happymonkey15

[happymonkey15]

[happymonkey15]

It’s been a while since I went hiking. Sharing with you my last hike of 2020.

[happymonkey15]

2020 COEX Food Week

To enter you have to do the Mandatory COVID QR Scan , Register, Temperature Check, Sanitize, Wear plastic gloves and enter the venue

[happymonkey15]

Meet the newest addition to the family, Bonnie and Clyde! Snail Farm experience at Chamsari Snail Farm in Sunchang Location: 567 beon-ji, Geumgok-ri, Pungsan-myeon, Sunchang-gun, North Jeolla Province, South Korea 참살이 달팽이 농장 전북 순창군 풍산면 금곡리 567 번지 Website: https://blog.naver.com/sunchangsnail Phone: 010-7171-2730

[happymonkey15]

2020 Jeonbuk Travel Mart

2020 Jeonbuk Travel Mart was held last November 18 to 19, 2020 at the Western Life Hotel in Iksan. Jeonju, Gunsan, Iksan, Namwon, Gimje, Wanju, Jinan, Muju, Jangsu, Imsil, Sunchang, Gochang, Buan all participated and showcased their destinations and specialties. 

Organized by Premium Pass, we (foreigners living in South Korea) also got the chance to share our travel experiences (both the good and the bad) within Korea at the GYSN 2020 (Global Youth Smart Tourism Networkshop). All travel and tourism industry experts were all ears, answered our questions and even discussed their future plans for smart tourism. 

Below: My travel mart haul: informative brochures and freebies! ^^

Read more info about the North Jeolla Province and check out their latest travel promotions through these sites: 

Jeonbuk Website

Instagram: @jeonbukstar_en   and  @jb_shuttle

[happymonkey15]

My Special Seoul

[happymonkey15]

I tried Gangwondo’s sea train for the first time from Gangneung Station to Samcheok Beach Station! 

For more information and booking, visit their website at www.seatrain.co.kr.

[happymonkey15]

The Yellow House

(Above: Photo grabbed from Aark House IG account.)

My recent trip was one of the most memorable vacations I've had in Gangneung, mainly because of two people: the guesthouse owner and a cab driver.  I arrived late at night, exhausted so I took a cab going to the guesthouse. I just wanted to avoid small talk. But it didn’t go as planned  

After I told him where to go, he started talking about the pandemic and how it affected his livelihood. So, I pinched myself to stay awake. I was all ears. We talked more about COVID, Gangneung and tourism until we arrived at our destination.

The navigation system showed that we arrived but we didn't see the guesthouse. He asked me the phone number but I was lazy to Google it. I told him not to worry because I'll use Naver map to get there. I got off in a dark alley with my huge backpack. After a couple of minutes of going back and forth, I finally managed to reach the guesthouse. I met the owner upon check-in. She was explaining some rules when her phone rang. I swear I wasn't eavesdropping, it's just that their convo was so loud I can hear it. :)

It was my taxi driver! 

He wanted to make sure that I got there safely. The landlady and I were surprised and touched for what he did. Not all cab drivers will do that! 😮😢

The next day~

Morning mirror selfie!

Aark House has a high rating at Booking.com. 

Below: Reception counter and kitchen

Below: Looking at her shelf, the owner seems to be a book-lover. 

Above: Her bird named Cider (사이다). 

The next day, she prepared a healthy breakfast. We sat at the dining table for hours talking about everything under the sun: Gangneung, politics, COVID, Olympics, families, her children, my travels, her favorite series on Netflix (Money Heist), our health, etc. It was really fun talking with her but I had to leave early.

Before I left, she gave me a motherly bear hug and a book, Make Each Day Your Masterpiece by Michael Lynberg, and wrote:

To Mawi:

한국에서 열심히 살고 있는 마위, 앞으로도 좋은 일만 있기를 바랄께요! 건강 잘 챙기고, 여행하면서 좋은 사람들 많이 만나고, 나중에 기회 되면 우리 또 만나요! 만나서 반가웠어요.~

From: 옥주 Aark House in Gangneung Translated to...

To Mawi who's living diligently in Korea,

I hope only good things happen to you in the future. Take good care of your health. I hope you'll meet a lot of good people while you travel. Let's meet again when there's another chance. Nice meeting you!

From Ok-ju of Aark House in Gangneung

💕💕💕

Truly, the people you meet make the journey unforgettable and more meaningful. 😄

For guesthouse info or reservation, check their website: 

Aark House

Instagram: @aarkhouse

Address: 강원도, 강릉, 용지로 96번길 4-5 / Yongji-ro 96 Beon-gil 4-5, Gangneung, Gangwondo

[happymonkey15]

Ginseng Wine Making in Korea Palace

One of Korea's best luxury hotels, the Korea Palace is a traditional Hanok-style hotel located in Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwondo. It played a significant role as a home to some of the VIP/VVIP guests during the 2018 Winter Olympics.

(Below) Our lunch, buffet style

This is the view from our table, overlooking Mt. Balwangsan.

What’s so special about this meal? All of the dishes (and drinks) were prepared and cooked using mineral water! Oh, and by the way, their Makgeolli (milky, off-white drink), Korean fermented rice wine,  tastes a-m-a-z-i-n-g! 

After our delicious meal, we headed to a Hanok site for our next activity: Korean ginseng wine making.

Our teacher (the guy wearing a hat) introduced Korean ginseng wine and he told us that we’d be using an 8-year old ginseng that costs KRW 50,000! Ooh la la!

(Below) Making a ginseng wine is easy! All you need are the following:

Tall thin bottle and cork

Plastic water bowl with water

Funnel 

Ginseng

Soju

8-year old wild ginseng that costs KRW 50,000

I just had to clean it using the water in the bowl. After cleaning, put the ginseng inside the bottle and fill the bottle with soju using a funnel.

Tada! It’s the final product, made with love!^^ 

 Our teacher told us that this would be a perfect Christmas gift. 

Wild Ginseng Wine, 500 ml, 20% Alcohol Content

If you’d like to check-out more information about Korea Palace: 

Korea Palace website

Address: 133 Yongsan-ri, Daegwanryeong-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwondo (강원도 평창군 대관령면 용산리 산 133)

033-336-1111

[happymonkey15]

Balwangsan Skywalk

The newest attraction in YongPyong Resort is here! 

(Drum roll please...)

The Balwangsan Skywalk formally opened and welcomed visitors last August 19, 2020. I was very lucky to witness and attend the grand opening ceremony on top of the mountain. 

The skywalk was built on top of Balwangsan Mountain, the 12th highest mountain in South Korea. Rising 1,458 m above sea level, the skywalk was built to be accessible for everyone. Even those with mobility issues can easily go to the top: it only takes a cable car ride!

Roundtrip cable car ride costs: KRW 25,000 (Adults)

Check the price list here!

The Balwangsan cable car is said to be the longest cable car ride in South Korea (7.4 km roundtrip), which takes approximately 18 minutes from the boarding area to the Dragon Peak drop-off point on top of the mountain. 

I’ve visited the place multiple times, and I can attest that the view from the cable car is stunning whether it’s spring, summer, winter, or fall. :)

(Below) Wheelchair storage box

From the Dragon Peak drop off point, you can go to the Skywalk by elevator or stairs. 

Look at this view!

(Below) The walkway is wheelchair-user friendly too!

📌 Balwangsan Skywalk (Yongpyong Resort) 232-950, 715, Olympic-ro, Daegwanryeong-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon-do, Korea 🖥YongPyong Resort 

[happymonkey15]

2020년 무형유산 페스티벌 

[happymonkey15]

[INVITATION] Hospitality & Tourism Postgraduate Sharing & Learning International Webinar Series 02

Event date: Tuesday, August 6, 2020 16:00 (GMT +8) 

Registration: on or before August 4, 2020 until 17:00 (GMT +8)

Application form: https://forms.gle/rXTDmcQR9Z2CKSrz6

The Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM), Philippine Association of Researchers for Tourism and Hospitality, Inc. (PARTH) and the Asia-Pacific Consortium of Researchers and Educators, Inc. (APCoRE) organize the "Hospitality & Tourism POSTGRADUATE Sharing & Learning International Webinar Series 02" on Thursday, August 6, 2020 at 5pm (MY & PH), 4pm (ID) and 9am (GH) with the theme, "Research Topic Generation for Hospitality and Tourism Postgraduate Students." Fill-out the required fields accurately and register on or before August 4, 2020 (Tuesday) at 5pm (MY & PH), 4pm (ID) and 9am (GH). 

The organizers have the right to cut-off the registration if it reaches the maximum capacity of the platform to be used without prior notice. 

https://forms.gle/rXTDmcQR9Z2CKSrz6

NOTE:

Certificates will only be issued to registered participants who attended at least 80% of the program. 

The evaluation form will only be given during the webinar with attendance codes to be given to assure active participation from the attendees. If in case access has been denied, we will also be sharing in real time the webinar via FB Live through PARTH's FB group at https://web.facebook.com/groups/608227952663024/

Thank you.

[happymonkey15]

A peek into a monk’s life

When I was in college I remembered that our Philosophy professor asked us to watch Samsara (2001), a film about a Buddhist monk and his quest for enlightenment. After watching that film, I became interested in Buddhism. I wonder how it feels to live a monastic lifestyle even if it is just for a day or two. To satisfy my curiosity, I decided to sign-up for a temple stay program, a unique way for foreigners to learn and experience Korean Buddhism.

I chose Beopjusa Temple in Boeun, North Chungcheong Province, which is a 3 hour and 30 minute-bus ride away from Seoul. From the Songnisan Intercity Bus Terminal, I had to walk around 20 minutes to get to the temple because it’s within the Songnisan National Park. 

DAY 1

Upon arriving at the temple, Mr. Kim Wan-Sik (Daniel) greeted us and gave the temple uniforms that we will use during our stay. He also provided information about the 2D1N temple stay program and the dos and don'ts in the temple. 

We kicked off the program with a tour around the temple led by a monk. He discussed the history and infrastructures found in Beopjusa. He explained everything in Korean, and Mr. Kim (the gentleman in the middle wearing a blue vest) translated in English. 

Beopjusa was founded during the Shilla Dynasty, and it is one of Korea's oldest temples with a history dating back 1,500 years. Each main gate is guided by four gods (North, East, West, South).

(Below) The giant golden Maitreya Buddha statue in Abhaya Mudra hand gesture, which signifies protection, peace, and fearlessness

(Below) At the basement chamber of the golden Buddha statue, you’ll see these jade Buddha figurines and the  contemplative sitting statue of Maitreya Buddha.

(Below) Palsangjeon: The only remaining five-story wooden pagoda in South Korea. Inside are the Hall of Eight Snapshots of Buddha’s Life wall paintings.

(Below) Evening ceremony and chanting (Yebul)

After the evening chant and dinner, we went to Gyehyang to make lotus flower lanterns. The monk said that it was a common practice to offer food, flowers, or burn incense and light a lantern for Buddha. Long time ago, there was a woman named Nanda. She wanted to pay homage to Buddha but she was poor that she could not afford to buy an offering. So, she cut a portion of her hair and sold it. She used the money to buy oil to lit up a lantern. That night, a strong wind blew that caused all lanterns to die out except Nanda's. Hers was even brightly shining which signified her sincerity and great devotion.

You can check out the whole story here. 

DAY 2

We started our day at dawn to participate in the morning ceremony and chanting (yebul). 

After the yebul, we went straight to Seonbuljang hall to do the 108 prostrations. Yes, 108 full bows. Why 108? It is considered a sacred number. It also represents 108 agonies, and with each prostration, you let go of one suffering.

Prostration is a way of expressing penance and humility. With each full bow, you humble yourself, admit your mistakes, and let go of your ego. I thought that I could not complete it, but surprisingly, I did. It's a mixture of physical exercise and meditation. After successfully doing it, I felt relieved and somehow relaxed.

Click here to watch the English version of 108 prayers.

Temple stay Food Etiquette: Strictly no meat and practice silence (묵언) while eating. 

Mr. Kim told us that the monks do not receive a salary. They only take donations. Also, the temple food is donated by the locals. That's why it is important to just take what you can eat. 

After breakfast, we went hiking and reached Sujeongbong Peak within 30-40 minutes.

You can see the whole temple and the lake from the peak. 

After our hike, we proceeded with the tea ceremony with the monk. It’s the time when we can freely ask the monk while he served us tea. I took my chance and asked, “What’s the most challenging part for you in becoming a monk?” 

He said that leaving his parents to pursue a monk life was the hardest for him. He was worried about the health and welfare of his parents if he will leave. But then, he laughingly said that his parents were even happier and healthier even without him by their side. 

We didn’t waste any time, so we put our hats on and stroll along King Sejo Road.

Just look at this view, so peaceful and serene~

We’re also lucky to spot two turtles just hanging out in the lake!

After our stroll, we packed our bags and checked-out. I decided to wrap up my temple stay with a visit to a nearby traditional tea house. Aside from coffee and tea, they also sell temple souvenirs here. 

Final thoughts

I grew up in a Catholic family, and attended private Catholic schools from elementary until college. Most of my friends have the same faith as mine. It's not surprising because more than 80% of Filipinos practice Catholicism. Islam, Buddhism, Confucianism, etc. are minor religions in our country. 

Since I started living in South Korea, I've met people with various religious and non-religious upbringing. Talking with them and discussing our beliefs widens my perspective and makes me more aware of different practices. 

Without a doubt, I got a peek of the monastic lifestyle through this program. Though brief, I gained an understanding and learned about the Korean Buddhism and appreciate its practices. Among the activities that we did, what I liked the most was the tea time with the monk because we got to hear his stories and talked about ours too. 

There’s no right or wrong spiritual belief; what’s important is that we respect each other’s beliefs and celebrate our differences. 

If you want to participate in the same program, you can easily book online through these sites: 

Beopjusa Templestay 

About Beopjusa

Templestay

You may also directly contact Manager Kim Wan-Sik (Daniel) for inquiries. 

Mobile: +8210-9577-9893

Landline: 043-544-5656

E-mail: w0806@hanmail.net

Beopjusa Temple

405, Beopjusa-ro, Songnisan-myeon, Boeun-gun, Chungcheongbuk-do, Republic of Korea 

충북 보은군 속리산면 법주사로 405 템플스테이

How to get there?

I took a bus from Dongseoul Bus Terminal Station (Gangbyeon Station, Line 2). The bus fare is KRW 18,800 and travel time is 3 hours and 30 minutes. 

Check the bus timetable here: 

Seoul (Dongseoul Bus Terminal) to Boeun (Sokrisan Terminal)

Boeun (Sokrisan Terminal)  to Seoul (Dongseoul Bus Terminal)

[happymonkey15]

Underwater Adventure

Since last year, I see to it that I do at least three new things every month. Scuba diving is on my list for July. My dear friend, Jean, and I booked a scuba diving experience package with Into The Sea Diving Center located in Gangneung City, Gangwondo.

Before coming to Gangneung, we confirmed our reservation with the owner of the diving center, Ms. Koo Da Hye, through KakaoTalk. It’s a must to contact her before coming because she has to check the weather and sea conditions first. If everything’s settled, then it’s time to set for an adventure under the sea!

How to get there? 

We’re coming from Seoul, so we booked a ticket from DongSeoul Bus Terminal. Ticket from Seoul to Gangneung Intercity Bus Terminal costs KRW 15,600. We took the first bus at 06:32 am and arrived at 08:50 am. Across the Gangneung bus terminal, we took the green bus #314 and got off the Yeongok Office (연곡사무소) station. From there, we walked at least 1.1 km going to the dive center. 

Into The Sea Dive Center Office and activity price list

Our instructor setting up for our diving exercises in the pool.

He’s helping me prep~

Jean striking a pose ^^

Our diving instructor was nice and patient with us all throughout the course. Since it’s just a beginner course, he taught us some of the basics like the proper breathing techniques and equalizing ear when diving. Everything was in Korean, it’s better if you know the language. :)

After our scuba diving exercises in the pool, we went to the beach to do the real thing. 

These gears are heavy! ㅋㅋㅋ

Though it’s only a basic course, the experience was exhilarating and the people in the dive center are very accommodating and friendly (which makes it a total package! ^^). From the reservation process to the actual diving, everything went smoothly.

I’ll be sharing some underwater footage soon~

Into The Sea Dive Center

Address: 1375-3 Haean-ro, Yeongok-myeon, Gangneung-si, Gangwon (강원도 강릉시 연곡면 해안로 1375-3 인투더씨)

Instagram: @divepong 

KakaoID: divepong

Contact number:  010-7539-1977

Website: http://intothesea.co.kr/

[happymonkey15]

A day of wellness in Gangwon

If you’re looking for a place to just rest and relax, why not go to Gangwon? I’m sharing how my wellness day experience in Gangwon went.

Wellness Program: 

(START) Osaek Greenyard Hotel -> Carbonated Hot Spring -> Jujeongol Valley -> Yoga Class  -> Korea Palace Hotel and Goryeo Museum -> Mt. Balwangsan Mountain Cable Car Ride (FINISH)

OSAEK GREENYARD HOTEL 

We stayed in this hotel which is famous for its carbonated hot springs! 

Our group enjoying a hearty feast

On my way to experience the carbonated hot spring. ~

After checking out their hot spring, I went to sauna rooms with different temperature.

Group Yoga class in the hotel

Osaek Greenyard Hotel Information

Address: 34 Daecheongbong-gil, Seo-myeong, Yangyang-gun (강원도 양양군 서면 대청봉길 34)

Website : Osaek Greenyard Hotel

Reservations: 033-670-1005

OSAEK JUJEONGOL VALLEY 

Beside the hotel is the OsaekJujeongol Valley. There’s no entrance fee so  eveyrone can enjoy a leisurely walk any time of the day.

Osaek Jujeongol Valley

Address: 460 Osaek-ri, Seo-myeon, Yangyang-gun, Gangwondo (강원도 양양군 서면 오색리 460)

Contact info: 033-672-2883

KOREA PALACE HOTEL AND GORYEO MUSEUM

We went straight ahead to Pyeongchang for lunch. We feasted like Kings and Queens at the Korea Palace. 

Since it’s a wellness day, all our dishes were cooked with mineral water. 

After lunch, we checked out the area and the traditional Hanok rooms. 

If you’re into Korean alcoholic beverages, then this activity is right for you. We made a Korean Ginseng Healthy Liquor which can last up to 10 years. Hmmm...

Look at the finished product packaging~

Korea Palace Hotel and Goryeo Museum

Address: 1169, Olympic-ro, Daegwallyeong-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon-do, South Korea

Contact info: 033-336-1111

E-mail: kpkoreapalace@gmail.com

MT. BALWANGSAN CABLE CAR

We capped off our wellness day with a cable car ride which stretches to 7.4km. We saw lucious view of Balwangsan Mountain. A roundtrip cable car ride costs KRW 20,000. 

On top,the fresh breezy summer air pleasantly greeted us.

If you want to just chill and enjoy the view, then I suggest you go to the cafe.

Yongpyong Resort - Mt. Balwangsan Cable Car 

Address: 1169, Olympic-ro, Daegwallyeong-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon-do, South Korea

Contact info: 033-336-1111

E-mail: kpkoreapalace@gmail.com

[happymonkey15]

Sail Away!