After years of restrictions and uncertainties, the thrill of setting off on international travels has never felt more exhilarating. This newfound freedom to explore feels like a rebirth, an opportunity to rediscover the magic of travel with a deeper appreciation.
And for our first post-pandemic international travel, me and
my sisters chose Jeju, Korea. You may wonder, why? Well, it’s because I want to
see “beot-kkot”, popularly known as the Cherry Blossom.
Day 1: Travel time – from Baguio to Jeju.
We landed Jeju night time already, meet with our tour guide –
Miss Oh, then brought us to a Chicken shop for our dinner.
Day 2: Exploring Jeju's Natural and Cultural Heritage
My second day in Jeju started with a visit to the EcoLand Theme Park. This eco-friendly park offered a charming train ride that
meandered through picturesque landscapes and serene lakes. It was a refreshing
way to connect with nature and enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings.
Next, we headed to Seongeup Village, a living museum that vividly showcased the island's rich cultural heritage. Walking through the village felt like stepping back in time, with its well-preserved thatched-roof houses, stone walls, and traditional artifacts.
A visit to an orange farm was next on the agenda. Jeju's oranges are famous for their sweetness, and it was fascinating to learn about the cultivation process.
The highlight of the day should be the Seongsan Sunrise (Ilchulbong) Peak, a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site. However, climbing to the top was not allowed on that day because of their routine maintenance. I was not able to see the breathtaking panoramic views of the island.
Instead of climbing, we trekked down towards the sea where
we witness stunning panoramic views of the coastline as we descended.
Day 3: Discovering Jeju's Artistic and Natural Beauty
Day three began with a visit to the Ginseng Gallery,
where I learned about the benefits and varieties of this revered medicinal
root. The place also has this device where it checks if you have existing
health condition through your index finger. I was amazed as it revealed that I
am suffering from allergies, which is quite accurate.
It was followed by a quick stop at a cosmetic outlet
to explore the latest in Korean skincare and beauty products. With the seller’s
powerful marketing techniques, we were compelled to buy Guboncho products.
Next, we made my way to Camellia Hill, a beautiful
garden boasting an impressive collection of camellia flowers. The vibrant
blooms were a sight to behold, and the serene atmosphere made for a perfect
leisurely stroll.
The visit to the O’sulloc Tea Museum was an enriching experience. I learned about the history and cultivation of tea in Jeju, and even had the chance to taste some of their delicious offerings.
Our next stop was Cheonjiyeon Falls, a stunning waterfall cascading into a crystal-clear pool. The sound of the water and the lush greenery around the falls created a peaceful and enchanting setting.
The day ended with a fun visit to the Joanne Bear Museum, where I admired an array of teddy bear exhibits, each telling unique stories through these adorable plush figures.
Day 4: We were about to Hike Mount Hallasan but the weather is not good
Day four was dedicated to a DIY adventure up Mount
Hallasan, the highest mountain in South Korea. However, due to bad weather,
we did not push through with our plan. Another reason to go back to Jeju.
We ended up just strolling around the hotel’s streets - and
of course – Eating and Shopping.
Day 5: Cultural and Shopping Extravaganza
On our final day in Jeju, we visited the bustling Lotte
Duty-Free to indulge in some shopping.
One of the highlights of the day was the kimbap-making
with hanbok wearing experience at the Kim and Kimchi School. Donning traditional Korean attire while
learning to make this delicious Korean dish was a unique cultural immersion.
Our Jeju adventure ended on a high note with a visit to the Arte Museum, an immersive digital art museum that captivated me with its
mesmerizing installations.
Jeju was an extraordinary journey, and each day brought new discoveries and unforgettable experiences.
I can't wait for my next adventure!
