Last night was a bit of a bore do to all the rain. However I meta New Zealand couple at my hotel and we just chilled and drank some beers on the rooftop of our hotel. After that the rain had subsided so we went out for a bit and just walked around , good times.
Today woke up had some breakast and then went to the Independence Palace which has been preserved very well and you feel like you are in the 60's/70's. After that I headed to the War Museum whcih was very moving and made me realize what we had done over here. Came back to the hotel and relaxed. Now just have to kill some time before i head to the airport.
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
Last stop Saigon
Tuesday morning woke up and didnt even think about taking a shower in my bathroom. Went downstairs with my stuff checked out and got some Pho for breakfast. After that waited for the bus. They came around 830 met a Korean family and also a girl from Jersey. It took about 2 hours to get to the tunnels. This is where the Americans battled the Vietcong who made basically an underground city. It was very interesting to see the work that they were able to accomplish at night. Also, got to shoot an AK47 and go through some tunnels. After the tour headed back to the city where i was on a mission to find another hotel.
First looked again at Hotel 64 which was booked and there other branches were booked too, however she said that she owned another hotel with a different name right across the street from Hotel 127. So I went to look at that and it looked fine at first, charging 15 dollars with AC. So i said okay, went to grab my stuff from the other hotel, but first had a tasty doner kebab. Finally came back to the new hotel i was staying in, put my bags in the room and attempted to put on the AC. Of course it didnt work. So at this point i just wanted to take a shower, since it has been a couple days. Got into the bathroom and about to turn the shower on and notice that there are ants everywhere. This is just unacceptable to me especially if you are charging 15, which is sort of a high price considering the location i was in. So i have had enough of these shitty hotels where i dont feel comfortable in. I got my bags and left. Came back down the main road, found an actual looking hotel went inside and asked how much. They told me 18 for a mini room so i went to see it, yes it is small, but it is clean, which is what i need at this point in my trip. So i took it, the price includes breakfast and dinner. Tonight is my last night inVietnam before heading back to Korea tomorrow night at midnight.
What a journey it has been.
First looked again at Hotel 64 which was booked and there other branches were booked too, however she said that she owned another hotel with a different name right across the street from Hotel 127. So I went to look at that and it looked fine at first, charging 15 dollars with AC. So i said okay, went to grab my stuff from the other hotel, but first had a tasty doner kebab. Finally came back to the new hotel i was staying in, put my bags in the room and attempted to put on the AC. Of course it didnt work. So at this point i just wanted to take a shower, since it has been a couple days. Got into the bathroom and about to turn the shower on and notice that there are ants everywhere. This is just unacceptable to me especially if you are charging 15, which is sort of a high price considering the location i was in. So i have had enough of these shitty hotels where i dont feel comfortable in. I got my bags and left. Came back down the main road, found an actual looking hotel went inside and asked how much. They told me 18 for a mini room so i went to see it, yes it is small, but it is clean, which is what i need at this point in my trip. So i took it, the price includes breakfast and dinner. Tonight is my last night inVietnam before heading back to Korea tomorrow night at midnight.
What a journey it has been.
Mui Ne
The bus experience is a trip itself. A sleeper bus is something that i would not recommend to anyone unless they have to. Not only is that uncomfortable but the way people drive here is just insane. There are no rules. It is usually a one lane road so the bus always goes on to oncoming traffic and seems to nearly hit a car everytime it passes. But i guess they have an unwritten rule and respect each other because i have not seen an accident. Also, the horn is something i could live without. They use it in a totally different way than Americans do. There is no road rage here and the horn does not mean you did something wrong or someone is mad at you. It is just to say that i am passing you or just to warn people that they are coming and to move out of the way. Even though this seems polite and good, it is nonstop honking beeping, etc.
So anyway got to Mui Ne around 2 and it was a bit overcast and drizzling and since i only had a day and a half I had no time to waste. Checked in the hotel they dropped us off at and then rented a motor bike to go see the red and white sand dunes. The red sand dunes were 15 km away on apparently the one road every hotel is on. But what the front desk guy failed to tell me is that it is one street name and that you have to make some left and right turns along the way. So it took me a while to find my way, but eventually it was a great success. I arrived at the sand dunes and it was stunning even with out blue sky. All these viet children were coming up to me and asking if i wanted to slide down for a ridicuoulus price, so i haggled and eventually did it. After i witnessed the red i moved onto to the white which was another 30 km away, but well were the travel. It was just serene, absolutely gorgeous. You could see in the distance the red and white meet there was a lake behind the dunes as well. Very peaceful.
After those dunes I headed back to the hotel to take a shower and then get some food at a local restaurant right by the ocean. Had some fresh grilled prawn and grilled mackered. Ended up meeting some Israeli's who just finished the army. So we hung out for the night. I also ran into my dutch sapa guys as well. It was a fun night with my holy people. Got the scoop on the ship ordeal and what really happened.
A side note, russian people are awful at english and ask the strangest questions. I was at dinner and they asked me if President Reagan was still alive?
The next morning i woke up and headed to find the spring that had a mixture of red and white sand, with a stream running down the middle. Another beautiful area. A kid took me around for 2 dollars. I also ended up meeting some korean women and they noticed my bagpack with Ding Ding Dang on it. Pretty funny. After that i drove around the city a little bit more saw some views then headed back to my hotel to check out to head to Saigon.
Thankfully, they took me off the sleeper and put me on a regular bus. Another interesting thing about the bus is that they segregate the vietnamese from the westerners. They put us in the back. Pretty funny. This trip again was crazy, with crazy drivers. The roads are also not the best so very bumpy. Got to Saigon at 730Pm looked for the hotel my brother stayed in found it and they were charging 16 a night which i thought was insane, until he told me a day later that he paid 14. However, i moved on to find a cheaper one and i did, which was not a great idea. 10 dollars a night for a very uncomfortable living situation. Did not feel good about it however, i was going to stick it out for the night because i had a tour the next morning to the Cu Chi tunnels and the bus would pick me up there. So I checked in had some dinner and then just wondered the streets for a little. Ended up meeting an Austrain guy on the street and we had some drinks and talked about our travels. He got an around the world ticket and has been on the road for a couple months. After the drinks headed back to my hotel and attempted to sleep.
So anyway got to Mui Ne around 2 and it was a bit overcast and drizzling and since i only had a day and a half I had no time to waste. Checked in the hotel they dropped us off at and then rented a motor bike to go see the red and white sand dunes. The red sand dunes were 15 km away on apparently the one road every hotel is on. But what the front desk guy failed to tell me is that it is one street name and that you have to make some left and right turns along the way. So it took me a while to find my way, but eventually it was a great success. I arrived at the sand dunes and it was stunning even with out blue sky. All these viet children were coming up to me and asking if i wanted to slide down for a ridicuoulus price, so i haggled and eventually did it. After i witnessed the red i moved onto to the white which was another 30 km away, but well were the travel. It was just serene, absolutely gorgeous. You could see in the distance the red and white meet there was a lake behind the dunes as well. Very peaceful.
After those dunes I headed back to the hotel to take a shower and then get some food at a local restaurant right by the ocean. Had some fresh grilled prawn and grilled mackered. Ended up meeting some Israeli's who just finished the army. So we hung out for the night. I also ran into my dutch sapa guys as well. It was a fun night with my holy people. Got the scoop on the ship ordeal and what really happened.
A side note, russian people are awful at english and ask the strangest questions. I was at dinner and they asked me if President Reagan was still alive?
The next morning i woke up and headed to find the spring that had a mixture of red and white sand, with a stream running down the middle. Another beautiful area. A kid took me around for 2 dollars. I also ended up meeting some korean women and they noticed my bagpack with Ding Ding Dang on it. Pretty funny. After that i drove around the city a little bit more saw some views then headed back to my hotel to check out to head to Saigon.
Thankfully, they took me off the sleeper and put me on a regular bus. Another interesting thing about the bus is that they segregate the vietnamese from the westerners. They put us in the back. Pretty funny. This trip again was crazy, with crazy drivers. The roads are also not the best so very bumpy. Got to Saigon at 730Pm looked for the hotel my brother stayed in found it and they were charging 16 a night which i thought was insane, until he told me a day later that he paid 14. However, i moved on to find a cheaper one and i did, which was not a great idea. 10 dollars a night for a very uncomfortable living situation. Did not feel good about it however, i was going to stick it out for the night because i had a tour the next morning to the Cu Chi tunnels and the bus would pick me up there. So I checked in had some dinner and then just wondered the streets for a little. Ended up meeting an Austrain guy on the street and we had some drinks and talked about our travels. He got an around the world ticket and has been on the road for a couple months. After the drinks headed back to my hotel and attempted to sleep.
Nha Trang 24th
The night before was a crazy one with my German friends. Started out at a bar right near our hostel and then headed to the Sailing club which was on the beach. It was a lot of fun. Writing on people, hker
Next day woke up around 12 or so and noticed it was raining and overcast outside. So we decided to get something to eat and then we walked around before going to the beach. It had stopped raining and it was a good temperature for the beach, so we just relaxed for hours or at least tried to because you get pestered every moment from someone trying to sell you something. After the beach we headed back to the hotel and saw another one of our Sapa pals who had just arrived.
We ended up going out to dinner with him and 2 of the other people from our Sapa trip. So it was 6 of us from the Sapa trip out to dinner which was pretty cool. After dinner went to the same bar and had a few drinks because I had to be up at the crack of dawn to catch the bus to Mui Ne.
Next day woke up around 12 or so and noticed it was raining and overcast outside. So we decided to get something to eat and then we walked around before going to the beach. It had stopped raining and it was a good temperature for the beach, so we just relaxed for hours or at least tried to because you get pestered every moment from someone trying to sell you something. After the beach we headed back to the hotel and saw another one of our Sapa pals who had just arrived.
We ended up going out to dinner with him and 2 of the other people from our Sapa trip. So it was 6 of us from the Sapa trip out to dinner which was pretty cool. After dinner went to the same bar and had a few drinks because I had to be up at the crack of dawn to catch the bus to Mui Ne.
Friday, July 23, 2010
Hoi An to Nha Trang 22 and 23rd
So Thursday woke up, ate breakfast and checked out of my hotel. At 11 met up with my German boys to eat some more food. While they went to Marble mountain I said goodbye to my tailors and walked around the old city for a bit. Started feeling pretty bad again so went back to the htoel and just relaxed as much as I could. Tried to eat, but couldnt eat that much. 5pm came and the van took me to the bus. The sleeper bus came at 6 and my first bed was not very comfortable. Could not stretch out the whole way. So i moved to another bed on top but this time my thighs to my toes were covered so i couldnt really move. Was not satisified so i moved again to the front of the bus on top where I had plenty of room and nothing covered. So i finally got some sleep.
Arrived in Nha trang around 630 and started to look for hotels. Found the place that me and the germans were supposed to meet could not find them so bookled a private room and an islan tour for the day. An hour later the Germans pop up and they got a room for the 3 of us. And they were going to join me on the island tour. Tour started at 830 and we were with all asian people, pretty funny site. Went to 4 different islands. The first stop was the aquariam, the next snorkeling, after that some lunch on the boat, and the 4th relax on the island. In between the islands music was playing and at one point a band was playing and made everyone sing and dance. Good times, and hopefully they keep on coming.
Arrived in Nha trang around 630 and started to look for hotels. Found the place that me and the germans were supposed to meet could not find them so bookled a private room and an islan tour for the day. An hour later the Germans pop up and they got a room for the 3 of us. And they were going to join me on the island tour. Tour started at 830 and we were with all asian people, pretty funny site. Went to 4 different islands. The first stop was the aquariam, the next snorkeling, after that some lunch on the boat, and the 4th relax on the island. In between the islands music was playing and at one point a band was playing and made everyone sing and dance. Good times, and hopefully they keep on coming.
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
Hoi An 20 and 21st
So Tuesday I woke up around 10 ate some breakfast and then rented just a regular bike for the day. It was another beautiful day in Hoi An.
My first stop was the shoe store and then the suit store for another fitting. The shoes fit perfectly so they just needed to touch them up a bit, and the Suit and tux jacket were great, but the pants still needed a little work. After my fitting had some lunch at a Pho place then went back to the hotel to sit by the pool for the day. I sat at the pool from about 11:30 till 3:30. It was very nice, however the sun tires you out so I decided to take a nap for a little so i thought. 8 hours later I woke up and it was midnight, still a little groggy so i went back to bed until 7.
Wednesday, started the day off early. Rented a motorbkike to head to marble mountain. On the way to the mountain a vietnamese woman came up beside me and started chatting to me. She was also headed there to her store so I followed her. Got to her store which was right by the entrance of the mountain. She let me park my bike there so when I came back i could buy something. Went up the mountain or should I say a really big hill, made of marble and looked at all the pagodas, temples and caves. It was really beautiful to see as well as the view from the top to see all of hoi an. After the mountain came down, found her store, she fed me some water and I bought a little something for someone, wishing happiness.
Drove back to Hoi An, took a dip in the pool then went back to my suit and shoe store to try everything on one more time. Everything fit, so they packed everything up, put it on my bike and went back to the hotel.
After that had lunch, then headed to the beach a little. It was very hot and was a little bored with my bike parked just a little ways away. So i hopped on my bike and just drove for about an hour or so enjoying the views of Hoi An then into another city and beyond. Found a nice standing lady buddah. Came back, jumped in the pool again, had more food, now about to take a shower and relax some more. Man I love vacation
My first stop was the shoe store and then the suit store for another fitting. The shoes fit perfectly so they just needed to touch them up a bit, and the Suit and tux jacket were great, but the pants still needed a little work. After my fitting had some lunch at a Pho place then went back to the hotel to sit by the pool for the day. I sat at the pool from about 11:30 till 3:30. It was very nice, however the sun tires you out so I decided to take a nap for a little so i thought. 8 hours later I woke up and it was midnight, still a little groggy so i went back to bed until 7.
Wednesday, started the day off early. Rented a motorbkike to head to marble mountain. On the way to the mountain a vietnamese woman came up beside me and started chatting to me. She was also headed there to her store so I followed her. Got to her store which was right by the entrance of the mountain. She let me park my bike there so when I came back i could buy something. Went up the mountain or should I say a really big hill, made of marble and looked at all the pagodas, temples and caves. It was really beautiful to see as well as the view from the top to see all of hoi an. After the mountain came down, found her store, she fed me some water and I bought a little something for someone, wishing happiness.
Drove back to Hoi An, took a dip in the pool then went back to my suit and shoe store to try everything on one more time. Everything fit, so they packed everything up, put it on my bike and went back to the hotel.
After that had lunch, then headed to the beach a little. It was very hot and was a little bored with my bike parked just a little ways away. So i hopped on my bike and just drove for about an hour or so enjoying the views of Hoi An then into another city and beyond. Found a nice standing lady buddah. Came back, jumped in the pool again, had more food, now about to take a shower and relax some more. Man I love vacation
Monday, July 19, 2010
Hoi An 18 and 19th
So arrived in Hoi An by bus around 1 or so. The bus was alright, pretty hot at times, but I made it through. They dropped us off at a hotel that was pretty far off the main drag and they tried to convince us to get a room there. I got my bags and just started walking. My brother told me that hotels should be around 6-8 dollars, but then again that was almost 2 years ago and tourism is booming here. So I went to about 20 hotels looking for these prices or at least 10 dollars and the cheapest I could find which included air conditioning was 12 dollars. Even though this hotel was pretty far off the drag, everything is pretty close to each other and renting a motor bike for the day makes everything better. So i checked into my hotel room and started to just walk around. Looking at all the different tailors and custom made things you could do is just incredible, however, I was so going to start this endeavor tomorrow. As I was looking in a store I saw my buddies from Holland that were on the Sapa homestay with me. Got together with them. Rented motor bikes for 2 dollars for 4 hours and headed to the beach. Relaxed for a bit, and since I was unprepared had to spring for a towel. After sitting on the beach I just wanted to drive the bike, so I went on a little ride and ended up finding this secluded little beach area. I was literally the only one there, for the exception of fishing boats made of bamboo and the fishing villagers. Stayed there for about an hour or so and as I was about to leave the fisherman asked for my help to push their boats in. In was quite the experience.
Drove back to the main beach, met up with the hollanders and headed back to the bike rental shop. Dropped off the bike and i headed back to my hotel. Took a shower and then went looking for dinner. Found this place near the river, very random and ended up meeting another lonely traveler who was actually from the USA. So we ate together and talked about our travels. After dinner we went to a western bar and played pool until I got tired. A long day of traveling and adventure.
Monday
Woke up to drilling in my hotel. Wasnt very happy, but at the same time glad that I was up. Looked out the window and could see that it was blue sky and the sun shining, nice! Ate some breakfast put on my swimtrunks and rented a bike near my hotel for just 3 dollars for the whole day. My first order of business was to get some suits made. I went to Yaly's which my bro recommended and the prices were very expensive, so I went to this other place called Peace, which is a lady who worked at Yaly's for 15 or so years and opened up her own shop. I picked out what i wanted, a gray suit and a black tux, and a few shirts. She measured every part of my body and after that I was finished. Then she took me to this other place to get me some custome made black shoes, because why not. Then a custom made belt as well. Once all my work was done as well as there, I headed toward the beach. This time I went even further up the drag to find another semi seculded area. I was the only customer there, but there was a beach restaurant that made me buy a drink, so i bought a water to get them off my back. Stayed there for a few hours then came back to the hotel, jumped in the pool and up to my room to take a shower. As i was getting into the shower i noticed a big cockroach, so i made one of the ladies kill it. Took a shower, then went to eat something. Had an hour to kill before i had to be back for my 1st fitting of the suits, so i went to get a massage. Very nice massage with great herbs, from what she said. Whatever it felt good and thats all i care about. massage finished then went to my fittings. It was a fun process, and if you know me i dont know the first thing about suits and how they should fit. So I just had them make the decisons. All i told them was is that i like to dance so i need to be able to move. First fitting finished, go back tomorrow for the second one.
Now it is time to get some dinner and have a good ole time.
Miss everyone and see everyone soon
Drove back to the main beach, met up with the hollanders and headed back to the bike rental shop. Dropped off the bike and i headed back to my hotel. Took a shower and then went looking for dinner. Found this place near the river, very random and ended up meeting another lonely traveler who was actually from the USA. So we ate together and talked about our travels. After dinner we went to a western bar and played pool until I got tired. A long day of traveling and adventure.
Monday
Woke up to drilling in my hotel. Wasnt very happy, but at the same time glad that I was up. Looked out the window and could see that it was blue sky and the sun shining, nice! Ate some breakfast put on my swimtrunks and rented a bike near my hotel for just 3 dollars for the whole day. My first order of business was to get some suits made. I went to Yaly's which my bro recommended and the prices were very expensive, so I went to this other place called Peace, which is a lady who worked at Yaly's for 15 or so years and opened up her own shop. I picked out what i wanted, a gray suit and a black tux, and a few shirts. She measured every part of my body and after that I was finished. Then she took me to this other place to get me some custome made black shoes, because why not. Then a custom made belt as well. Once all my work was done as well as there, I headed toward the beach. This time I went even further up the drag to find another semi seculded area. I was the only customer there, but there was a beach restaurant that made me buy a drink, so i bought a water to get them off my back. Stayed there for a few hours then came back to the hotel, jumped in the pool and up to my room to take a shower. As i was getting into the shower i noticed a big cockroach, so i made one of the ladies kill it. Took a shower, then went to eat something. Had an hour to kill before i had to be back for my 1st fitting of the suits, so i went to get a massage. Very nice massage with great herbs, from what she said. Whatever it felt good and thats all i care about. massage finished then went to my fittings. It was a fun process, and if you know me i dont know the first thing about suits and how they should fit. So I just had them make the decisons. All i told them was is that i like to dance so i need to be able to move. First fitting finished, go back tomorrow for the second one.
Now it is time to get some dinner and have a good ole time.
Miss everyone and see everyone soon
Saturday, July 17, 2010
Hue in a day the 17th
The train ride was pretty easy since I have taken a couple before hand. Had a nice Holland couple in my coupe and we talked a little before I fell asleep. Woke up and saw that it was raining pretty hard. However, when I got off the train the rain had subsided to a drizzle.
I came out of the train station looking for my driver, for he was not found. Got in a taxi and pointed to where I wanted to go. He took me there and want 40,000 when is meter said 27,000. I told him to give me my change and he did. It is crazy how much these people want your money and want to screw you any way they can. It is very exhausting to constantly negotiate and make sure you are not getting ripped off. I arrived at my hotel and asked what had happened and they said they thought it would arrive at 10 when it arrived at 830. Of course, since that happened my room wasnt ready, so after talking and eating with one of the guys we made a deal for him to take me around the city for 9 dollars on his motorbike.
Left the place around 930 and started on the tour. Luckily, the rain had stopped and it was very nice weather. Not too hot and not cold. Just right for the day of touring. My first stop was a palace of some sort. Very big, but nothing too fancy. After that he drove me to a pagoda which had french influence and it was beautiful. After that he took me to the citadel; the imperial city if you will. Had an hour and half just looking around at destroyed ruins from the war. They are very big on reconstruction right now, so that took away from the experience, but still very neat. Once finished with that, we headed to lunch, where he took me to one of his spots. Awesome food for very cheap, so i paid for him.
Lunch finished and onto another pagoda. Once you have seen one you have seen them all. Wasnt too impressed and was tired of touristy things, so he took me out of Hue a little to a little village. Saw the oldest bridge in Hue made of wood. And an old lady about 82 years old explaining how to make rice. After that headed back to the hotel to relax, but to find that he had to move me next store because people in my room wanted to stay another night. So took a shower, relaxed, then went to a market that had absoluetly everything you needed. Pretty cool.
Then coming back from the market a girl stopped me to ask me questions. I had no idea why, but by the 2nd minute i could see she only wanted to practice her english, so i allowed her.
Walking back to the hotel my stomach was hungry so I wanted to try some more vietnamese food. Asked around and this elder man on a motor bike insisted for me to get on his motor bike to take me to dinner. I obliged, so we went to a corner restaurant and ate some bon cho and enjoyed each others company. He was a teacher and had some relatives in the states. It was a nice dinner until he wanted me to buy some sort of wine for 300,000 dong for him to pray to. I said no, and would pay for dinner instead. So that is what happened. He was so happy for the whole night until i said no to that. Unfortunate, how greedy these people are. I always feel pressured into doing something, which i do not like. Anyways it is night time now and about to go out for a little because my bus tomorrow is at 8am.
Next stop Hoi An
I came out of the train station looking for my driver, for he was not found. Got in a taxi and pointed to where I wanted to go. He took me there and want 40,000 when is meter said 27,000. I told him to give me my change and he did. It is crazy how much these people want your money and want to screw you any way they can. It is very exhausting to constantly negotiate and make sure you are not getting ripped off. I arrived at my hotel and asked what had happened and they said they thought it would arrive at 10 when it arrived at 830. Of course, since that happened my room wasnt ready, so after talking and eating with one of the guys we made a deal for him to take me around the city for 9 dollars on his motorbike.
Left the place around 930 and started on the tour. Luckily, the rain had stopped and it was very nice weather. Not too hot and not cold. Just right for the day of touring. My first stop was a palace of some sort. Very big, but nothing too fancy. After that he drove me to a pagoda which had french influence and it was beautiful. After that he took me to the citadel; the imperial city if you will. Had an hour and half just looking around at destroyed ruins from the war. They are very big on reconstruction right now, so that took away from the experience, but still very neat. Once finished with that, we headed to lunch, where he took me to one of his spots. Awesome food for very cheap, so i paid for him.
Lunch finished and onto another pagoda. Once you have seen one you have seen them all. Wasnt too impressed and was tired of touristy things, so he took me out of Hue a little to a little village. Saw the oldest bridge in Hue made of wood. And an old lady about 82 years old explaining how to make rice. After that headed back to the hotel to relax, but to find that he had to move me next store because people in my room wanted to stay another night. So took a shower, relaxed, then went to a market that had absoluetly everything you needed. Pretty cool.
Then coming back from the market a girl stopped me to ask me questions. I had no idea why, but by the 2nd minute i could see she only wanted to practice her english, so i allowed her.
Walking back to the hotel my stomach was hungry so I wanted to try some more vietnamese food. Asked around and this elder man on a motor bike insisted for me to get on his motor bike to take me to dinner. I obliged, so we went to a corner restaurant and ate some bon cho and enjoyed each others company. He was a teacher and had some relatives in the states. It was a nice dinner until he wanted me to buy some sort of wine for 300,000 dong for him to pray to. I said no, and would pay for dinner instead. So that is what happened. He was so happy for the whole night until i said no to that. Unfortunate, how greedy these people are. I always feel pressured into doing something, which i do not like. Anyways it is night time now and about to go out for a little because my bus tomorrow is at 8am.
Next stop Hoi An
Friday, July 16, 2010
Last Day in Hanoi July 16
So like I said in my last post got back this morning. My hotel gave me their suite for half the day to rest and take a shower. It was very nice of them. Came down to breakfast around 10 ate something and then went back upstairs to back and relax some more.
Came back down at 11 and headed out the door to the blazing heat. Walked around for a bit then started to get hungry, so I stopped in at the Pho Ga place I went when I first arrived here. Still delicious. After that walked around the whole city enjoying the views and just observing this crazy city. Definitely not a city to relax in. I would say it is a hub for Sapa and Halong bay. Once you complete those head out of here, which is what I am doing. The people try to screw you at all times even when you arent being bothered.
So I thought I had been walking around for hours but it had only been 2 so I ate some more Pho but this time Pho Bo at another delicious place. Then came back to the hotel got my book and headed to The Legend which is a bar in the center of the city. Had a beer and read for a bit. Finished the beer and the chapters then started to head back to the apartment, when a guy on a scooter offered to take me to a massage place for 15 dollars. I told him 5 and I would do it. He said 10 so i walked away. As I was walking away he said okay. I cleared the terms with him 5 dollars for everything; massage and ride to and from. We shook hands and took of to the place, where they wanted 15. So I walked out the door and said take me back to the center. He said no and took me to another place, where I got it to 6 dollars for 70 minutes. Wow what a great massage especially after the hiking.
He waited for me after the massage and took me back around my hotel. I started walking away and he started yelling at me for money for the ride. I said no we argeed to the terms he shook his head and started calling the police. Then he got a woman over who spoke a little english to translate. He wanted 40,000 which is about 2 dollars. Not much, but it is the principle of the situation. I said no, explained what happened, he wasnt having any of it. Looked like he wanted to hit me, so I gave him 25,000 and walked away.
Came back down at 11 and headed out the door to the blazing heat. Walked around for a bit then started to get hungry, so I stopped in at the Pho Ga place I went when I first arrived here. Still delicious. After that walked around the whole city enjoying the views and just observing this crazy city. Definitely not a city to relax in. I would say it is a hub for Sapa and Halong bay. Once you complete those head out of here, which is what I am doing. The people try to screw you at all times even when you arent being bothered.
So I thought I had been walking around for hours but it had only been 2 so I ate some more Pho but this time Pho Bo at another delicious place. Then came back to the hotel got my book and headed to The Legend which is a bar in the center of the city. Had a beer and read for a bit. Finished the beer and the chapters then started to head back to the apartment, when a guy on a scooter offered to take me to a massage place for 15 dollars. I told him 5 and I would do it. He said 10 so i walked away. As I was walking away he said okay. I cleared the terms with him 5 dollars for everything; massage and ride to and from. We shook hands and took of to the place, where they wanted 15. So I walked out the door and said take me back to the center. He said no and took me to another place, where I got it to 6 dollars for 70 minutes. Wow what a great massage especially after the hiking.
He waited for me after the massage and took me back around my hotel. I started walking away and he started yelling at me for money for the ride. I said no we argeed to the terms he shook his head and started calling the police. Then he got a woman over who spoke a little english to translate. He wanted 40,000 which is about 2 dollars. Not much, but it is the principle of the situation. I said no, explained what happened, he wasnt having any of it. Looked like he wanted to hit me, so I gave him 25,000 and walked away.
Thursday, July 15, 2010
July 14 in Sapa
Graphic nature so please be aware before reading:
Woke up around 830 not feeling very good. I was not ready for the long hike that I had ahead of me. The worst part was that I forgot my pills back at the hotel in Hanoi because I thought 4 days not a problem. Well a big problem. Went to breakfast, and ate some food, but nothing seemed to be staying in. Go in one end out the other. I was sort of debating whether to go because we also were doing a homestay that night. But I couldnt miss this oppurtunity so I met everyone at 930 in the lobby to depart for our adventure.
Started walking and about 20 minutes in, immediately felt pain in the belly and the urge to go. I asked Mah if there was a stop coming up and there was so I ran to the bathroom and of course it was a tourist stop so there was a line. Having to wait a little get to the bathroom to find that there was no TP. Asked around and my German friends gave me some tissue paper. Went back to the bathroom to relieve myself.
Came out of it not feeling any better and once again thought about going back, but luckily the Frecnh couple I was with had some pills and I took them. We started moving again, the weather was beautiful but the scenery was even more so. Trying to take it in the best I could. We stopped at a river where I relaxed some more and took some more of the french pills.
Then we got to a village where I relieved myself again and ate some lunch. I felt a little bit better, so that was good.
We kept moving to get to our homestay. Rice patties everywhere you turned. Just magnficient. After 12Km of trekking we finally arrived at our homestay, whcih looked too nice to be a homestay. I thought we would be sleeping on dirt floors taking showers outside and having asian toilets for bathrooms. Completely opposite, mattresses with mosquito netting around them, 1 shower and toilet. Also there were 12 others staying with us. So after we put our stuff down we went to the river to cool off. By this point my stomach seemed to be doing a lot better.
After the river came back to the house, took a shower and just relaxed as the sun went down. Met people from all over the world. At one time the table was speaking 5 or 6 different languages. People from Spain, Holland, Germany, Switzerland (german lang), USA, and of course the village people. It was very fun and great that English was the language that connected everyone. Had a great dinner with some Happy water. We all just hung out and talked till about 10:30 before I went to bed.
The next morning woke up at 5:30 not feeling very good again. Crazy, when will it end. After about 3 trips to the bathroom finally felt a bit better. Had breakfast took some more pills and then we were off for another 6km hike to the next village. Today scenery seemed like a totally different sapa. We went into the jungle a bit. It was very neat. Would recommend this trip to anyone. We arrive at the village for lunch and my friend phillipp and i decide to climb this 100 ft waterfall. Probably not the best idea, for it was very slippery even on the dry spots. At one point our shoes werent getting enough traction on the rocks. We kept sliding back down. So we had to take off our shoes and socks to get better traction. Thus we finally made it up the waterfall feeling relieved that we didnt die and accomplished something fairly diffiuclt. Came back down using the path that we saw others using and had some lunch. After lunch had to use the Asian toilet. Man, this sucks. Hike for about another 15 minutes hop in a van that took us back to Sapa City. Said thanks to our tour guide who was really great, took showers, and then departed for the train station.
Arrived near the train station where we gave our ticket vouchers to a man that was in a restuarant who then took them elsewhere to return 15 minutes later with our tickets. Very stange.
Got on the train arrived in Hanoi 8 hours later and now righting this blog.
Tonight I head to Hue which is a 12 hour train ride to the center of the country. Goodbye north.
Woke up around 830 not feeling very good. I was not ready for the long hike that I had ahead of me. The worst part was that I forgot my pills back at the hotel in Hanoi because I thought 4 days not a problem. Well a big problem. Went to breakfast, and ate some food, but nothing seemed to be staying in. Go in one end out the other. I was sort of debating whether to go because we also were doing a homestay that night. But I couldnt miss this oppurtunity so I met everyone at 930 in the lobby to depart for our adventure.
Started walking and about 20 minutes in, immediately felt pain in the belly and the urge to go. I asked Mah if there was a stop coming up and there was so I ran to the bathroom and of course it was a tourist stop so there was a line. Having to wait a little get to the bathroom to find that there was no TP. Asked around and my German friends gave me some tissue paper. Went back to the bathroom to relieve myself.
Came out of it not feeling any better and once again thought about going back, but luckily the Frecnh couple I was with had some pills and I took them. We started moving again, the weather was beautiful but the scenery was even more so. Trying to take it in the best I could. We stopped at a river where I relaxed some more and took some more of the french pills.
Then we got to a village where I relieved myself again and ate some lunch. I felt a little bit better, so that was good.
We kept moving to get to our homestay. Rice patties everywhere you turned. Just magnficient. After 12Km of trekking we finally arrived at our homestay, whcih looked too nice to be a homestay. I thought we would be sleeping on dirt floors taking showers outside and having asian toilets for bathrooms. Completely opposite, mattresses with mosquito netting around them, 1 shower and toilet. Also there were 12 others staying with us. So after we put our stuff down we went to the river to cool off. By this point my stomach seemed to be doing a lot better.
After the river came back to the house, took a shower and just relaxed as the sun went down. Met people from all over the world. At one time the table was speaking 5 or 6 different languages. People from Spain, Holland, Germany, Switzerland (german lang), USA, and of course the village people. It was very fun and great that English was the language that connected everyone. Had a great dinner with some Happy water. We all just hung out and talked till about 10:30 before I went to bed.
The next morning woke up at 5:30 not feeling very good again. Crazy, when will it end. After about 3 trips to the bathroom finally felt a bit better. Had breakfast took some more pills and then we were off for another 6km hike to the next village. Today scenery seemed like a totally different sapa. We went into the jungle a bit. It was very neat. Would recommend this trip to anyone. We arrive at the village for lunch and my friend phillipp and i decide to climb this 100 ft waterfall. Probably not the best idea, for it was very slippery even on the dry spots. At one point our shoes werent getting enough traction on the rocks. We kept sliding back down. So we had to take off our shoes and socks to get better traction. Thus we finally made it up the waterfall feeling relieved that we didnt die and accomplished something fairly diffiuclt. Came back down using the path that we saw others using and had some lunch. After lunch had to use the Asian toilet. Man, this sucks. Hike for about another 15 minutes hop in a van that took us back to Sapa City. Said thanks to our tour guide who was really great, took showers, and then departed for the train station.
Arrived near the train station where we gave our ticket vouchers to a man that was in a restuarant who then took them elsewhere to return 15 minutes later with our tickets. Very stange.
Got on the train arrived in Hanoi 8 hours later and now righting this blog.
Tonight I head to Hue which is a 12 hour train ride to the center of the country. Goodbye north.
Sapa July 12
My first experience on an overnight train.
So my guide picked me up at my hotel at 8 and then we went off to pick up others as well. After the van was full he took us to the train station where we received our tickets. Met some travelers from all over the world, (England, Germany, France, USA)
young and old.
As I was walking to the caboos where I was staying the train next to ours almost caught on fire. Pretty crazy.
So I finally arrived to my cabin, which was the delux soft sleeper. There were 2 Vietnamese girls who could only be 18 years old and then 10 minutes later an Aussie girl walked in who wasnt very pretty. So it was 3 girls and me for an 8 hour train ride. I started off trying to read but as the train got moving so did my stomach, therefore I had to put down the book and the earphones on. After about 30 minutes of listening to music I fell asleep. The bed was fairly comfortable, but the train ride was not so, lots of jerky movements, bumps, and swurves.
Arrived in Lao Cai at 6:30 AM July 13 where I met my van driver. The drive to Sapa was about an hour away. So instead of waiting for the next train to arrive with the hours who took the hard sleeper, the man insisted for us to get in a van full with Vietnamese. So some of us did, and the van ride was more unpleasent than the train. So many turns and rocky roads. Almost got sick, but luckily made it to Sapa before anything happened.
Arrived at the hotel, which was decent, but nothing to ride home about. My room location was right next to the reception, so that was unfortunate but dealable. Checked in my room, dropped off some stuff and headed to breakfast. The meals are included at the hotel. Ate an omelete then got ready for the 2 hour hike.
Met in the lobby at 9:30 to meet with the tour guide and the others who I'd be traveling with for the next couple days. Philipp and Yens are 20 and from Germany. Lisa a 40+ woman from Boston and then a elderly couple from France. Our tour guide's name was Mah who was from a Village in Sapa.
So we started walking to the only village for the day which was called the Cat Cat village. Pretty touristy, but the views were stunning. Rice patties along the mountains for as far as you can see. Ended up at a beautfiul waterfall. I forgot to mention that it started raining very hard and did not have any rainy gear so I got pretty soaked. Luckily on our way back to the hotel it was only drizziling. It was a great first day, with a 3KM hike.
Came back to the hotel, showered, had some lunch, and then explored Sapa City with my German pals. It is extremely tough to walk down the streets here with out being bombarded with village women who beg you to buy some of their hand craft bags, pillow cases, and what not. I had the strength to say no and keep walking, however i did buy a pancho in case it started to rain the next couple days. So we were walking and stopped into a bar to have an expired beer. Not very good. After that we went to another bar where it was overlooking the mountains. Since Sapa is sort of in a valley, the weather is quite crazy. One moment the mountains are viewable and beautiful and the next they are invisible.
Came back to the hotel, relaxed for a bit then off to dinner. I noticed I was not feeling to great, but ate anyway. After dinner, really did not feel great. My stomach was acting up a lot, but went out for a bit anyways because it was only 8Pm. Met some Israeli girls who were here traveling from the South to North. It was good to have your own kind around.
Came back to the hotel around 10:30 and went to bed.
So my guide picked me up at my hotel at 8 and then we went off to pick up others as well. After the van was full he took us to the train station where we received our tickets. Met some travelers from all over the world, (England, Germany, France, USA)
young and old.
As I was walking to the caboos where I was staying the train next to ours almost caught on fire. Pretty crazy.
So I finally arrived to my cabin, which was the delux soft sleeper. There were 2 Vietnamese girls who could only be 18 years old and then 10 minutes later an Aussie girl walked in who wasnt very pretty. So it was 3 girls and me for an 8 hour train ride. I started off trying to read but as the train got moving so did my stomach, therefore I had to put down the book and the earphones on. After about 30 minutes of listening to music I fell asleep. The bed was fairly comfortable, but the train ride was not so, lots of jerky movements, bumps, and swurves.
Arrived in Lao Cai at 6:30 AM July 13 where I met my van driver. The drive to Sapa was about an hour away. So instead of waiting for the next train to arrive with the hours who took the hard sleeper, the man insisted for us to get in a van full with Vietnamese. So some of us did, and the van ride was more unpleasent than the train. So many turns and rocky roads. Almost got sick, but luckily made it to Sapa before anything happened.
Arrived at the hotel, which was decent, but nothing to ride home about. My room location was right next to the reception, so that was unfortunate but dealable. Checked in my room, dropped off some stuff and headed to breakfast. The meals are included at the hotel. Ate an omelete then got ready for the 2 hour hike.
Met in the lobby at 9:30 to meet with the tour guide and the others who I'd be traveling with for the next couple days. Philipp and Yens are 20 and from Germany. Lisa a 40+ woman from Boston and then a elderly couple from France. Our tour guide's name was Mah who was from a Village in Sapa.
So we started walking to the only village for the day which was called the Cat Cat village. Pretty touristy, but the views were stunning. Rice patties along the mountains for as far as you can see. Ended up at a beautfiul waterfall. I forgot to mention that it started raining very hard and did not have any rainy gear so I got pretty soaked. Luckily on our way back to the hotel it was only drizziling. It was a great first day, with a 3KM hike.
Came back to the hotel, showered, had some lunch, and then explored Sapa City with my German pals. It is extremely tough to walk down the streets here with out being bombarded with village women who beg you to buy some of their hand craft bags, pillow cases, and what not. I had the strength to say no and keep walking, however i did buy a pancho in case it started to rain the next couple days. So we were walking and stopped into a bar to have an expired beer. Not very good. After that we went to another bar where it was overlooking the mountains. Since Sapa is sort of in a valley, the weather is quite crazy. One moment the mountains are viewable and beautiful and the next they are invisible.
Came back to the hotel, relaxed for a bit then off to dinner. I noticed I was not feeling to great, but ate anyway. After dinner, really did not feel great. My stomach was acting up a lot, but went out for a bit anyways because it was only 8Pm. Met some Israeli girls who were here traveling from the South to North. It was good to have your own kind around.
Came back to the hotel around 10:30 and went to bed.
Monday, July 12, 2010
Halong Bay 7/11-7/12
Sunday
Got my wakeup call and got ready for Halong Bay. The bus came and picked me up where I met a nice young couple and an older canadian couple. The ride was about 3 and half hours. Got to the bay around 12. Boarded the ship by tender, where unfortunately my sunblock exploded everywhere. Luckily it was in a plastic bag so nothing was damaged. Arrived at the boat and it was beautiful as well as the room. Started the cruise with some watermelon juice. Then we had lunch, which was about 6 courses. Very good. Then we got to relax a little before we disembarked for the floating village.
Kayaked around the floating village, saw how they lived and witnessed their school for little kids. Crazy to live on the water. They are also knwong for their pearls, so got to see the process of how pearls are made. Left the village and kayaked back to the tender to take us back to the boat. Back at the boat we were allowed to swim in the water whcih was too warm for me with a strong current. So i decided to take a cold shower. Very refreshing/
After that relaxed up on the sundeck to watch the sunset with a glass of wine. Very relaxing and beautiful. Words nor pictures can really capture how amazing this place really was. 1,000;s of limestonde rocks everywhere.
After the sun had set we went down to make some spring rolls. Pretty fun and very tasty. Thus after that had dinner, which again was an abundance of food. Dinner, finished then tried some squid fishing which was only fun for about 20 minutes. My 5 dollar watch broke in the water so I didnt know what time it was ever. I had to keep asking or calling the front desk to ask the time. Wanted to wake up for the world cup and was supposed to receive a wake up call but never did. Luckily I woke up at 1:45 just as the first half was ending. Got to watch the world cup in the bay, prettty awesome.
4 am went to bed, to then wake up at 6am for some thai chi. Pretty funny and relaxing. Our last little exercise was a train massge. Then breakfast was served.
After that, we got back on the tender to go witness a cave, which was absolutely stunning. Had never been in a cave that big.
After the cave came back to the boat took a shower checked out of the room and then had to wait for an hour for lunch. This lunch was a downgrade from our first 3 meals. Got off the boat around 12 and then headed back to Hanoi.
Got back to my hotel around 4. Confirmed my train ridew to sapa tonight. Then went to find a cheap watch and some food.
Off to Sapa for 4 days!
Got my wakeup call and got ready for Halong Bay. The bus came and picked me up where I met a nice young couple and an older canadian couple. The ride was about 3 and half hours. Got to the bay around 12. Boarded the ship by tender, where unfortunately my sunblock exploded everywhere. Luckily it was in a plastic bag so nothing was damaged. Arrived at the boat and it was beautiful as well as the room. Started the cruise with some watermelon juice. Then we had lunch, which was about 6 courses. Very good. Then we got to relax a little before we disembarked for the floating village.
Kayaked around the floating village, saw how they lived and witnessed their school for little kids. Crazy to live on the water. They are also knwong for their pearls, so got to see the process of how pearls are made. Left the village and kayaked back to the tender to take us back to the boat. Back at the boat we were allowed to swim in the water whcih was too warm for me with a strong current. So i decided to take a cold shower. Very refreshing/
After that relaxed up on the sundeck to watch the sunset with a glass of wine. Very relaxing and beautiful. Words nor pictures can really capture how amazing this place really was. 1,000;s of limestonde rocks everywhere.
After the sun had set we went down to make some spring rolls. Pretty fun and very tasty. Thus after that had dinner, which again was an abundance of food. Dinner, finished then tried some squid fishing which was only fun for about 20 minutes. My 5 dollar watch broke in the water so I didnt know what time it was ever. I had to keep asking or calling the front desk to ask the time. Wanted to wake up for the world cup and was supposed to receive a wake up call but never did. Luckily I woke up at 1:45 just as the first half was ending. Got to watch the world cup in the bay, prettty awesome.
4 am went to bed, to then wake up at 6am for some thai chi. Pretty funny and relaxing. Our last little exercise was a train massge. Then breakfast was served.
After that, we got back on the tender to go witness a cave, which was absolutely stunning. Had never been in a cave that big.
After the cave came back to the boat took a shower checked out of the room and then had to wait for an hour for lunch. This lunch was a downgrade from our first 3 meals. Got off the boat around 12 and then headed back to Hanoi.
Got back to my hotel around 4. Confirmed my train ridew to sapa tonight. Then went to find a cheap watch and some food.
Off to Sapa for 4 days!
Vietnam Day 1
Hanoi
Saturday woke up at 5. Iris met me outside at 5:45 to take me to the bus. It was very sad, but I am excited to see her when I return from my trip. Took the bus to Busan airport where it was pretty easy to get through. Had to wait a couple hours till I boarded though, I believe that I was the only westerner on the plane. The flight seemed pretty long but we finally arrived in Hanoi. Stepped off the plane and the first thing that hit me was the heat. It is HOT. 40 degress cel. There was no gate so had to take a bus to the actual airport, where I had to get my visa. After about 15 minutes of somewhat chaos received my visa to then stand in line for immigration. No A/C in the airport. Just sweating hoping that there is a man on the other side waiting to take me to my hotel. Got through immigrations and then waited for about an hour for my bag. Got my ride who took me to the hotel, which was overbooked, so they upgraded me to their sister hotel. Dropped off my bags took a shower and then left to go explore. Ate some Pho Bo (beef), which was excellent. Walked around the old quarter for a while then came back to the hotel to plan the rest of my trip with the wonderful front desk lady. After that relaxed for a bit then went to find some more food. This time I ended up eating Pho Ga (chicken). What I havent mentioned is the way people get around here. Motor bikes, scooters, cars, bikes with a cariage. Just everything and they all use the same road and there seems to be no rules. It looks like someone stomped on an anthilll and people just go scattering, but then you realize it is organized chaos. To cross the street you have to be pretty aggresive or you will just be sitting there for hours.
Met a couple after dinner on the street who were also in Korea, so I tagged a long with them for the night. It was fun, but then headed back to the hotel to get some sleep to be up at 6.
Saturday woke up at 5. Iris met me outside at 5:45 to take me to the bus. It was very sad, but I am excited to see her when I return from my trip. Took the bus to Busan airport where it was pretty easy to get through. Had to wait a couple hours till I boarded though, I believe that I was the only westerner on the plane. The flight seemed pretty long but we finally arrived in Hanoi. Stepped off the plane and the first thing that hit me was the heat. It is HOT. 40 degress cel. There was no gate so had to take a bus to the actual airport, where I had to get my visa. After about 15 minutes of somewhat chaos received my visa to then stand in line for immigration. No A/C in the airport. Just sweating hoping that there is a man on the other side waiting to take me to my hotel. Got through immigrations and then waited for about an hour for my bag. Got my ride who took me to the hotel, which was overbooked, so they upgraded me to their sister hotel. Dropped off my bags took a shower and then left to go explore. Ate some Pho Bo (beef), which was excellent. Walked around the old quarter for a while then came back to the hotel to plan the rest of my trip with the wonderful front desk lady. After that relaxed for a bit then went to find some more food. This time I ended up eating Pho Ga (chicken). What I havent mentioned is the way people get around here. Motor bikes, scooters, cars, bikes with a cariage. Just everything and they all use the same road and there seems to be no rules. It looks like someone stomped on an anthilll and people just go scattering, but then you realize it is organized chaos. To cross the street you have to be pretty aggresive or you will just be sitting there for hours.
Met a couple after dinner on the street who were also in Korea, so I tagged a long with them for the night. It was fun, but then headed back to the hotel to get some sleep to be up at 6.
Last week in korea
Went out with the boys. First we went bowling and then went to billybowl and won some prizes. It was a lot of fun.
Sat 3rd
Took it easy for most of the day. Max and I found a ps2 place wher eyou could play games for hours and for cheap. Everyone in there was playing soccer, a funny scene. Iris came over before the party to hang out. Then I went to dinner with Jay and Jen to a dak galbi place, which was pretty good. After that headed over to Kush where Max and I were having our going away party. Had about 20-30 people there some whom I never had seen before. However we had free drinks flowing from 10-12 so it was a grand time. Around 2 went home.
Sunday 4th.
Max and I went back to the PS2 bar to play some fifa and to recover, It was a good time,
Then Iris came over that night and we did not end on a great note. I was a little frustrated.
Monday. 5th
Had galbi with Iris and hung out
Tuesday
Had dinner with Kasey
Wednesday
Had a final goodbye dinner wtih our close friends and KT’s. That was a lot of fun. After that went downtwon to Thursday party. Had some beer, played darts and pong. Then max and i went to the PS2 place for the final time.
Thursday.
The final time I was seeing some of my classes. It was pretty sad to say goodbye. I had snack parties with each one of them and took photos as well. It was bitter sweet. After work went out to a final dinner with Lim. Went to the place where he took uis to lunch the first time we met. It was fsad, but fun as well. Then we were still hungry so we went and ate some baby octopuis.
After that headed dt to his bar and reminenced.
Friday
Our final day, was a bit of a mess as well. B and J moved into our apartment while I was still sleeping. Came out of the room and it was like a bomb went off. Got ready and went to school, my last day!!!. This was sad. I almost cried saying goodbye to my preschoolers. Had snack parties in each class and took photos. It was touching to hear that some wanted me to stay.
After work had dinner and tea with Iris
Sat 3rd
Took it easy for most of the day. Max and I found a ps2 place wher eyou could play games for hours and for cheap. Everyone in there was playing soccer, a funny scene. Iris came over before the party to hang out. Then I went to dinner with Jay and Jen to a dak galbi place, which was pretty good. After that headed over to Kush where Max and I were having our going away party. Had about 20-30 people there some whom I never had seen before. However we had free drinks flowing from 10-12 so it was a grand time. Around 2 went home.
Sunday 4th.
Max and I went back to the PS2 bar to play some fifa and to recover, It was a good time,
Then Iris came over that night and we did not end on a great note. I was a little frustrated.
Monday. 5th
Had galbi with Iris and hung out
Tuesday
Had dinner with Kasey
Wednesday
Had a final goodbye dinner wtih our close friends and KT’s. That was a lot of fun. After that went downtwon to Thursday party. Had some beer, played darts and pong. Then max and i went to the PS2 place for the final time.
Thursday.
The final time I was seeing some of my classes. It was pretty sad to say goodbye. I had snack parties with each one of them and took photos as well. It was bitter sweet. After work went out to a final dinner with Lim. Went to the place where he took uis to lunch the first time we met. It was fsad, but fun as well. Then we were still hungry so we went and ate some baby octopuis.
After that headed dt to his bar and reminenced.
Friday
Our final day, was a bit of a mess as well. B and J moved into our apartment while I was still sleeping. Came out of the room and it was like a bomb went off. Got ready and went to school, my last day!!!. This was sad. I almost cried saying goodbye to my preschoolers. Had snack parties in each class and took photos. It was touching to hear that some wanted me to stay.
After work had dinner and tea with Iris
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
6/29
The Choi Dinner
Had dinner with my gym buddy Choi, could be the last time seeing him. He took me to a traditional Korean restaurant, which was called Grandma in-law's house. It was an actual house that was transformed into a little restaurant. No menu, they prepare what they have for you. The first course was pumpkin soup. It was thick, but very tasteful. I was happy with the first course. The second course was a little bigger, bringing some pork, seaweed salad, kimchi, squid, radish with vegetables, and beef pachan. This was also very good. Then the third course comes. I would like to call this the fish course. Different dishes had different ways of serving the fish. Dry fish, a whole fish that was fried, anchovies, fish soup, rice, and pumpkin leaves. Choi made me try everything, which I am glad that I did. He also made me try a fish eye, which is another food I can check of my list of most interesting things I have eaten. The final course was fruit and Cheywea tea. A fruit tea that is very sweet and is a cure for stomach aches.
Although I was not full it was a good experience to have before I leave. After dinner he drove me to his son's highschool to pick him up at 9PM. It is a private school of all boys. Reminded me of a prison almost. Three floors. The first floor is for first year students, second floor second year, and third floor third year. 1st and 2nd year end mandatory studying at 9 whereas the 3rd year at at 11:30. The night doesnt end for them their, because some go to hagwons and the rest go to the library till 1 or 2am. And by the way, it seems like if you are not studying hard enough or being destructive you can get physical punishment.
Had dinner with my gym buddy Choi, could be the last time seeing him. He took me to a traditional Korean restaurant, which was called Grandma in-law's house. It was an actual house that was transformed into a little restaurant. No menu, they prepare what they have for you. The first course was pumpkin soup. It was thick, but very tasteful. I was happy with the first course. The second course was a little bigger, bringing some pork, seaweed salad, kimchi, squid, radish with vegetables, and beef pachan. This was also very good. Then the third course comes. I would like to call this the fish course. Different dishes had different ways of serving the fish. Dry fish, a whole fish that was fried, anchovies, fish soup, rice, and pumpkin leaves. Choi made me try everything, which I am glad that I did. He also made me try a fish eye, which is another food I can check of my list of most interesting things I have eaten. The final course was fruit and Cheywea tea. A fruit tea that is very sweet and is a cure for stomach aches.
Although I was not full it was a good experience to have before I leave. After dinner he drove me to his son's highschool to pick him up at 9PM. It is a private school of all boys. Reminded me of a prison almost. Three floors. The first floor is for first year students, second floor second year, and third floor third year. 1st and 2nd year end mandatory studying at 9 whereas the 3rd year at at 11:30. The night doesnt end for them their, because some go to hagwons and the rest go to the library till 1 or 2am. And by the way, it seems like if you are not studying hard enough or being destructive you can get physical punishment.
6/25-27
Friday
Max and I went to Gorilla burger and had some tasty burgers. Then we went to Billy Bowl where we played Billy Bowl, a mix between pool and bowling They had a contest going on and depending on high your score, the better the prize. The first game I won a beer glass. The second game Evan joined in, however he didnt win anything. The big winner was Max who scored over a 220 and won us a 3000cc pitcher of beer. It was awesome. Finished that pitcher, then went to another bar where one of our friends was having a goodbye party. Stayed there for awhile, then went home.
Saturday
Woke up at 930 to get ready for a day drip to Kyongju with Iris. It was pouring rain out, but we had planned for that. She was taking me to a little water park that also had some cool sauna areas. Met her at the bus station around 11 and departed for our destination. Arrived at Kyongjy at 12. Got to the water park and it was surprisingly crowded, because of the weather. The park was definitely geared towards families and children. It was pretty funny, because not only was there hundreds of kids, but Korea has a rule that everyone has to wear a swim cap or hat at all times. It was very interesting, but had a good time. Stayed there for a couple of hours and once I noticed that I was very pruny I was done. So we left the park and luckily the rain stopped so we walked around the lake together. It was very nice. After that we came back to the bus station and went back to Daegu, where we ate dinner at a chicken place. I was fairly tired from the day so I wanted to take a nap before the Korea game. WEnt home, relaxed and then headed back downtown to watch the soccer game at Kush. It was a fun experience, although they lost. The next task was to stay up till 3:30am to watch the US game. Set my alarm for that time, however it didnt work. I woke up at 11:30 missing the game and the loss.
Sunday
Had lunch with Evan and Jay at Lazy Diner. Did a load of laundry. Cleaned a little, then met Iris at 6 downtown. Watched a movie and had dinner at this very good Japanese place. I had this tuna dish, which was similar to bibimbap, but added tuna and other ingredients.
Max and I went to Gorilla burger and had some tasty burgers. Then we went to Billy Bowl where we played Billy Bowl, a mix between pool and bowling They had a contest going on and depending on high your score, the better the prize. The first game I won a beer glass. The second game Evan joined in, however he didnt win anything. The big winner was Max who scored over a 220 and won us a 3000cc pitcher of beer. It was awesome. Finished that pitcher, then went to another bar where one of our friends was having a goodbye party. Stayed there for awhile, then went home.
Saturday
Woke up at 930 to get ready for a day drip to Kyongju with Iris. It was pouring rain out, but we had planned for that. She was taking me to a little water park that also had some cool sauna areas. Met her at the bus station around 11 and departed for our destination. Arrived at Kyongjy at 12. Got to the water park and it was surprisingly crowded, because of the weather. The park was definitely geared towards families and children. It was pretty funny, because not only was there hundreds of kids, but Korea has a rule that everyone has to wear a swim cap or hat at all times. It was very interesting, but had a good time. Stayed there for a couple of hours and once I noticed that I was very pruny I was done. So we left the park and luckily the rain stopped so we walked around the lake together. It was very nice. After that we came back to the bus station and went back to Daegu, where we ate dinner at a chicken place. I was fairly tired from the day so I wanted to take a nap before the Korea game. WEnt home, relaxed and then headed back downtown to watch the soccer game at Kush. It was a fun experience, although they lost. The next task was to stay up till 3:30am to watch the US game. Set my alarm for that time, however it didnt work. I woke up at 11:30 missing the game and the loss.
Sunday
Had lunch with Evan and Jay at Lazy Diner. Did a load of laundry. Cleaned a little, then met Iris at 6 downtown. Watched a movie and had dinner at this very good Japanese place. I had this tuna dish, which was similar to bibimbap, but added tuna and other ingredients.
Sunday, June 20, 2010
6/18-6/20
Friday, I had probably the most shocking event occur at school the 8 months I have been here. In my C12 class (level 9) I was about to start an activity with the class, which made them all get out of their chairs. I asked the students to all stand up and one of the students (Jason) stood up raised his right hand and shouted 'Heil Hitler'. Now when I heard this I had to do a double take because in my head I was pondering did he really just say what I think he said. There is no way this kid knew what it meant, but I asked him, with anger and frustration settling in 'what did you just say?' He said Heil Hitler, yet again. So I stood there in shock wondering what to do. Do I stop class and get a teacher or wait till the end of class. I went outside to take some breaths and interrupted Max's class to ask him what I should do and he said to wait till class was over and bring him to a KT, which I concurred with.
At the end of class, I asked him to come with me and took him to Iris, where I had her translate for me. I knew in my mind that he did not know what the phrase meant, but he needed to know that it was not okay to say. So I told Iris, to tell him that he was not in trouble, but needed to know that the phrase he said in class was very hurtful to me and was not okay to say in any situation. I also found out that he learned it from reading books, which is mind-boggling. A 12 year old saying a phrase that has so much history to the world and especially the Jewish people. He understood what he had done and felt very bad and started to tear up while apologizing to me. What a class!
Other than that, school has been good. Only 3 more weeks of teaching and two more weekends in Korea.
Friday night I hung out with Iris. We brought back some food to the apartment and watched the soccer games. It was a fun night.
Saturday
Woke up around 12 and went to brunch at Lazy Diner with a bunch of people including Jay's sister who just arrived in town. After brunch Jay, Evan, and I went to Kyobo (a book store), where I bought the Lonely Planet Vietnam. Came back home and headed to the gym. Had a good workout, however the owner wont turn on the Air Con (A/C) because he doesnt think it is hot enough yet. Crazy man. After my workout came home, relaxed in my sweat, which wouldnt stop even after my shower. Max then came home and we went to get some dinner. Then we headed downtown, where I bought a 5 dollar watch for my upcoming travels. Headed to Kush, our friends bar where we watched the games and met his new girlfriend. It was a good time. The night couldnt end without a Kebab, which hit the spot.
Sunday
Iris took me on a tour of her University, which was absolutely beautiful and also very big. The buildings were pretty spread out, but they also created a Folk Village for people to study and learn about the old days. She said that the President of the University has been accused (or rumored) to spend more money on the landscape than on the students, which shows. The campus is said to be the most beautiful campus in Korea. After her tour we had some dinner over there. It was a very pleasant day, even though the humidity was pretty bad.
At the end of class, I asked him to come with me and took him to Iris, where I had her translate for me. I knew in my mind that he did not know what the phrase meant, but he needed to know that it was not okay to say. So I told Iris, to tell him that he was not in trouble, but needed to know that the phrase he said in class was very hurtful to me and was not okay to say in any situation. I also found out that he learned it from reading books, which is mind-boggling. A 12 year old saying a phrase that has so much history to the world and especially the Jewish people. He understood what he had done and felt very bad and started to tear up while apologizing to me. What a class!
Other than that, school has been good. Only 3 more weeks of teaching and two more weekends in Korea.
Friday night I hung out with Iris. We brought back some food to the apartment and watched the soccer games. It was a fun night.
Saturday
Woke up around 12 and went to brunch at Lazy Diner with a bunch of people including Jay's sister who just arrived in town. After brunch Jay, Evan, and I went to Kyobo (a book store), where I bought the Lonely Planet Vietnam. Came back home and headed to the gym. Had a good workout, however the owner wont turn on the Air Con (A/C) because he doesnt think it is hot enough yet. Crazy man. After my workout came home, relaxed in my sweat, which wouldnt stop even after my shower. Max then came home and we went to get some dinner. Then we headed downtown, where I bought a 5 dollar watch for my upcoming travels. Headed to Kush, our friends bar where we watched the games and met his new girlfriend. It was a good time. The night couldnt end without a Kebab, which hit the spot.
Sunday
Iris took me on a tour of her University, which was absolutely beautiful and also very big. The buildings were pretty spread out, but they also created a Folk Village for people to study and learn about the old days. She said that the President of the University has been accused (or rumored) to spend more money on the landscape than on the students, which shows. The campus is said to be the most beautiful campus in Korea. After her tour we had some dinner over there. It was a very pleasant day, even though the humidity was pretty bad.
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
A weekend of Sports 6/12-13
The World Cup begins and the Soccer buzz is in the air in Daegu. The Korean Red Devils are ready to bounce back and try to have a repeat performance from 2002. Saturday night was their first game against Greece and it was a fun one. Before we get there let me start you off at the beginning of the day.
Saturday morning, I woke up around 11. Noticed that we didnt have any bread in the house so, I had to resort to my second favorite meal of an apple and peanut butter. Yummy! After the meal, I headed to the gym to kick my own butt for how lazy I have been lately and not getting there. And I did just that and also ran into my long time friend Choi, who I havent seen in a while. We chatted while working out and made a plan to have dinner before I leave this beautiful city. Finished working out and then went to the grocery store to pick up some essentials. Came back to the apartment, made some lunch and put in a load of laundry. While relaxing, made plans for the big game soccer game. The plan was to meet people at Duryu park at 7:30.
Max and I left our place with Danni at 6:45 and arrived at the subway to meet Jen and Jay, however Jay not feeling so well decided to stay home and sleep it off. Rode the subway to Duryu to meet up with Kasey (KT) and Iris (gf). Picked up some drinks and food and were on the way to the park. The atmosphere was incredible, everyone was excited and ready for the soccer game. Chanting the cheers, wearing red, all in one area is quite amazing. Thousands upon thousands were at this park, so it took us awhile to find a spot for us to sit. Even though we could barely see the screens the atmosphere and cell phones with TV's made it no problem to enjoy the game. Fireworks, singers, and dancers made the night even more memorable not including the 2-0 win over Greece! It was a great night that didnt stop there.
After the game we departed from the park, Iris, and Kasey and headed downtown to try and stay up for the 3:30am USA game. Hung around the usual spots, including the new kebab place that satisfies even the slightest hunger. 1:30 came around and it did not look good for me. I was getting bored and just wanted to go home, so Danni and I got a cab back to our building.
I bought some snacks for the game laid down on my bed with my music on and the next thing I know, my music is blaring into my ears, the sunlight is coming through my window and my head is pounding. So I immediately turn off my music, look at the time (6am), go to the bathroom, and then fix the blanket over my window to make it dark. Went back to sleep and then woke up again at 1:30 to a text message.
Which brings me to SUNDAY at 1:30. Wake up feeling pretty good. Ask Max if he watched the game and he did a similar thing as me. Ended up being a tie. Asked what he was doing today and he mentioned that we should go to the baseball game. I am always down for baseball, so invited Iris because I knew she had never been to one. The game was at 5, we arrived at the stadium at 4 to get good seats because last time we didnt get in the cheering section. Unfortunately, this time we didnt need to arrive to early because it was pretty empty. The weather was hot, the beer was cold, Max on one side, Iris on the other, and baseball in front of me. I couldnt ask for anything more.
It was a great weekend with time winding down on this incredible experience.
Saturday morning, I woke up around 11. Noticed that we didnt have any bread in the house so, I had to resort to my second favorite meal of an apple and peanut butter. Yummy! After the meal, I headed to the gym to kick my own butt for how lazy I have been lately and not getting there. And I did just that and also ran into my long time friend Choi, who I havent seen in a while. We chatted while working out and made a plan to have dinner before I leave this beautiful city. Finished working out and then went to the grocery store to pick up some essentials. Came back to the apartment, made some lunch and put in a load of laundry. While relaxing, made plans for the big game soccer game. The plan was to meet people at Duryu park at 7:30.
Max and I left our place with Danni at 6:45 and arrived at the subway to meet Jen and Jay, however Jay not feeling so well decided to stay home and sleep it off. Rode the subway to Duryu to meet up with Kasey (KT) and Iris (gf). Picked up some drinks and food and were on the way to the park. The atmosphere was incredible, everyone was excited and ready for the soccer game. Chanting the cheers, wearing red, all in one area is quite amazing. Thousands upon thousands were at this park, so it took us awhile to find a spot for us to sit. Even though we could barely see the screens the atmosphere and cell phones with TV's made it no problem to enjoy the game. Fireworks, singers, and dancers made the night even more memorable not including the 2-0 win over Greece! It was a great night that didnt stop there.
After the game we departed from the park, Iris, and Kasey and headed downtown to try and stay up for the 3:30am USA game. Hung around the usual spots, including the new kebab place that satisfies even the slightest hunger. 1:30 came around and it did not look good for me. I was getting bored and just wanted to go home, so Danni and I got a cab back to our building.
I bought some snacks for the game laid down on my bed with my music on and the next thing I know, my music is blaring into my ears, the sunlight is coming through my window and my head is pounding. So I immediately turn off my music, look at the time (6am), go to the bathroom, and then fix the blanket over my window to make it dark. Went back to sleep and then woke up again at 1:30 to a text message.
Which brings me to SUNDAY at 1:30. Wake up feeling pretty good. Ask Max if he watched the game and he did a similar thing as me. Ended up being a tie. Asked what he was doing today and he mentioned that we should go to the baseball game. I am always down for baseball, so invited Iris because I knew she had never been to one. The game was at 5, we arrived at the stadium at 4 to get good seats because last time we didnt get in the cheering section. Unfortunately, this time we didnt need to arrive to early because it was pretty empty. The weather was hot, the beer was cold, Max on one side, Iris on the other, and baseball in front of me. I couldnt ask for anything more.
It was a great weekend with time winding down on this incredible experience.
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
Ladies in Korea part 2
Monday
Got the day off from work, so woke up around 10 again and went to the hotel to decide what to do. We decided to go Seoumun market, which is the oldest traditional market in Korea first. The ladies really enjoyed that. Never have I seen them look for knock off purses for so long and hard. They were determined to find some, but ended with nothing of quality. However, I did buy Cheryl some Obama socks, because I knew she would appreciate them. After shopping for purses, I took them over to the live animal section, where dogs, cats, roosters, and rabbits were all next to each other in cages. The reactions were priceless and many times did I hear all them saying that they wouldnt eat meat again. The cats and dogs were not for sale as food, but for pets I assure you.
After the market we went to Apsan, which is a mountain that surrounds Daegu, and gives a beautiful perspective of the city. It was a beautiful day, so we took the cable car up and just sat in a spot looking at the views and relaxing. Brooke started to get antzy so we went back down to go get some food, at where else--McDonald's, which was downtown, which meant more shopping for them. I decided to go home get some rest and hit the sauna up. Nice and relaxing before galbi.
We all met up for galbi around 7:30, max and evan came as well. Enjoyed a nice dinner, talking about how we teach and the culture of Korea. Once dinner was finished I headed back to the hotel with them to catch up on life and have a drink or two. It was a very nice evening and can not thank them enough for coming.
Tuesday
They met me at school to watch all of us teach. When they first walked in they were surprised of how much energy these kids had. I introduced them to all the teachers and then they went to observe Max's class first and then Evan's, while I planned for my upcoming classes. After their period was over, they observed my class and it was very tough having Cheryl and mom observing me because this is what they have done their whole lives. I could see it was tough for them just to observe because they wanted to help me in anyway possible. I told them to be quite and if they would like to teach they could. It was funny and stressful at the same time. My class ended, gave the kids some presents and sent them home. My mom and Cheryl left to go sightseeing while my sister stayed with me to observe more classes. It was great to have my sister with me. She was really good all day long. After school ended we went back to the apartment to wait for my mom and Cheryl to call. They werent calling so we called them and found out they were already at the hotel. So we went to the hotel to meet them and headed to a nice Italian dinner where we stuffed ourselves with quality food. We had great discussions about each others day and that they thought I was doing a fantastic job.
Dinner ended, we went back to the hotel and said our goodbyes because they were leaving in the morning to go back to Seoul.
It was great to see them, a little short lived, but am very happy that they came across the globe to see me and experience what I have been doing for the pass 7 months. I love you all!
However the night didnt stop their for me. Ended up playing poker at Who's Bob with Evan and Max for a while. Did pretty well for myself, given that I havent played in awhile.
Got the day off from work, so woke up around 10 again and went to the hotel to decide what to do. We decided to go Seoumun market, which is the oldest traditional market in Korea first. The ladies really enjoyed that. Never have I seen them look for knock off purses for so long and hard. They were determined to find some, but ended with nothing of quality. However, I did buy Cheryl some Obama socks, because I knew she would appreciate them. After shopping for purses, I took them over to the live animal section, where dogs, cats, roosters, and rabbits were all next to each other in cages. The reactions were priceless and many times did I hear all them saying that they wouldnt eat meat again. The cats and dogs were not for sale as food, but for pets I assure you.
After the market we went to Apsan, which is a mountain that surrounds Daegu, and gives a beautiful perspective of the city. It was a beautiful day, so we took the cable car up and just sat in a spot looking at the views and relaxing. Brooke started to get antzy so we went back down to go get some food, at where else--McDonald's, which was downtown, which meant more shopping for them. I decided to go home get some rest and hit the sauna up. Nice and relaxing before galbi.
We all met up for galbi around 7:30, max and evan came as well. Enjoyed a nice dinner, talking about how we teach and the culture of Korea. Once dinner was finished I headed back to the hotel with them to catch up on life and have a drink or two. It was a very nice evening and can not thank them enough for coming.
Tuesday
They met me at school to watch all of us teach. When they first walked in they were surprised of how much energy these kids had. I introduced them to all the teachers and then they went to observe Max's class first and then Evan's, while I planned for my upcoming classes. After their period was over, they observed my class and it was very tough having Cheryl and mom observing me because this is what they have done their whole lives. I could see it was tough for them just to observe because they wanted to help me in anyway possible. I told them to be quite and if they would like to teach they could. It was funny and stressful at the same time. My class ended, gave the kids some presents and sent them home. My mom and Cheryl left to go sightseeing while my sister stayed with me to observe more classes. It was great to have my sister with me. She was really good all day long. After school ended we went back to the apartment to wait for my mom and Cheryl to call. They werent calling so we called them and found out they were already at the hotel. So we went to the hotel to meet them and headed to a nice Italian dinner where we stuffed ourselves with quality food. We had great discussions about each others day and that they thought I was doing a fantastic job.
Dinner ended, we went back to the hotel and said our goodbyes because they were leaving in the morning to go back to Seoul.
It was great to see them, a little short lived, but am very happy that they came across the globe to see me and experience what I have been doing for the pass 7 months. I love you all!
However the night didnt stop their for me. Ended up playing poker at Who's Bob with Evan and Max for a while. Did pretty well for myself, given that I havent played in awhile.
The girls come to Korea part 1
Friday night before they arrived went out with my girlfriend and had a pretty difficult conversation with her. We did not break up, but it did not end on a positive note. I could not go yet because Max was with his girl, so I decided to stay downtown and visit my friends bar that just opened. I was the only foreigner there with a bunch of his friends. We just started having a good time, almost too good of a time. In the back of my mind I knew that my mom and sister were coming, but it was too late. Was way to drunken, left the bar around 3AM. Got home and passed out.
Sat morning
Woke up, uh-oh, not a smart move on my part. Definetely going to be an all day hangover. My mom calls me around 11 saying they were at the hotel and I panicked because I was not feeling great at all and all I wanted to do was show them a good time here and be with them. Max and I drove over to the hotel, where they immediately noticed my glassy eyes and that I was not feeling good. Cheryl had the perfect quote 'same story, different place'. I nodded my head and agreed. They checked into the hotel, went to the room and started to unpack. I sat down drank some water and my mom brought out the shoes I asked her to bring, unfortunetely they were the wrong ones. My hangover plus the excitement I had for the shoes, and now they were the wrong ones, I accidently yelled at her. Immediately after, I felt awful not only because of me yelling at my mom the first few minutes she arrived, but also having to puke, which I did.
Since we all realized I was having one of those days (which hasnt happened in awhile) we decided that I would get them downtown to shop and eat, while I stayed at home and slept it off.
So we did just that. They went shopping and I went to recover. Around 5 I finally started feeling better so we finally got a hold of each other and I decided to meet them downtown to take them to Dr. Fish.
Went to Dr. Fish, enjoyed the little fishes nibbling at our feet minus Cheryl, then continued shopping for a bit more. Wow these ladies can shop. They finally started to get hungry so we went back to the hotel, washed up and went to the famous Chinese restaurant i went to with my dad and bro. It was oh so delicious.
After dinner, they were exhausted, so they went home and I went dt for a little. This time I made a conscious effort not to get drunk and just see my friends.
Sunday
Woke up around 10, met the family at the hotel, then headed to the train station to go to Busan. Left Daegu at 12 and arrived at Gwanali beach at 2. A little chilly, but still a nice day. Walked around, did more shopping, had some Italian food that they enjoyed. Then we relaxed on the beach for an hour or so. Pretty windy so we decided to come back to Daegu. A very nice day, that was going to end with a nice meal. Went to Shabu Shabu, which is an excellent meal that I have mentioned in previous blogs. They enjoyed the experience of sitting on the floor and eating a traditional Korean/Japanese meal. However, I noticed that my sister doesnt really enjoy the food here, but that is okay she has been a real trooper these past few days.
Went home and fell asleep
Sat morning
Woke up, uh-oh, not a smart move on my part. Definetely going to be an all day hangover. My mom calls me around 11 saying they were at the hotel and I panicked because I was not feeling great at all and all I wanted to do was show them a good time here and be with them. Max and I drove over to the hotel, where they immediately noticed my glassy eyes and that I was not feeling good. Cheryl had the perfect quote 'same story, different place'. I nodded my head and agreed. They checked into the hotel, went to the room and started to unpack. I sat down drank some water and my mom brought out the shoes I asked her to bring, unfortunetely they were the wrong ones. My hangover plus the excitement I had for the shoes, and now they were the wrong ones, I accidently yelled at her. Immediately after, I felt awful not only because of me yelling at my mom the first few minutes she arrived, but also having to puke, which I did.
Since we all realized I was having one of those days (which hasnt happened in awhile) we decided that I would get them downtown to shop and eat, while I stayed at home and slept it off.
So we did just that. They went shopping and I went to recover. Around 5 I finally started feeling better so we finally got a hold of each other and I decided to meet them downtown to take them to Dr. Fish.
Went to Dr. Fish, enjoyed the little fishes nibbling at our feet minus Cheryl, then continued shopping for a bit more. Wow these ladies can shop. They finally started to get hungry so we went back to the hotel, washed up and went to the famous Chinese restaurant i went to with my dad and bro. It was oh so delicious.
After dinner, they were exhausted, so they went home and I went dt for a little. This time I made a conscious effort not to get drunk and just see my friends.
Sunday
Woke up around 10, met the family at the hotel, then headed to the train station to go to Busan. Left Daegu at 12 and arrived at Gwanali beach at 2. A little chilly, but still a nice day. Walked around, did more shopping, had some Italian food that they enjoyed. Then we relaxed on the beach for an hour or so. Pretty windy so we decided to come back to Daegu. A very nice day, that was going to end with a nice meal. Went to Shabu Shabu, which is an excellent meal that I have mentioned in previous blogs. They enjoyed the experience of sitting on the floor and eating a traditional Korean/Japanese meal. However, I noticed that my sister doesnt really enjoy the food here, but that is okay she has been a real trooper these past few days.
Went home and fell asleep
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
Weds: June 2nd Election Day
NO SCHOOL!!!!!
I love it when we have no school. Makes the week go by faster and one less day of teaching English. Arose from sleep around 1030 asked Max what he wanted to do today. He said Evan wants to go on a scooter ride, so I joined up with them. Rode on the back of Max's scooter, quite nice actually, except from all the exhaust emptying into my lungs. Even though it is a 2 seater I dont think it can handle both of us. Drove around the city for awhile. Ate at Siji Taco, which is a Mexican place in the part of town they call Siji. It was nothing special. Still the best Mexican I have had here is in Seoul. After lunch, we went to a driving range. It was a lot of fun just to hit some balls around. Gave Evan some pointers and then we left and entered a flower festival. Nothing special there so we left. Headed back home, Max's bike really pumping hard to get home. So much smoke coming out of the tailpipe. Got home, I decided to go to the gym, while Max played his computer game that he is no addicted to.
I love it when we have no school. Makes the week go by faster and one less day of teaching English. Arose from sleep around 1030 asked Max what he wanted to do today. He said Evan wants to go on a scooter ride, so I joined up with them. Rode on the back of Max's scooter, quite nice actually, except from all the exhaust emptying into my lungs. Even though it is a 2 seater I dont think it can handle both of us. Drove around the city for awhile. Ate at Siji Taco, which is a Mexican place in the part of town they call Siji. It was nothing special. Still the best Mexican I have had here is in Seoul. After lunch, we went to a driving range. It was a lot of fun just to hit some balls around. Gave Evan some pointers and then we left and entered a flower festival. Nothing special there so we left. Headed back home, Max's bike really pumping hard to get home. So much smoke coming out of the tailpipe. Got home, I decided to go to the gym, while Max played his computer game that he is no addicted to.
Last weekend in May
Friday night after work went to dinner with Jade. After that she came back to the apartment and we watched some TV and discussed the elections that are being held this coming week. Max went to a concert with the Chinese teacher, he said he had a good time.
Saturday
Woke up around 1030 ate some food and waited for Max to get back. Since he has bought a scooter he loves riding it around town because the city is more accessible when you have an auto bike. Once he returned to the apartment we decided to take a joy ride on the scooter. First stop was Burger King, because he was hungry. After that we went to Suesong Lake to hit some baseballs. Im losing my swing, not a good sign. We ended up seeing Evan on his scooter with his girlfriend as we were going to the lake, so we decided to ask him if we could use his for the day because they were going somewhere that was not scooter accessible. He agreed so Max and I cruised around the city. Found a Subway sandwich shop ate a little snack and continued riding. We rode to this memorial, which is near Apsan Mountain and ended up talking to a Communications Professor at one of the Universities in Daegu. We discussed how S. Korea is becoming more diverse (very slowly) and also growing economically. In addition, we talked about the situation between North and South Korea. He had some really interesting statements about N. Korea and what they do to their citizens. Apparently, there is a watchmen for every 5 houses. These watchmen get families to turn on each other and criticize one another to get others in trouble. I dont know why though. No one is allowed to have a cell phone.
After talking with him for a while we headed back to the apartment, relaxed, and got ready for the evening. We rode our scooters to Jay and Jen's for some pre-gaming and food. I was not part of the drinking because I did not feel good and also had to return Evan's bike to him. I came back to the apartment after the drop-off for an hour and then headed downtown to enjoy a Saturday night. Saw people that I hadn't seen in a while, which was very nice and just had a grand time.
Sunday
Max and I woke up around 11 and decided to go to Haeinsa which is located about an hour and a half from Daegu. It is a beautiful Buddhist temple and is considered a World Heritage spot. We left the apartment around 12, arrived at the bus station, bought our tickets and were on our way. Arrived at the temple around 2, got off the bus to immediately find food to fill our empty stomachs. We ate at this little shack that made Pajan (described as a Korean Pizza, but is nothing like a pizza except its shape). Once we finished eating that, it took a little hike to get to the temple. The temple is known for the Tripitaka Koreana woodblocks, which have the Buddhist laws inscribed in them. There are around 70,000 of them spread out in this little section of the temple. Apparently, where they are kept closes every ten years and this is the year that is closed to preserve the books. Even though it was closed, we still were able to see them through the gates. If you want to find out more go to this link: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Haeinsa
Once we were done exploring the temple we headed back to Daegu. Arrived in Daegu around 7, got ready to go on a date with Jade. We went to dinner and a movie. It was a good night.
Monday starts the work week. 6 days till mom and sis arrive
Saturday
Woke up around 1030 ate some food and waited for Max to get back. Since he has bought a scooter he loves riding it around town because the city is more accessible when you have an auto bike. Once he returned to the apartment we decided to take a joy ride on the scooter. First stop was Burger King, because he was hungry. After that we went to Suesong Lake to hit some baseballs. Im losing my swing, not a good sign. We ended up seeing Evan on his scooter with his girlfriend as we were going to the lake, so we decided to ask him if we could use his for the day because they were going somewhere that was not scooter accessible. He agreed so Max and I cruised around the city. Found a Subway sandwich shop ate a little snack and continued riding. We rode to this memorial, which is near Apsan Mountain and ended up talking to a Communications Professor at one of the Universities in Daegu. We discussed how S. Korea is becoming more diverse (very slowly) and also growing economically. In addition, we talked about the situation between North and South Korea. He had some really interesting statements about N. Korea and what they do to their citizens. Apparently, there is a watchmen for every 5 houses. These watchmen get families to turn on each other and criticize one another to get others in trouble. I dont know why though. No one is allowed to have a cell phone.
After talking with him for a while we headed back to the apartment, relaxed, and got ready for the evening. We rode our scooters to Jay and Jen's for some pre-gaming and food. I was not part of the drinking because I did not feel good and also had to return Evan's bike to him. I came back to the apartment after the drop-off for an hour and then headed downtown to enjoy a Saturday night. Saw people that I hadn't seen in a while, which was very nice and just had a grand time.
Sunday
Max and I woke up around 11 and decided to go to Haeinsa which is located about an hour and a half from Daegu. It is a beautiful Buddhist temple and is considered a World Heritage spot. We left the apartment around 12, arrived at the bus station, bought our tickets and were on our way. Arrived at the temple around 2, got off the bus to immediately find food to fill our empty stomachs. We ate at this little shack that made Pajan (described as a Korean Pizza, but is nothing like a pizza except its shape). Once we finished eating that, it took a little hike to get to the temple. The temple is known for the Tripitaka Koreana woodblocks, which have the Buddhist laws inscribed in them. There are around 70,000 of them spread out in this little section of the temple. Apparently, where they are kept closes every ten years and this is the year that is closed to preserve the books. Even though it was closed, we still were able to see them through the gates. If you want to find out more go to this link: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Haeinsa
Once we were done exploring the temple we headed back to Daegu. Arrived in Daegu around 7, got ready to go on a date with Jade. We went to dinner and a movie. It was a good night.
Monday starts the work week. 6 days till mom and sis arrive
Monday, May 24, 2010
Seoul (Sat and Sun)
Saturday
Woke up at 10, got ready for the day. Had brunch, then headed to Itaewon for some shopping and a new part of town. In addition to shopping, there was a Subway sandwich shop, which of course I indulged myself upon. Also bought myself some souvenirs (shot glass and a t-shirt). It started to rain a little, but that didnt stop us or the women who were on a mission to shop till they dropped. Went to Myeondong market/stores that sold American clothes and sizes, which was heaven for most the women. I was not very excited for this so I decided to go with Evan to walk around and see some of the city. Walked south of the city, saw a beautiful stream that had paper lanterns across it for Buddha's birthday. Walked around there for a bit then saw two huge statues in the distance and walked towards them. One was a statue of Admiral Yi Sun Shin who help win the war over the Japanese and the second was of King Sejong who started the Korean alphabet. Underneath these statues was a museum for both men. It was unexpected, but very informative.
The rain started to pick up, so we headed back to the hostel. Kicked off the shoes and relaxed for a bit. Once everyone was ready to go we headed to a Mexican restaurant. Had some fajitas and margaritas, which were both very good. Finished dinner and headed to some bars. The bars were alright, but the rain started to pick up and people started to get moody. Also, our group was pretty big because we met up with some more friends so it was difficult to coordinate and agree on things. In the end we split off and 4 of us just went to Darts bar to throw darts for a couple hours. Left to go home, but the rain really started to pick and I didnt have an umbrella, so I ran home by myself to leave Kodi and Evan behind who were walking slowly. Unfortunately, when I got to the hostel the gate was locked, I didnt have a key, my phone was out of money and people were asleep. There were two options I had; wait for Evan or climb the fence. I chose the latter and was successful.
Sunday
Woke up around the same time ate brunch, shopped around Hongdae for a while. Had to check out of the hostel so we went to Seoul station to drop off our stuff in some lockers. Then a few of us went to Namdaemun market, which had a bunch of knock offs and some other cool things. There was a foreign market, but it was closed so some were disappointed. After walking around for awhile headed to N tower (Seoul tower). We were going to take the cable car, but it was running very slowly to do weather, so thought about a cab, until he told us a ridicoulous price. Evan, Kodi, and Danni didnt want to walk up so they went to a cafe and I walked up by myself. It was a nice little hike with amazing views. I was walking up a forest/mountain of trees, which were very green. Got to the top, explored a little then went to the top of the tower. Saw how big Seoul was, which was really big. So in my seven months here I have been to Seoul tower, Woobang tower (Daegu), Busan tower, and Tokyo tower.
After the tower met back with the group to come back to Daegu. Overall, great weekend and enjoyed exploring Seoul. However, Seoul is too big for me and not my type of city. I am really happy I was placed in Daegu.
Woke up at 10, got ready for the day. Had brunch, then headed to Itaewon for some shopping and a new part of town. In addition to shopping, there was a Subway sandwich shop, which of course I indulged myself upon. Also bought myself some souvenirs (shot glass and a t-shirt). It started to rain a little, but that didnt stop us or the women who were on a mission to shop till they dropped. Went to Myeondong market/stores that sold American clothes and sizes, which was heaven for most the women. I was not very excited for this so I decided to go with Evan to walk around and see some of the city. Walked south of the city, saw a beautiful stream that had paper lanterns across it for Buddha's birthday. Walked around there for a bit then saw two huge statues in the distance and walked towards them. One was a statue of Admiral Yi Sun Shin who help win the war over the Japanese and the second was of King Sejong who started the Korean alphabet. Underneath these statues was a museum for both men. It was unexpected, but very informative.
The rain started to pick up, so we headed back to the hostel. Kicked off the shoes and relaxed for a bit. Once everyone was ready to go we headed to a Mexican restaurant. Had some fajitas and margaritas, which were both very good. Finished dinner and headed to some bars. The bars were alright, but the rain started to pick up and people started to get moody. Also, our group was pretty big because we met up with some more friends so it was difficult to coordinate and agree on things. In the end we split off and 4 of us just went to Darts bar to throw darts for a couple hours. Left to go home, but the rain really started to pick and I didnt have an umbrella, so I ran home by myself to leave Kodi and Evan behind who were walking slowly. Unfortunately, when I got to the hostel the gate was locked, I didnt have a key, my phone was out of money and people were asleep. There were two options I had; wait for Evan or climb the fence. I chose the latter and was successful.
Sunday
Woke up around the same time ate brunch, shopped around Hongdae for a while. Had to check out of the hostel so we went to Seoul station to drop off our stuff in some lockers. Then a few of us went to Namdaemun market, which had a bunch of knock offs and some other cool things. There was a foreign market, but it was closed so some were disappointed. After walking around for awhile headed to N tower (Seoul tower). We were going to take the cable car, but it was running very slowly to do weather, so thought about a cab, until he told us a ridicoulous price. Evan, Kodi, and Danni didnt want to walk up so they went to a cafe and I walked up by myself. It was a nice little hike with amazing views. I was walking up a forest/mountain of trees, which were very green. Got to the top, explored a little then went to the top of the tower. Saw how big Seoul was, which was really big. So in my seven months here I have been to Seoul tower, Woobang tower (Daegu), Busan tower, and Tokyo tower.
After the tower met back with the group to come back to Daegu. Overall, great weekend and enjoyed exploring Seoul. However, Seoul is too big for me and not my type of city. I am really happy I was placed in Daegu.
A weekend in Seoul (Friday)
Friday
Woke up around 8 to leave for the KTX. Our train left Daegu at 9:30, so we all met at the station at 9. It was Evan, Kodi(his gf), Danni(ENT), Catherine(ENT), Patrick(ENT that is dating Cat), and me. In addition to us, we saw some of our KT's Kasey and Iris. We arrived in Seoul at 11:20 or so and decided to go to the Palaces. The first palace was called Gyeongbokgung. It was spectacular. I tried to put my mindset to see how they lived back in the day. The vast area of the palace is just incredible and to think it was all for the king. At this palace I got to try on a guards uniform and walk around the area like I was a guard. Some people actually came up to me to take a photo thinking I was one of the guards that worked there. After exploring the palace for a while, we all left and headed to Insadong, which is an area that has many tea shops and lots of artsy food. I was famished and needed something to eat, unfortunately Patrick was leading us on a journey to find these burgers that were a piece of art. All I wanted was some food, so I stopped following him and just ate a sandwich with Evan, his gf, and the KT's. Once lunch was finished we all regrouped and decided what was next.
I wanted to see the other palace where the girls wanted to shop. So we split off; Patrick, the KT's, and I went to Changdeokgung Palace. Another amazing palace, just as big and even more beautiful. The scenery was beautiful, but unfortunately the secret garden was closed so we couldnt get in there. Once we finished touring the palace the KT's left us while Patrick and I went to a Temple that had 3 big Buddhas. There were thousands of people there coming to pray because it was Buddha's birthday. It was a cool experience to see. After that Patrick and I headed to our hostel which was in Hongdae. We met everyone there, took showers and got ready for the evening.
We all decided on Thai food, which was decent. I had the Padseeyu and some spring rolls. Afterwards, we headed to a bar Storm, where the windows had water falling from them. It was neat, but after one drink decided to get out and start the party. Walked around for a bit till we saw some signs that said 1.50 tequila and vodka shots. This was dangerous and could have ended up disastrous, but luckily did not. It was at a bar/club called Gorilla. Met a Korean woman named Angela who possibly could have been the flakiest girl I had ever met. Ask the same questions over and over. Ask me for permission to use the bathroom. It was very weird and funny, and I called her the Korean Catherine. We left the bar around 1, a pretty early night because we had such a long and great day. Came back to the hostel and fell asleep.
Woke up around 8 to leave for the KTX. Our train left Daegu at 9:30, so we all met at the station at 9. It was Evan, Kodi(his gf), Danni(ENT), Catherine(ENT), Patrick(ENT that is dating Cat), and me. In addition to us, we saw some of our KT's Kasey and Iris. We arrived in Seoul at 11:20 or so and decided to go to the Palaces. The first palace was called Gyeongbokgung. It was spectacular. I tried to put my mindset to see how they lived back in the day. The vast area of the palace is just incredible and to think it was all for the king. At this palace I got to try on a guards uniform and walk around the area like I was a guard. Some people actually came up to me to take a photo thinking I was one of the guards that worked there. After exploring the palace for a while, we all left and headed to Insadong, which is an area that has many tea shops and lots of artsy food. I was famished and needed something to eat, unfortunately Patrick was leading us on a journey to find these burgers that were a piece of art. All I wanted was some food, so I stopped following him and just ate a sandwich with Evan, his gf, and the KT's. Once lunch was finished we all regrouped and decided what was next.
I wanted to see the other palace where the girls wanted to shop. So we split off; Patrick, the KT's, and I went to Changdeokgung Palace. Another amazing palace, just as big and even more beautiful. The scenery was beautiful, but unfortunately the secret garden was closed so we couldnt get in there. Once we finished touring the palace the KT's left us while Patrick and I went to a Temple that had 3 big Buddhas. There were thousands of people there coming to pray because it was Buddha's birthday. It was a cool experience to see. After that Patrick and I headed to our hostel which was in Hongdae. We met everyone there, took showers and got ready for the evening.
We all decided on Thai food, which was decent. I had the Padseeyu and some spring rolls. Afterwards, we headed to a bar Storm, where the windows had water falling from them. It was neat, but after one drink decided to get out and start the party. Walked around for a bit till we saw some signs that said 1.50 tequila and vodka shots. This was dangerous and could have ended up disastrous, but luckily did not. It was at a bar/club called Gorilla. Met a Korean woman named Angela who possibly could have been the flakiest girl I had ever met. Ask the same questions over and over. Ask me for permission to use the bathroom. It was very weird and funny, and I called her the Korean Catherine. We left the bar around 1, a pretty early night because we had such a long and great day. Came back to the hostel and fell asleep.
Thursday, May 20, 2010
College on Wednesday
Wednesday, more like a Thursday because we have no school on Friday, so it felt good waking up early for the dentist. Yes, I went to the dentist because you have to experience the dentist in a foreign country. So I arrived at the dentist at 11 and of course, just like in America had to wait past my appointment time. 15 minutes past my appointment time I was finally called back were I was seated in a normal dental chair, so that was good. Then the dentist came in, a middle aged man who spoke pretty good English, at least for the sake of explaining teeth. He checked my teeth, and his conclusion was that my mouth/teeth were like a diamond and very strong, however since they were so strong that they masticated on food the contact is so forceful that food is forced very deep in my gums, so flossing is a must. After the consultation, with no cavities to be found, the dental hygienists came in and started cleaning my teeth. The interesting part about this is that they covered my face with a white towel like material with a mouth opening. So I couldn't see them and they couldnt see me, just my mouth. So whenever she needed me to open my mouth she had to say 'ahhhh'. In addition, since my jaw tires easily I could never tell if I could take a rest or not so there was some miscommunication and there were a few times they spilled stuff on me, but no big deal. After 30 minutes in the chair, I was finally done and paid 60 dollars for it, even though Max and Evan who did it a week before only paid 30 so I was a bit confused.
After my dental appointment, I went to get a haircut at my place. The lady is very nice and is pretty good at cutting my hair. I asked for a trim and she gave me a pretty good haircut, nothing to be upset about. I can go out in public and feel confident in myself without wearing a hat. I love $5 haircuts hair. With the haircut finished, I decided to go back to the dentist and ask why I was charged differently. So when I got back to the dentist, the dentist was standing at the front desk and I didnt really have to say anything; he knew why I was there. He said that his nurse made a mistake, reached into his wallet and gave me 30 dollars back. I love the honesty in this country. I have also learned, while I have been here that it never hurts to ask, because the worst thing that can happen is that you are where you are before you asked.
So after the dentist and receiving a haircut went to school and taught some children. Nothing to exciting there. School over then headed to Wednesday night Galbi with Jen and Jay. Had some delicious food and conversation, then headed to Kyunbook University to meet up with Max and his student's where they attend University. Their College was having a huge festival for what seemed for no apparent reason. Each major had tents set up, which served food and alcohol. Since one of Max's students was in charge of one of the tents we had plenty to drink and eat for half price. After staying in the Engineering department for awhile we met up with some of Korean's friends at the biology section. We had to pass the German, English, technology, and Physical Education section to get there. There we had more drinks and food. I felt like I was back in college, but in Korea with a bunch of Koreans. It was a lot of fun and enjoyed observing Koreans in a college setting and their campus. It was a very nice and big campus, however no one knew how many students attended their university. Came back to the apartment and fell asleep.
After my dental appointment, I went to get a haircut at my place. The lady is very nice and is pretty good at cutting my hair. I asked for a trim and she gave me a pretty good haircut, nothing to be upset about. I can go out in public and feel confident in myself without wearing a hat. I love $5 haircuts hair. With the haircut finished, I decided to go back to the dentist and ask why I was charged differently. So when I got back to the dentist, the dentist was standing at the front desk and I didnt really have to say anything; he knew why I was there. He said that his nurse made a mistake, reached into his wallet and gave me 30 dollars back. I love the honesty in this country. I have also learned, while I have been here that it never hurts to ask, because the worst thing that can happen is that you are where you are before you asked.
So after the dentist and receiving a haircut went to school and taught some children. Nothing to exciting there. School over then headed to Wednesday night Galbi with Jen and Jay. Had some delicious food and conversation, then headed to Kyunbook University to meet up with Max and his student's where they attend University. Their College was having a huge festival for what seemed for no apparent reason. Each major had tents set up, which served food and alcohol. Since one of Max's students was in charge of one of the tents we had plenty to drink and eat for half price. After staying in the Engineering department for awhile we met up with some of Korean's friends at the biology section. We had to pass the German, English, technology, and Physical Education section to get there. There we had more drinks and food. I felt like I was back in college, but in Korea with a bunch of Koreans. It was a lot of fun and enjoyed observing Koreans in a college setting and their campus. It was a very nice and big campus, however no one knew how many students attended their university. Came back to the apartment and fell asleep.
Sunday, May 16, 2010
A long week that was
I would have to say since Ive been here that this seems to have been the longest week. I do not know why, maybe because the week before was a short week, but this week just kept dragging on and on. I asked other people what they thought and they agreed with me. So since this was such a long week with not much going on I would like to reflect and talk about what I have observed since I have been in this country.
First, I would like to name this country, the Country of Mirrors. I have never seen a culture, especially the younger generation so infatuated with themselves. Everywhere you turn there is someone looking at themselves in a mirror or something that has become a mirror. I swear though, even the most random places have mirrors and you have to do a double take of why they have a mirror there, but then you remember you are in Korea. However, if for some strange ungodly reason they dont have a mirror in hand, there is no doubt they make something into one such as a bus window, a restaurant window, or any window or object that makes a reflection so they can do makeup or just to make sure they look good. Just like there is a law in America for talking on cell phones while driving there should be a law here for women looking in mirrors while walking. I have had many close encounters in almost running into them because they are too fixated on themselves than where they are going. It is absolutely ridiculous how many times a day they looked at themselves and sadly it has started to rub off on me.
I am know where near addicted to the mirror as they are, but I used to never care about what I looked like or spent much time in front of the mirror. However, I have noticed the more and more I spend time in this country the more I have looked in the mirror. It is comical to me and it will be a relief to come back to the states and not see a mirror everywhere I go.
Another thing that has already been stereotyped but reinforced since I have been here is the amount of pictures these people take. I am okay with them taking pictures of beautiful landscape or of themselves, but they take it to far. They dont just take 1 or 2 photos of the same thing, they take about 20 or 30 photos and it is not even of anything but themselves. They term it the self-picture, where they themselves hold the camera in front of them and take a picture by him or herself, or even together. They just snap away. A good example of this is I was coming back from Busan last night on the train and two rows in front of me there was this young couple taking photos of themselves for the whole hour while we were on the train. It was non-stop, and I just wanted to go to them and say ARE YOU SERIOUS. Of course it is none of my business, but while sitting on the train there is not much to do, so I watched them the whole time, laughing at how idiotic it was and hope I never come to that and if I do, I want some to take my camera and smash it.
So if you have read this far, you know that I went to Busan with my Korean friend for the day. Left in the afternoon, got to Busan and headed to this cliff, which was really nice. After that, we went to the center of the city to eat some famous mandu soup, which was really good. Next, we headed to the beach right before Haeundae beach. Relaxed at the beach for a while, then went to get a drink to watch the sunset and the bridge light up. It was a lot of traveling in one day, but well worth it.
Today, Sunday it was very hot so I posted up on my roof and tried to get some sun on my very pale skin. I think it went pretty well, and will not be a red lobster tomorrow.
Only a few more weeks until my mom, sis, and cherly come! Very excited.
First, I would like to name this country, the Country of Mirrors. I have never seen a culture, especially the younger generation so infatuated with themselves. Everywhere you turn there is someone looking at themselves in a mirror or something that has become a mirror. I swear though, even the most random places have mirrors and you have to do a double take of why they have a mirror there, but then you remember you are in Korea. However, if for some strange ungodly reason they dont have a mirror in hand, there is no doubt they make something into one such as a bus window, a restaurant window, or any window or object that makes a reflection so they can do makeup or just to make sure they look good. Just like there is a law in America for talking on cell phones while driving there should be a law here for women looking in mirrors while walking. I have had many close encounters in almost running into them because they are too fixated on themselves than where they are going. It is absolutely ridiculous how many times a day they looked at themselves and sadly it has started to rub off on me.
I am know where near addicted to the mirror as they are, but I used to never care about what I looked like or spent much time in front of the mirror. However, I have noticed the more and more I spend time in this country the more I have looked in the mirror. It is comical to me and it will be a relief to come back to the states and not see a mirror everywhere I go.
Another thing that has already been stereotyped but reinforced since I have been here is the amount of pictures these people take. I am okay with them taking pictures of beautiful landscape or of themselves, but they take it to far. They dont just take 1 or 2 photos of the same thing, they take about 20 or 30 photos and it is not even of anything but themselves. They term it the self-picture, where they themselves hold the camera in front of them and take a picture by him or herself, or even together. They just snap away. A good example of this is I was coming back from Busan last night on the train and two rows in front of me there was this young couple taking photos of themselves for the whole hour while we were on the train. It was non-stop, and I just wanted to go to them and say ARE YOU SERIOUS. Of course it is none of my business, but while sitting on the train there is not much to do, so I watched them the whole time, laughing at how idiotic it was and hope I never come to that and if I do, I want some to take my camera and smash it.
So if you have read this far, you know that I went to Busan with my Korean friend for the day. Left in the afternoon, got to Busan and headed to this cliff, which was really nice. After that, we went to the center of the city to eat some famous mandu soup, which was really good. Next, we headed to the beach right before Haeundae beach. Relaxed at the beach for a while, then went to get a drink to watch the sunset and the bridge light up. It was a lot of traveling in one day, but well worth it.
Today, Sunday it was very hot so I posted up on my roof and tried to get some sun on my very pale skin. I think it went pretty well, and will not be a red lobster tomorrow.
Only a few more weeks until my mom, sis, and cherly come! Very excited.
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
5/8-5/12
Saturday, went on a field trip with Max's tutor and her students to Yeongcheon, which is about an hour away from Daegu. We gathered at the school at 10AM, met the students, who's ages were from 15-22. Once everyone arrived we split up into 4 teams, each team had 1 English teacher. The whole point of the trip was for her students to become better at speaking English, and whatever was in Korean (spoken or not) they had to translate it for us.
Our first stop was the Cyan museum, which was a modern art gallery. Before the tour started we first made a little flower picture that made me feel like I was in Kindergarten again. The tour guide only spoke in Korean, so the students had to translate it to me. It was really funny, because I probably only got half of what was probably said. After the tour we had some lunch, then we went to our next stop called Tree and school which was an alternative school for children. It was a fun camping trip. We played games, had a BBQ dinner, and then made a fire. Became sleepy, went back to the cabin, tried to sleep on the floor, but it was not working.
Sunday morning, after a sleepless night, went back to Daegu. Once we got back to the apartment I went to sleep.
Our first stop was the Cyan museum, which was a modern art gallery. Before the tour started we first made a little flower picture that made me feel like I was in Kindergarten again. The tour guide only spoke in Korean, so the students had to translate it to me. It was really funny, because I probably only got half of what was probably said. After the tour we had some lunch, then we went to our next stop called Tree and school which was an alternative school for children. It was a fun camping trip. We played games, had a BBQ dinner, and then made a fire. Became sleepy, went back to the cabin, tried to sleep on the floor, but it was not working.
Sunday morning, after a sleepless night, went back to Daegu. Once we got back to the apartment I went to sleep.
Sunday, May 9, 2010
May 4-7th
Tuesday- An interesting day because I had to teach at another Ding Ding Dang branch that was about 15 minutes away from our school. I didnt have to be there till 3:30 so I didnt know what to do with myself. Woke up around 10:30, went to the gym, then to the grocery store, and then came back to our scorching apartment. I dont see how people lived in our apartment before us and never bought a fan for our living room. We have A/C units in our bedroom, but nothing for our main area, so it is a hot box during the day. Finally 3PM came around and left for school.
Arrived at the DDD and immediately noticed how much nicer our branch was. The lighting in the school was gloomy, the teachers were not as nice, and the students were not as fun as ours. Even though I was livid to find out that I had to teach seven in a row it made me appreciate our school that much more. It is really easy teaching another teacher's class because you dont have to do anything. I realized that the students were not comfortable around me and that I should not try to make them learn the material, but rather just converse with them and find out what they enjoy doing. It was a pretty easy day and knowing that Wednesday we had no school due to Childrens Day, made it that much better.
After work, met up with everyone from my branch including the Korean teachers at a Restaurant. It was a bitter sweet evening. Bitter because it was one of our Korean teachers last day. She is pregnant and about to explode, so she needs to rest and prepare for that. Sweet because we all had a really good time bonding together. Ate at the restaurant then went to a bar, and finally to a karaoke room.
Wednesday
Children's day, just like father's or Mother's day, they celebrate the child and give them gifts. Everywhere we went it was a packed house. Max, Evan, and I met up with some of our friends and went to a park, just to enjoy the beautiful day. The park was very crowded, full of families and lots of children. This particular park had a zoo that had a wide variety of animals locked up in these very mundane cages with nothing to play with. It was very sad and none of the animals seemed to be enjoying their time. In addition to those animals, it also seemed like we were part of the zoo, because family after family, child after child kept starring at us as if we were behind a cage. It was fairly comical, but has also agitated me that these people are not culturally diverse and every time they see one of us it is as if they are looking at an alien and they want to say 'hello' just to make sure we are real.
After the park, we walked through the herbal market, which was pretty interesting and I had no idea what they were selling and what any of the products could be used for. Next, we ate some dinner downtown and then realized that it was 'cinco de mayo' and had to celebrate. Went to "Thursday Party" which has now become the new hang out for expats because of its excellent location and patio. Had a few beers and then went home.
Thursday and Friday flew by like flying colors
Arrived at the DDD and immediately noticed how much nicer our branch was. The lighting in the school was gloomy, the teachers were not as nice, and the students were not as fun as ours. Even though I was livid to find out that I had to teach seven in a row it made me appreciate our school that much more. It is really easy teaching another teacher's class because you dont have to do anything. I realized that the students were not comfortable around me and that I should not try to make them learn the material, but rather just converse with them and find out what they enjoy doing. It was a pretty easy day and knowing that Wednesday we had no school due to Childrens Day, made it that much better.
After work, met up with everyone from my branch including the Korean teachers at a Restaurant. It was a bitter sweet evening. Bitter because it was one of our Korean teachers last day. She is pregnant and about to explode, so she needs to rest and prepare for that. Sweet because we all had a really good time bonding together. Ate at the restaurant then went to a bar, and finally to a karaoke room.
Wednesday
Children's day, just like father's or Mother's day, they celebrate the child and give them gifts. Everywhere we went it was a packed house. Max, Evan, and I met up with some of our friends and went to a park, just to enjoy the beautiful day. The park was very crowded, full of families and lots of children. This particular park had a zoo that had a wide variety of animals locked up in these very mundane cages with nothing to play with. It was very sad and none of the animals seemed to be enjoying their time. In addition to those animals, it also seemed like we were part of the zoo, because family after family, child after child kept starring at us as if we were behind a cage. It was fairly comical, but has also agitated me that these people are not culturally diverse and every time they see one of us it is as if they are looking at an alien and they want to say 'hello' just to make sure we are real.
After the park, we walked through the herbal market, which was pretty interesting and I had no idea what they were selling and what any of the products could be used for. Next, we ate some dinner downtown and then realized that it was 'cinco de mayo' and had to celebrate. Went to "Thursday Party" which has now become the new hang out for expats because of its excellent location and patio. Had a few beers and then went home.
Thursday and Friday flew by like flying colors
Sunday, May 2, 2010
May means good weather
May 1st
Max and I decided to go to Busan and head to the beach. We left around 10:30 and arrived at the beach around 1:30. Ate at a burger joint, picked up some beer then went to the beach. It wasnt a hot day, but a nice enough day to hang out at the beach and throw the ball around. It was a great way to start off the month of May. As we were relaxing, listening to music, we observed once again why the stereotype of Asians loving to take pictures is actually true. Every where I turned people were taking hundreds of photos of themselves or their friends until they got the perfect photo. It is amazing how obsessed they are with their camera. It is actually quite humorous. It wouldnt be out of the ordinary if they took one photo and moved on, but they literally snap away like they are at a photo shoot every time they pull out their camera. Most of them have their camera stands and even some have stands for their phones.
After spending a few hours at the beach we decided to hit the casino. Got to the casino, we had to check our bags and had to wear our hats backwards for some reason. I wanted to play black jack, but of course the 5 and 10 dollar tables were full and then it jumped to 50 and 100 dollar tables and that aint going to happen. So we decided to play roulette. Initially I put in $20 and lost it pretty quickly, then put in another $10 and the luck started to change. I hit 3 numbers and some other off number winners, making over $100, which capped the day off. After the casino, we headed back to Daegu.
Went to galbi and ate the most I have ever eaten. Max didnt want any and I ate it all by myself. We calculated it to about 20 oz. of meat + sides. My stomach was not so great afterwards. Attempted to go out, but couldnt even drink and was also in a food coma. Went back home and went to bed.
Sunday
Woke up around 10:30 and had plans to meet Jade to go outside of Daegu. Met at 12:30 at the bus station, where we decided to go to Andong (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Andong). It took an hour and half to get there. Once we arrived headed to hahoe village (pronounced hahwae). A very traditional village with traditional houses surrounded by a river. It was very neat and the weather was absolutely beautiful. Check facebook for photos. After the village we went to get some of Andong's special chicken. There was one street/market specifically for this chicken. Every place served the same exact thing, so it was tough to choose which one was good, but luckily Jade recognized a famous one that was filmed because famous actors went there. We ate there and it was delicious. The serving portion was definitely not for 2 and could have served a family of 4. We thought we got the mild chicken, but it was still very spicy. Once we finished dinner, we headed to moonlight bridge, which is the longest walking bridge in Korea. Also in the photos. It was magnificent. The scenery was beautiful. After that headed back to Daegu.
A great weekend with out drinking! I knew I could do it. A lot more fulfilling.
Max and I decided to go to Busan and head to the beach. We left around 10:30 and arrived at the beach around 1:30. Ate at a burger joint, picked up some beer then went to the beach. It wasnt a hot day, but a nice enough day to hang out at the beach and throw the ball around. It was a great way to start off the month of May. As we were relaxing, listening to music, we observed once again why the stereotype of Asians loving to take pictures is actually true. Every where I turned people were taking hundreds of photos of themselves or their friends until they got the perfect photo. It is amazing how obsessed they are with their camera. It is actually quite humorous. It wouldnt be out of the ordinary if they took one photo and moved on, but they literally snap away like they are at a photo shoot every time they pull out their camera. Most of them have their camera stands and even some have stands for their phones.
After spending a few hours at the beach we decided to hit the casino. Got to the casino, we had to check our bags and had to wear our hats backwards for some reason. I wanted to play black jack, but of course the 5 and 10 dollar tables were full and then it jumped to 50 and 100 dollar tables and that aint going to happen. So we decided to play roulette. Initially I put in $20 and lost it pretty quickly, then put in another $10 and the luck started to change. I hit 3 numbers and some other off number winners, making over $100, which capped the day off. After the casino, we headed back to Daegu.
Went to galbi and ate the most I have ever eaten. Max didnt want any and I ate it all by myself. We calculated it to about 20 oz. of meat + sides. My stomach was not so great afterwards. Attempted to go out, but couldnt even drink and was also in a food coma. Went back home and went to bed.
Sunday
Woke up around 10:30 and had plans to meet Jade to go outside of Daegu. Met at 12:30 at the bus station, where we decided to go to Andong (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Andong). It took an hour and half to get there. Once we arrived headed to hahoe village (pronounced hahwae). A very traditional village with traditional houses surrounded by a river. It was very neat and the weather was absolutely beautiful. Check facebook for photos. After the village we went to get some of Andong's special chicken. There was one street/market specifically for this chicken. Every place served the same exact thing, so it was tough to choose which one was good, but luckily Jade recognized a famous one that was filmed because famous actors went there. We ate there and it was delicious. The serving portion was definitely not for 2 and could have served a family of 4. We thought we got the mild chicken, but it was still very spicy. Once we finished dinner, we headed to moonlight bridge, which is the longest walking bridge in Korea. Also in the photos. It was magnificent. The scenery was beautiful. After that headed back to Daegu.
A great weekend with out drinking! I knew I could do it. A lot more fulfilling.
Sunday, April 25, 2010
4/19-25
After an amazing week with Dad and Josh, it was time to make up on some much needed sleep. It is definitely exhausting when people come to visit you. This week seemed a little longer than previous weeks because I was so tired and all I wanted to do was sleep and not work.
I am sure you have noticed that I have started to get sick of this job, but luckily my co-workers are awesome and they make the day go by faster.
Tuesday
Went out to dinner with our new Korean teacher and the teacher I have been going out to dinner with. Ate way too much and definitely felt it the next day.
Wednesday
Most of the Korean teachers and ENT's went on a group outing to Costco for some pizza and other food they needed to buy. I passed on that activity because I can't eat pizza and would rather eat galbi with Jen and Jay. Always good times at galbi
Thursday
Went downtown after work to look and buy some shoes. I bought a pair of shoes thatI thought fit. After buying some shoes went out to dinner to Vietnamese food with Jade. After dinner went home, tried the shoes on again and realized that they were too small and were a woman's 11 instead of a men's 11.
Friday
Finally the weekend. Went back downtown to meet up with Sally teacher who was the teacher who took us to the country. She is doing well at her new school, but misses us greatly. After dinner, Max and I went to Club Pasha where 'Make the Girl Dance' was performing. The night was Epic, danced a ton. One of our buddies was DJing as well so they had a private table with free bottles which is never a good situation for me and I am sure others. Left the club around 3 because we had an ENT meeting the next morning at 1030.
Saturday.
A beautiful day out and it sucked going to a meeting for 3 hours. Didn't feel 90% and was not in the mood to listen to our boring ass owner. Then some other teachers spoke who were pretty good, all from our branch. They said a lot of useful things if I was considering a job in being an English teacher.
After the meeting headed to Suesong lake and just laid out in the sun. Most Koreans find it very weird when people lay down on the grass. I dont know why but it is one of my favorite things to do.
Sunday
Woke up and saw that it was another beautiful day. Max and I decided to go to a Samsung Lions game (a professional baseball game). The tickets were 6 dollars and it was a first come fist serve basis. We sat in Left field. Got there for batting practice and I tracked down a home run ball. The game started and the atmosphere in the place was amazing. Every time there was an out or a hit they chanted and banged their blow up sticks. Even when the outfielder dropped a fly ball the fans started chanting 'That's Okay'. The 7th inning stretch came and Max and I stood up and started singing 'Take me out to the ballgame'. After we were done the whole section applauded us. It was a great day, enjoying the game, the sun, and some beers. Overall a great weekend.
Not ready to start the work week. Man, I hate Monday's!
I am sure you have noticed that I have started to get sick of this job, but luckily my co-workers are awesome and they make the day go by faster.
Tuesday
Went out to dinner with our new Korean teacher and the teacher I have been going out to dinner with. Ate way too much and definitely felt it the next day.
Wednesday
Most of the Korean teachers and ENT's went on a group outing to Costco for some pizza and other food they needed to buy. I passed on that activity because I can't eat pizza and would rather eat galbi with Jen and Jay. Always good times at galbi
Thursday
Went downtown after work to look and buy some shoes. I bought a pair of shoes thatI thought fit. After buying some shoes went out to dinner to Vietnamese food with Jade. After dinner went home, tried the shoes on again and realized that they were too small and were a woman's 11 instead of a men's 11.
Friday
Finally the weekend. Went back downtown to meet up with Sally teacher who was the teacher who took us to the country. She is doing well at her new school, but misses us greatly. After dinner, Max and I went to Club Pasha where 'Make the Girl Dance' was performing. The night was Epic, danced a ton. One of our buddies was DJing as well so they had a private table with free bottles which is never a good situation for me and I am sure others. Left the club around 3 because we had an ENT meeting the next morning at 1030.
Saturday.
A beautiful day out and it sucked going to a meeting for 3 hours. Didn't feel 90% and was not in the mood to listen to our boring ass owner. Then some other teachers spoke who were pretty good, all from our branch. They said a lot of useful things if I was considering a job in being an English teacher.
After the meeting headed to Suesong lake and just laid out in the sun. Most Koreans find it very weird when people lay down on the grass. I dont know why but it is one of my favorite things to do.
Sunday
Woke up and saw that it was another beautiful day. Max and I decided to go to a Samsung Lions game (a professional baseball game). The tickets were 6 dollars and it was a first come fist serve basis. We sat in Left field. Got there for batting practice and I tracked down a home run ball. The game started and the atmosphere in the place was amazing. Every time there was an out or a hit they chanted and banged their blow up sticks. Even when the outfielder dropped a fly ball the fans started chanting 'That's Okay'. The 7th inning stretch came and Max and I stood up and started singing 'Take me out to the ballgame'. After we were done the whole section applauded us. It was a great day, enjoying the game, the sun, and some beers. Overall a great weekend.
Not ready to start the work week. Man, I hate Monday's!
Sunday, April 18, 2010
Dad and bro
They came, they saw, they conquered. It was an amazing but yet an exhausting week.
Friday
Met dad and bro in Seoul, had some dinner and went back to their beautiful hotel room.
Saturday
DMZ tour. Entered North Korea. Awesome experience. Then came back to Daegu and showed them a good time downtown
Sunday
Went to Gyenonju which is the old capital of Korea. Had beautiful Cherry Blossoms, however bro wasnt having the scenery and was not in such a hot mood. Came back to Daegu, relaxed then went out to dinner.
Monday- Josh's Bday
Apsan Mountain, sauna, business club, shabu shabu dinner, drinks
Tuesday-Mom's bday
Gatbawi, great Chinese Restaurant,
Wednesday
They went to Busan. Came back to my apartment, had a good time at our place. then went to galbi with some of my friends. After that headed downtown for some more fun.
Thursday
Dad and bro came to school. Dad taught my first class and was pretty good. Josh struggled a bit, I think he was overwhelmed by the little children. Then they left to go to a market. Dad came back to school and watched me teach another couple classes. After work went back downtown, had another good chinese dinner. Then went to jalomondong_________bus bar, home.
Friday
Went to their hotel, then an early lunch, and finally a sad departure. It was a great week.
Friday night thought I was going to have a night off, but ended up going out with some co-workers. Had galbi, then to a bar, then to a karaoke bar. Had a great time but was not ready for it.
Saturday
It was beautiful out and laid out on the roof the whole day. Then went on a date with jade to dinner.
Sunday
Slept a lot. Played screen golf for the first time. Pretty fun, but the putting is very difficult. Then met up with Jay, Jen, and Warren for a little. After that, met up with Rachel, a girl my dad introduced me too.
Now Sleep
Friday
Met dad and bro in Seoul, had some dinner and went back to their beautiful hotel room.
Saturday
DMZ tour. Entered North Korea. Awesome experience. Then came back to Daegu and showed them a good time downtown
Sunday
Went to Gyenonju which is the old capital of Korea. Had beautiful Cherry Blossoms, however bro wasnt having the scenery and was not in such a hot mood. Came back to Daegu, relaxed then went out to dinner.
Monday- Josh's Bday
Apsan Mountain, sauna, business club, shabu shabu dinner, drinks
Tuesday-Mom's bday
Gatbawi, great Chinese Restaurant,
Wednesday
They went to Busan. Came back to my apartment, had a good time at our place. then went to galbi with some of my friends. After that headed downtown for some more fun.
Thursday
Dad and bro came to school. Dad taught my first class and was pretty good. Josh struggled a bit, I think he was overwhelmed by the little children. Then they left to go to a market. Dad came back to school and watched me teach another couple classes. After work went back downtown, had another good chinese dinner. Then went to jalomondong_________bus bar, home.
Friday
Went to their hotel, then an early lunch, and finally a sad departure. It was a great week.
Friday night thought I was going to have a night off, but ended up going out with some co-workers. Had galbi, then to a bar, then to a karaoke bar. Had a great time but was not ready for it.
Saturday
It was beautiful out and laid out on the roof the whole day. Then went on a date with jade to dinner.
Sunday
Slept a lot. Played screen golf for the first time. Pretty fun, but the putting is very difficult. Then met up with Jay, Jen, and Warren for a little. After that, met up with Rachel, a girl my dad introduced me too.
Now Sleep
Sunday, April 4, 2010
First week in April
The weather seems like it is about to turn and we might be able to enjoy spring. The past few weeks the weather has shown glimpses of sunshine and warm weather, but it has also been rainy and cold, unusual for Daegu this time of year.
I am very excited for my dad and brother to arrive this Friday and enjoy the same experience I have been having for the last 5 months.
This past week flew by, even though teaching English seems to be really getting to me and really do not enjoy it. However, I am glad that I am teaching children, because they make the day go by quicker. In addition, the people I work with make the job enjoyable as well, even though one of my favorite teacher's (Sally) left to work at another school. It was very sad to see her go (this is the teacher who we went to their families house up in the country). On the other hand, I know she will be happy at her other school and we are definitely going to stay in touch.
Friday, went downtown and had some drinks with Jay and Evan. Kept it pretty low key, a lot of people stayed in because they were going to the Cherry Blossom festival the next day, even though to their surprise they hadn't bloomed yet because of the weather, I am assuming.
Saturday, I took it easy, went to the gym while Max and Ev played their final game of ultimate, where Max sprained his ankle. Didn't go out Saturday night.
Sunday was a beautiful day so I went to Herb Park with Jade. It reminded me of a mini-American Adventures. There were a bunch of families, rides, a flower garden, and a petting zoo. We spent the whole day there and then went to this very popular Mandu place (dumplings), which was very good. After that headed home and prepared myself for Monday.
Now, for those who haven't experienced another culture or lived in place with few westerners then you have not experienced people constantly starring at you or little children coming up to you on the street just to say 'hello.' I have gotten used to the starring and constants hello and even embrace because I think it is pretty funny how sheltered they people are. I think we are very fortunate as Americans to have such a diverse culture and not be such in awe when we see a someone of a different race or cultural background.
Friday at the gym, I was just beginning a work out when an older man came up to me, starred at me top to bottom just to say hello and walk away. There was another time this week, where a younger man who I have seen many times at the gym, but he has never said anything to me, but for some reason this day he came up to me to say hello, nice to meet you. We exchanged names and then he told me how it was such a unique experience to have me at the gym.
I am very excited for my dad and brother to arrive this Friday and enjoy the same experience I have been having for the last 5 months.
This past week flew by, even though teaching English seems to be really getting to me and really do not enjoy it. However, I am glad that I am teaching children, because they make the day go by quicker. In addition, the people I work with make the job enjoyable as well, even though one of my favorite teacher's (Sally) left to work at another school. It was very sad to see her go (this is the teacher who we went to their families house up in the country). On the other hand, I know she will be happy at her other school and we are definitely going to stay in touch.
Friday, went downtown and had some drinks with Jay and Evan. Kept it pretty low key, a lot of people stayed in because they were going to the Cherry Blossom festival the next day, even though to their surprise they hadn't bloomed yet because of the weather, I am assuming.
Saturday, I took it easy, went to the gym while Max and Ev played their final game of ultimate, where Max sprained his ankle. Didn't go out Saturday night.
Sunday was a beautiful day so I went to Herb Park with Jade. It reminded me of a mini-American Adventures. There were a bunch of families, rides, a flower garden, and a petting zoo. We spent the whole day there and then went to this very popular Mandu place (dumplings), which was very good. After that headed home and prepared myself for Monday.
Now, for those who haven't experienced another culture or lived in place with few westerners then you have not experienced people constantly starring at you or little children coming up to you on the street just to say 'hello.' I have gotten used to the starring and constants hello and even embrace because I think it is pretty funny how sheltered they people are. I think we are very fortunate as Americans to have such a diverse culture and not be such in awe when we see a someone of a different race or cultural background.
Friday at the gym, I was just beginning a work out when an older man came up to me, starred at me top to bottom just to say hello and walk away. There was another time this week, where a younger man who I have seen many times at the gym, but he has never said anything to me, but for some reason this day he came up to me to say hello, nice to meet you. We exchanged names and then he told me how it was such a unique experience to have me at the gym.
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Last weekend in March
Friday
School was pretty good. I am always happier on a Friday than on a Monday. Friday night went to Trivia at Communes, which was a nice time. Saw a lot of people that I hadn't seen all week and we were all glad it was the weekend. Trivia for me is never all that exciting because it is just random crap. After a nice evening, called it a night because I wanted to go hiking the next day.
Saturday
Max and I made our way to Jikjisa, which is about an 1 or so out of Daegu by bus. We arrived in the town and took another bus toward our final destination. We then came to this part of town where we walked and found the temple we were looking for. It was quite beautiful, and only wished that it would have been a warm spring day, but it wasnt and took in the beauty anyways. The highlight of the trip was seeing a monk chanting in this temple that had over 1000 little buddhas. It was awesome. Had a great day traveling seeing another part of Korea.
Came back to Daegu, took a power nap and then went on a date with a Korean girl who was vising from Seoul. I met her a month ago; she attends a University in Seoul and comes back to Daegu every so often to see her parents. Took her to an Italian restaurant and the evening went really well, until she mentioned that her father was in the hospital. I was wondering why she was even out with me and sort of felt bad that I was taking away time from her family. We both agreed that it would be best for her to go and that I we would see each other again when she came back in town. After we separated, met up with Max and company and enjoyed the night going from Organ to Go-Go, then to Urban, and finally The New Yorker, where Max almost puked taking a fire shot and I ordered what I thought would be 'a rather hot noodle', but it was just spicy rameyon.
Sunday
Woke up, ate a quick bite and then headed back downtown to meet 'Jade' for lunch and a movie. A different girl from the previous night. We went to this upscale restaurant for lunch and ordered the chicken platter and of course with out fail it came out smothered in cream sauce. She already knew I was a lactard, but it was still funny how she reacted. It was this huge platter that she could only eat and if I were in America I would ask for the manager because it wasnt on the menu. However, she handled it well and got me a plain chicken with some ketchup and 2 bananas. After lunch we went to the movie, which was a total chick flick. Then we went to billibow for a drink and conversation. Then we said our goodbyes and went home.
School was pretty good. I am always happier on a Friday than on a Monday. Friday night went to Trivia at Communes, which was a nice time. Saw a lot of people that I hadn't seen all week and we were all glad it was the weekend. Trivia for me is never all that exciting because it is just random crap. After a nice evening, called it a night because I wanted to go hiking the next day.
Saturday
Max and I made our way to Jikjisa, which is about an 1 or so out of Daegu by bus. We arrived in the town and took another bus toward our final destination. We then came to this part of town where we walked and found the temple we were looking for. It was quite beautiful, and only wished that it would have been a warm spring day, but it wasnt and took in the beauty anyways. The highlight of the trip was seeing a monk chanting in this temple that had over 1000 little buddhas. It was awesome. Had a great day traveling seeing another part of Korea.
Came back to Daegu, took a power nap and then went on a date with a Korean girl who was vising from Seoul. I met her a month ago; she attends a University in Seoul and comes back to Daegu every so often to see her parents. Took her to an Italian restaurant and the evening went really well, until she mentioned that her father was in the hospital. I was wondering why she was even out with me and sort of felt bad that I was taking away time from her family. We both agreed that it would be best for her to go and that I we would see each other again when she came back in town. After we separated, met up with Max and company and enjoyed the night going from Organ to Go-Go, then to Urban, and finally The New Yorker, where Max almost puked taking a fire shot and I ordered what I thought would be 'a rather hot noodle', but it was just spicy rameyon.
Sunday
Woke up, ate a quick bite and then headed back downtown to meet 'Jade' for lunch and a movie. A different girl from the previous night. We went to this upscale restaurant for lunch and ordered the chicken platter and of course with out fail it came out smothered in cream sauce. She already knew I was a lactard, but it was still funny how she reacted. It was this huge platter that she could only eat and if I were in America I would ask for the manager because it wasnt on the menu. However, she handled it well and got me a plain chicken with some ketchup and 2 bananas. After lunch we went to the movie, which was a total chick flick. Then we went to billibow for a drink and conversation. Then we said our goodbyes and went home.
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
3/23 another observation
I do not know where I have left you with school, but there are more changes going on. My favorite teacher Sally is leaving Friday to go to a new and improved job. Her replacement that had been training for a week, quit unexpectedly so they are frantically trying to find a new teacher. Until they do Mr. Wi our director will be subbing her classes.
With that, David Wi has also started to observe all of our classes to see how we are doing. He observed one of my classes today. There are 12 people in this class, age 11 or 12 I believe. They are level 4, which means they are still in the beginning stages of the English language, however, they should be a lot farther along than they are. It is a pretty tough class to teach, when all they want to do is sleep or play games because they have been at school all day.
So class began, and I had them do a certain activity where each student has to remember what the previous student said and so on, until the last person has to repeat all of them. Then I went into my normal routine, going through the grammar book, reading book, phonics book, and then dialogue. I thought I did pretty damn good, and was excited to get some good feedback, saying that I am doing a nice job. However, when we met later that evening, I only got constructive criticism and no positive reinforcement, which he is really big on. I have come to accept criticism especially for teaching English because I have never done it before, but some of the information he gave me was contradictory to what Betty told me at my 2 month observation. I am sort of confused to whether to go along with Betty or the owner of the school, but I think I will try his way, which makes sense only if class was a perfect world and everyone gave the same respect and responds to the same thing. I will give it a try because I have nothing to lose and can compare which method works better. The meeting lasted about an hour and appreciated all the feedback he gave me, although I would have loved at least 1 or 2 compliments because I know that class went really well.
Just nod your head and smile!
With that, David Wi has also started to observe all of our classes to see how we are doing. He observed one of my classes today. There are 12 people in this class, age 11 or 12 I believe. They are level 4, which means they are still in the beginning stages of the English language, however, they should be a lot farther along than they are. It is a pretty tough class to teach, when all they want to do is sleep or play games because they have been at school all day.
So class began, and I had them do a certain activity where each student has to remember what the previous student said and so on, until the last person has to repeat all of them. Then I went into my normal routine, going through the grammar book, reading book, phonics book, and then dialogue. I thought I did pretty damn good, and was excited to get some good feedback, saying that I am doing a nice job. However, when we met later that evening, I only got constructive criticism and no positive reinforcement, which he is really big on. I have come to accept criticism especially for teaching English because I have never done it before, but some of the information he gave me was contradictory to what Betty told me at my 2 month observation. I am sort of confused to whether to go along with Betty or the owner of the school, but I think I will try his way, which makes sense only if class was a perfect world and everyone gave the same respect and responds to the same thing. I will give it a try because I have nothing to lose and can compare which method works better. The meeting lasted about an hour and appreciated all the feedback he gave me, although I would have loved at least 1 or 2 compliments because I know that class went really well.
Just nod your head and smile!
Sunday, March 21, 2010
3/19-3/21
Good weekend overall. Laid low friday night because I had to wake up early Saturday for the bull fighting in Cheongdo.
Saturday, woke up around 9 and prepared for a day of bull fighting and some wine tasting. There were about 150 of us westerners, 4 tour buses that headed to Cheongdo. Our first stop was the wine tasting. This wasn't your regular grape wine, this was persimmons wine. Apparently, where we were and the wine we tasted was ranked number 1 in the world for persimmons wine, but to be honest who else make that type of wine. Overall, the wine was alright, I would much rather have any of the wine my dad has though. The tour or lack there of was nothing special; we just walked down this huge tunnel and saw where they kept the wine. No one showed us how they made it, the process, or anything. After an hour or so there, we all got back on the buses and headed to the bullfighing. The bull fighting was a really neat experience, and different the bull fighting I saw in Spain with a bull and a Matador. This bull fighting is where 2 bulls actually go at it with each other and a winner is declared when one of them gives up and runs away. We were there for 3 hours and saw one fight that lasted for a good 40 minutes until one of them gave up. We saw another one where one of the bulls refused to fight, I am sure his owner was not happy with him. Finally, it was time to get out of there and we headed back to Daegu.
Ate some dinner downtown, then came back to the apartment for some relaxation and communication with madre and aunt. The relaxation period came to an end, then headed back downtown for some festivities. Had a good night, no broken bones (haha) and came back and fell asleep.
Forgot to mention, that while downtown I noticed many people wearing masks and covering their mouths Korean and Westerners. I was thinking it was another outbreak of the swine, but found out it was because of the 'yellow dust' from China. The dust is so strong that it can cover Korea and someone told me it can actually make it over to Hawaii. Apparently it was really bad tonight, and it can also last a month, but not that extreme.
Sunday, woke up feeling good and noticed the yellow dust was no longer. It looked like a nice day out so I decided to go for a run around my neighborhood and see what it was all about. Had a good run, found out there are 2 small little parks behind us.
After the run got ready to go meet up with one of my Korean teachers named Iris. We met up downtown and ended up seeing Alice and Wonderland 3d and then went to dinner. I don't know if it was a date or not, but still had a good time. The communication barrier was pretty tough, and there were a lot of silent pauses. I had a good time and think she did as well.
Good ole Monday is tomorrow, so another week begins. Hope the weather starts to warm up!
Happy Birthday Aunt Barbara
3 weeks till my bro and dad come!
Saturday, woke up around 9 and prepared for a day of bull fighting and some wine tasting. There were about 150 of us westerners, 4 tour buses that headed to Cheongdo. Our first stop was the wine tasting. This wasn't your regular grape wine, this was persimmons wine. Apparently, where we were and the wine we tasted was ranked number 1 in the world for persimmons wine, but to be honest who else make that type of wine. Overall, the wine was alright, I would much rather have any of the wine my dad has though. The tour or lack there of was nothing special; we just walked down this huge tunnel and saw where they kept the wine. No one showed us how they made it, the process, or anything. After an hour or so there, we all got back on the buses and headed to the bullfighing. The bull fighting was a really neat experience, and different the bull fighting I saw in Spain with a bull and a Matador. This bull fighting is where 2 bulls actually go at it with each other and a winner is declared when one of them gives up and runs away. We were there for 3 hours and saw one fight that lasted for a good 40 minutes until one of them gave up. We saw another one where one of the bulls refused to fight, I am sure his owner was not happy with him. Finally, it was time to get out of there and we headed back to Daegu.
Ate some dinner downtown, then came back to the apartment for some relaxation and communication with madre and aunt. The relaxation period came to an end, then headed back downtown for some festivities. Had a good night, no broken bones (haha) and came back and fell asleep.
Forgot to mention, that while downtown I noticed many people wearing masks and covering their mouths Korean and Westerners. I was thinking it was another outbreak of the swine, but found out it was because of the 'yellow dust' from China. The dust is so strong that it can cover Korea and someone told me it can actually make it over to Hawaii. Apparently it was really bad tonight, and it can also last a month, but not that extreme.
Sunday, woke up feeling good and noticed the yellow dust was no longer. It looked like a nice day out so I decided to go for a run around my neighborhood and see what it was all about. Had a good run, found out there are 2 small little parks behind us.
After the run got ready to go meet up with one of my Korean teachers named Iris. We met up downtown and ended up seeing Alice and Wonderland 3d and then went to dinner. I don't know if it was a date or not, but still had a good time. The communication barrier was pretty tough, and there were a lot of silent pauses. I had a good time and think she did as well.
Good ole Monday is tomorrow, so another week begins. Hope the weather starts to warm up!
Happy Birthday Aunt Barbara
3 weeks till my bro and dad come!
Thursday, March 18, 2010
3/15-3/18
Monday was pay day, so that made Monday a lot better than it usually is. School was the usual and nothing really exciting happened. But dinner made up for the day. Max, Evan, and I met up with one of Max's classmates from tutoring to have some dog. The restaurant seemed to be off the highway and nothing was really near there, but apparently it is very famous for serving dog meat. So Max's friend ordered us the dog stew and as we waited for it to come, we asked him questions about it, and how often he has had it. Apparently, this was his friends parents restaurant so he eats it quite often. He told us that dog is very good for us, because its DNA is very close to humans and it also helps the stamina of a male in a certain area. The stew came and we all took a look at it, I dissected the soup looking at every piece. After looking at it for quite a while I found some dog meat and took a bite. The meat was very tender and actually tasted quite good. However, Korean's and I wuld say most Asian cultures enjoy cooking and are proud to be able to cook all parts of the animal, so not only was there meat in it, but liver, stomach, skin, etc. The worst part of the meal was hands down the skin. I could actually see the 3 layers of skin. It was very slimy and had a funky taste that I could not take down more than once. Other than that, the stew was actually quite good. It had a good kick and was very flavorful. We finished dinner, thanked Max's friend for showing us the place and for having a very unique experience.
Wednesday
St Patty's or was it? Definitely not celebrated like it is back in the states. After work went to galbi with Jen and Jay, then headed downtown for the evening thinking St Patty's would be something, but it was not. Who's Bob was dead, but was able to enjoy some green beer. We went to some other bars, but nothing happening. Decided to end St. Patty's and went to bed.
On another note, the bunny is doing well. I think its name is just going to be Bunny or Georgia. It hops all over the place, while also pooping and peeing all over the place. Thankfully, its poop are pellets and nothing like dog poop.
I think my arm is doing better, but still sore. Hopefully my week's end it will be better.
Wednesday
St Patty's or was it? Definitely not celebrated like it is back in the states. After work went to galbi with Jen and Jay, then headed downtown for the evening thinking St Patty's would be something, but it was not. Who's Bob was dead, but was able to enjoy some green beer. We went to some other bars, but nothing happening. Decided to end St. Patty's and went to bed.
On another note, the bunny is doing well. I think its name is just going to be Bunny or Georgia. It hops all over the place, while also pooping and peeing all over the place. Thankfully, its poop are pellets and nothing like dog poop.
I think my arm is doing better, but still sore. Hopefully my week's end it will be better.
Sunday, March 14, 2010
March 12-14
Friday
After work went out to dinner with Sally teacher, Max, and Evan for some Chabu Chabu. We ordered the combo of raw meat and seafood, then were given a pot of seasoned water that we boiled. Once it started boiling we through in the vegetables, seafood, and meat. WE let it cook for a bit, then began to dig in. The food was delicious. Once we were done with the meat, we cooked the pasta in the leftover 'soup'. Ate the noodles and leftover meat. After that, our serve came over and cooked the fried rice in the same pot we cooked everything else in. The rice was very good, as well as the other food we had just consumed. I was stuffed and tired, so I decided to call it a night and relaxed at home.
Saturday
Woke up and got ready for paint-balling. I was excited and nervous because I had no idea what to expect. Met up with Ev around 1 and headed toward the bus. Got to where the bus picked us up and met everyone else who was about to go on this adventure with us. Took an hour to get the place, which was way up on in the mountains and still had snow on the ground. This was going to be interesting. We changed into our uniforms, I was on the blue team and Evan was on the black team. We had a huge disadvantage for our helmets and vest were sky blue. The main guy took us through the instruction and was waving the gun around with out a stopper to keep from the balls flying out if he accidently pulled the trigger. We were all laughing and scared shitless that he was going to shoot one of us. After the instruction we had mandatory stretching, then we finally got our guns, balls, and headed to the war zone. The war zone was outside, still with a lot of snow on the ground. It was also pretty narrow and one team would have the downhill advantage, which of course was the black team. The first game was called Head shot, and you only came out if you were shot in the helmet or ran out of bullets. That was awesome, got hit in the arm and wrist, but I nailed 2 people in the head before running out of bullets. Our team won the first game. A lot of fun, and did not hurt as bad as I thought it was going to. Second game, was protect your president, but the only problem was that no one else could die except the president, so people could keep shooting at each other and have no consequences, which made no sense. That game their land advantage got to us and they won. Third game we did head shot again because we were running out of time and bullets. It was a quick game, but a lot of fun. Had a great time paint-balling. After the games, we were served duck, pork, rice, soju, and beer. A great way to cap of the day. Headed back to where the bus dropped us off, got in a cab and went home.
Showered, ate a little more, then met Max downtown for a couple drinks. Went to Who's Bob, Ping, and Go-go. It was a good night, but not as fun as paint-balling.
Sunday
Woke up ate some lunch, relaxed and was deciding what to do for the day. Max and I decided to pick a random place and headed out the door. Got on Bus 1, which we thought was the right one, but ended up being the other Bus 1. So we had some helpful elderly people explain where to get off and even had one of them actually show us where the stop was. It was really nice of them. Got on the next bus, and were not sure where to get off, but eventually found the right stop, or so we thought. Got off the bus, and Max told me it was my turn to lead the way, because he was communicating with the elderly on the bus in Korean. I said fine, I will get us there. The first person I see looks like a hiker, so I use the korean I know and say "Excuse me, where is_____ and pointed to our note-card" He responds, in English 'So you want to go there" I suppose you can get back on another bus for 5 minutes or walk straight, take some turns and you are there, in perfect English. What are the chances that the guy I pick to speak to speaks perfect English. It was pretty comical.
We were walking to the shrine (our destination) and saw this cute baby rabbit. As we were walking toward the shrine, we both decided it would be awesome to have a rabbit. They are not dogs or cats. So after a little sight seeing, we came back to the rabbit and decided to purchase it. We have no idea the age, sex, or what to feed it. But how hard could it be for four months.
How crazy is that, we have met our half way point tomorrow. Time flies
After work went out to dinner with Sally teacher, Max, and Evan for some Chabu Chabu. We ordered the combo of raw meat and seafood, then were given a pot of seasoned water that we boiled. Once it started boiling we through in the vegetables, seafood, and meat. WE let it cook for a bit, then began to dig in. The food was delicious. Once we were done with the meat, we cooked the pasta in the leftover 'soup'. Ate the noodles and leftover meat. After that, our serve came over and cooked the fried rice in the same pot we cooked everything else in. The rice was very good, as well as the other food we had just consumed. I was stuffed and tired, so I decided to call it a night and relaxed at home.
Saturday
Woke up and got ready for paint-balling. I was excited and nervous because I had no idea what to expect. Met up with Ev around 1 and headed toward the bus. Got to where the bus picked us up and met everyone else who was about to go on this adventure with us. Took an hour to get the place, which was way up on in the mountains and still had snow on the ground. This was going to be interesting. We changed into our uniforms, I was on the blue team and Evan was on the black team. We had a huge disadvantage for our helmets and vest were sky blue. The main guy took us through the instruction and was waving the gun around with out a stopper to keep from the balls flying out if he accidently pulled the trigger. We were all laughing and scared shitless that he was going to shoot one of us. After the instruction we had mandatory stretching, then we finally got our guns, balls, and headed to the war zone. The war zone was outside, still with a lot of snow on the ground. It was also pretty narrow and one team would have the downhill advantage, which of course was the black team. The first game was called Head shot, and you only came out if you were shot in the helmet or ran out of bullets. That was awesome, got hit in the arm and wrist, but I nailed 2 people in the head before running out of bullets. Our team won the first game. A lot of fun, and did not hurt as bad as I thought it was going to. Second game, was protect your president, but the only problem was that no one else could die except the president, so people could keep shooting at each other and have no consequences, which made no sense. That game their land advantage got to us and they won. Third game we did head shot again because we were running out of time and bullets. It was a quick game, but a lot of fun. Had a great time paint-balling. After the games, we were served duck, pork, rice, soju, and beer. A great way to cap of the day. Headed back to where the bus dropped us off, got in a cab and went home.
Showered, ate a little more, then met Max downtown for a couple drinks. Went to Who's Bob, Ping, and Go-go. It was a good night, but not as fun as paint-balling.
Sunday
Woke up ate some lunch, relaxed and was deciding what to do for the day. Max and I decided to pick a random place and headed out the door. Got on Bus 1, which we thought was the right one, but ended up being the other Bus 1. So we had some helpful elderly people explain where to get off and even had one of them actually show us where the stop was. It was really nice of them. Got on the next bus, and were not sure where to get off, but eventually found the right stop, or so we thought. Got off the bus, and Max told me it was my turn to lead the way, because he was communicating with the elderly on the bus in Korean. I said fine, I will get us there. The first person I see looks like a hiker, so I use the korean I know and say "Excuse me, where is_____ and pointed to our note-card" He responds, in English 'So you want to go there" I suppose you can get back on another bus for 5 minutes or walk straight, take some turns and you are there, in perfect English. What are the chances that the guy I pick to speak to speaks perfect English. It was pretty comical.
We were walking to the shrine (our destination) and saw this cute baby rabbit. As we were walking toward the shrine, we both decided it would be awesome to have a rabbit. They are not dogs or cats. So after a little sight seeing, we came back to the rabbit and decided to purchase it. We have no idea the age, sex, or what to feed it. But how hard could it be for four months.
How crazy is that, we have met our half way point tomorrow. Time flies
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)