Adventures in Asia: Escape from Seoul

Jinny and I, along with two of my friends Tim and Jiyeon made a great escape from Seoul last weekend. We went to Gangwha Island, a relatively large island of the west coast. Weather was great, scenery was great, the time was short. Check it out...

ridin'

As much as I love scootin' around the city, driving out on the open road was a great release. After driving in circles within Seoul trying to get out and also accidently getting on the freeway where all 2 wheel vehicles are forbidden (and with good reason!) we were finally on our way. Driving around on the island, especially, was great fun with the curvy, hilly roads.

workin it

There was one main climbing mountain on the island. Sunday morning Jinny and I decided to tackle it. She had heard a rumor that it was a short hike, just an hour and a half. She misunderstood this, it turned out to be a decent hour and a half up the mountain, to the peak. Anyways, no problem. This mountain was beautiful and has a lot of culture and history within it. It was thought to channel a lot of power to Korea during the time of Japanese occupation, so the Japanese placed big ugly iron rods all over it to stop the flow of energy. Once Korea gained its independence, they made sure to get rid of those!

almost there

We are almost to the top here, with a great view overlooking the island. Life outside of Seoul is much different, as is anywhere considering the city vs. country lifestyle. One thing I really respect about Koreans are the amounts of older people who still get out and hike. Its a great feeling getting to the top and seeing people in their 60's and 70's smiling and saying hello. (anyeonghaseyo) They are so warm and friendly, and they always seem excited to see a foreigner exploring their beautiful country.

success!

We reached the top and high-fived several times. The view in all directions was great. The rock structure seen in the distance was built by Koreans to pray on special holidays. I'm not sure what the holidays are or anything more unfortunately.

bbq

The restaurant scene on the island wasn't so hot, especially since Tim, pictured above, hates seafood. Kan-chan-ah, we say! Just bought some meat and things from the little mart and had a BBQ. Once again, country hospitality had us fully equipped with a grill, picnic table, and all the necessary equipment for a delicious dinner.

seafood market

There was a small market in a harbor we stopped at. Nothing big here, just lots of shellfish little old ladies all trying to convince you that there's was the most delicious.

stream

Took a break on the way down near a small stream.

beach

One thing was that the beach was so shallow that until the tide comes in at 5 or so, the sandy beach just leads to a huge field of... mud. No swimming for us unfortunately. This picture was taken by Jinny, ridin' shotgun, on our way home...