One of the top 10 things I will miss after I leave South Korea are the JJIMJIBANGS… or things just like it. My girlfriends Charise and Chi decided I couldn’t leave Korea without experiencing the Korean bathhouse. A jjimjibang is a large, gender-segregated public bathhouse in Korea. We went to Paradise in Suseong Lake, but most jjimjibangs offer the same services: hot & cold pools,
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.
Alien Registration Card or ARC Card Instructions Do USFK personnel need a Registration Card? Formerly called the Alien Registration Card or ARC Card. The simple answer is no. Military families stationed in Korea do not need a Registration Card to …
Stay in a hanok at Hahoe Folk Village Stay. A hanok is a traditional house built on a philosophy of Korean ancestors who sought a life of harmony, piety and simplicity. Hanks are traditional made of elements like earth, wood, rock and other natural materials. Hanoks are excellent examples of sustainable architecture that benefit man and the environment.
Do not touch the monks unless you ask or they touch you first. This is especially true for women. You should also be aware, some temples are not open to women. Do not be offended. Women were allowed in these temples at one time. Women were banned because they menstruate, soiling the mats. Unfortunately the modern day conveniences of tampons has had no effect on the prohibition. Women are still considered “unclean”.
South Korea has taken bold steps to reduce the country’s carbon footprint. Unlike America where all the recycled goods are heaped into one bin, recycling in South Korea is a pretty involved process that includes separating aluminum from glass, batteries from Styrofoam and even vinyl bags from plastic ones and they are plainly marked in both English and Korean.
She dimmed the lights and the room took on the appearance of a night club. It was 9am and the neon lights flooded down from the ceiling in geometric shapes that danced on the wooden floor. Meghan Trainor’s All About That Bass filtered down from the speakers on the forever cemented that song as the first song I danced to in a “Korean nightclub”.
Every country has its quirks, peculiarities, social etiquette that contributes to its overall culture. Some are reasonable, some from an outsider’s perspective, can seem odd. But it’s adopting these habits into daily life, even if only temporarily, that make living abroad fun, rewarding and unpredictable. Some, like eating pizza with a fork, is just eating like a local.
They are doing it all over Korea. They do it in China. And even though I won’t see it for myself until next month, I suspect they are doing it in Japan too. And contrary to what I’ve read, its not just the school girls. The guys do it to look cool, usually keeping it low and to the side, while the girls do it to look cute, either framing their face or straight up. Now, they’ve even got me doing it too.
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Think the Ba Na Hills cable car isn`t worth it? Think again! From a stormy start to stunning views, discover why this Guinness World Record holder for the longest non-stop single-track cable car ride through the clouds to the majestic Golden Hands Bridge became a highlight of our Vietnam adventure!...
https://duffelbagspouse.com/is-the-ba-na-hills-cable-car-to-the-golden-hands-worth-the-hype/
Think the Ba Na Hills cable car isn`t worth it? Think again! From a stormy start to stunning views, discover why this Guinness World Record holder for the longest non-stop single-track cable car ride through the clouds to the majestic Golden Hands Bridge became a highlight of our Vietnam adventure!...
https://duffelbagspouse.com/is-the-ba-na-hills-cable-car-to-the-golden-hands-worth-the-hype/
7 Must-See Attractions for First-Time Visitors Salt Lake City, nestled in a stunning mountain-ringed valley in Utah, offers a captivating blend of historic landmarks, natural beauty, and vibrant cultural scenes. Must-see Salt Lake City attractions include the iconic Temple Square, the expansive Great Salt Lake, and many more, each telling a part of the story that makes this dynamic city uniquely captivating....
https://duffelbagspouse.com/must-see-salt-lake-city/
7 Must-See Attractions for First-Time Visitors Salt Lake City, nestled in a stunning mountain-ringed valley in Utah, offers a captivating blend of historic landmarks, natural beauty, and vibrant cultural scenes. Must-see Salt Lake City attractions include the iconic Temple Square, the expansive Great Salt Lake, and many more, each telling a part of the story that makes this dynamic city uniquely captivating....
https://duffelbagspouse.com/must-see-salt-lake-city/
During my recent trip to Gwangju, I was really excited to explore the local cafe scene. Korea is famous for its unique cafes with cool themes and eye-catching designs. I had a great time checking them out and want to tell you about three of my favorites in this blog post: Plan B Cafe, Lounge OIC and Cafe, and Lieful Cafe in Gwangju.
https://duffelbagspouse.com/cafe-hopping-in-gwangju/
During my recent trip to Gwangju, I was really excited to explore the local cafe scene. Korea is famous for its unique cafes with cool themes and eye-catching designs. I had a great time checking them out and want to tell you about three of my favorites in this blog post: Plan B Cafe, Lounge OIC and Cafe, and Lieful Cafe in Gwangju.
https://duffelbagspouse.com/cafe-hopping-in-gwangju/
Salt Lake City, Utah, a city surrounded by majestic natural beauty, recently surprised me with its vibrant spirit and stunning landscapes. My visit was part of a special event—the Women in Travel Summit, and the trip to the Salt Flats was sponsored by the Visit Utah Tourism Board. This event brought together a dynamic group of women bloggers, offering us a chance to connect and share experiences. After leaving our hotel at 4:30 AM for the 90-minute journey, our group was thrilled to explore one of Utah`s many treasures, the mesmerizing Salt Flats....
https://duffelbagspouse.com/utahs-salt-flats/
Salt Lake City, Utah, a city surrounded by majestic natural beauty, recently surprised me with its vibrant spirit and stunning landscapes. My visit was part of a special event—the Women in Travel Summit, and the trip to the Salt Flats was sponsored by the Visit Utah Tourism Board. This event brought together a dynamic group of women bloggers, offering us a chance to connect and share experiences. After leaving our hotel at 4:30 AM for the 90-minute journey, our group was thrilled to explore one of Utah`s many treasures, the mesmerizing Salt Flats....
https://duffelbagspouse.com/utahs-salt-flats/
I wasn`t sure what to expect on my first trip to Salt Lake City, Utah, but it turned out to be quite a pleasant surprise. I recently got to visit the High West Distillery with a group of energetic women bloggers. This fun tour was part of our schedule at the Women in Travel Summit, which took place in Salt Lake City with help from the Visit Utah Tourism Board. It was a great chance to connect and enjoy a new experience together....
https://duffelbagspouse.com/a-spirited-day-at-high-west-distillery-with-visit-utah/
I wasn`t sure what to expect on my first trip to Salt Lake City, Utah, but it turned out to be quite a pleasant surprise. I recently got to visit the High West Distillery with a group of energetic women bloggers. This fun tour was part of our schedule at the Women in Travel Summit, which took place in Salt Lake City with help from the Visit Utah Tourism Board. It was a great chance to connect and enjoy a new experience together....
https://duffelbagspouse.com/a-spirited-day-at-high-west-distillery-with-visit-utah/
Our hike from Monterosso to Vernazza promised an adventure, yet it was tougher than any of us anticipated. A little research would have chave been nice, but we skipped that. We overlooked the weather forecast, adding another layer of unpredictability to our journey. "What could possibly go wrong?" You`ll have read my latest blog post to find out how a simple trek along a mountain ridge linking five quaint fishing villages turned into an unforgettable experience. The Cinque Terre, with its rugged beauty along Italy`s Riviera, etched a lasting memory in our hearts, filled with lessons, laughter, and the sheer unpredictability of travel....
https://duffelbagspouse.com/hiking-cinque-terra/
Our hike from Monterosso to Vernazza promised an adventure, yet it was tougher than any of us anticipated. A little research would have chave been nice, but we skipped that. We overlooked the weather forecast, adding another layer of unpredictability to our journey. "What could possibly go wrong?" You`ll have read my latest blog post to find out how a simple trek along a mountain ridge linking five quaint fishing villages turned into an unforgettable experience. The Cinque Terre, with its rugged beauty along Italy`s Riviera, etched a lasting memory in our hearts, filled with lessons, laughter, and the sheer unpredictability of travel....
https://duffelbagspouse.com/hiking-cinque-terra/
At the edge of the world, where the salt flats of Utah roll out like nature`s own movie screen, each step crackles with the magic of an untold story. Picture yourself in this vast, silent auditorium. All I needed was a little buttered popcorn to complete the scene.
#witssummit #Wits #witstravelcreator #travelblogger @visitutah #saltflatsutah @sheswanderful #witsnewyork #witscreator
At the edge of the world, where the salt flats of Utah roll out like nature`s own movie screen, each step crackles with the magic of an untold story. Picture yourself in this vast, silent auditorium. All I needed was a little buttered popcorn to complete the scene.
#witssummit #Wits #witstravelcreator #travelblogger @visitutah #saltflatsutah @sheswanderful #witsnewyork #witscreator
Out here by myself on the salt flats in Utah, with the sky turning orange and pink at sunset, I love making the water splash and seeing the clouds at my feet. It`s pretty amazing. It gets me thinking about where I`m headed as a content creator – there`s a lot of room to grow, but the exact way forward isn`t totally clear yet. #saltflatselfie
#bonnevillesaltflats
#SunsetMusings
#PathForward
#ContentCreationJourney
#TravelBloggerLife
#ExploringNewDirections
#NatureInspires
#VisitUtah
#WITSUtah
#WITSContentCreator
Out here by myself on the salt flats in Utah, with the sky turning orange and pink at sunset, I love making the water splash and seeing the clouds at my feet. It`s pretty amazing. It gets me thinking about where I`m headed as a content creator – there`s a lot of room to grow, but the exact way forward isn`t totally clear yet. #saltflatselfie
#bonnevillesaltflats
#SunsetMusings
#PathForward
#ContentCreationJourney
#TravelBloggerLife
#ExploringNewDirections
#NatureInspires
#VisitUtah
#WITSUtah
#WITSContentCreator
Snowbirds IRL at #WITSUtah and #empirecanyonlodge #visitutah @shegoeswithpurpose
I`m getting my bum warmed on a heated bench in Park City, Utah. #WITSUtah #visitutah #WITS #witssummit #nonamesaloon
I`m getting my bum warmed on a heated bench in Park City, Utah. #WITSUtah #visitutah #WITS #witssummit #nonamesaloon
In an era of fast-paced travel, Italy invites you to slow down and savor life`s pleasures through the art of slow travel. This blog encourages you to unwind in the Italian countryside, where time seems to stand still among the olive groves and vineyards. We`ll introduce you to agriturismos where you can participate in the local harvest, quaint towns perfect for leisurely exploration, and the Italian concept of "la dolce far niente" - the sweetness of doing nothing. Discover how to truly immerse yourself in the Italian lifestyle, making every moment count....
https://duffelbagspouse.com/embracing-slow-travel-in-italy/
In an era of fast-paced travel, Italy invites you to slow down and savor life`s pleasures through the art of slow travel. This blog encourages you to unwind in the Italian countryside, where time seems to stand still among the olive groves and vineyards. We`ll introduce you to agriturismos where you can participate in the local harvest, quaint towns perfect for leisurely exploration, and the Italian concept of "la dolce far niente" - the sweetness of doing nothing. Discover how to truly immerse yourself in the Italian lifestyle, making every moment count....
https://duffelbagspouse.com/embracing-slow-travel-in-italy/
Taking in the electrifying energy at Eccles Theater in Salt Lake City, I find myself wrapped in a world of color and creativity. This mural, a vivid backdrop, echoes my love for the arts. Here I am, with a smile that says it all — life is beautiful and full of surprises. #SaltLakeCityAdventures #TheaterLife #MuralMagic #JoyfulJourneys #visitutah #WITSUtah @sheswanderful
Taking in the electrifying energy at Eccles Theater in Salt Lake City, I find myself wrapped in a world of color and creativity. This mural, a vivid backdrop, echoes my love for the arts. Here I am, with a smile that says it all — life is beautiful and full of surprises. #SaltLakeCityAdventures #TheaterLife #MuralMagic #JoyfulJourneys #visitutah #WITSUtah @sheswanderful
Had the most amazing moment meeting the brilliant designer behind my go-to travel scarf! 🌟 In Salt Lake City, where inspiration meets mountain air, I discovered the story behind the secret pocket that keeps my essentials safe on every adventure. Thank you, Waypoint Goods, for merging style with savvy travel needs! ✈️🧣#WITS #Waypoint_Goods #SecretPocket #saltlakecity #visitutah #WITSUtah @sheswanderful
Had the most amazing moment meeting the brilliant designer behind my go-to travel scarf! 🌟 In Salt Lake City, where inspiration meets mountain air, I discovered the story behind the secret pocket that keeps my essentials safe on every adventure. Thank you, Waypoint Goods, for merging style with savvy travel needs! ✈️🧣#WITS #Waypoint_Goods #SecretPocket #saltlakecity #visitutah #WITSUtah @sheswanderful
Can`t beat a secret tour to a secret mural by the artist at #Wits in Salt Lake City, UTAH. #blocks #murals #visitutah #WITSUtah @sheswanderful
Can`t beat a secret tour to a secret mural by the artist at #Wits in Salt Lake City, UTAH. #blocks #murals #visitutah #WITSUtah @sheswanderful
Strolling through the sun-kissed alleys of Malaga, Spain, I`m wrapped in the warmth of a spring afternoon. Olive green shutters and ornate balconies tell stories above, as cobblestones whisper tales of yesteryear below.
#Wanderlust #TravelTales #CityExploration #HistoryAlive #SpringVoyage #CobblestoneChronicles
Strolling through the sun-kissed alleys of Malaga, Spain, I`m wrapped in the warmth of a spring afternoon. Olive green shutters and ornate balconies tell stories above, as cobblestones whisper tales of yesteryear below.
#Wanderlust #TravelTales #CityExploration #HistoryAlive #SpringVoyage #CobblestoneChronicles
Hanging out in San Gimignano with new friends
Driving along the Amalfi Ciat from Sorrento to Amalfi ITALY.
At Crazy Pizza in Rome zitaly for my birthday with our daughter Ashley.
Tycoga Winery & Distillery says it all with its name. While they have a line of spirits, were just driven 30 minutes to taste their award-winning winning and grab a bite to eat. Unfortunately, we weren`t alone-- it was a gang of people inside and out. We were called over to the bar by the winery`s manager to start our tour around this region of Iowa....
https://duffelbagspouse.com/inside-iowas-award-winning-tycoga-winery-distillery/
Tycoga Winery & Distillery says it all with its name. While they have a line of spirits, were just driven 30 minutes to taste their award-winning winning and grab a bite to eat. Unfortunately, we weren`t alone-- it was a gang of people inside and out. We were called over to the bar by the winery`s manager to start our tour around this region of Iowa....
https://duffelbagspouse.com/inside-iowas-award-winning-tycoga-winery-distillery/
Italy is home to countless historic towns and villages that have preserved their medieval charm through the centuries. This blog invites readers to step back in time and explore Italy`s lesser-known historic havens. From the fortified walls of San Gimignano to the ancient pathways of Matera, we`ll guide you through destinations where history is alive and well-preserved....
https://duffelbagspouse.com/discovering-san-gimignano-matera-and-lucca/
Italy is home to countless historic towns and villages that have preserved their medieval charm through the centuries. This blog invites readers to step back in time and explore Italy`s lesser-known historic havens. From the fortified walls of San Gimignano to the ancient pathways of Matera, we`ll guide you through destinations where history is alive and well-preserved....
https://duffelbagspouse.com/discovering-san-gimignano-matera-and-lucca/