Winter Sonata

Annyeonghaseyo, fellow wanderlust enthusiasts! Join me as I take you on a rollercoaster ride through my unforgettable journey to Korea from December 24th to 31st, 2023. From my first-ever snowfall experience in Incheon to devouring spicy Kimchi in Seoul, this trip was a delightful mix of laughter, discovery, and cultural exploration.

Incheon - Where Snowflakes Welcome You: Touching down at Incheon Airport on the 24th, I was greeted by a white wonderland—a snowfall extravaganza! As a Malaysian, the sight of snow was as rare as finding a unicorn back home. After an amusing struggle with my newfound snow boots, I spent a night in Incheon, where I discovered that snowmen can be your best companions, especially when they double as luggage carriers!

Seoul-searching Adventures: The next day, I hopped on a train to Seoul, and the journey was as smooth as a Korean skincare routine. Our home for the trip was a cozy homestay in Miasagorri, where the host's hospitality was warmer than a bowl of freshly cooked Bibimbap.

Myeondong Night Market Shenanigans: Seoul was calling, and we answered by diving headfirst into the vibrant chaos of Myeondong Night Market. From K-pop street performances to an endless array of street food. 

Kampung Ku - A Taste of Malaysia: Homesick for a bit of Malaysian flavor, we stumbled upon "Kampung Ku," a Malaysian restaurant in the heart of Seoul. It was a hilarious experience teaching the locals the art of eating with our hands while sharing a hearty laugh over our love for spicy rendang in the land of Kimchi.

Petite France and Nami Island - A Fairytale Detour: Venturing outside Seoul, we explored the enchanting Petite France and Nami Island. My attempt to reenact a K-drama scene was met with laughter from fellow tourists, but hey, a little embarrassment is a small price to pay for the perfect Instagram shot, right?

Namsan Tower and Hanok Villages - A Cultural Twist: Namsan Tower provided a breathtaking view of Seoul, making me wonder if the city was secretly competing with Malaysian skyscrapers. The Hanok Villages, with their traditional Korean architecture, offered a picturesque journey back in time, reminding me that even in the bustling modernity of Seoul, history is just around the corner.

Busan Jib - Feeding My Inner Foodie: No trip is complete without indulging in local cuisine, and Busan Jib restaurant was a feast for the senses. Slurping on spicy ramyeon and savoring every bite of bulgogi, I realized that my love for Korean food had reached new heights, and my spice tolerance was no longer Malaysian - it was now certified Korean!

As I bid adieu to Korea on December 31st, 2023, my heart was as full as my stomach after a traditional Korean feast. From snowflakes in Incheon to the spicy delights of Seoul, this trip was an adventure I'll cherish forever. So, to all my fellow travelers, remember to embrace the unexpected, laugh at yourself, and never underestimate the power of a good bowl of Kimchi! Until the next adventure, annyeong!