Seoul Mates
Korea has been one of those places that I have always been told to go. But it occurred to us when we landed, we didn't actually know what to see or do here. All that changed when we stepped off the subway, and enter the city of Seoul. We found a Hotel in the Hongdae district, widely know for the University that's there. It came recommended as a young, hip area to hang out, eat and drink and did not disappoint.
I've been trying to think of how to describe this city to you, how to capture the liveliness and jubilance. But it's as simple as a feeling, and after 2 weeks in Japan, I realized what I had been missing... FUN. A little messy, a little wild, a late night, laid back, all out, fun place to hang. The people look you in the eye and smile. And within -I kid you not- 30 mins of walking around, a little girl, maybe 7 tops, stops her mom on the sidewalk and looks at us. (In Japan this was common, but because you actually felt like the kids had never seen tall white people before) But this little lady, marches over to us, dragging her mother by the hand, and in perfect English says "Are you from America?" the 4 of us all giggle, and I respond "YES!" She tells us she had heard our voices and just knew we must be, and wanted to say hello in English.
And just like that Korea welcomed us with silly, sweet, open arms.
Most of the few days spent here turned out to be rest. Jumping around Japan had us exhausted, and our quiet room with a view of the city was a perfect place to sleep in and laze about. We did however, take full advantage of the delicious eats, and wild night life. Staying mostly in our cozy area, during the day the coffee shops and clothing stores were around every turn. But the streets became packed at night, filled with music and costumes, balloons and college kids. It was easy to have a blast.
The food culture here is a world on to its own. These guys love to eat and drink. Everything from weird snack foods to Korean BBQ on every street. The have carved out a niche that is so unique and delicious, and caters to the night life- most places not even opening until 7 or 8pm and staying open to the wee hours.
After what felt like a blink, our time in Seoul is over. This lively place has left a stamp on not only my passport, but my heart. Rest assured I will be back- with a bigger suitcase next time.
It's on to Vietnam now- to warm up and slow down.