and they had white gold so I could wear it. I'm allergic to other metals. They were so nice and gave me discounts. The girl who worked there, Anna, is the same age as me and was talking to me in Korean. She was really friendly and we exchanged emails.
Goodbye Seoul
We headed back to Beewon to quickly re-pack and head to the airport. We took the limo bus 602-1 I think...I can't remember now...and we got there in an hour or so (and that's b/c they didn't pick a lot of ppl up). We had the fastest check-in ever! We were tempted to shop but didn't. Called home and I did yesterday's installment...accidentally only sent it to Jenni and Michelle...oops! Re-sent it just now for the rest of you. There was a 20min delay with the plane, but we finally boarded. They fed us again and I slept for a long time. Jos watched a movie. When I woke up, I had lost one of my new earrings...BOOOOOO...but I found it later when Jos reminded me to check if it fell on my shirt in the washroom. SCORE! Jos was able to tell the cabin crew about her various food allergies.
When we were getting off the plane and Jos was paged. They wanted to assure her that they were trying to make sure she got peanut-free meals. Only one of the several flights we have left is still pending for her peanut-free meal. How efficient and somewhat strange that they felt the need to page us for that. What a great airline. btw...I had cherry ice-cream and it was supergood. One of the crew, gave Josie a mango-passion fruit one as a substitute. Seriously ppl, fly with Singapore Air if you can one day...top notch!
Details of our day in Singapore in the next email. Gotta run. Need to shop, not a lot of time!
-Sam
p.s. thanks if you're still reading and sorry i don't often reply to your replies...i'm always in a rush!
Installment 4: To the Palace!
Installment 4: To the Palace!
Chandeukgung Palace
Jos woke up with a wicked hangover so I went to get her some gatorade and DAWN. (Dawn is a hangover drink with an ajusshi [middle-aged man?] on the can) Thanks KMP for sending me Sam unnie's phone number. I called her and although she is superbusy, we made plans to meet at 6pm yesterday. We tried to get to Insadong, but we ran out of time, b/c the English tour at the palace started at 3:30 p.m.
The entrance cost 3 dollars and of course, there were many foreigners. This palace was the most well kept of all the palaces here and we were able to see the Huwon (secret garden). Last year I missed the tour b/c of rain, so I was happy we were able to go see it together. Palaces are huge and beautiful. Did you know that when the emperor would go to the washroom to do a number two, they would take it and analyse it?! hard core! The tour was 1h 30mins long and after that we rushed to drop off our stuff before meeting Sam-sun unnie.
We called Robin, who was terribly hungover and although had the day off, couldn't manage to work on his script. He said to call him before 10pm.
University of Seoul
Our driver didn't know where exactly we wanted to go and I told him the station that Keonmi told me about...but he heard Seoul University and he thought it was the national university. I assured him we wanted to follow KMP's directions. The only university he mentioned was Kyunghee and even a bystander told us about it. So we asked the driver to drop us off at Kyunghee since we were under the impression that was the only one in the vicinity. We were a little worried, but we had no phone. During the ride, I got supertired...I fell asleep several times and kept "blinking"...I didn't even know I fell asleep, but Josie told me I did.
We got to Kyunghee University finally and could not find a phone. The first student we approached for help just looked at us and then waved us off when we tried to speak in English. I was told later on that although most students know some English, they are shy to use it. The next people we stopped looked like a couple. They were both good looking and very nice. We asked them where a "chonhwa baksu" was (phone box). They said there weren't any and then we said our friend was at Seoul University. We looked so worried and so the girl offered to lend us her phone. We were really grateful. The both of them were really kind and the guy would talk to us in broken English. I managed to get hold of Sam-unnie. The funny thing is she answers as Sam and then I tell her I'm Sam and then we get kind of confused at first hahahaha. Anyway, she asks us where we are and we tell her we are at Kyunghee and she says we're in the wrong place.
I asked the girl to write the university name in hangeul (korean) b/c the taxi drivers never understand our romanized writing. She wrote it down for us and we thanked her and her friend. We ran off to catch another cab and of course he was an older man who needed to pull out the magnifying glass to read where we were going. Did I mention majority of our transactions with taxi drivers have been like that? It's always an older gentleman who has to use a magnifying glass and my bad Korean to figure out where we are going. Oh wellz! He got us to University of Seoul! Woohoo!
We called Sam-unnie and it was really cold. I was wearing short sleeves b/c of my mosquito bites. They get irritated by long sleeves. Sam-unnie came with Seo-Ryeon-unnie who I met last year too. We all hugged each other and were happy to meet again. We went out for food. I think we ate something like spicy squid/octopus and then side dishes and then the waitress came with rice that she cooked in the same sauce.
We talked about coming to visit again and I gave them some gifts. I was really happy to see them even though I know they are extremely busy. Sam-unnie took us to her campus to look around and we had 100 won coffee which was really good.
To the Bus
Called our cousin Janelle and planned to meet for dessert since she ate and so did we. I told her we'd call when we were done. I was supposed to call Robin too, but I didn't want to take up more time when Sam-unnie had to go back so soon. We talked for a while on the campus and then Sam-unnie had to go, so we said our goodbyes. Seo-Ryeon-unnie took us on our first bus ride to the station. Holy moly Koreans have strong arms. Bus rides are bumpy and rough!! How do the elderly do it?!?! She also helped us by playing cards.
We went on a second bus and then headed to Nowon. Once there we called Robin. He told us he was waiting for our call and Gus was with him too. When we didn't call, they ate and then Robin went home. I felt sooooo bad!! I apologized and he said it was okay. He told me to call him after meeting with Janelle b/c we were far away from where he was. I aske him if he was sure, b/c it would be late, but he said to call anyway.
It's A Small World
We met up with Janelle and went to a bakery. We bought a small cake and they are awesome. They pack it up, give you candles, a plastic knife, matches, firecracker thingies and a birthday hat! We took pics and we sang a song and blew out the candles. Janelle and I pulled the firecrackers and WAHHHHH! Actually fire sparks, a really loud noise and streamers go flying hahahahhaaha. So much fun! When the bakery was closing we headed off to Beewon to call Robin and Janelle went home. We gave her a big hug. It was so nice to see her for so many days in Korea!
Fatigue
Taking the cab to Beewon, Jos fell asleep and even made snoring sounds, but I didn't want to wake her up b/c she was tired. She took a nap while I tried to contact Robin. He didn't pick up...he fell asleep. I read my manga and watched some tv.
Installment 4 to come next. Sorry for the delay but I gotta board the plane. We're leaving for singapore. Jos says hi.
-Sam
Chandeukgung Palace
Jos woke up with a wicked hangover so I went to get her some gatorade and DAWN. (Dawn is a hangover drink with an ajusshi [middle-aged man?] on the can) Thanks KMP for sending me Sam unnie's phone number. I called her and although she is superbusy, we made plans to meet at 6pm yesterday. We tried to get to Insadong, but we ran out of time, b/c the English tour at the palace started at 3:30 p.m.
The entrance cost 3 dollars and of course, there were many foreigners. This palace was the most well kept of all the palaces here and we were able to see the Huwon (secret garden). Last year I missed the tour b/c of rain, so I was happy we were able to go see it together. Palaces are huge and beautiful. Did you know that when the emperor would go to the washroom to do a number two, they would take it and analyse it?! hard core! The tour was 1h 30mins long and after that we rushed to drop off our stuff before meeting Sam-sun unnie.
We called Robin, who was terribly hungover and although had the day off, couldn't manage to work on his script. He said to call him before 10pm.
University of Seoul
Our driver didn't know where exactly we wanted to go and I told him the station that Keonmi told me about...but he heard Seoul University and he thought it was the national university. I assured him we wanted to follow KMP's directions. The only university he mentioned was Kyunghee and even a bystander told us about it. So we asked the driver to drop us off at Kyunghee since we were under the impression that was the only one in the vicinity. We were a little worried, but we had no phone. During the ride, I got supertired...I fell asleep several times and kept "blinking"...I didn't even know I fell asleep, but Josie told me I did.
We got to Kyunghee University finally and could not find a phone. The first student we approached for help just looked at us and then waved us off when we tried to speak in English. I was told later on that although most students know some English, they are shy to use it. The next people we stopped looked like a couple. They were both good looking and very nice. We asked them where a "chonhwa baksu" was (phone box). They said there weren't any and then we said our friend was at Seoul University. We looked so worried and so the girl offered to lend us her phone. We were really grateful. The both of them were really kind and the guy would talk to us in broken English. I managed to get hold of Sam-unnie. The funny thing is she answers as Sam and then I tell her I'm Sam and then we get kind of confused at first hahahaha. Anyway, she asks us where we are and we tell her we are at Kyunghee and she says we're in the wrong place.
I asked the girl to write the university name in hangeul (korean) b/c the taxi drivers never understand our romanized writing. She wrote it down for us and we thanked her and her friend. We ran off to catch another cab and of course he was an older man who needed to pull out the magnifying glass to read where we were going. Did I mention majority of our transactions with taxi drivers have been like that? It's always an older gentleman who has to use a magnifying glass and my bad Korean to figure out where we are going. Oh wellz! He got us to University of Seoul! Woohoo!
We called Sam-unnie and it was really cold. I was wearing short sleeves b/c of my mosquito bites. They get irritated by long sleeves. Sam-unnie came with Seo-Ryeon-unnie who I met last year too. We all hugged each other and were happy to meet again. We went out for food. I think we ate something like spicy squid/octopus and then side dishes and then the waitress came with rice that she cooked in the same sauce.
We talked about coming to visit again and I gave them some gifts. I was really happy to see them even though I know they are extremely busy. Sam-unnie took us to her campus to look around and we had 100 won coffee which was really good.
To the Bus
Called our cousin Janelle and planned to meet for dessert since she ate and so did we. I told her we'd call when we were done. I was supposed to call Robin too, but I didn't want to take up more time when Sam-unnie had to go back so soon. We talked for a while on the campus and then Sam-unnie had to go, so we said our goodbyes. Seo-Ryeon-unnie took us on our first bus ride to the station. Holy moly Koreans have strong arms. Bus rides are bumpy and rough!! How do the elderly do it?!?! She also helped us by playing cards.
We went on a second bus and then headed to Nowon. Once there we called Robin. He told us he was waiting for our call and Gus was with him too. When we didn't call, they ate and then Robin went home. I felt sooooo bad!! I apologized and he said it was okay. He told me to call him after meeting with Janelle b/c we were far away from where he was. I aske him if he was sure, b/c it would be late, but he said to call anyway.
It's A Small World
We met up with Janelle and went to a bakery. We bought a small cake and they are awesome. They pack it up, give you candles, a plastic knife, matches, firecracker thingies and a birthday hat! We took pics and we sang a song and blew out the candles. Janelle and I pulled the firecrackers and WAHHHHH! Actually fire sparks, a really loud noise and streamers go flying hahahahhaaha. So much fun! When the bakery was closing we headed off to Beewon to call Robin and Janelle went home. We gave her a big hug. It was so nice to see her for so many days in Korea!
Fatigue
Taking the cab to Beewon, Jos fell asleep and even made snoring sounds, but I didn't want to wake her up b/c she was tired. She took a nap while I tried to contact Robin. He didn't pick up...he fell asleep. I read my manga and watched some tv.
Installment 4 to come next. Sorry for the delay but I gotta board the plane. We're leaving for singapore. Jos says hi.
-Sam
Installment 3: Climbing mountains, Moving Guesthouses
Installment 3: Climbing mountains, Moving Guesthouses
I have been re-miss....(is that the right phrase?) anywhodanay...this is our itinerary:
Seoul from Oct 13 (6:45pm) - Oct 17 (7:45pm) 5 DAYS
Singapore Oct 18 (1:00am) - Oct 19 (1:25pm) 1 1/2 DAYS
Manila Oct 19 (4:55pm) - Oct 26 (2:20pm) 8 DAYS!!
Tokyo Oct 27 (7:30am) - Nov 1 (6:30pm) 6 DAYS
Mt. Namsan & Seoul Tower
Woke up in the morning without a hangover...shweet! We packed up all of our luggage so it would be easier for us to checkout and came to the realization that I needed to buy another luggage. Robin said that we could checkout at 1pm instead of 12pm so that I could also have time to get luggage. So, Jos and I climbed farther up the mountain to the cable cars. We got quality standing space to take pictures and when we got out we had to climb these wide and steep stairs to the top of the mountain. Of course, I re-lived the embarassment of seeing the strong, Korean seniors religiously climbing the mountain...while my youthful self took a cable car...>__< We were in a rush so we had to take the cable car up and down the mountain. We took pictures in the smoke signal area, the pagoda (gazebo?), scenery and went to some of the gift shops. When we went a bit higher we noticed all these locks on the fences surrounding. Apparently it was Couple's Day and ppl were hanging the locks. We took pics. It was really interesting!
Lugging Luggage
When we went back down we asked Robin where to buy luggage and he told us to go to Namdaemun market. I bought luggage underground and we went to the market very quickly. Btw...Josie really bargained well and saved me 10,000 won on that luggage! Visited Song one more time and took pics. He gave us more discounts. Headed back up the mountain and Robin drove us to Beewon. We made plans to meet him later for drinks. He couldn't find parking so he ended up parking right in front of the driveway. He was helping us bring our stuff in and then we heard yelling...ooops! He rushed back and we said we'd call him.
We've scored a first floor room with bunkbeds. We unpacked a bit and got ready to go back out, after using the internet. Off we went...
Ehwa Women's University
Jos and I got to Ehwa Women's University, which was fun. Bought some jewelry and other things. Jos bought some clothes and jewelry. Clothes were really cheap there, but we were running out of time! Called Robin, who told me Janelle called as well. He told her to call his cell when she was done b/c we'd be with him. We decided to meet at Jonggak station which is near where we live. We got lost a bit...I somehow lost my guidebook somewhere! :( That's like my guidebook here!
Robin & Friends
Met up with Robin, who was pointing to his watch when we finally got there! ooops. He had his friend, Gus, who is Filipino with him and his friend Jay. Both are Canadians and are teaching in Korea. Jay went to go meet someone for some Thai language lessons and we went to drink for a bit until Janelle came for dinner. It was fun. We talked a lot about movies and what we liked and disliked and it was soooo cheap! Drinking and eating is discounted and the food is so good.
My mosquito bites which are now at about 10 of them, were itching pretty badly so I went to a pharmacy, without a phrasebook and tried to communicate. She understood and I got some rub-on ointment that cools the bite. It kind of works for a bit...but i almost overdosed b/c i was so itchy!
Party Party
Janelle came and we decided to just eat where we were. Ate a lot of food and drank a lot of soju. Let's just say we were all pretty smashed...even Jos! It would come in waves for me...getting drunk...sober...getting drunk again...sober again...tipsy.. At Beewon, the office closes at 1am..but we were out past that time and were really worried. Janelle took a cab home. Robin walked back with us (since we didn't know how to get back) and managed to call someone to help us! Thank goodness for Robin! The most fun night we've had yet.
Gotta go now...we're going to Insadong and the palace.
-Sam
p.s. Chris, send me Michelle and Jenni's email addresses!
p.p.s. I fear I will be covered in mosquito bites after this asia trip...booooo....
I have been re-miss....(is that the right phrase?) anywhodanay...this is our itinerary:
Seoul from Oct 13 (6:45pm) - Oct 17 (7:45pm) 5 DAYS
Singapore Oct 18 (1:00am) - Oct 19 (1:25pm) 1 1/2 DAYS
Manila Oct 19 (4:55pm) - Oct 26 (2:20pm) 8 DAYS!!
Tokyo Oct 27 (7:30am) - Nov 1 (6:30pm) 6 DAYS
Mt. Namsan & Seoul Tower
Woke up in the morning without a hangover...shweet! We packed up all of our luggage so it would be easier for us to checkout and came to the realization that I needed to buy another luggage. Robin said that we could checkout at 1pm instead of 12pm so that I could also have time to get luggage. So, Jos and I climbed farther up the mountain to the cable cars. We got quality standing space to take pictures and when we got out we had to climb these wide and steep stairs to the top of the mountain. Of course, I re-lived the embarassment of seeing the strong, Korean seniors religiously climbing the mountain...while my youthful self took a cable car...>__< We were in a rush so we had to take the cable car up and down the mountain. We took pictures in the smoke signal area, the pagoda (gazebo?), scenery and went to some of the gift shops. When we went a bit higher we noticed all these locks on the fences surrounding. Apparently it was Couple's Day and ppl were hanging the locks. We took pics. It was really interesting!
Lugging Luggage
When we went back down we asked Robin where to buy luggage and he told us to go to Namdaemun market. I bought luggage underground and we went to the market very quickly. Btw...Josie really bargained well and saved me 10,000 won on that luggage! Visited Song one more time and took pics. He gave us more discounts. Headed back up the mountain and Robin drove us to Beewon. We made plans to meet him later for drinks. He couldn't find parking so he ended up parking right in front of the driveway. He was helping us bring our stuff in and then we heard yelling...ooops! He rushed back and we said we'd call him.
We've scored a first floor room with bunkbeds. We unpacked a bit and got ready to go back out, after using the internet. Off we went...
Ehwa Women's University
Jos and I got to Ehwa Women's University, which was fun. Bought some jewelry and other things. Jos bought some clothes and jewelry. Clothes were really cheap there, but we were running out of time! Called Robin, who told me Janelle called as well. He told her to call his cell when she was done b/c we'd be with him. We decided to meet at Jonggak station which is near where we live. We got lost a bit...I somehow lost my guidebook somewhere! :( That's like my guidebook here!
Robin & Friends
Met up with Robin, who was pointing to his watch when we finally got there! ooops. He had his friend, Gus, who is Filipino with him and his friend Jay. Both are Canadians and are teaching in Korea. Jay went to go meet someone for some Thai language lessons and we went to drink for a bit until Janelle came for dinner. It was fun. We talked a lot about movies and what we liked and disliked and it was soooo cheap! Drinking and eating is discounted and the food is so good.
My mosquito bites which are now at about 10 of them, were itching pretty badly so I went to a pharmacy, without a phrasebook and tried to communicate. She understood and I got some rub-on ointment that cools the bite. It kind of works for a bit...but i almost overdosed b/c i was so itchy!
Party Party
Janelle came and we decided to just eat where we were. Ate a lot of food and drank a lot of soju. Let's just say we were all pretty smashed...even Jos! It would come in waves for me...getting drunk...sober...getting drunk again...sober again...tipsy.. At Beewon, the office closes at 1am..but we were out past that time and were really worried. Janelle took a cab home. Robin walked back with us (since we didn't know how to get back) and managed to call someone to help us! Thank goodness for Robin! The most fun night we've had yet.
Gotta go now...we're going to Insadong and the palace.
-Sam
p.s. Chris, send me Michelle and Jenni's email addresses!
p.p.s. I fear I will be covered in mosquito bites after this asia trip...booooo....
Installment 2: So-ju...So drunk?!? and shopaholics
Installment 2: So-ju...So drunk?!? and shopaholics
Hello All,
Sorry for the lateness! Today we moved to Beewon Guesthouse at Anguk station...this is the account of yesterday's events
Late Start, Unwanted Affection
We started a little later than expected, but we made it up in the end by coming home late. Janelle stayed overnight with us b/c we drank more in our room. Jos and I got up pretty early and tried to get on the internet. I was having trouble sending out the first installment b/c of some of the email addresses...oh well. Got chatted up by Kent...the guy who teaches in China and well...he's a loner...and sooo wanting to get to know Janelle better hahahahaha
When we got ready to go, Janelle was gonna head home and we were going to go to Mt. Namsan and the Seoul Tower. Unfortunately when we were leaving, out comes Kent with the nastiest, greasy mullet. He was kind of hinting that he had no plans, but we didn't take the bait. He was going down the same way as Janelle, who really didn't want to run into him. He waited around the corner for a while, while we were talking but then he finally left. We walked down with Janelle and decided to shop at Myeongdong instead.
Broken Budgets?
HAHAHHAA...we totally went crazy shopping yesterday. At first Jos seemed disheartened b/c she is tall and we are "endowed", unlike many Korean women. We ate at the yummy dumpling place Des and I almost died at ahhaha from overeating. Then we went around shopping. There was a place Jos had peeked in and thought it could be dangerous..(as in she likes the style, but not sure if she could fit into anything) There was a saleswoman who fell in love with Jos..she took her by the arm and went around the store choosing clothes for her. She took me around too and we were able to find a lot of clothes. Jos dropped the big cash-o's there. Even while I was buying my clothes the saleswoman was trying to show her more clothes and if I didn't like what she was suggesting to Jos, she'd nudge and sometimes playfully strangle me ahhahaha. She said we were beautiful and she loved us.
We went through a lot of stores and didn't even finish it all, b/c we didn't want to majorly break our budgets. We dropped off all of our shopping at Namsan Guesthouse and then Jos went to use the internet and I went back to the underground shopping mall to see if my acquaintance from last year still owned his music store down there. Song was still there and he remembered me too! He gave me discounts and free posters..what a nice guy!!
I told him I would wait for Jos in his store and he brought out a seat for me. :) In the end, Jos didn't come at the expected time so I went back to Namsan. I talked to Robin for a bit. He is the manager at Namsan. Because of the confusion yesterday, he didn't charge me for Janelle staying over with us. He asked the other guy working to drive us to Dongdaemun.
Dongdaemun: Hats Are The Rage
Jos and I went crazy in the malls, buying nice clothes and hats. I got three, Jos bought ten?!?!? The lady just kept choosing these really nice hats. So helpful. Actually, sometimes we notice that some of the shopkeepers will not really pay attention to who is looking around and they are busy talking to friends in person or on the phone...but those who are nice, are supernice. Oh, they are really into cameos here. Frilly dress shirts with cameos. I really like the style, but so far haven't seen a shirt like that at a good price..they are around 30 dollars or more. Ahhh Jos is also buying scarves and the shop owner who helped her helped me too. He talked to me in Korean and I said "aratso" which means I understand, but he said that because he is my "oppa" (b/c he is older..that means older brother) that I should use "aratsoyo"...*embarassed* oops... I apologized and he was just teasing. I've been giving people my Laura Secord candies, so I gave him one and his co-worker too.
I think we hit three different malls there....spending spending spending
I'll Have the Raspberry Wine
Meeting Janelle for dinner proved to be a mission. Firstly we couldn't find our way around the underground shopping centre at Dongdaemun station to where she was...took us forever and asking people for directions. When we finally met her we ate a restaurant that had regular dining and also the type where you sit on the floor. We sat in the chairs. I ordered braised beef soup, Jos had bosam (pork lettuce rolls) and Janelle ordered raspberry wine. She ordered it from a young man who worked there. He couldn't understand what we were saying so I pointed it out to him. He told us it was 5 dollars. When we got the bill it was in Korean and we couldn't understand why it was more than we expected. Another waiter came around and told us what each cost was for. It seems Janelle's raspberry wine was actually 15 dollars! ahahahahaha....so then she takes out her coin purse and starts giving them all of her change ahahahahhaa. We were shocked and appalled and we made sure to drink every lost drop!!
Concert by the Water
Janelle went home and Jos and I went to walk by the water and watched a bit of a concert. Then we went shopping at Dottam (sp?) and there was a "LOVE SALE" so discounts on everything and they had wonderful fashion, but we were starting to get tired. Mind you, neither of us have jet lag at all. We decided to head back, b/c we always get to look forward to the hill back home. On our way back we ran into Song closing his shop. I introduced them and he asked us to wait for him. Apparently he lives near Namsan. So we waited and dropped by a convenience store...he paid for our drinks and jos' onigiri (rice ball).
Jos was talking about how she wanted to eat ramyeon. Song suggested we meet at 12a.m. and he'd invite us over to eat ramyeon with his friends. How could we say no?
So-ju..so drunk
Part of me was a tiny bit nervous. Song is a really nice person, but we don't know each other that well, but when we went into the place, it was such a nice atmosphere and his friends were great. We met Jin, Grace, Tesu (sp?) and another guy. We tried two different ramyeons...remember to cook it with egg..tastes so much better! We also drank a lot of soju. They were impressed that Jos could drink three bottles by herself. We talked about differences b/w our countries, our occupations (they are in film and are artists too) and type of guys/girls, etc. My glass never emptied and at some point I realized that I was drunk.
When we were getting ready to leave I stood up and WHAM..i totally felt it. They were all just laughing. I didn't fall, but I kept apologizing. I don't like being drunk in front of people, but we had so much fun. Song and Jin walked us to Namsan...Song was guiding me up the hill, b/c I wasn't walking straight. I could walk straight if I focused, but if I wasn't concentrating on it...I was walking crookedly. I was also talking to Song in Japanese. ahahah. He can speak a little as well.
Went to sleep and now I must go off for more adventures...this may the longest novel yet. Please excuse grammar and spelling mistakes, I'm in a rush :D *hugs to those who made it to the end!!*
Soberly Yours,
Sam
P.S. I have two giant mosquito bites..one on my finger and the other on my arm...booo...darn those mosquitoes
p.p.s. Please print/forward to my page buddies....chris still hasn't sent me their email addresses!
Hello All,
Sorry for the lateness! Today we moved to Beewon Guesthouse at Anguk station...this is the account of yesterday's events
Late Start, Unwanted Affection
We started a little later than expected, but we made it up in the end by coming home late. Janelle stayed overnight with us b/c we drank more in our room. Jos and I got up pretty early and tried to get on the internet. I was having trouble sending out the first installment b/c of some of the email addresses...oh well. Got chatted up by Kent...the guy who teaches in China and well...he's a loner...and sooo wanting to get to know Janelle better hahahahaha
When we got ready to go, Janelle was gonna head home and we were going to go to Mt. Namsan and the Seoul Tower. Unfortunately when we were leaving, out comes Kent with the nastiest, greasy mullet. He was kind of hinting that he had no plans, but we didn't take the bait. He was going down the same way as Janelle, who really didn't want to run into him. He waited around the corner for a while, while we were talking but then he finally left. We walked down with Janelle and decided to shop at Myeongdong instead.
Broken Budgets?
HAHAHHAA...we totally went crazy shopping yesterday. At first Jos seemed disheartened b/c she is tall and we are "endowed", unlike many Korean women. We ate at the yummy dumpling place Des and I almost died at ahhaha from overeating. Then we went around shopping. There was a place Jos had peeked in and thought it could be dangerous..(as in she likes the style, but not sure if she could fit into anything) There was a saleswoman who fell in love with Jos..she took her by the arm and went around the store choosing clothes for her. She took me around too and we were able to find a lot of clothes. Jos dropped the big cash-o's there. Even while I was buying my clothes the saleswoman was trying to show her more clothes and if I didn't like what she was suggesting to Jos, she'd nudge and sometimes playfully strangle me ahhahaha. She said we were beautiful and she loved us.
We went through a lot of stores and didn't even finish it all, b/c we didn't want to majorly break our budgets. We dropped off all of our shopping at Namsan Guesthouse and then Jos went to use the internet and I went back to the underground shopping mall to see if my acquaintance from last year still owned his music store down there. Song was still there and he remembered me too! He gave me discounts and free posters..what a nice guy!!
I told him I would wait for Jos in his store and he brought out a seat for me. :) In the end, Jos didn't come at the expected time so I went back to Namsan. I talked to Robin for a bit. He is the manager at Namsan. Because of the confusion yesterday, he didn't charge me for Janelle staying over with us. He asked the other guy working to drive us to Dongdaemun.
Dongdaemun: Hats Are The Rage
Jos and I went crazy in the malls, buying nice clothes and hats. I got three, Jos bought ten?!?!? The lady just kept choosing these really nice hats. So helpful. Actually, sometimes we notice that some of the shopkeepers will not really pay attention to who is looking around and they are busy talking to friends in person or on the phone...but those who are nice, are supernice. Oh, they are really into cameos here. Frilly dress shirts with cameos. I really like the style, but so far haven't seen a shirt like that at a good price..they are around 30 dollars or more. Ahhh Jos is also buying scarves and the shop owner who helped her helped me too. He talked to me in Korean and I said "aratso" which means I understand, but he said that because he is my "oppa" (b/c he is older..that means older brother) that I should use "aratsoyo"...*embarassed* oops... I apologized and he was just teasing. I've been giving people my Laura Secord candies, so I gave him one and his co-worker too.
I think we hit three different malls there....spending spending spending
I'll Have the Raspberry Wine
Meeting Janelle for dinner proved to be a mission. Firstly we couldn't find our way around the underground shopping centre at Dongdaemun station to where she was...took us forever and asking people for directions. When we finally met her we ate a restaurant that had regular dining and also the type where you sit on the floor. We sat in the chairs. I ordered braised beef soup, Jos had bosam (pork lettuce rolls) and Janelle ordered raspberry wine. She ordered it from a young man who worked there. He couldn't understand what we were saying so I pointed it out to him. He told us it was 5 dollars. When we got the bill it was in Korean and we couldn't understand why it was more than we expected. Another waiter came around and told us what each cost was for. It seems Janelle's raspberry wine was actually 15 dollars! ahahahahaha....so then she takes out her coin purse and starts giving them all of her change ahahahahhaa. We were shocked and appalled and we made sure to drink every lost drop!!
Concert by the Water
Janelle went home and Jos and I went to walk by the water and watched a bit of a concert. Then we went shopping at Dottam (sp?) and there was a "LOVE SALE" so discounts on everything and they had wonderful fashion, but we were starting to get tired. Mind you, neither of us have jet lag at all. We decided to head back, b/c we always get to look forward to the hill back home. On our way back we ran into Song closing his shop. I introduced them and he asked us to wait for him. Apparently he lives near Namsan. So we waited and dropped by a convenience store...he paid for our drinks and jos' onigiri (rice ball).
Jos was talking about how she wanted to eat ramyeon. Song suggested we meet at 12a.m. and he'd invite us over to eat ramyeon with his friends. How could we say no?
So-ju..so drunk
Part of me was a tiny bit nervous. Song is a really nice person, but we don't know each other that well, but when we went into the place, it was such a nice atmosphere and his friends were great. We met Jin, Grace, Tesu (sp?) and another guy. We tried two different ramyeons...remember to cook it with egg..tastes so much better! We also drank a lot of soju. They were impressed that Jos could drink three bottles by herself. We talked about differences b/w our countries, our occupations (they are in film and are artists too) and type of guys/girls, etc. My glass never emptied and at some point I realized that I was drunk.
When we were getting ready to leave I stood up and WHAM..i totally felt it. They were all just laughing. I didn't fall, but I kept apologizing. I don't like being drunk in front of people, but we had so much fun. Song and Jin walked us to Namsan...Song was guiding me up the hill, b/c I wasn't walking straight. I could walk straight if I focused, but if I wasn't concentrating on it...I was walking crookedly. I was also talking to Song in Japanese. ahahah. He can speak a little as well.
Went to sleep and now I must go off for more adventures...this may the longest novel yet. Please excuse grammar and spelling mistakes, I'm in a rush :D *hugs to those who made it to the end!!*
Soberly Yours,
Sam
P.S. I have two giant mosquito bites..one on my finger and the other on my arm...booo...darn those mosquitoes
p.p.s. Please print/forward to my page buddies....chris still hasn't sent me their email addresses!
SISTER ASIAN INVASION: Installment 1
SISTER ASIAN INVASION: Installment 1
NOT A BREEZE
Upon leaving, I almost forgot.....my passport! whoops
We got to the airport on time, but the lines were long. Our plane was delayed b/c of a family...two rambunctious, spoiled children, two car seats, an unwanted mom and a high-in-demand father... Jos and I slept majority of the flight and I watched SURF'S UP. Transferred in San Fran which was somewhat confusing b/c it was really big and we had to get to the International Terminal. We went to a Mexican restaurant and we were supposed to eat light, but my meal looked like it could have fed two. We were enjoying our fruity drinks and I went to use the washroom. I suddenly heard our last name on the speaker. I thought, there might be other DIZONS...but then I heard J and SD. They boarded us pretty quickly. Everything went pretty well...we watched some movies, slept a lot too. There were many children crying ever so often. Flight was delayed in letting us out....
Bus took forever b/c of fireworks and some event that happened with a lot of people. We landed half an hour late and didn't get to Namsan until 1030pmish. T---------T When we got here, we were told that our room was taken...major boo....the manager was called and it will be fixed tomorrow we hope.
COUSIN REUNION
We met up with our cousin Janelle at around midnight. We bought some booze and snackies and headed right to the SOJU TENT! OH YEAH!! We ate dumplings, kimchi pancakes, fish and broth. We are enjoying drinking the beers for now...tomorrow is soju time. We told Janelle to come stay over with us because it's late anyways. Been a long time since we hung out and did a sleepover. So funny that we are seeing each other more often in another country when we were all living in Toronto. After eating and drinking, we bought more stuff at the convenience store and headed up the hill. We talked, laughed watched some k-tv and drank more. We went into the computer room to get on the internet, and an old Japanese man, kept coming out and yelling at us for the noise..although we weren't making a lot of noise. Finally went to sleep, without finishing the email... so that's why I'm emailing now...
extremely short, eh? [canadian accent] don't get used to it...i'll write longer ones soon!
-Sam
p.s. if you don't want these emails, pls say so and i'll take you off the email list....hugs for those who keep reading!
p.p.s. can someone pls post for my page buddies and anyone else I forgot?!?!?! i have to get the emails from chris...i forgot them at home
p.p.p.s. it's taking forever to send this...crapnards...i don't see anything wrong with the address
NOT A BREEZE
Upon leaving, I almost forgot.....my passport! whoops
We got to the airport on time, but the lines were long. Our plane was delayed b/c of a family...two rambunctious, spoiled children, two car seats, an unwanted mom and a high-in-demand father... Jos and I slept majority of the flight and I watched SURF'S UP. Transferred in San Fran which was somewhat confusing b/c it was really big and we had to get to the International Terminal. We went to a Mexican restaurant and we were supposed to eat light, but my meal looked like it could have fed two. We were enjoying our fruity drinks and I went to use the washroom. I suddenly heard our last name on the speaker. I thought, there might be other DIZONS...but then I heard J and SD. They boarded us pretty quickly. Everything went pretty well...we watched some movies, slept a lot too. There were many children crying ever so often. Flight was delayed in letting us out....
Bus took forever b/c of fireworks and some event that happened with a lot of people. We landed half an hour late and didn't get to Namsan until 1030pmish. T---------T When we got here, we were told that our room was taken...major boo....the manager was called and it will be fixed tomorrow we hope.
COUSIN REUNION
We met up with our cousin Janelle at around midnight. We bought some booze and snackies and headed right to the SOJU TENT! OH YEAH!! We ate dumplings, kimchi pancakes, fish and broth. We are enjoying drinking the beers for now...tomorrow is soju time. We told Janelle to come stay over with us because it's late anyways. Been a long time since we hung out and did a sleepover. So funny that we are seeing each other more often in another country when we were all living in Toronto. After eating and drinking, we bought more stuff at the convenience store and headed up the hill. We talked, laughed watched some k-tv and drank more. We went into the computer room to get on the internet, and an old Japanese man, kept coming out and yelling at us for the noise..although we weren't making a lot of noise. Finally went to sleep, without finishing the email... so that's why I'm emailing now...
extremely short, eh? [canadian accent] don't get used to it...i'll write longer ones soon!
-Sam
p.s. if you don't want these emails, pls say so and i'll take you off the email list....hugs for those who keep reading!
p.p.s. can someone pls post for my page buddies and anyone else I forgot?!?!?! i have to get the emails from chris...i forgot them at home
p.p.p.s. it's taking forever to send this...crapnards...i don't see anything wrong with the address
Sunday, March 30, 2008
12th installment: Fare thee well Korea!
Today is my last day in Korea...I leave in bright and early tomorrow
morning...5amish. Connie and Esther timed the limobus and it took less than
an hour
Last night there was a thunderstorm. I hate those! I ended up sleeping with
the light and tv on. I had asked for a wake-up call at 10am and they set up
an alarm clock for me...when I woke up it was 1:30pm?!?! I was really
disappointed because I had planned to see the palace and missed the last
English tour. T___T I worked on packing for a while and then I went
downstairs to tell them. I looked up to see that according to their clock
it was 10am...and I looked at my watch and it was 2:30pm...what the heck? My
watch is messed up..not to mention the backing is missing...yipes! I will be
seeing Samsun today. She is KMP's friend. I'm really excited. I think I
will bring my luggage down the steps tonight so I don't wake everyone up and
I will pull an allnighter so I don't miss the limobus.
Boo it's been raining all morning. There goes my plans to visit the palace.
Arghhhh how can not see it and it's right beside me. Tour is no fun in the
rain. I think I will try to order some delivery food. Let's see how that
goes...
Food was good. Met Wyona (another staff member) who is very nice. She
ordered for me and the food was good. Took pictures.
Samsun
I met Samsun and Soo Ryeon Choi. They are awesome!! They took me to
one of the palaces and we took lots of pictures. My battery was low so
I didn't take so many. They are really nice and cute too. I even took
a traditional picture..hahaha..that's all I'm going to tell you...
After that we went to a Korean BBQ restaurant. We had Sam Gyup Sal
(sp?) [bbq bacon] and lots of other stuff I haven't tried. I took pics
too. I really love them..they are so nice. They treat me like a
younger sister. We had soju too. Two bottles. Samsun unnie calls them
sweatju (sp?) b/c it is straight soju and stronger. I think I am a
little bit tipsy, but it's ok, b/c I am staying up all night. I don't
want to miss my flight!! I'm really nervous about being at the airport
alone. We'll see how this goes. NO sleeping tonight. Maybe I'll call
home and force them to stay up late with me.
Samsun and Soo Ryeon are really nice. They took me to the palace
and shared their umbrellas with me. They took time out of their busy
schedules to take me out. Samsun unnie is an archaeologist. Ryeon Choi unnie is studying childcare. We had a really good time, but I think I brought the bad weather. Just like I brought the storm to Singapore and the typhoon to Philippines two years ago. ahhaha...
Not much shopping today. I'm being good. lmao...i really have to
organize my luggage better. I'm still getting used to my haircut. It
looks very different. Samsun unnie and Soo Ryeon unnie said it looks
good. I'm off to Tokyo from the 20th to the 24th with Mellers and my
partner in crime, Des...Look out Tokyo! I've already asked Mellers to
help me ship some stuff..but I've also decided to leave some stuff behind here. I can
live without a couple of my Canadian clothing...
I wish I could stay longer...but I also miss home. 4 days in Tokyo and
I'm back in Toronto. Do you miss me?
-Sam
p.s. Do you still want to hear the adventures in Tokyo, or are you sick of
these emails?
originally written: Apr 19, 2006
morning...5amish. Connie and Esther timed the limobus and it took less than
an hour
Last night there was a thunderstorm. I hate those! I ended up sleeping with
the light and tv on. I had asked for a wake-up call at 10am and they set up
an alarm clock for me...when I woke up it was 1:30pm?!?! I was really
disappointed because I had planned to see the palace and missed the last
English tour. T___T I worked on packing for a while and then I went
downstairs to tell them. I looked up to see that according to their clock
it was 10am...and I looked at my watch and it was 2:30pm...what the heck? My
watch is messed up..not to mention the backing is missing...yipes! I will be
seeing Samsun today. She is KMP's friend. I'm really excited. I think I
will bring my luggage down the steps tonight so I don't wake everyone up and
I will pull an allnighter so I don't miss the limobus.
Boo it's been raining all morning. There goes my plans to visit the palace.
Arghhhh how can not see it and it's right beside me. Tour is no fun in the
rain. I think I will try to order some delivery food. Let's see how that
goes...
Food was good. Met Wyona (another staff member) who is very nice. She
ordered for me and the food was good. Took pictures.
Samsun
I met Samsun and Soo Ryeon Choi. They are awesome!! They took me to
one of the palaces and we took lots of pictures. My battery was low so
I didn't take so many. They are really nice and cute too. I even took
a traditional picture..hahaha..that's all I'm going to tell you...
After that we went to a Korean BBQ restaurant. We had Sam Gyup Sal
(sp?) [bbq bacon] and lots of other stuff I haven't tried. I took pics
too. I really love them..they are so nice. They treat me like a
younger sister. We had soju too. Two bottles. Samsun unnie calls them
sweatju (sp?) b/c it is straight soju and stronger. I think I am a
little bit tipsy, but it's ok, b/c I am staying up all night. I don't
want to miss my flight!! I'm really nervous about being at the airport
alone. We'll see how this goes. NO sleeping tonight. Maybe I'll call
home and force them to stay up late with me.
Samsun and Soo Ryeon are really nice. They took me to the palace
and shared their umbrellas with me. They took time out of their busy
schedules to take me out. Samsun unnie is an archaeologist. Ryeon Choi unnie is studying childcare. We had a really good time, but I think I brought the bad weather. Just like I brought the storm to Singapore and the typhoon to Philippines two years ago. ahhaha...
Not much shopping today. I'm being good. lmao...i really have to
organize my luggage better. I'm still getting used to my haircut. It
looks very different. Samsun unnie and Soo Ryeon unnie said it looks
good. I'm off to Tokyo from the 20th to the 24th with Mellers and my
partner in crime, Des...Look out Tokyo! I've already asked Mellers to
help me ship some stuff..but I've also decided to leave some stuff behind here. I can
live without a couple of my Canadian clothing...
I wish I could stay longer...but I also miss home. 4 days in Tokyo and
I'm back in Toronto. Do you miss me?
-Sam
p.s. Do you still want to hear the adventures in Tokyo, or are you sick of
these emails?
originally written: Apr 19, 2006
11th Installment: The Human Pillow...are you tired of me yet?
Brekkie & Guesthouse mates oh boy
Guess who actually woke up in time for brekkie? Yup I dragged myself out of my room. I met three German guys. The two younger ones had been soldiers and were taking time off before school. They were living in Australia for 5 months and then decided to travel around Asia. The older man was just travelling in general. I didn't stay too long but I did have a good chat with them.
THE HUMAN PILLOW
I wasn't so lonely because I met up with Connie and Esther, my other Singapore friends from Namsan Guesthouse. Yay! We decided to go to Coex Mall, which is an underground mall and I promised myself not to buy anymore heavy things!
I was supposed to meet them at 12:30pm, but I was slightly late b/c I confused the exit and the transfer point. Oops. Oh well they found me anyway. So we were riding on the subway and we actually got seats. The guy beside me was asleep (looked like a student) and he kept inadvertently leaning on me. Yup, even his head ended up on my shoulder. I kept thinking maybe I should move his head and Connie was even gonna push him with her pointer finger. Well, I decided to be nice and let him have my shoulder..heaven knows I've done my fair share of sleeping on the transit...i'm waiting for good karma...hahaa... He woke up just before our stop and didn't even realize what he had been doing. lmao...oh well..
COEX MALL....will my wish come true?
We went straight to the food court and there were some little pools there where ppl could throw coins into the jar and our wishes would come true. We ate our food and then decided to throw our coins. The pool we went to, had a statue kid holding the jar. So I decided since I am ambedextrous, I'm going to throw two coins. I decided left first...so I aimed for the jar and threw. LMAO...it landed just under the jar and hit the kid where the sun don't shine! How did I not notice the statue was nude and how did I not notice it was male...omg...we laughed so hard. So embarassing. The throw with my right hand wasn't even close..hahaha
Kimchi Museum
Decided to check out the kimchi museum. Very interesting...but seeing as I was so full, just watching the kimchi made me feel even more full. I was also getting pretty tired. I took pictures of jars and stuff like that and then we left.
What's Sweeter Than Frozen Yogourt?
We were feeling pretty sluggish. We tried to go to the aquarium, but it was kind of pricey and we didn't really need to see fish. We went to this frozen yogourt dessert place. OMG it was so good. It was frozen yogourt with pieces of watermelon, pineapple, tangerines and kiwi on the sides. There were peanuts and chocolate sauce drizzled over it too. So yummy and really refreshing. We felt better after that. While we were eating, there was this supercute 3-4 year-oldkid. She was adorable! She kept coming up to us and saying "an nyoung haseyo" (hello) and winking at us! What a cutie ^^
A New Look
I decided to get a haircut. Esther and Constance had gotten some really nice ones, so I asked them if I could go to the place where they got there's. After looking around Myeong-dong we found it. The people there are so nice. Pretty and cute stylists. They were really excited to practice their English with me and we even took pictures. How does my hair look? You'll have to wait and see. I look different ^^
A Dinner to Remember
Esther and Constance took me to a restaurant in Insadong someone had taken them to. We ate at a low table with our legs crossed. The food was so good and the side dishes were excellent. The two things that really made it unique were a kimchi wish serated leaves and chilli sauce and crab legs in sweet pepper sauce. The food was awesome! The cod was really good too. After that they walked me back to my place. We discussed how I would be able to get to the airport, seeing as my flight is at 8:50am!! I think I will take the limobus but I might be cutting it a little short, since the bus doesn't start till 5:45am and it takes about an hour to get to the airport. Esther and Constance offered for me to stay in their room with them and then they would help me with my luggage..I don't know. I'll have to think about it. I have all tomorrow and then I must leave the next morning.
Fare thee well chingu!! Until the next essay...
-Sam
originally written: Apr 18, 2006
Guess who actually woke up in time for brekkie? Yup I dragged myself out of my room. I met three German guys. The two younger ones had been soldiers and were taking time off before school. They were living in Australia for 5 months and then decided to travel around Asia. The older man was just travelling in general. I didn't stay too long but I did have a good chat with them.
THE HUMAN PILLOW
I wasn't so lonely because I met up with Connie and Esther, my other Singapore friends from Namsan Guesthouse. Yay! We decided to go to Coex Mall, which is an underground mall and I promised myself not to buy anymore heavy things!
I was supposed to meet them at 12:30pm, but I was slightly late b/c I confused the exit and the transfer point. Oops. Oh well they found me anyway. So we were riding on the subway and we actually got seats. The guy beside me was asleep (looked like a student) and he kept inadvertently leaning on me. Yup, even his head ended up on my shoulder. I kept thinking maybe I should move his head and Connie was even gonna push him with her pointer finger. Well, I decided to be nice and let him have my shoulder..heaven knows I've done my fair share of sleeping on the transit...i'm waiting for good karma...hahaa... He woke up just before our stop and didn't even realize what he had been doing. lmao...oh well..
COEX MALL....will my wish come true?
We went straight to the food court and there were some little pools there where ppl could throw coins into the jar and our wishes would come true. We ate our food and then decided to throw our coins. The pool we went to, had a statue kid holding the jar. So I decided since I am ambedextrous, I'm going to throw two coins. I decided left first...so I aimed for the jar and threw. LMAO...it landed just under the jar and hit the kid where the sun don't shine! How did I not notice the statue was nude and how did I not notice it was male...omg...we laughed so hard. So embarassing. The throw with my right hand wasn't even close..hahaha
Kimchi Museum
Decided to check out the kimchi museum. Very interesting...but seeing as I was so full, just watching the kimchi made me feel even more full. I was also getting pretty tired. I took pictures of jars and stuff like that and then we left.
What's Sweeter Than Frozen Yogourt?
We were feeling pretty sluggish. We tried to go to the aquarium, but it was kind of pricey and we didn't really need to see fish. We went to this frozen yogourt dessert place. OMG it was so good. It was frozen yogourt with pieces of watermelon, pineapple, tangerines and kiwi on the sides. There were peanuts and chocolate sauce drizzled over it too. So yummy and really refreshing. We felt better after that. While we were eating, there was this supercute 3-4 year-oldkid. She was adorable! She kept coming up to us and saying "an nyoung haseyo" (hello) and winking at us! What a cutie ^^
A New Look
I decided to get a haircut. Esther and Constance had gotten some really nice ones, so I asked them if I could go to the place where they got there's. After looking around Myeong-dong we found it. The people there are so nice. Pretty and cute stylists. They were really excited to practice their English with me and we even took pictures. How does my hair look? You'll have to wait and see. I look different ^^
A Dinner to Remember
Esther and Constance took me to a restaurant in Insadong someone had taken them to. We ate at a low table with our legs crossed. The food was so good and the side dishes were excellent. The two things that really made it unique were a kimchi wish serated leaves and chilli sauce and crab legs in sweet pepper sauce. The food was awesome! The cod was really good too. After that they walked me back to my place. We discussed how I would be able to get to the airport, seeing as my flight is at 8:50am!! I think I will take the limobus but I might be cutting it a little short, since the bus doesn't start till 5:45am and it takes about an hour to get to the airport. Esther and Constance offered for me to stay in their room with them and then they would help me with my luggage..I don't know. I'll have to think about it. I have all tomorrow and then I must leave the next morning.
Fare thee well chingu!! Until the next essay...
-Sam
originally written: Apr 18, 2006
10th installment: My adventures...all by myself...
I'm still alive and kicking..well not kicking exactly... Des has arrived safely in Osaka. Thank goodness! I miss her already. She also told me that the Japanese custom ppl don't seem to like ppl who travel often. They will probably ask me why I keep flying to Hong Kong. She also advised me to hide my cds/dvds inside clothing. Grrr...now I have to re-pack again. That sucks!
Ehwa Women's University
Since it's Monday and the palace is closed (I never made it there yesterday), I decided to check out some other things. Please forgive me in advance if I spell places wrong because I don't have my guide book with me. I heard Ehwa Women's University is one of the great places to shop, but I've told myself not to buy so many things because my luggage is very heavy. I have no idea how I'm going to drag those all over the airport. @_@ I rode the subway alone and luckily made it to the transfer stations without getting too lost. Anyway, I got there around 3pmish b/c I left the guesthouse late. It was very busy and all I bought was a new shoulder bag to carry my stuff in and a shirt. I ate lunch there and also had some yummy fruit slushy drink.
Bell Pavilion
I went to the Bell Pavilion (sorry I don't remember the full name) and it was very nice looking. Opposite was a huge tower that's famous...Jongno Tower. Very tall and nicely built. I snapped some shots and sat down with the map, trying to figure out was else I could do. Since I've never been a person who navigates well, I decided to change that. Instead of taking the subway to Anguk I made up my mind to go see Insadong and make my way to Anguk by foot. What do you think happened?
Insadong
Insadong was full of beautiful, historical pottery and much more. I looked around a lot here and even shopped a bit more. There were a lot of people there and I saw more tourists there than I have my whole trip here in Korea. I only bought small things that weren't heavy and didn't take up space. I'm considering throwsing some of my old Canadian clothes away too...just to lighten the darn thing. Aigoooo....
Where Did I End Up?
Guess...take a wild guess. I got back safe. ahhaa...I didn't get lost! When I walked around yesterday, I made sure to remember some places so when I got to that area, I'd know my way back. Yay for me! One step closer to being a good navigator. Since I ate lunch really late, I just got some food to go for later. Oh well if it's cold. I got home before dark just like I promised. It's a good thing though because the place I'm staying is kind of tucked in, so yeah...I don't think it's a good idea to be walking around alone.
Ok...off to watch k-tv and pack again for the billionth time.
Until the next read,
Sam
originally written: Apr 17, 2006
Ehwa Women's University
Since it's Monday and the palace is closed (I never made it there yesterday), I decided to check out some other things. Please forgive me in advance if I spell places wrong because I don't have my guide book with me. I heard Ehwa Women's University is one of the great places to shop, but I've told myself not to buy so many things because my luggage is very heavy. I have no idea how I'm going to drag those all over the airport. @_@ I rode the subway alone and luckily made it to the transfer stations without getting too lost. Anyway, I got there around 3pmish b/c I left the guesthouse late. It was very busy and all I bought was a new shoulder bag to carry my stuff in and a shirt. I ate lunch there and also had some yummy fruit slushy drink.
Bell Pavilion
I went to the Bell Pavilion (sorry I don't remember the full name) and it was very nice looking. Opposite was a huge tower that's famous...Jongno Tower. Very tall and nicely built. I snapped some shots and sat down with the map, trying to figure out was else I could do. Since I've never been a person who navigates well, I decided to change that. Instead of taking the subway to Anguk I made up my mind to go see Insadong and make my way to Anguk by foot. What do you think happened?
Insadong
Insadong was full of beautiful, historical pottery and much more. I looked around a lot here and even shopped a bit more. There were a lot of people there and I saw more tourists there than I have my whole trip here in Korea. I only bought small things that weren't heavy and didn't take up space. I'm considering throwsing some of my old Canadian clothes away too...just to lighten the darn thing. Aigoooo....
Where Did I End Up?
Guess...take a wild guess. I got back safe. ahhaa...I didn't get lost! When I walked around yesterday, I made sure to remember some places so when I got to that area, I'd know my way back. Yay for me! One step closer to being a good navigator. Since I ate lunch really late, I just got some food to go for later. Oh well if it's cold. I got home before dark just like I promised. It's a good thing though because the place I'm staying is kind of tucked in, so yeah...I don't think it's a good idea to be walking around alone.
Ok...off to watch k-tv and pack again for the billionth time.
Until the next read,
Sam
originally written: Apr 17, 2006
9th installment: safe and sound...
Hello Friends,
I am now at Beewon Guesthouse. Robin from Namsan was nice enough to drive me here and help me bring my luggage! What a nice guy =) The receptionist here is very nice. Her name is Kim Ji Hye. My luggage is so darn heavy, she helped me carry it up the stairs. Originally I was supposed to be on the third floor, but she changed my room so I wouldn't have to struggle with the stairs. Yay they have a computer! But it can only be used for email..so yes, you still get to read these.
Escaping Gramps
Did I mention this old Korean man who's been hitting on me at Namsan? At first it was just friendly conversation, but it's more than that. He always pats my shoulder and tells people how he likes me and that I'm cute. Yesterday, a bunch of us were by the internet cafe and he said this to me, "Come visit Florida and I'll visit Toronto."
me: "Haha only if you pay for my ticket!" (I was joking)
gramps: "Sure, ok come to Florida. You can stay at my place."
me: "I don't think your wife will like that."
gramps: "I have another house. You can stay there."
Ummm excuse me...no wayyyy! So bold. Sheeshymos! It didn't end there.
gramps: "So where is your boyfriend?"
me: "He's in Toronto."
gramps: "Oh I thought he was with you. So, you're a free girl?"
me: "No I'm not".
Jebus...so persistent. This morning before I left, he said to me. "When you leave, this place won't be good anymore." Then he attempted to kiss my hand and I moved my hand. He ended up kissing my thumbnail...ewww still so gross. I washed my hands several times.
Soooo...glad I'm away from him. He tried to find out where I was going, but all I said was, "somewhere else."
I am near three palaces I think. So, after I call home I'm going to explore. I won't stay out late especially now that Des is not with me. Fear not, I will be protected by my signature bag filled with too many things, that still smells like cigarettes from the club.
A Little Later...
I watched some Korean television and there was a big concert near the place where Des and I were staying before, but I think it happened just before we got there. I also watched a Korean concert that was held in Japan by mnet. I wonder if Mellers went... I fell asleep. I was so tired and couldn't fight it.
When I finally woke up, I decided to get some food before it got dark. I ended up eating some vendor food 20-30 minutes away. It was so good. Fried mandoo (dumplings) and gimbap wrapped in egg. Yummy ^^ After that I just explored for a bit. Lots of things to see. I will check out the palace tomorrow and explore more. There's a cinema too. I kind of want to go, but I don't know how I'll get tickets and figure out stuff. Maybe next year then...
the end of this installment has come... Did you think the rest of them would be short like the last one?
-Sam
originally written: Apr 16, 2006
I am now at Beewon Guesthouse. Robin from Namsan was nice enough to drive me here and help me bring my luggage! What a nice guy =) The receptionist here is very nice. Her name is Kim Ji Hye. My luggage is so darn heavy, she helped me carry it up the stairs. Originally I was supposed to be on the third floor, but she changed my room so I wouldn't have to struggle with the stairs. Yay they have a computer! But it can only be used for email..so yes, you still get to read these.
Escaping Gramps
Did I mention this old Korean man who's been hitting on me at Namsan? At first it was just friendly conversation, but it's more than that. He always pats my shoulder and tells people how he likes me and that I'm cute. Yesterday, a bunch of us were by the internet cafe and he said this to me, "Come visit Florida and I'll visit Toronto."
me: "Haha only if you pay for my ticket!" (I was joking)
gramps: "Sure, ok come to Florida. You can stay at my place."
me: "I don't think your wife will like that."
gramps: "I have another house. You can stay there."
Ummm excuse me...no wayyyy! So bold. Sheeshymos! It didn't end there.
gramps: "So where is your boyfriend?"
me: "He's in Toronto."
gramps: "Oh I thought he was with you. So, you're a free girl?"
me: "No I'm not".
Jebus...so persistent. This morning before I left, he said to me. "When you leave, this place won't be good anymore." Then he attempted to kiss my hand and I moved my hand. He ended up kissing my thumbnail...ewww still so gross. I washed my hands several times.
Soooo...glad I'm away from him. He tried to find out where I was going, but all I said was, "somewhere else."
I am near three palaces I think. So, after I call home I'm going to explore. I won't stay out late especially now that Des is not with me. Fear not, I will be protected by my signature bag filled with too many things, that still smells like cigarettes from the club.
A Little Later...
I watched some Korean television and there was a big concert near the place where Des and I were staying before, but I think it happened just before we got there. I also watched a Korean concert that was held in Japan by mnet. I wonder if Mellers went... I fell asleep. I was so tired and couldn't fight it.
When I finally woke up, I decided to get some food before it got dark. I ended up eating some vendor food 20-30 minutes away. It was so good. Fried mandoo (dumplings) and gimbap wrapped in egg. Yummy ^^ After that I just explored for a bit. Lots of things to see. I will check out the palace tomorrow and explore more. There's a cinema too. I kind of want to go, but I don't know how I'll get tickets and figure out stuff. Maybe next year then...
the end of this installment has come... Did you think the rest of them would be short like the last one?
-Sam
originally written: Apr 16, 2006
8th Installment: All is quiet...dumpling overload
ahha we were supposed to watch a traditional wedding ceremony at 3pm... we didn't wake up till 1:30pm... didn't leave the room until 3pm... didn't finish eating until 4pm.... didn't finish laundry until 7pm. We found out a copule of days earlier, that they only have washers and we have to hang dry our stuff. That presented a problem...since we had lots of laundry and not much to hang clothes on. Yesterday, we finally asked if we could use their clothesline. That's when we finally left...
We decided we needed some fresh air. We ate at a mandoo (dumpling) restaurant...omg the food was so good. So many dumplings..at the end I thought I became one. We felt bad that we couldn't finish everything. We went shopping around Myeong-dong again. Got home and packed.
Des and I wanted to stay up all night and then I was going to go with her to the bus stop. We were so tired, we slept anyway. When I woke up it was 7am and Des had already left. I suck T___T I really wanted to say goodbye. I don't even remember what happened...now I am alone...missing Des..missing everyone. I hope to become more independent. We'll see how that goes...
Wish me luck. My gift to you..a short installment. I hope I can find the net at the other place I'm going to. :D See you!!
-Sam
originally written: Apr 15, 2006
We decided we needed some fresh air. We ate at a mandoo (dumpling) restaurant...omg the food was so good. So many dumplings..at the end I thought I became one. We felt bad that we couldn't finish everything. We went shopping around Myeong-dong again. Got home and packed.
Des and I wanted to stay up all night and then I was going to go with her to the bus stop. We were so tired, we slept anyway. When I woke up it was 7am and Des had already left. I suck T___T I really wanted to say goodbye. I don't even remember what happened...now I am alone...missing Des..missing everyone. I hope to become more independent. We'll see how that goes...
Wish me luck. My gift to you..a short installment. I hope I can find the net at the other place I'm going to. :D See you!!
-Sam
originally written: Apr 15, 2006
7th Installment: Wild Night in Seoul!!
Ok, today we decided it was Lotte World Day. We kidnapped Louise, who is from Sweden and took her with us. Later on, we kidnapped a Japanese guy too..
DES WORKS IT!!
We went to Jamsil station and in front of the Lotte Department Store was the set-up of a mini concert. We still weren't sure where Lotte World was, so I went to ask a man. He had no idea what I was saying, but there was an army guy near by. He asked if we needed help. He was very polite and quite good looking. We told him where we wanted to go and he offered to take us to the entrance through the department store. His name is Im DoHyun and a corporal. Des was chatting him up!! And her hips were swaying *BIG WINK* Louise and I trailed behind laughing and teasing them. The two were oblivious. GO DES!!! We got his contact info too and took pics with him. Also a solo shot. Yay for Des.
LOTTE WORLD
Lotte world reminded me so much of the k-drama Stairway to Heaven with the carousel and the ice rink downstairs the mall. It was very cute and I ended up buying the necklace, just because..haha...It was not that crowded. Apparently b/c someone fell off a ride and died recently. We didn't mind that it wasn't crowded b/c we were able to just walk around and enjoy. We bought these really cute headbands with ears. Louise got a monkey one and I asked the lady to choose one for me. She chose bunny ears (one of them bent) and guess which colour she chose. I'm sure you can guess what colour by now. Yes, pink...guess this is a pink trip for me. I can't escape it! She chose angel wings for Des. We all took pics and then kept walking.
There was a Studio Ghibli store with huge Totoro's and we all squealed...goodness, we were definitely sucked in. I bought a Totoro pouch to put Josie's camera in, since I lost the case somewhere in Seoul. We saw the Magical Island and the infamous Magic Castle. We walked around the whole island, seeing many kids in uniform. We went by this stage for performances and there was a bunch of students there. We went by them, saying "an nyoung haseyo" and they yelled to us "YOU'RE SO SEXY!!" The three of us burst out in laughter.
Louise and I had the toasted corn which was really good and Des tried the slush. I wanted to go on the monorail so we could see everything. We had only bought general admission passes, so we had to pay extra for the monorail. I couldn't understand the ticket machine and stopped someone to ask for help. The very nice lady did the whole transaction for us. She was so kind. Taking the monorail just showed us that we covered pretty much everything. Good on us. After that we rode the carousel =) We also went to see the skating rink, where many young children were practising speed skating and figure skating. They were so cute. ^^ I also tried the crane game. I almost won the piggie from Kim Sam Soon...but alas, it was not meant to be. T__T
Mini Concert
The concert was featuring DJ DOC and SeeYa, with other artists performing. I really don't remember all their names too well. We missed SeeYa, but remembered that WenLy had convinced me to buy their cd. Too bad about that... LPG, a female group, also performed and I took some pictures for some of my friends. You know who you are! The music was good. People of all ages were there. Some granny elbowed me to get in front, which just made me laugh. Some guys moved in front of me too and tried to not-so-obviously videotape the girls on stage. It was a lot of fun. After it finished, we were starting to get tired and hungry.
SOJU PARTY
We decided today we would go to the soju tent. We headed back home, only to find the soju tent had moved. BOOOOO! So we ate a restaurant that had really good food and then we went to the store to buy soju to drink at Namsan. It was decided that we'd buy a number of different bottles to try them out. We got back up the mountain and Esther and Constance, also from Singapore, were there with a new guest, Takesh from Japan. Esther and Constance weren't up for drinking alcohol so they stuck to juice. The rest of us had mix drinks. The owner came out and said we couldn't drink unless he drank with us. lol. So he drank with us and even sent someone out to get snacks! Dried cuttlefish and assorted chips, as well as juice and other things. It was a party!
What did I drink? Aloe soju, Bloody Mary with soju and plum soju...all mixed by Des and Louise. Then the owner mentioned the bomb drink. That's when you have a shot of soju inside beer. Goodness we did a "bottoms up"...and wham...I felt that pretty fast. hahaha. My face was pink. The owner left soon after, but told us after 10pm we could still drink but keep it down b/c of other guests. We finished drinking and decided to go shopping. lol. Apparently there was a place near some universities that you could shop all night.
WILD NIGHT
Des came out wearing her clubbing gear. Louise made me wear gloss and had me change into my clubbing attire as well. She changed and we dragged Taki-kun with us, who is 17 by the way, but looks older. hahaha. I wasn't sure if we were shopping or clubbing. We took a cab to one of the universities, but we were all tipsy and the guy totally ripped us off. He didn't even take us to the right place! It was so dead...nothing was open... We took another cab to Hongdai (sp?) University and finally found the party town of Seoul. We ran into some British guy who told us to go to a club called M2. We decided to go, but asked for directions a lot b/c we couldn't seem to find the place.
After a long time, we found it. Louise bought sunglasses and Taki-kun bought a cap before we went in. $15 cover...the guy had told us it was only $5. He either lied or we were getting the "foreigner price" and a drink ticket. By then we didn't really care. The gals went to the washroom...holy SMOKE! Smoker's paradise. This place was crazy!!! The music was awesome and it was full. We danced the night away! At some point these topless guys with these batons were on stage and lights were coming out of the batons. It was crazy! I think they were called Adonis boys or something. We OBVIOUSLY danced differently than all the other girls! I think they started to compete with us too. I had a blast - all of us did. We got home at 6am. The club didn't close till 7am.
What a wild night!
-Sam
originally written: Apr 15, 2006
DES WORKS IT!!
We went to Jamsil station and in front of the Lotte Department Store was the set-up of a mini concert. We still weren't sure where Lotte World was, so I went to ask a man. He had no idea what I was saying, but there was an army guy near by. He asked if we needed help. He was very polite and quite good looking. We told him where we wanted to go and he offered to take us to the entrance through the department store. His name is Im DoHyun and a corporal. Des was chatting him up!! And her hips were swaying *BIG WINK* Louise and I trailed behind laughing and teasing them. The two were oblivious. GO DES!!! We got his contact info too and took pics with him. Also a solo shot. Yay for Des.
LOTTE WORLD
Lotte world reminded me so much of the k-drama Stairway to Heaven with the carousel and the ice rink downstairs the mall. It was very cute and I ended up buying the necklace, just because..haha...It was not that crowded. Apparently b/c someone fell off a ride and died recently. We didn't mind that it wasn't crowded b/c we were able to just walk around and enjoy. We bought these really cute headbands with ears. Louise got a monkey one and I asked the lady to choose one for me. She chose bunny ears (one of them bent) and guess which colour she chose. I'm sure you can guess what colour by now. Yes, pink...guess this is a pink trip for me. I can't escape it! She chose angel wings for Des. We all took pics and then kept walking.
There was a Studio Ghibli store with huge Totoro's and we all squealed...goodness, we were definitely sucked in. I bought a Totoro pouch to put Josie's camera in, since I lost the case somewhere in Seoul. We saw the Magical Island and the infamous Magic Castle. We walked around the whole island, seeing many kids in uniform. We went by this stage for performances and there was a bunch of students there. We went by them, saying "an nyoung haseyo" and they yelled to us "YOU'RE SO SEXY!!" The three of us burst out in laughter.
Louise and I had the toasted corn which was really good and Des tried the slush. I wanted to go on the monorail so we could see everything. We had only bought general admission passes, so we had to pay extra for the monorail. I couldn't understand the ticket machine and stopped someone to ask for help. The very nice lady did the whole transaction for us. She was so kind. Taking the monorail just showed us that we covered pretty much everything. Good on us. After that we rode the carousel =) We also went to see the skating rink, where many young children were practising speed skating and figure skating. They were so cute. ^^ I also tried the crane game. I almost won the piggie from Kim Sam Soon...but alas, it was not meant to be. T__T
Mini Concert
The concert was featuring DJ DOC and SeeYa, with other artists performing. I really don't remember all their names too well. We missed SeeYa, but remembered that WenLy had convinced me to buy their cd. Too bad about that... LPG, a female group, also performed and I took some pictures for some of my friends. You know who you are! The music was good. People of all ages were there. Some granny elbowed me to get in front, which just made me laugh. Some guys moved in front of me too and tried to not-so-obviously videotape the girls on stage. It was a lot of fun. After it finished, we were starting to get tired and hungry.
SOJU PARTY
We decided today we would go to the soju tent. We headed back home, only to find the soju tent had moved. BOOOOO! So we ate a restaurant that had really good food and then we went to the store to buy soju to drink at Namsan. It was decided that we'd buy a number of different bottles to try them out. We got back up the mountain and Esther and Constance, also from Singapore, were there with a new guest, Takesh from Japan. Esther and Constance weren't up for drinking alcohol so they stuck to juice. The rest of us had mix drinks. The owner came out and said we couldn't drink unless he drank with us. lol. So he drank with us and even sent someone out to get snacks! Dried cuttlefish and assorted chips, as well as juice and other things. It was a party!
What did I drink? Aloe soju, Bloody Mary with soju and plum soju...all mixed by Des and Louise. Then the owner mentioned the bomb drink. That's when you have a shot of soju inside beer. Goodness we did a "bottoms up"...and wham...I felt that pretty fast. hahaha. My face was pink. The owner left soon after, but told us after 10pm we could still drink but keep it down b/c of other guests. We finished drinking and decided to go shopping. lol. Apparently there was a place near some universities that you could shop all night.
WILD NIGHT
Des came out wearing her clubbing gear. Louise made me wear gloss and had me change into my clubbing attire as well. She changed and we dragged Taki-kun with us, who is 17 by the way, but looks older. hahaha. I wasn't sure if we were shopping or clubbing. We took a cab to one of the universities, but we were all tipsy and the guy totally ripped us off. He didn't even take us to the right place! It was so dead...nothing was open... We took another cab to Hongdai (sp?) University and finally found the party town of Seoul. We ran into some British guy who told us to go to a club called M2. We decided to go, but asked for directions a lot b/c we couldn't seem to find the place.
After a long time, we found it. Louise bought sunglasses and Taki-kun bought a cap before we went in. $15 cover...the guy had told us it was only $5. He either lied or we were getting the "foreigner price" and a drink ticket. By then we didn't really care. The gals went to the washroom...holy SMOKE! Smoker's paradise. This place was crazy!!! The music was awesome and it was full. We danced the night away! At some point these topless guys with these batons were on stage and lights were coming out of the batons. It was crazy! I think they were called Adonis boys or something. We OBVIOUSLY danced differently than all the other girls! I think they started to compete with us too. I had a blast - all of us did. We got home at 6am. The club didn't close till 7am.
What a wild night!
-Sam
originally written: Apr 15, 2006
6th installment: Shinhwa Adventure & Tastes Like Toilet?!?!?
oday was Official Shinhwa Day for me...well I'll start from the beginning... Shinhwa is the Korean group I'm in love with ^^
KOREAN BBQ
I woke up around 8:30am and then forced myself to sleep a little more. Woke up again at 9:00am and worked on more origami cranes. Don't know what the point is, since I don't have enough to make 1,000. Guess who forgot 500 at home somewhere? TT___TT We ate breakfast and then I went on the internet and had a bazillion convos going on. hahahaa...it was fun, but sligthy crazy! Since Des and I were supposed to meet WenLy to go to Shinhwa's Kyochon Chicken Store at 3:30pm, we ended up going to eat at 2pm. We went for Korean BBQ at a closeby restaurant. As soon as we went in we had our books out. The menu was all in hanggul and no English or pictures in sight. Lucky the man working was very kind, he came by to help us out and Des just opened the book and he pointed at the food they had.
We ended up with Kalbi (Korean style ribs)! So good! We had the spring onion salad, some soup and side dishes. We missed the departure of some of the Singapore girls.
=( WenLy is the only one left now.
WORKING THE CHARM!
I kept thinking about how I'm going to get to the other place with all that luggage on the 16th. I had already booked it before I left Toronto, so I couldn't cancel. Subway is not an option...I thought I could take the airport limo bus to Incheon and then take another one to the place or...take a cab. Two of the women staying here reminded me that they have free pick-up and delivery service here to certain places. I am lucky b/c the place I need to get to is right by one of the palaces. SCORE! They can drop me off around there, but how am I supposed to explain the luggage? I told them I am staying with a friend in that area and I asked the guys if they can drive me. I added a smile and a "please" in korean...folding my hands (like when you ask someone for help) HAHAHA...guess who now has a ride to the station?!?! Then I'll just phone the other guesthouse and ask them to pick me up. SUCCESS! and yes, this time I have the number...
YOU SHOULD LIVE IN KOREA
While we waited for WenLy I was talking to Robin and An. They were watching X-Man gameshow and I was naming the ppl on the show. They were shocked at how many ppl I knew. They said "Wahh you should live in Korea. You are like a Korean!" I even named ppl that they didn't know. hahahaa.... Also, earlier that day, the older Korean man staying here came by the internet cafe and those of us that were there, greeted him in Korean. He has been talking to me a lot and is very friendly. He said this to the other girls about me. "I like this girl. She is young and very cute!" As Rob would say...uh huh! He told me that he is selling his house in Florida and his two houses here in Korea, that's why he's staying here. I made sure he didn't know which room we are staying in just to be on the safe side... He seems friendly, but...yeah...uh huh!
Minwoo & Hyesung's Board Game Cafe, "Cafe Mall"!
Des decided to stay at Namsan because she wanted to sleep and wasn't up for it. WenLy and I took a cab to Apgujeong, b/c the streets aren't really labeled and it was better to just show the cab driver the map. There was a lot of traffic. We got to Minwoo and Hyesung's Cafe Mall (Board Game Cafe). It is not very obvious...unless you know what to look for you may just miss it! As an afterthought, I should've taken a picture of the not-so-obvious sign...ooops! Anyway we took the elevator to level three. The cafe is really nice and it was empty. The only person there was the guy running it.
Behind the counter were a lot of board games and Minwoo and Hyesung's solo promotion posters. Beside the elevator was a corkboard full of notes and pics from fans, a summer story poster and beside that Brand New poster signed. There were two computers and above, individual Shinhwa member photos with messages beside. The tables were unexpectedly covered in some type of leather?! not really sure what it was. There was a long banquette (like a bench in a booth) and tables aligned. There were also individual tables with chairs..above them were celebrity photos of those who visited. There was also a V.I.P. room I think for poker players..we asked if we could go in and we took pics.
I ordered an iced tea (which came in a big, tall glass) and WenLy ordered green tea which came in a very fancy looking pot and matching cup. The bill in the end was 10,050 won.
Before we left, we wrote out messages to Shinhwa. I wrote my own message on a paper...can't even remember all the things I wrote. I also wrote one from our forum, hope no one minds. "LOOKING FORWARD TO THE 8TH ALBUM! HWAITING! WE LOVE YOU! SARANG HAE - www.shinhwachangjo.net & Toronto Changjo"
TASTES LIKE TOILET?!?!?
I had to go to the washroom, so I left WenLy at the table. The washroom was just outside the cafe, by a staircase and it was co-ed. I was happy that no one was there. Two urinals stood beside the sink and there were two stalls - one for men and one for women. I went into the women's stall and the toilet looked nice, but complex?!?! It looked like there was a remote control beside it with all these buttons. The toilet cover was so huge too. There was a button on the side, which I thought was the flusher. Nope, that did not work...so I decided to press some of those buttons. I pressed one button and some fan started in the toilet. Then I saw another one that had some water symbol...I figured that meant flush. I pressed the button...
What's my name again? Sam... That's why things like this happen. Out comes something that looks like a straw and water starts squirting out of it!!!!...and not just a little squirt...it was like the firefighters were putting out the flame. I squealed and moved out of the way, watching in horror as the water was hosing down the washroom stall!! Not to mention that the right side of me was soaked! I frantically started pressing some buttons and THANK GOD THE UNIVERSAL COLOUR FOR STOP IS RED. Finally the darn thing turned off. I looked down and saw a mini lake on the floor. It's a good thing that water was clean!!
I tried not to freak out as I cleaned the floor. I rushed back to the cafe and waved at WenLy through the glass door. Thank goodness I had also been wearing a zip sweatshirt and a jacket, which I had left on my chair. If I didn't, I'd be walking outside soaked on one side. I asked her to bring it out for me and explained what happened. Then I went back inside and took a picture of that blasted thing. Hahah...it was my own fault though I suppose. Now I will never forget the place and never make the mistake of pressing strange buttons. Guess where the flusher was... the most obvious place...behind the huge toilet seat. I'm such a....SAM!
MUSIC LIBRARY
Went to a store called Music Library and yes...I bought a couple more cds...I'm so bad. I got to use my Korean again! "S.E.S. odie ey yo?" (I know i spelt that wrong) Sadly, no S.E.S. there, so I bought some other cds. SG Wannabe's 2nd cd, Seeya and Noblesse.
SHINHWA'S KYOCHON CHICKEN STORE
We walked to the Shinhwa's Kyochon Chicken Store. It was bright orange =) I went flash happy taking pics of every Shinhwa thing there. The big picture near the entrance, the big framed photos, the tables with Shinhwa memorablia inside, the pics near the salad bar, the mini tvs and the three gold hand prints (three were no longer up...only Hyesung, Eric and Andy's remained). WenLy ordered a small original combo (original recipe drumsticks and wings) and hot combo. They gave us caramelish type popcorn and pickled radish too. IT WAS SO GOOD! If they start a business in Canada, they will give KFC a run for their money, I think. Really tasty. I ordered take out for Des and WenLy paid for everything. Wahhh friends are sooo generous! I tried to pay, but she told me not to worry about it. Taking pics was fun, trying to avoid ppl who were trying to enjoy their meals. Someone had a birthday party too. I had a lot of fun and the take out came with the Shinhwa paper bag and a magnet. SCORE!
TAXI HOME..literally LOST IN TRANSLATION
We took a cab back b/c it was cold and we also didn't feel like climbing the mountain again...ahahha... It was interesting trying to navigate up that hill with the driver in Korean. We don't know the words for left and right, so we ended up pointing and saying "here" in Korean. haha...the poor guy. I think he was confused as to whether we wanted the subway station Myeong-dong or the Namsan Guesthouse...Finally we got home and Des was able to eat Kyochon chicken and pickled radish.
A day well spent with a new buddy and surrounded by reminders of Shinhwa!! I guess even the toilet incident was memorable..but I wouldn't want it to happen again. Now I know for Japan...sheeshymos!
No longer soaked,
Sam
originally written: Apr 13, 2006
KOREAN BBQ
I woke up around 8:30am and then forced myself to sleep a little more. Woke up again at 9:00am and worked on more origami cranes. Don't know what the point is, since I don't have enough to make 1,000. Guess who forgot 500 at home somewhere? TT___TT We ate breakfast and then I went on the internet and had a bazillion convos going on. hahahaa...it was fun, but sligthy crazy! Since Des and I were supposed to meet WenLy to go to Shinhwa's Kyochon Chicken Store at 3:30pm, we ended up going to eat at 2pm. We went for Korean BBQ at a closeby restaurant. As soon as we went in we had our books out. The menu was all in hanggul and no English or pictures in sight. Lucky the man working was very kind, he came by to help us out and Des just opened the book and he pointed at the food they had.
We ended up with Kalbi (Korean style ribs)! So good! We had the spring onion salad, some soup and side dishes. We missed the departure of some of the Singapore girls.
=( WenLy is the only one left now.
WORKING THE CHARM!
I kept thinking about how I'm going to get to the other place with all that luggage on the 16th. I had already booked it before I left Toronto, so I couldn't cancel. Subway is not an option...I thought I could take the airport limo bus to Incheon and then take another one to the place or...take a cab. Two of the women staying here reminded me that they have free pick-up and delivery service here to certain places. I am lucky b/c the place I need to get to is right by one of the palaces. SCORE! They can drop me off around there, but how am I supposed to explain the luggage? I told them I am staying with a friend in that area and I asked the guys if they can drive me. I added a smile and a "please" in korean...folding my hands (like when you ask someone for help) HAHAHA...guess who now has a ride to the station?!?! Then I'll just phone the other guesthouse and ask them to pick me up. SUCCESS! and yes, this time I have the number...
YOU SHOULD LIVE IN KOREA
While we waited for WenLy I was talking to Robin and An. They were watching X-Man gameshow and I was naming the ppl on the show. They were shocked at how many ppl I knew. They said "Wahh you should live in Korea. You are like a Korean!" I even named ppl that they didn't know. hahahaa.... Also, earlier that day, the older Korean man staying here came by the internet cafe and those of us that were there, greeted him in Korean. He has been talking to me a lot and is very friendly. He said this to the other girls about me. "I like this girl. She is young and very cute!" As Rob would say...uh huh! He told me that he is selling his house in Florida and his two houses here in Korea, that's why he's staying here. I made sure he didn't know which room we are staying in just to be on the safe side... He seems friendly, but...yeah...uh huh!
Minwoo & Hyesung's Board Game Cafe, "Cafe Mall"!
Des decided to stay at Namsan because she wanted to sleep and wasn't up for it. WenLy and I took a cab to Apgujeong, b/c the streets aren't really labeled and it was better to just show the cab driver the map. There was a lot of traffic. We got to Minwoo and Hyesung's Cafe Mall (Board Game Cafe). It is not very obvious...unless you know what to look for you may just miss it! As an afterthought, I should've taken a picture of the not-so-obvious sign...ooops! Anyway we took the elevator to level three. The cafe is really nice and it was empty. The only person there was the guy running it.
Behind the counter were a lot of board games and Minwoo and Hyesung's solo promotion posters. Beside the elevator was a corkboard full of notes and pics from fans, a summer story poster and beside that Brand New poster signed. There were two computers and above, individual Shinhwa member photos with messages beside. The tables were unexpectedly covered in some type of leather?! not really sure what it was. There was a long banquette (like a bench in a booth) and tables aligned. There were also individual tables with chairs..above them were celebrity photos of those who visited. There was also a V.I.P. room I think for poker players..we asked if we could go in and we took pics.
I ordered an iced tea (which came in a big, tall glass) and WenLy ordered green tea which came in a very fancy looking pot and matching cup. The bill in the end was 10,050 won.
Before we left, we wrote out messages to Shinhwa. I wrote my own message on a paper...can't even remember all the things I wrote. I also wrote one from our forum, hope no one minds. "LOOKING FORWARD TO THE 8TH ALBUM! HWAITING! WE LOVE YOU! SARANG HAE - www.shinhwachangjo.net & Toronto Changjo"
TASTES LIKE TOILET?!?!?
I had to go to the washroom, so I left WenLy at the table. The washroom was just outside the cafe, by a staircase and it was co-ed. I was happy that no one was there. Two urinals stood beside the sink and there were two stalls - one for men and one for women. I went into the women's stall and the toilet looked nice, but complex?!?! It looked like there was a remote control beside it with all these buttons. The toilet cover was so huge too. There was a button on the side, which I thought was the flusher. Nope, that did not work...so I decided to press some of those buttons. I pressed one button and some fan started in the toilet. Then I saw another one that had some water symbol...I figured that meant flush. I pressed the button...
What's my name again? Sam... That's why things like this happen. Out comes something that looks like a straw and water starts squirting out of it!!!!...and not just a little squirt...it was like the firefighters were putting out the flame. I squealed and moved out of the way, watching in horror as the water was hosing down the washroom stall!! Not to mention that the right side of me was soaked! I frantically started pressing some buttons and THANK GOD THE UNIVERSAL COLOUR FOR STOP IS RED. Finally the darn thing turned off. I looked down and saw a mini lake on the floor. It's a good thing that water was clean!!
I tried not to freak out as I cleaned the floor. I rushed back to the cafe and waved at WenLy through the glass door. Thank goodness I had also been wearing a zip sweatshirt and a jacket, which I had left on my chair. If I didn't, I'd be walking outside soaked on one side. I asked her to bring it out for me and explained what happened. Then I went back inside and took a picture of that blasted thing. Hahah...it was my own fault though I suppose. Now I will never forget the place and never make the mistake of pressing strange buttons. Guess where the flusher was... the most obvious place...behind the huge toilet seat. I'm such a....SAM!
MUSIC LIBRARY
Went to a store called Music Library and yes...I bought a couple more cds...I'm so bad. I got to use my Korean again! "S.E.S. odie ey yo?" (I know i spelt that wrong) Sadly, no S.E.S. there, so I bought some other cds. SG Wannabe's 2nd cd, Seeya and Noblesse.
SHINHWA'S KYOCHON CHICKEN STORE
We walked to the Shinhwa's Kyochon Chicken Store. It was bright orange =) I went flash happy taking pics of every Shinhwa thing there. The big picture near the entrance, the big framed photos, the tables with Shinhwa memorablia inside, the pics near the salad bar, the mini tvs and the three gold hand prints (three were no longer up...only Hyesung, Eric and Andy's remained). WenLy ordered a small original combo (original recipe drumsticks and wings) and hot combo. They gave us caramelish type popcorn and pickled radish too. IT WAS SO GOOD! If they start a business in Canada, they will give KFC a run for their money, I think. Really tasty. I ordered take out for Des and WenLy paid for everything. Wahhh friends are sooo generous! I tried to pay, but she told me not to worry about it. Taking pics was fun, trying to avoid ppl who were trying to enjoy their meals. Someone had a birthday party too. I had a lot of fun and the take out came with the Shinhwa paper bag and a magnet. SCORE!
TAXI HOME..literally LOST IN TRANSLATION
We took a cab back b/c it was cold and we also didn't feel like climbing the mountain again...ahahha... It was interesting trying to navigate up that hill with the driver in Korean. We don't know the words for left and right, so we ended up pointing and saying "here" in Korean. haha...the poor guy. I think he was confused as to whether we wanted the subway station Myeong-dong or the Namsan Guesthouse...Finally we got home and Des was able to eat Kyochon chicken and pickled radish.
A day well spent with a new buddy and surrounded by reminders of Shinhwa!! I guess even the toilet incident was memorable..but I wouldn't want it to happen again. Now I know for Japan...sheeshymos!
No longer soaked,
Sam
originally written: Apr 13, 2006
5th Installment: Cherry Blossom Festival & Men in Uniform!!
Before you read on...thanks for replying to all these long emails.^^ They brighten my day. Also, when I move on the 16th, I can't guarantee I will have access to internet, so you might not hear from me for a while...booo...but we'll deal with that when the time comes.
Cherry Blossom Festival =) and Hangang Riverside Park (Yeouido)
Even though Des and I already saw a street of cherry blossoms, we wanted to go to the Cherry Blossom Festival at Yunjungno Street. There are 1,400 cherry blossom trees there, so we walked A WHOLE LOT! Beside us was the Hangang Riverside Park (Yeouido) and the Han River. We bought some gimbap and ate it while we walked. We passed by this place that was giving out free bottles of water. Des asked me to pass her one so I did and then I looked at the guy and indicated I would like 1 more bottle and he gave me two. hahaha... Des just laughed at me and I gave her the extra bottle. It was nice just walking at our own pace...
National Assembly Memorial Hall
We weren't exactly sure what this place was at first b/c there was no English sign and a guard at the open gate. Everyone else was going in and out, so we went in too. There was lots of information and video of protests and other stuff. We didn't stay too long though, b/c we couldn't read the info. We also walked by the National Assembly itself. Huge!!
MEN IN UNIFORM!!
The whole time we've been here, I keep bugging Des about how I want to take a picture with men in uniform. I thought it would be fun. While we were doing the cherry blossom walk, we saw a whole bunch of them. I started to chicken out, so we walked in between them and then stopped by the curb to look up "Can we take a picture with you" or something to that extent in our phrase books. Suddenly a couple of them came up to us. One of them, who was quite good looking, asked me if I speak Korean. I told him only a little bit in English and I made the hand sign for little bit. His friend asked in English if they could take a picture with us. I told him of course. Des was smiling and laughing. So 2-4 guys huddled around us and next thing we knew, all of them came. There were about 21 of them! ahhahaah....so they surrounded us and took the picture. They were really energetic and happy.^^ I got them to take a picture with my camera too. lol..They kept thanking us and the one who talked to us shook both of our hands. Des said to me later that when he asked if we spoke Korean, she thought, "For you baby, I will speak Korean"...ahahahhaa...lmao. That was the highlight of the day. Des and I will be hanging in an army room somewhere in Korea. Those guys were insane. They'd walk in formation and then break off really quickly for photo ops with trees, mascots, etc. Des also took a picture of me with two guards...ahhaha we tried to read "take a picture" from our books but I think they understood our English.
The Elderly, the Cutest Kids Ever, and Dogs with DYED tails?!
We people watched for a while, sitting on the curb. We would say "an nyoung haseyo" to the elderly and bow our heads. Most of them would acknowledge and smile or wave. Some would give us weird looks, but most of them were very nice and polite. They are really nice people. The kids were hilarious...they would walk by and we'd say hello in Korean and they would wave and smile or say it back to us. A couple of kids would make these confused faces hahahaa. One kid, i think was still learning how to walk...we said hello and he looked at us and then fell down. OOPS! Another one was crying in the stroller, heard us, stopped crying and just stared at us. The cutest one heard us...ran away...came back to us and then ran away again. The next thing confused us a lot...we saw a dog fully dressed with a green dyed tail...what was that all about? I took a picture of that, but not that well. Another one had a pink dyed tail...what the heck? That dog even had some fancy booties for it's paws...almost looked like stilettos? (sp?) Isn't that animal cruelty?
SEARCH FOR TV STATIONS
In this area was also SBS, KBS and MBC. We went looking for them. Des is really good at reading maps. I couldn't figure out if one the stations was there or not. Des told me it was the one under construction, but I asked someone anyway to verify. Des was right of course...she's rarely wrong with a map in her hand. Aigoo...bad Sam. SBS had moved to Mokdong... We went to KBS, which was high security too..no one was getting in there without a pass. It was then I realized I had dropped the camera case somewhere! TT____TT We retraced our steps, but couldn't find it. >_< I owe Josie a new camera case. We went through Yeouido Park which was very nice and full of green and scenery. We walked/ran across a lot of streets. Finally made it to MBC and took the pics. We ate some mandoo from a vendor. They were sooooo good. Took a picture of 63 building. I can visit it next year...yes, I am DEFINITELY COMING BACK NEXT YEAR! Other than that we pretty much visited the whole island we were on. Good on us. Took the subway back to Myeong-dong without being accosted..ahahaha
Home again, home again
Got some take-out of ramen, gimbap and duk bokki...I love that stuff and headed back. We were both really tired. Up the hill we went. Des was wearing sneakers, so not in pain like yesterday. She thinks she can live here, I agree. We are both amazed at how ppl pull off some of these outfits. They mix some unique clothes together and boldly walk outdoors without a second thought. There are things they wear here that would grant them strange looks in Toronto.
We got back and talked to Robin, who works here. I overheard him say the other day that he drank 10 bottles of soju. What the heck? That's a lot of alcohol. I told him I like the bomb drink (when they take a shooter of soju and drop it into a glass of beer) He says he can drink 9 before he gets drunk and can't remember anything. Des and I have a date with the soju tent her last night in Korea. But that hill...uhhh dunno how we're going to climb that drunk. Maybe we'll drink some in the tent and buy more to drink in the guesthouse. There's a soju tent right at the bottom of the hill next to the subway station. Robin says he can recommend some good places to us. Don't worry everyone, we'll be responsible.
For those of you who are wondering...we have not soju-ed up, b/c we've been too darn busy. Everyday we are out there late adventuring around Seoul. We've had our share of beer, but soju awaits. The best things are worth waiting for right?
There are so many ppl coming and going here it's hard to keep track. We just met a Korean girl who is Swedish. She was adopted and just met her dad. Her name is Louise. At first when we heard her talk (we didn't see her) we thought she was caucasian. She talked us up and we listened to her. She staying here for a month. I met some other Singapore girls too. This morning I met girls from HK. Man...I can't keep track of all of these names? Can everyone get a number for a name?
It's 8:00pm right now...morning for the north americans..man, I get so confused with the days and times here. There are many things to see and do here. I don't think I'll get everything done, so next year it is! I think I'm due for a nap soon. I'm currently fighting some insect. Yesterday I fought with a small fly and I swear it scratched my nose. I have a small scratch..booo...it wasn't me...I cut my nails...that darned fly is vengeful. Ok, now I'm just wasting space....I'm off to relax and listen to some music, maybe watch some k-tv.
Until the next read,
Sam
originally written: Apr 12, 2006
Cherry Blossom Festival =) and Hangang Riverside Park (Yeouido)
Even though Des and I already saw a street of cherry blossoms, we wanted to go to the Cherry Blossom Festival at Yunjungno Street. There are 1,400 cherry blossom trees there, so we walked A WHOLE LOT! Beside us was the Hangang Riverside Park (Yeouido) and the Han River. We bought some gimbap and ate it while we walked. We passed by this place that was giving out free bottles of water. Des asked me to pass her one so I did and then I looked at the guy and indicated I would like 1 more bottle and he gave me two. hahaha... Des just laughed at me and I gave her the extra bottle. It was nice just walking at our own pace...
National Assembly Memorial Hall
We weren't exactly sure what this place was at first b/c there was no English sign and a guard at the open gate. Everyone else was going in and out, so we went in too. There was lots of information and video of protests and other stuff. We didn't stay too long though, b/c we couldn't read the info. We also walked by the National Assembly itself. Huge!!
MEN IN UNIFORM!!
The whole time we've been here, I keep bugging Des about how I want to take a picture with men in uniform. I thought it would be fun. While we were doing the cherry blossom walk, we saw a whole bunch of them. I started to chicken out, so we walked in between them and then stopped by the curb to look up "Can we take a picture with you" or something to that extent in our phrase books. Suddenly a couple of them came up to us. One of them, who was quite good looking, asked me if I speak Korean. I told him only a little bit in English and I made the hand sign for little bit. His friend asked in English if they could take a picture with us. I told him of course. Des was smiling and laughing. So 2-4 guys huddled around us and next thing we knew, all of them came. There were about 21 of them! ahhahaah....so they surrounded us and took the picture. They were really energetic and happy.^^ I got them to take a picture with my camera too. lol..They kept thanking us and the one who talked to us shook both of our hands. Des said to me later that when he asked if we spoke Korean, she thought, "For you baby, I will speak Korean"...ahahahhaa...lmao. That was the highlight of the day. Des and I will be hanging in an army room somewhere in Korea. Those guys were insane. They'd walk in formation and then break off really quickly for photo ops with trees, mascots, etc. Des also took a picture of me with two guards...ahhaha we tried to read "take a picture" from our books but I think they understood our English.
The Elderly, the Cutest Kids Ever, and Dogs with DYED tails?!
We people watched for a while, sitting on the curb. We would say "an nyoung haseyo" to the elderly and bow our heads. Most of them would acknowledge and smile or wave. Some would give us weird looks, but most of them were very nice and polite. They are really nice people. The kids were hilarious...they would walk by and we'd say hello in Korean and they would wave and smile or say it back to us. A couple of kids would make these confused faces hahahaa. One kid, i think was still learning how to walk...we said hello and he looked at us and then fell down. OOPS! Another one was crying in the stroller, heard us, stopped crying and just stared at us. The cutest one heard us...ran away...came back to us and then ran away again. The next thing confused us a lot...we saw a dog fully dressed with a green dyed tail...what was that all about? I took a picture of that, but not that well. Another one had a pink dyed tail...what the heck? That dog even had some fancy booties for it's paws...almost looked like stilettos? (sp?) Isn't that animal cruelty?
SEARCH FOR TV STATIONS
In this area was also SBS, KBS and MBC. We went looking for them. Des is really good at reading maps. I couldn't figure out if one the stations was there or not. Des told me it was the one under construction, but I asked someone anyway to verify. Des was right of course...she's rarely wrong with a map in her hand. Aigoo...bad Sam. SBS had moved to Mokdong... We went to KBS, which was high security too..no one was getting in there without a pass. It was then I realized I had dropped the camera case somewhere! TT____TT We retraced our steps, but couldn't find it. >_< I owe Josie a new camera case. We went through Yeouido Park which was very nice and full of green and scenery. We walked/ran across a lot of streets. Finally made it to MBC and took the pics. We ate some mandoo from a vendor. They were sooooo good. Took a picture of 63 building. I can visit it next year...yes, I am DEFINITELY COMING BACK NEXT YEAR! Other than that we pretty much visited the whole island we were on. Good on us. Took the subway back to Myeong-dong without being accosted..ahahaha
Home again, home again
Got some take-out of ramen, gimbap and duk bokki...I love that stuff and headed back. We were both really tired. Up the hill we went. Des was wearing sneakers, so not in pain like yesterday. She thinks she can live here, I agree. We are both amazed at how ppl pull off some of these outfits. They mix some unique clothes together and boldly walk outdoors without a second thought. There are things they wear here that would grant them strange looks in Toronto.
We got back and talked to Robin, who works here. I overheard him say the other day that he drank 10 bottles of soju. What the heck? That's a lot of alcohol. I told him I like the bomb drink (when they take a shooter of soju and drop it into a glass of beer) He says he can drink 9 before he gets drunk and can't remember anything. Des and I have a date with the soju tent her last night in Korea. But that hill...uhhh dunno how we're going to climb that drunk. Maybe we'll drink some in the tent and buy more to drink in the guesthouse. There's a soju tent right at the bottom of the hill next to the subway station. Robin says he can recommend some good places to us. Don't worry everyone, we'll be responsible.
For those of you who are wondering...we have not soju-ed up, b/c we've been too darn busy. Everyday we are out there late adventuring around Seoul. We've had our share of beer, but soju awaits. The best things are worth waiting for right?
There are so many ppl coming and going here it's hard to keep track. We just met a Korean girl who is Swedish. She was adopted and just met her dad. Her name is Louise. At first when we heard her talk (we didn't see her) we thought she was caucasian. She talked us up and we listened to her. She staying here for a month. I met some other Singapore girls too. This morning I met girls from HK. Man...I can't keep track of all of these names? Can everyone get a number for a name?
It's 8:00pm right now...morning for the north americans..man, I get so confused with the days and times here. There are many things to see and do here. I don't think I'll get everything done, so next year it is! I think I'm due for a nap soon. I'm currently fighting some insect. Yesterday I fought with a small fly and I swear it scratched my nose. I have a small scratch..booo...it wasn't me...I cut my nails...that darned fly is vengeful. Ok, now I'm just wasting space....I'm off to relax and listen to some music, maybe watch some k-tv.
Until the next read,
Sam
originally written: Apr 12, 2006
4th installment: Who's pregnant? What's on fire?
I talked to Dad last night. I always seem to miss him. Talking to him made me miss all of you more. Sure I have lots of fun here, but when I buy something or see certain things, it reminds me of home. Bo go ship po T___T, but I will see you all soon. Thanks to those who read through these long things. Maybe I can publish this as a travel journal something...I probably have to fix the English though right?
Very late last night I overheard some girls talking about how they were from Singapore, so I started talking to them. One of them is from a forum I'm on, so I think we will try to hang out a bit! Also, we made friends with Ben and Ai from Thailand and we made plans to meet up and go shopping.
This morning we changed rooms, b/c we had originally reserved a twin bed room, but they only had a double available for our first two days. Des and I usually wake up b/w 10am and 12pm, so this morning I woke up early b/c I was meeting Ben and Ai for 9:30am. I checked downstairs and they needed us to clear the room before 12pm, so I woke Des up. I give her props...b/c she wasn't even gonna come out with us, but we packed crazy fast and moved into the new room. Des took a shower and changed superfast so she could come with us. We rode the subway and made two transfers. We've noticed ppl stare at us more when we are on the escalators...
WHO'S PREGNANT?
When the subway came, Des and I noticed some empty seats so we sat down. Ben gave me a funny look so I looked at the window behind me. The sign read "SEATS RESERVED FOR THE ELDERLY, DISABLED OR PREGNANT WOMEN." I was so embarassed...I quickly pointed it out to Des and we started laughing. She rubbed her leg..(it was really hurting) and I pretended to injure her. haha...in the end we both left that area and a man made room for us on one of the long seats. He started talking to us and he was very nice.
APGUJEONG & SM ENTERTAINMENT
Today we went to Apgujeong to see the shopping and look for SM Entertainment building. We finally got there and it was nothing I expected! It was a yellow building covered in grafitti! Yikes @_@ We took pictures anyway and there was a lady outside with a stack of BoA cds and I was going to ask her if we could have a tour around or just take a picture in the lobby, but that place is high security! There were cameras everywhere and the lady had to punch in some numbers and get her fingerprint read. I was so tempted to just run in, but I don't think getting arrested would be a good thing. Forgot to mention that Des' heel got stuck in the sidewalk and her bare foot actually hit the pavement..hahahaa...it actually happened more than once.
MCDEATH OR ADVENTURE?
Des and Ben wanted McDeath..(McDonald's) but Ai and I said no way..so we went to a small restaurant that had no pictures of the food and no romanized english letters..ahahha...I got to use a lot of korean there..especially trying to tell them that Ai doesn't eat meat. hahaha...I think I looked up "meat" and then said "no"...ahahah. She ended up with gimbap (like sushi). Des and I were flipping through those phrase books real fast!! We ended up ordering gimbap, bi bim bap, bulgogi and chicken soup. At the end of the meal I got the waiter's attention using what Justin and Jimmy taught us and also asked for the bill. YAY! Ben paid for all the food.
SAM'S MONEY ALLERGY & KYOBO BOOKSTORE
We found another cd store with more good prices...ppl...I swear that extra luggage is strictly cds/dvds and mellers' stuff. I bought a lot of stuff from there and the lady gave me 5 shinhwa posters, a BoA poster and also a DBSK one. How nice! I have also discovered that I've bought a whole new wardrobe...what the heck?!?!? Josie I think I can give you a run for your money in shopping now! Everything I bought actually fit me cuz I tried them on today. AND I'M STILL ON BUDGET! Shweeeet! Anyway back to the story...we looked around and then went back to the subway to hit the big bookstore. I think it's name is Kyobo. I found that Super Junior magazine and some other mags...and some of them came with posters. =D This guy kept openly staring at Des and me. He stood there until we acknowledged him and then he smile and left...weird... By now poor Des was ready to limp with her pretty heeled sandals.
BEING ACCOSTED
On our way back, some older man just came up and started talking to us. He was asking us where we were from and he kept on looking at me with this big smile. Then he kept on squeezing the back of my arm and saying how beautiful I was in Korean. He said my face looked Chinese and so pretty... Jebus...I moved away from him fast and smiled politely but he just kept coming closer. So I tried not to be rude and kept asking the others which station we had to get to. I kind of bowed my head and we walked off. YIPES T____T Des has mentioned that I have a pan-asian look...must be true...b/c ppl talk to me in Korean thinking I'm Korean, some of the Japanese guests here talked to me in Japanese and Ben thought I was Japanese too. In Singapore, ppl thought I was a local too. Has my face changed?!?!?!? =P
FREE ORANGES
Ai wanted to get some strawberries. She wants to take them back to Thailand, but I don't think they'll let her. While she was buying the owner gave each of us a free orange and encouraged us to eat them. OMG...they are so good and sweet!! We told them they were so good and he gave us each another one. Well that man has good customer service, so I bought a whole bag from him for 3,000 won.
AI UNNIE
We climbed back up that darn hill to home and Ai and I went on a quick shopping trip for her stuff. She is so nice and she and Ben offered to take us around in Thailand if we visit. I had bought both of them a magazine at the bookstore, so when we got back to Namsan, she pulled out all these accessories from Thailand. She said she wanted to give me presents so she gave me a bracelet and necklace and her two rings. She said she was happy to be my unnie. <-(older sister). She really didn't want to leave, but she had to. I hope to stay in touch with her. ^^
WHAT'S ON FIRE?
So after Des took a nap and I worked on this long email, we went for food. We decided to go to one of the vendor/restaurant places near where we're staying. We had rice cake, chicken skewers, fried dumpling, other rice cake thingies and soup. FOR THE LOVE OF ALL THAT IS SACRED!!! We thought the chicken had a sweet glaze on it...no it was this brown glaze with chilli peppers underneath it. Both of us were "Mool ju se yo-ing" (water please). Our eyes were watering and our lips were burning. I had some at each end of my mouth I thought I had burned dimples into the side of my mouth. We asked them for radish. BLESS THE PERSON WHO MADE PICKLED RADISH! Des, who was cold earlier, by then, was ready to strip. IT'S GETTING HOT IN HERE, SO TAKE OFF ALL YOUR CLOTHES...literally. It was such good food, but my tongue was going to fall off~
We are now doing laundry, so I have time to finish this email. The guy at the GS25 (convenience store) knows us by face now. We got more drinks. I swear I better have really nice, sexy legs after all the uphills we've been doing and all the subway steps...plus the sweating we did in Singapore.
Miss you muchly,
-Sam
p.s. I forgot to mention the pic I took of those guys yesterday is not that clear..sorry! I also took a pic of these baseball players who were training by running down the stairs of the mountain
originally written: Apr 11, 2006
Very late last night I overheard some girls talking about how they were from Singapore, so I started talking to them. One of them is from a forum I'm on, so I think we will try to hang out a bit! Also, we made friends with Ben and Ai from Thailand and we made plans to meet up and go shopping.
This morning we changed rooms, b/c we had originally reserved a twin bed room, but they only had a double available for our first two days. Des and I usually wake up b/w 10am and 12pm, so this morning I woke up early b/c I was meeting Ben and Ai for 9:30am. I checked downstairs and they needed us to clear the room before 12pm, so I woke Des up. I give her props...b/c she wasn't even gonna come out with us, but we packed crazy fast and moved into the new room. Des took a shower and changed superfast so she could come with us. We rode the subway and made two transfers. We've noticed ppl stare at us more when we are on the escalators...
WHO'S PREGNANT?
When the subway came, Des and I noticed some empty seats so we sat down. Ben gave me a funny look so I looked at the window behind me. The sign read "SEATS RESERVED FOR THE ELDERLY, DISABLED OR PREGNANT WOMEN." I was so embarassed...I quickly pointed it out to Des and we started laughing. She rubbed her leg..(it was really hurting) and I pretended to injure her. haha...in the end we both left that area and a man made room for us on one of the long seats. He started talking to us and he was very nice.
APGUJEONG & SM ENTERTAINMENT
Today we went to Apgujeong to see the shopping and look for SM Entertainment building. We finally got there and it was nothing I expected! It was a yellow building covered in grafitti! Yikes @_@ We took pictures anyway and there was a lady outside with a stack of BoA cds and I was going to ask her if we could have a tour around or just take a picture in the lobby, but that place is high security! There were cameras everywhere and the lady had to punch in some numbers and get her fingerprint read. I was so tempted to just run in, but I don't think getting arrested would be a good thing. Forgot to mention that Des' heel got stuck in the sidewalk and her bare foot actually hit the pavement..hahahaa...it actually happened more than once.
MCDEATH OR ADVENTURE?
Des and Ben wanted McDeath..(McDonald's) but Ai and I said no way..so we went to a small restaurant that had no pictures of the food and no romanized english letters..ahahha...I got to use a lot of korean there..especially trying to tell them that Ai doesn't eat meat. hahaha...I think I looked up "meat" and then said "no"...ahahah. She ended up with gimbap (like sushi). Des and I were flipping through those phrase books real fast!! We ended up ordering gimbap, bi bim bap, bulgogi and chicken soup. At the end of the meal I got the waiter's attention using what Justin and Jimmy taught us and also asked for the bill. YAY! Ben paid for all the food.
SAM'S MONEY ALLERGY & KYOBO BOOKSTORE
We found another cd store with more good prices...ppl...I swear that extra luggage is strictly cds/dvds and mellers' stuff. I bought a lot of stuff from there and the lady gave me 5 shinhwa posters, a BoA poster and also a DBSK one. How nice! I have also discovered that I've bought a whole new wardrobe...what the heck?!?!? Josie I think I can give you a run for your money in shopping now! Everything I bought actually fit me cuz I tried them on today. AND I'M STILL ON BUDGET! Shweeeet! Anyway back to the story...we looked around and then went back to the subway to hit the big bookstore. I think it's name is Kyobo. I found that Super Junior magazine and some other mags...and some of them came with posters. =D This guy kept openly staring at Des and me. He stood there until we acknowledged him and then he smile and left...weird... By now poor Des was ready to limp with her pretty heeled sandals.
BEING ACCOSTED
On our way back, some older man just came up and started talking to us. He was asking us where we were from and he kept on looking at me with this big smile. Then he kept on squeezing the back of my arm and saying how beautiful I was in Korean. He said my face looked Chinese and so pretty... Jebus...I moved away from him fast and smiled politely but he just kept coming closer. So I tried not to be rude and kept asking the others which station we had to get to. I kind of bowed my head and we walked off. YIPES T____T Des has mentioned that I have a pan-asian look...must be true...b/c ppl talk to me in Korean thinking I'm Korean, some of the Japanese guests here talked to me in Japanese and Ben thought I was Japanese too. In Singapore, ppl thought I was a local too. Has my face changed?!?!?!? =P
FREE ORANGES
Ai wanted to get some strawberries. She wants to take them back to Thailand, but I don't think they'll let her. While she was buying the owner gave each of us a free orange and encouraged us to eat them. OMG...they are so good and sweet!! We told them they were so good and he gave us each another one. Well that man has good customer service, so I bought a whole bag from him for 3,000 won.
AI UNNIE
We climbed back up that darn hill to home and Ai and I went on a quick shopping trip for her stuff. She is so nice and she and Ben offered to take us around in Thailand if we visit. I had bought both of them a magazine at the bookstore, so when we got back to Namsan, she pulled out all these accessories from Thailand. She said she wanted to give me presents so she gave me a bracelet and necklace and her two rings. She said she was happy to be my unnie. <-(older sister). She really didn't want to leave, but she had to. I hope to stay in touch with her. ^^
WHAT'S ON FIRE?
So after Des took a nap and I worked on this long email, we went for food. We decided to go to one of the vendor/restaurant places near where we're staying. We had rice cake, chicken skewers, fried dumpling, other rice cake thingies and soup. FOR THE LOVE OF ALL THAT IS SACRED!!! We thought the chicken had a sweet glaze on it...no it was this brown glaze with chilli peppers underneath it. Both of us were "Mool ju se yo-ing" (water please). Our eyes were watering and our lips were burning. I had some at each end of my mouth I thought I had burned dimples into the side of my mouth. We asked them for radish. BLESS THE PERSON WHO MADE PICKLED RADISH! Des, who was cold earlier, by then, was ready to strip. IT'S GETTING HOT IN HERE, SO TAKE OFF ALL YOUR CLOTHES...literally. It was such good food, but my tongue was going to fall off~
We are now doing laundry, so I have time to finish this email. The guy at the GS25 (convenience store) knows us by face now. We got more drinks. I swear I better have really nice, sexy legs after all the uphills we've been doing and all the subway steps...plus the sweating we did in Singapore.
Miss you muchly,
-Sam
p.s. I forgot to mention the pic I took of those guys yesterday is not that clear..sorry! I also took a pic of these baseball players who were training by running down the stairs of the mountain
originally written: Apr 11, 2006
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