Everything I have ever read about Seoul has been undeniably true. The city that never sleeps has so much to do and is constantly so busy. I have never felt such a funky, vibrant vibe from any other city. It 's hard to explain, but it gives me energy. The first weekend in Seoul was not comfortable. I fell and had to receive some stitches on my foot. That caused my foot to swell, and for some unexplainable reason, I wore my cute leather boots. However, my second weekend, I wore comfortable walking shoes, so I was in a way better mood and took loads of photos.
I made friends from all walks of life these past few weekends. People from South Africa, Thailand, Australia, even some good ole' Americans. It was cool meeting all these other teachers while sharing our experiences in Korea so far. We took cooking classes, Korean lessons, as well as martial arts class together.
We had the opportunity to tour Gyeonbokgung Palace, and it was so crazy weird. This ancient palace built in the 1800s was smack dab in the middle of Seoul's bustle. I would turn around and see the entrance of the palace and right behind it industrial buildings, then take another 180 and find the rest of the palace surrounded by mountains. It threw me off. Being within the city seemed to give it some extra charm. People are seen walking around in their traditional hangbok's blending in with the scenery. I was so jealous of their colorful outfits. I definitely will come back with Jonathan dressed in a traditional matching outfit, because why not?
Afterward, a couple of friends and I decided to go to Namsam Tower, also known as the famous Seoul tour for romantic couples to lock their love on a bridge and throw away their key, symbolizing their promise to each other. Just like many things in Seoul, it was couple orientated. I still felt the romantic vibes with my gals though and had a great time.
Tip for Namsam Tower: Go at night and if you are feeling adventurous, find the hiking route and do it in the dark. It was so beautiful hiking towards the tower in the dark and being able to see the city skyline behind. The trail was not too difficult, and any hiker will be able to do it! It was little ways from the cable car station. Take bus 402 and get off at Huam Mineral Spring stop, when you get off the bus turn right and continue along the sidewalk until you see the hiking trailhead for Seoul N Tower on the left.
