Seoul, Summer: 10 things to do in Korea

I'm in love with Korea ❤, period. I was captivated by its charms during my first visit. I basically suffered from Korea/Seoul withdrawal after landing in Singapore. Thus, when SQ offered a promotion price to Korea, I knew that it was a god-sent sign that I have to head back. I was so desperate to go that I offered to pay for Leecher's air tickets. So, this Leecher jumped at the (sponsored) opportunity & came along for our 2nd trip to Korea :) During the 1st trip, we spent a good 8 days in Spring. With a different itinerary in hand, we headed to Korea for the summer. Here is my personal take on the 10 activities to do in Korea for summer!

1. Visit the traditional markets

 

The traditional Korean marketplace is one of the best way to soak up in the local spirit of Korea. In here, you get to rub shoulders with the ahjummas, bargain with the store-owners and feast to your heart's content. These traditional market places are littered throughout Seoul and Namdaemum Market is the most popular of all.

2. Pedal on a Railway bike 

 

Be surrounded by nature as you pedal along the old abandoned railway tracks. Fans of Running Man would instantly recognise this as this was one of the games played in ep 144. We had a fun time pedaling the entire 8km distance, so head there for a morning workout before rewarding your tummy with chicken & beer later in the day!

3. Hike up Mount Bukhansan

 

The Korean peninsula is covered mostly by mountains, hence it is no secret that hiking is one of Korea's national pastime. We embarked on a hike up Mount Bukhansan and were treated to a bird's eye view of Seoul at the top. Enough said! 

4. Visit Hongdae Flea Market

 

The Hongdae flea market aims to showcase local artists and handcrafted goods. Rather than selling second-hand goods, these artists gather every Saturday and showcase their creativity through their unique handiwork. Head there to enjoy an afternoon of impromptu street/music performance. 

5. Embark on a Korean summer food trail

 

Summer in Korea is no joke, with temperatures rising close to 35 degrees. We often find ourselves heading indoors to stay away from the heat. The best way to combat the summer heat - indulge in cold dishes like bingsu, naengmyeon and memil-guksu.

6. Catch a baseball game 

 

Catch the lotte giants in action at their home ground in Busan. Throughout the game, we were entertained by the cheerleaders on the sideline, the players on the pitch and not forgetting witnessing the first ever home-run of our lives. 

7. Conquer Hwaseong fortress

 

Surrounding the centre of Suwon, Hwaseong Fortress was constructred by King Jeongjo to honour his late father.  Listed as a World Heritage site by UNESCO, we braved the heat and sun to conquer the fortress wall that stretches close to 5.52km, stopping by various spots for picture taking. 

8. Play a game of Korean archery

 

While conquering the fortress, we took the chance and participated in Gukgung, also known as Korean traditional archery. This bow is relatively light and easy to pull. Follow the instructions of the instructor and you are ready to go!

   9. Enjoy the rainbow fountain at Banpo bridge

 

Want to enjoy a night's out with food and music? I will suggest that you grab some pizzas, takeaways and head to Banpo bridge for a night's out. At regular intervals, the bridge is illuminated with rainbow-coloured dancing lights, swaying to the sound of music.

10. Catch an exhibition at DPP

Located in the heart of the city, Dongdaemun Design Plaza's building itself is a piece of art for you can't find any straight lines or walls. Head to DDP on a day, catch an exhibition and reignite your artistic spirit. 

Psst .... detailed posts will be linked once completed, stay tuned! 

Guesthouses in Seoul, Korea

When it comes to booking accommodation for our trips, it has to fulfill some requirements like the location must be in a safe district, clean room with attached bathroom and lastly, fits within our budget. While I'm always tempted to stay at posh hotels, I can't bring myself to pay the hefty price tag. The money saved can go into our funding for more shopping or activities. During our recent visits to Korea, we opted to stay in guesthouses instead. Most of these guesthouses are located to major tourist attractions and conveniently accessible by public transportation. Best of all, they fit into our budget for being reasonably priced and come equipped with basic amenities. 

 Namsan Guest House

Namsan Guesthouse consists of 5 guesthouses which are within walking distance from one another. Every room is equipped with private bathroom, air-conditioner, cable TV and ondol system (Korean floor heating system). Conveniently located in Myeongdong, the guesthouse is located around 150m (up-slope) from the subway station and 10 min walk to Namsam Tower. Starting price of 55,000 Won for 2 pax.

Suitcasers

Suitcasers is located at City Hall station, one of the best location that you can ever find. You can walk to Deoksugang Palace, Cheonggyecheon Stream, Namdaemun and many others. You can reserve the portal wifi egg from them (complimentary) when you confirmed your reservation. The basic services includes breakfast, international calls, printing, cable TV etc - all free of charge as long as you are a staying guest. Starting price of 70,000 Won for 2 pax. 

Banana Backpackers

The Banana Backpackers is easily recognizable from the windmill outside the building. This guesthouse is strategically located to tourist sites like Insadong, Bukchon Hanok Village and Changdeokgung Palace. The staff are friendly and very helpful when we wanted to order Chinese takeout from the nearby restaurants. Starting price of 50,000 Won for 2 pax.

Haemil Guest House

 

 A traditional Korean house (Hanok) situated close to Changdeokgung Palace and Jongmyo, both of which are designated as UNESCO World Heritage sites. At Haemil, you will get to experience sleeping on their ondol heated floor, with traditional korean blankets & mattress. In addition, guests get to start the new day with either traditional Korean or Western breakfast prepared by the lovely hosts. Starting price of 100,000 Won for a room.

 Mago Guest House

 

Mago Guest House is centrally located near Chungmuro subway station and Namsangol Hanok Village. The place is designed to feel like a traditional home but with modern amenities. Offering a mixture of korean ondol rooms and modern rooms, this is the place to go if you like to experience the different styles without moving to another location. Starting price of 62,000 Won for 2 pax.

Psst .... detailed posts will be linked once completed, stay tuned! 

 

Malacca 2014: 5 things to do in Malacca

Malacca, located on the west coast of peninsular Malaysia, is often termed as "The Historic State". Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the city centre eludes a strong blend of historical and cultural influences from Portuguese, Dutch and British rule. Over the weekend, the Sisters embarked on a road trip to Malacca, braving the infamous Malaysia jam to enjoy a 2D1N sisterly trip!

1. Asam Laksa at Jonker 88

The most famous icon of Jonker Walk, Jonker 88 is no doubt the place to go for a bowl of asam laksa. Based on a home-made recipe, the laksa is served with noodles and tipped with cucumber, onion slices, tofu pok and a spoonful of tuna. Be prepared to brave the queue before you are greeted with a bowl of delish noodles. 

2. Conquer Jonker Street

Conquering Jonker Street on a weekend is no easy feat. This street comes alive at night, bustling with roadside stalls that sell everything under the sun - ranging from tasty snacks to cheap souvenirs. We braved the human crowd (sweaty bodies, arms and all) and walked from one end to the other while sampling tasty snacks along the way!

3. Indulge in Chicken Rice Balls

 

Don't leave Malacca without polishing off a plate of chicken rice balls. These rice balls are so tiny that I could easily eat 10 of it myself. Do not attempt to bounce these off the table, for they are not ping pong balls :)  

4. Fill your tummies with pastries

 

Savour a wide collection of pastries housed under one roof, ranging from 老婆饼 to 豆沙饼. These pastries are freshly baked from the bakeries, we could even smell the fragrance from across the street. Lug some goodies home for the family and spread the love!

5. Chill at a Cafe & enjoy live music

We headed to Geographer's Cafe for a girls' night out. Located at a corner of Jonker Walk, this is the place to be seen! With a drink in hand, we chatted the night away while live music accompanied us in the background. 

Psst .... detailed posts will be linked once completed, stay tuned!  

 ******

 Read our Malacca adventures here:

The Jitches: Journey to Malacca 
The Jitches Adventure in Malacca: Hotel Courtyard @ Heeren and Asam Laksa at Jonker 88
The Jitches Adventure in Malacca: Snacks & Pastries in Malacca
The Jitches Adventure in Malacca: Conquering Jonker Street
The Jitches Adventure in Malacca: Geographer Cafe  
The Jitches Adventure in Malacca: Breakfast, Chicken Rice Balls and Heading Home  

Honeymoon: 15 things to do in Paris

Paris, also known as the City of Love, is a popular honeymoon destination. When it comes to romance, the french people knows it best since French is the language for love. The iconic Eiffel tower is also a symbol of love, as countless proposals took place within its ground. There is something whimsical about Paris, an irresistible charm that makes people yearn for more. Therefore, here is my personal take on how to enjoy Paris with your love :)  

1. The Eiffel Tower

A trip to Paris is never complete without visiting the Eiffel Tower, one of the most recognizable structures in the world. For those looking for a good workout, simply tour the tower on foot by climbing the 704 steps from the bottom to the 2nd floor. Otherwise, purchase the tickets for lifts in person at the ticketing booths or online from their official website.

2. Louvre Museum

 

Housing more than 35,000 works of arts including the famous Mona Lisa, Louvre Museum is worth a visit for those interested in arts & history. Pace your way through the different exhibits, ranging from Egyptian antiquities to paintings. While you are mesmerized by the painting of Mona Lisa, do be wary of pickpockets loitering around the area. 

Related posts: Louvre, the perfect symmetry I, II, III and IV

3. Dine at a Michelin Star Restaurant

With over 70 Michelin-starred restaurants, Paris is one of the most foodie-friendly capitals in the world. We headed to Lasserre, a 2-star Michelin restaurant for lunch and boy, it was the most enjoyable experience ever! 

 4.  Notre Dame Cathedral

Notre Dame Church always remind me of the movie, The Hunchback of Notre Dame. Decorated with exquisite carvings of French Gothic influence, the cathedral is widely considered to be one of the most well-known church buildings in the world. Conquer the 380 steps up the cathedral towers and see the Emmanuel bell.  

 5. Hop on a River Cruise

 

Hop on a river cruise to enjoy the sights along River Seine. Fuss-free and easy, this saves you from walking the miles. Head to the upper deck and bask in the sunshine, feel the gentle breeze caressing your hair as you sail down the river.

Related posts: Cruise along River Seine Part One, Part Two 

6. Picnic at the Park

Pack some food, head to a nearby park and have an impromptu picnic.   
Related post: Picnic at Tuileries Garden

7. Watch Moulin Rouge

The famous red wind-mill of Paris, birthplace of the can-can dance. Catch a show at Moulin Rouge and be transported into a world of cabarets, can-can dance, elaborate costumes made of feathers, rhinestones and sequins. 

Related post: Moulin Rouge 

 8. Palace of Versailles

 

The Palace of Versailles, which has been on UNESCO's World Heritage list for 30 years, is definitely worth a day trip out of Paris city. Spanning over 2,014 acres of land, the Chateau is divided into the Palace, the Garden, the Grand Trianon and Marie-Antoniette's Estate. My personal favourites are The Hall of Mirrors (located in the Palace) and the Garden. You can even rent a boat and row in the grand canal. 

Related posts: Journey to Palace of Versailles, The Palace - Royal Chapel & Hercules Room

9. Chill out at Laduree Tea house

 

Enjoy a quiet afternoon at Laduree Tea House, sipping tea over a table full of desserts. Desserts always taste sweeter when sharing it with the other half :) Pack a box of their signature macarons for takeaway! 

10. Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Paris

 

Designed by Paul Abadie, the Basilica is situated at the summit of Montmatre, which also happens to be the highest point in the city. The Basilica offers a spectacular panoramic view of the Paris skyline, which many visitors flocked to see. 

11. Shopping

   

Paris is the perfect shopping paradise, with home-grown brands like Chanel, Hermes and many more. Stroll down Champ Elysee, head into the store of your favourite brand and just hand over the credit card!

12. Street Performances

 

Being a capital of arts and culture, there are plenty of street performances in the city. Hunt for an empty slot at the steps in front of Basilica, grab a bottle of beer and some snacks from the street vendors and enjoy the show.

13. Drink lots of wine

When the price tag of wine is way cheaper than a glass of water, ordering wine is the best way to go!

14. Shop at their local supermart

Have a go at their ready-packed meals - they never tasted so good! Stock up on a few bottles of wine to drink at the comfort of your accommodation. Oh, grab a couple of their desserts to counter late night hunger pangs. 

Related post: Grocery Shopping

15. Stroll along River Seine

Take a slow walk down the river banks with your love, hand-in-hand and enjoy the wonderful sights of Paris. Head to the Eiffel Tower and snap a picture or two, or watch the sun setting in the horizon - this is the perfect way to end the day. 

Psst .... detailed posts will be linked once completed, stay tuned! 

Seoul 2014, Spring: 15 things to do in Seoul

Seoul, a city that captured my heart that I was determined to head back for another visit soon. Influenced by the Hallyu wave, we reached Seoul to discover the beauty of the city.  A blend of ancient traditions and modern technology, Seoul is a city filled with stark contrasts. There are simply too many activities to do in the vibrant city, so here is my personal take on 15 things to do in Seoul.

1. Biking along Hangang (한강)

 

Instead of a river cruise, we rented a bike and spent a couple of hours cycling along Hangang (Han River). While we had to conquer riding up-slopes along some of the trails, the changing scenery well made up for the exercise. The diversity of the parks offer different scenes, depending on which cycling route you embarked on. There are plenty of bicycle rental shops in the park - so, hop on and ride! 

2. Eat at a pojangmacha (포장마차) and make some friends 

 

Pojangmacha is very much of Korean culture, where locals go for meals and drinks after work. We had our first experience with a bunch of new-found Singaporean and Korean friends. The group of us were just making merry in the pojangmacha, washing down food with bottles and bottles of soju!

3. Day trip to Nami Island 

If you have watched Winter Sonata, you will definitely pay a visit to Nami Island. This place, famous for its beautiful tree lined roads, is the shooting location of the drama. Stroll along the road and reminisce the scenes from the drama. Head for the bench (which has since moved!) where Bae Yong-joon and Choi Jiwoo shared their first kiss.

4. Cosmetic shopping at Myeongdong

   

 Myeongdong is the shopping paradise for cosmetics. Most of the beauty brands - Etude House, Innisfree, The Face Shop - have several shops located in the area. Promoters will stand in front of the shop, hand out free samples to passer-bys (especially girls!) and literally "drag" you inside the shop. Be prepared to part with (a significant amount of) your cash whenever you step into one :)

5. Hanbok (한복) experience

 

A trip to Korea is never complete without putting on Hanbok, the traditional costumes of Korea. Children wear hanbok for their 1st birthday and adults wear it for special occasions. I love the vibrant colours of the costumes, where the fabric is dyed using natural dyes.

6. N Seoul Tower & N-Grill Restaurant

 

N Seoul Tower at Nansam Park marks the highest point in Seoul. Couples flock to the Roof Terrace where they will put a padlock of love on the railings, a symbol of interlocking their fate with each other. Make a stop to N Grill, a french restaurant located at the highest point of the tower, boasting the best view. 

7. Ginseng chicken soup (Samgaetang) 

One of the must-try dishes in Korea, the highly-raved Ginseng Chicken Soup. Stuffed with glutinous rice, this dish is well-liked by young and old. Drink this with a small cup of ginseng wine and feel the heat rush through your body.

8. Stand and eat at a roadside stall

 

I have a special liking towards roadside stalls with their wide variety of snacks that is enough to curb my hunger pangs. My top 2 choices go to tteokbokki and fishcakes. They are my comfort food in the cold weather :) 

9. Korean Folk Village(한국민속촌)

 

Head to the Korean Folk Village for a glimpse of traditional Korean life. There are various traditional houses reminiscent of the late Joseon Dynasty, where visitors are transported back to the olden days. This is also the filming location for various K-drama, such as Moon embracing the Sun, My Love from another Star and Sungkyunkwan Scandal. Be sure to catch some of the events, like traditional folk dances or acrobatics at the performance area.

10. Do a drama-filming-location trail

 

Fans of K-drama will not miss a chance to visit the filming locations of the dramas. These places added a sense of familiarity as I'll recall the scenes from the dramas. This was taken at Petite France, at the spot of the famous flying kiss scene between Do Min Joon & Cheon Song Yi from the drama, My Love from Another Star.

11. Ihwa Mural Village (이화 벽화마을)

 

You can find lots of murals and artworks littered around the whole village. Spend a couple of hours combing the alleys, look for interesting pieces that are worth a shot or two. Visitors are welcome to take as many pictures as possible, but do be mindful to keep your voices down as this is a residential area. Enjoy a cuppa of coffee and chill out at one of the many cafes in the village.

12. DMZ tour

 Venturing into the DMZ zone was one of the to-do list during this trip. We booked ourselves on a half-day DMZ tour and went on an interesting history lesson, courtesy of our tour guide. Stretching over 240km across the Korean Peninsula, the DMZ zone offers visitors an insight on the history and culture of the country.

13. Bukchon Hanok Village (북촌한옥마을)

Home to hundreds of traditional houses dating back to the Joseon Dynasty, this village is best explored on foot. Be sure to wear good walking shoes to scale the steep slopes. Try and see if you can spot the house that was used in the drama "Personal Taste" in this village!

 14. Visit one of the many palaces

 

5 palaces are located within the heart of Seoul, which make it easier to explore. There are guided tours in different languages and timings for tourists, allowing us to learn more about Korean history. With Mount Bugaksan as the backdrop, Gyeongbokgung is the main and largest palace amongst the five palaces. Explore the palace surroundings and head towards the main gate for the guard-changing ceremony.

15. Witness the guard-changing ceremony

The guard changing ceremony is a reenactment of the original ceremony which dates back to ancient times. You can catch the ceremony at either Gyeongbokgung Palace or Gwanghwamun Gate 3 times a day (apart from Tuesday). Take a picture with the guards on duty after the ceremony.

Psst .... detailed posts will be linked once completed, stay tuned!