Take VIII: Cross Over Episode
Weekend Adventures in South Korea: Exploring with Sarah and Lily
I recently spent a weekend in South Korea with my friends Sarah and Lily, and it was an adventure full of surprises and discoveries. The trip was a mix of navigating a new language, trying out traditional outfits, and indulging in amazing food. Here's a little recap of our fun-filled trip and what made it so memorable:
First Impressions: Language Differences
From the moment we landed, the language difference was immediately noticeable. Korean uses Hangul, a unique script that looks so different from the Latin alphabet we use in Indonesia. It felt a bit like being a kid again, trying to figure out what signs and menus meant. It was both a challenge and a fun puzzle to solve, adding an extra layer of excitement to even the simplest tasks like ordering food or asking for directions.
Dressing Up in Hanbok: A Royal Experience
One of the coolest parts of our trip was visiting Gyeongbokgung Palace.
We decided to rent hanbok, the traditional Korean clothing, which turned out to be an awesome decision. Walking around in these beautiful outfits, we couldn't help but feel like royalty for a day. It was surreal imagining what it must have been like to live there back in the day, surrounded by the stunning architecture and serene gardens. It was a little slice of history, and we were right in the middle of it.
People and Fashion: Noticing the Differences
While exploring, we noticed a real mix of people. There were tourists from all over the world, alongside locals who were often dressed quite stylishly. It's interesting how even casual outings seemed to have an unspoken dress code, with many people opting for a more polished look. It was a small thing, but it stood out and gave the city a unique, slightly formal vibe.
Food Finds: Exploring Seoul's Alleyways
One of our favorite activities was wandering through the narrow alleyways packed with restaurants and street food stalls. Each alley seemed to hold a new culinary treasure, from spicy tteokbokki to sweet hotteok. We loved just picking a random spot and diving into whatever was on offer. It felt like a food adventure, with every bite bringing something new and delicious. The best part was stumbling upon tiny cafes or cozy eateries where we could relax and soak in the local atmosphere.
Reflecting on the Weekend
This weekend with Sarah and Lily was more than just a fun trip; it was a deep dive into a different culture. The language, the food, the fashion—it all felt like stepping into a new world. But what really made it special was the way these new experiences opened our eyes to the everyday life of another place, reminding us that even in our differences, there's so much we can connect over and learn from.
It was a weekend full of firsts, and each one was a little adventure of its own. From feeling like a princess in a hanbok to savoring street food flavors, it was a trip that left us with memories and a greater appreciation for the rich tapestry of cultures that make up our world.
Last weekend, I got to explore South Korea with my friends Sarah and Lily. It was an eye-opening experience full of cultural surprises, stunning sights, and delicious food. Here’s a little recap of our adventure.
Language and Culture: A Fun Challenge
From the moment we arrived, the language difference was something else. Korean Hangul was a whole new world compared to what I’m used to, with its unique characters and sounds. It was a bit of a challenge to navigate, especially when ordering food or getting directions, but it made everything feel like a fun puzzle to solve. We relied heavily on gestures and our translation apps, turning every interaction into a mini-adventure.
Living History: Dressing Up in Hanbok
One of the most memorable parts of the trip was visiting Gyeongbokgung Palace. We decided to rent hanbok, the traditional Korean attire, and it was an amazing experience. Walking through the palace grounds in these beautiful, flowing dresses made me feel like I had stepped back in time. The intricate designs and vibrant colors of the hanbok made me feel regal, and the palace itself was stunning with its grand architecture and peaceful gardens. It was easy to imagine what life might have been like for the people who lived there centuries ago.
Style and Elegance: Observing Local Fashion
Something that really stood out to me was how stylish everyone seemed to be. Even just walking around the city, there was a noticeable sense of fashion and formality. People were dressed sharply, blending modern trends with traditional touches. It was different from what I’m used to, but in a good way—it added a layer of elegance to the everyday vibe of the city.
Foodie Finds: Exploring the Alleyways
We spent a lot of time exploring Seoul’s narrow alleyways, which were packed with tiny restaurants and street food stalls. It felt like a treasure hunt for the best eats, and we found some real gems. From the spicy kick of tteokbokki to the sweet delight of hotteok, every dish was a new taste experience. These little spots were perfect for grabbing a bite and relaxing away from the hustle and bustle, giving us a taste of local life.
Reflections on the Weekend
This weekend trip was more than just sightseeing—it was a deep dive into a different culture. The language, the food, the fashion—it all gave me a new perspective and made me appreciate the richness of South Korean culture. It was fascinating to see how different yet relatable everything was, from the formal streetwear to the cozy, hidden eateries.
Overall, the weekend was a mix of fun and learning. It was a chance to step out of my comfort zone, try new things, and see the world from a different angle. Whether it was dressing up in hanbok or discovering new flavors, every moment was a reminder of how much there is to explore and enjoy in life.