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Paju Book City: Design, Typography, and Libraries
Just west of Seoul in Paju is an interesting neighborhood with architectural gems, book cafes, and publishing companies. Called the Paju Book City (파주출판도시), if you’re looking for something different to do this weekend, maybe head here and see what you can see. This hidden gem is a haven for architecture enthusiasts, bookworms, and publishing enthusiasts alike. While it may not be a mainstream tourist destination, Paju Book City offers a plethora of captivating attractions and delightful surprises waiting to be discovered. Get ready to take a trip out to the Paju Book City: (This post contains affiliate links, which means I receive a certain percentage of a sale if…
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Why you shouldn’t just walk by Seoul City Hall
The Seoul City Hall (서울특별시청) in downtown Seoul just across from Deoksugung Palace is one of the most striking buildings and most people just walk right by. With its grand architecture and captivating wave structure, it’s hard not to be captivated by its exterior beauty. The large glass wave towers above the older Seoul Metropolitan Library building and Seoul Plaza. Heard of the Korean Wave? This is the architectural representation of it and it is beautiful. Let me tell you a little secret though, don’t just walk by this iconic landmark; instead, take a moment to explore its unique interior and experience the breathtaking installations that lie within. Trust me, it’s…
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Seoul In One Day: 24 Hours In Seoul
Whether you have a short layover in Seoul or want to see Seoul quickly to get on your way to another part of Korea, there is plenty to see if just 1 day is all you’ve got. I’ve been living in Seoul since 2006 and I’ve been up, down, and all around. I’ve managed to talk a few family members and friends into getting long layovers when they fly through Asia so they can stop and see me and I can show them around and these are the Seoul one-day itineraries that I use. There is a ton to see in Seoul, but if it’s your first time and it’s…
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Nurungji: The Korean Burnt Rice Dish You’ll Love
Nurungji (누룽지) is a traditional Korean delicacy that holds a prominent place in Korean cuisine and if you’re my daughter, it’s your favorite Korean comfort food. Called burnt rice or scorched rice, nurungji is the crispy, golden crust that forms at the bottom of the hot pot when cooking rice. Want to learn more about nurungji, including its health benefits, when Koreans typically enjoy it, and how to make this delectable treat, you’ve come to the right spot. Learn more about one of our favorite Korean comfort foods, nurugnji: (This post contains affiliate links, which means I receive a certain percentage of a sale if you purchase after clicking at…
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Korean Stationary Stores and Art Supply Stores In Seoul
While I’ve visited plenty a stationary supply store in Seoul for basic necessities like printer paper and notebooks, it wasn’t until my daughter aged into the “must-have-the-cutest-everything” phase that I really delved into the stationary stores in Seoul. There are definitely stores that cater to the standard needs and stores that cater to the everything cute crowd so let’s break it down. Korean stationary makes a perfect gift for friends and family back home and a charming addition to any desktop so make sure you know where to go, if you want the cute or chic-designed items versus the standard notebooks for school. Whether you’re a stationary fanatic, someone who…
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How To Rent A Car In Jeju Island
Jeju Island in South Korea is often the highlight of Korea for many, tourist and local alike. Given the moniker the “Hawaii of Korea” and known to many a local as the spot for a honeymoon, Jeju is an island in Korea you just have to visit at least once. Though if you’re like me, you’ll go again and again and still find it amazing and beautiful and worth the trip. The thing about Jeju though that you’ll hear again and again is how you need to rent a car. Now, don’t get me wrong, you can definitely get around without a car. Public transportation on Jeju Island does exist. It’s…
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Buldak Ramen: The Spiciest Ramen On The Market
Looking for some ramen with heat? Korean instant noodles packed with a punch? The spiciest Korean ramen on the market? Whether you’re just trying it for fun or partaking in the spicy ramen challenge, Buldak Ramen is the Korean ramen you need to look for. We recently got a fun subscription box from Daebak box with two kinds of Buldak Ramen inside: the original Buldak Ramen and the Habanero Lime Buldak Ramen. I had seen the viral ramen challenges online, aka the Fire Noodle Challenge, but hadn’t gone out of my way to spice up my life. Receiving it at the door meant my husband and I were ready even…
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A Guide To The Sejong National Arboretum
Did you know Korea’s first urban national arboretum, Sejong National Arboretum (국립세종수목원), is located in Sejong City? This sprawling garden in Korea’s administrative capital is a beauty and perfect for any plant enthusiast or traveler looking for a peaceful escape. When I first went to Sejong, a city built for government facilities, I wasn’t sure what I’d find. But, you might be surprised that there are a number of interesting things to do in Sejong and visiting the Sejong National Arboretum is chief among them. With its vast collection of plants, themed gardens, and impressive greenhouse complexes, Sejong National Arboretum is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking to immerse themselves…
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The New Zealand Wine Festival in Seoul and Busan: 2023
The New Zealand Wine Festival recently took place in Seoul and it was a wine lover’s treat. From delightful garden celebrations and amusing contests to the opportunity to win some pretty great prizes, this festival exceeded all expectations. If you missed this great wine festival in Seoul this year, keep an eye out for next year. But also, don’t forget that this wine festival is a double header and also takes place in Busan, Korea. (This post contains affiliate links, which means I receive a certain percentage of a sale if you purchase after clicking at no cost to you. Thank you for your support.) The Venue Hosted at the…
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What To Eat In Myeongdong: From Restaurants To Street Food
Myeongdong is one of the most popular districts in Seoul, Korea for tourists to stay, eat, shop, and more. If you’re looking for one of the most central districts in Seoul to stay, it’s Myeongdong. If you’re looking for plenty of shopping from Kbeauty to apparel, it’s Myeongdong. There are so many things to do in Myeongdong too. What you may not realize though, is that Myeongdong can also be a foodie paradise. This article is all about what to eat in Myeongdong, the best restaurants in Myeongdong, and the very delicious street food in Myeongdong. Get ready to eat eat eat… between shopping stops I’m sure. Myeongdong in Seoul,…
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What To Know About Living In A Korean Apartment: Tips, Tricks, and More
Are you moving to a Korean apartment and feeling a bit overwhelmed at the prospect? Wonder what is’ like to live in a Korean apartment? I’ve lived in Korea for more than 15 years in everything from an apartment and an officetel to a villa. Don’t know the difference yet? No worries. I’ve got you covered. Keep reading to get some essential tips to apartment living in South Korea from how to hang things on cement walls to what to know about wet bathrooms, here’s what you need to know. Are you moving to Korea? There’s a lot to know about the place, but there’s a lot to know about…
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Crows, Shamanism, and Jeju Island with Joey Rositano
While thousands of people visit Jeju Island in South Korea each month and visit the hot spots and beautiful beaches, there are few that have become as intrigued with the Shamanic practices and rites unique to the Korean island as Joey Rositano. There is more to the island famous for idyllic views and Korean honeymooners than many tourists ever realize. Learn more about Rositano’s latest project called ‘Scattering’ which explores the fascinating and puzzling connection between crows and humans in the Shamanic ceremonies in the Darakut village of Jeju Island. Learn more about the fascinating book called ‘Scattering’ and the writer, researcher, and photographer, Joey Rositano: *All photos in this…
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A List Of Art Museums In Seoul That Will Inspire You
One thing I love about living in Seoul, Korea is how many opportunities there are to appreciate art. There are a ton of art museums in Seoul and even more art galleries in Seoul. Though I couldn’t possibly name them all, here is a list of some of the best art museums in Seoul that you need to check out while you’re here. There is everything from modern art to traditional crafts and museums that also cater to kids. Just take your pick. If you’re looking for inspiration, something different to do in Seoul, visit the captivating art museums and galleries that dot the city and cater to a diverse…
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Where To Find Outdoor Swimming Pools in Seoul
It’s warming up and getting humid and you’re ready to swim in Seoul, Korea. Summer in Korea can be hot hot hot and there are only so many ways to cool off. Hopefully you have some time to head to the awesome beaches in Korea. But if you don’t, there are still plenty of ways to get wet and wild in Seoul. Let me help you dive into the best outdoor swimming pool in Seoul. From Han River swimming pools to hot spot hotel swimming pools, you’ll find everything from the most family friendly to the trendiest places to lounge about poolside in Seoul. Get ready to go swimming in…
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Mixsoon: The Bean Line Review You Need To Read
Lux! I am not exaggerating when I say the first time I tried the MIXSOON bean based products I was blown away. They just felt so lux and high-quality going on. I couldn’t get enough and I think you will want to try this Korean beauty brand‘s products too. MIXSOON’s motto is “Healthy skin starts with good ingredients” and they live by that and have some great products. The bean line has been my introduction to MIXSOON, but I will be trying more, that is for sure. Get ready to learn more about MIXSOON’s bean line: (This post contains affiliate links, which means I receive a certain percentage of a…
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The New Zealand Wine Festival Offers More Fun and Flavor in 2023
The Kiwi Chamber of Commerce is back with the annual New Zealand Wine Festival, welcoming seasoned oenophiles and wine novices alike to join in on the fun in Seoul on May 20th. New Zealand, with its pristine nature and strong winemaking heritage, is known for its quality wines, which have been enjoying record popularity in Korea. Fortunately for us, a variety of the finest wines from more than 25 award-winning New Zealand wineries will be on offer at the festival, in addition to delectable cuisine and fantastic live performances. This is the event in Seoul you should not miss out on. With this year’s Seoul festivities to be held in…
