CULTURE, EVENTS & EXPERIENCES Free Bella: The Fight to Release a Beluga Whale in Seoul Posted on January 9, 2024December 28, 2025 I stopped going to zoos and aquariums a while ago because I’ve become uneasy about keeping animals in such places. Recently, I came across the story of Bella, a Beluga whale, and it strengthened my belief that we need to reconsider how we treat animals in captivity. Read more
CULTURE, EVENTS & EXPERIENCES Best Cafes Near the End of Daegu’s Red Line Metro Posted on December 12, 2023November 15, 2025 Have you ever taken the metro to the end of the red line here in Daegu? Me neither, but I was curious. The red line is one of three metro lines in Daegu and the closest line near my house. So today, we’re going to do something a little different. We’re going to go cafe hopping using the metro—taking it to the end of the red line in both directions—Seolhwa/Myeonggok today and Ansim tomorrow—to see if we can find a couple of pretty cafes to visit without getting in the car. This journey along the red line promises not only charming cafes but also a unique exploration of the city’s diverse neighborhoods. As we embark on this adventure, let’s uncover Daegu’s hidden gems and vibrant spots, all conveniently accessible via the red line. Read more
CULTURE, EVENTS & EXPERIENCES Korean Streets Explained: Why No One Says ‘Excuse Me’ Posted on November 26, 2023December 12, 2025 Despite its small size, the massive population shapes today’s vibrant society. Additionally, South Korea strikes a balance between preserving its cultural identity and embracing elements of Western culture. One aspect I found unexpectedly frustrating was walking in the Korean streets. When I first moved here, I had certain expectations – people forming orderly queues, using sidewalks, and politely apologizing if they accidentally bumped into me. Read more
CULTURE, EVENTS & EXPERIENCES How to Enjoy Day Camping in Korea Like a Local Family Posted on October 19, 2023November 15, 2025 Day camping in Korea, a pandemic pastime! Experience the joy of tent picnicking, savoring beef BBQ, and enjoying the countryside in Sangju. Read more
CULTURE, EVENTS & EXPERIENCES What You Need to Know Before Attending the Andong Mask Festival Posted on October 1, 2023November 15, 2025 There are dozens of vendors hawking everything from sneakers to kitchen spoons to soaps and perfumes. Fresh and dried fish, octopus, silk worms and fresh fruits and vegetables baked under the intense sun. Nuts, spices, berries and something the resembled rice krispy treats were heaped into tall towers… easily toppled by unsteady hands. Read more
CULTURE, EVENTS & EXPERIENCES Chimac Festival– Why Chicken and Beer is So Popular in Daegu Posted on August 31, 2023December 23, 2025 The Chimac Festival in Daegu is highly praised as one of Korea’s top 10 festivals. But what exactly is the Chimac Festival, and why does it occur in Daegu instead of Seoul or Busan? Chimac stands for chicken (chi) and mac (beer), a loved combination in South Korea. It’s so… Read more
CULTURE, EVENTS & EXPERIENCES An Hour of Enlightenment: My Monk Chat in Luang Prabang Posted on July 21, 2023December 23, 2025 At 9 am, just as the day’s heat began to rise, I bicycled in the historic town of Luang Prabang, preparing for an enlightening encounter. I parked my bike, a loaner from the Belle Rive Boutique Hotel, near the steps, covered in pink petals from the flowering bush overhead. Before entering the temple grounds, I pulled out the sweater I brought to cover my arms. As requested by Orange Robe Tours. Read more
CULTURE, EVENTS & EXPERIENCES Walking in the Footsteps of Monks: Alms in Luang Prabang Posted on July 20, 2023December 23, 2025 Immerse yourself in the enchanting morning traditions of Luang Prabang with the captivating almsgiving ceremony and the insightful Orange Robe Tour. As the sun rises over this charming town, embark on a spiritual journey unlike any other. Join me as I share my unforgettable moments of partaking in the almsgiving ritual and delving into the profound teachings during the Monk Chat sessions. Read more