Lost in Translation: Seoul Searching (and Slightly Sweaty)
okay, so. 1703116… and 1608543530… what even is that? i have absolutely no idea, but it’s been swirling in my head since i landed in *Seoul. the humidity? seriously, it’s like someone turned up the saturation on my skin. the forecast said 28°C feels like 31°C, which is… optimistic. i just checked and it’s… intense. there right now, hope you like that kind of thing.
this trip was supposed to be about finding some peace, escaping the soul-crushing monotony of my data entry job (don’t judge, it pays for the kimchi). instead, it's been a whirlwind of neon lights, questionable street food, and a whole lotta staring at maps. the Myeongdong district is a sensory overload - like a hyperactive candy store designed by a cyborg. i swear, i saw more people than there are grains of rice in a bowl.
Someone told me that if you get lost in Myeongdong, just follow the smell of fried chicken. Apparently, it's a universal guide.
my accommodations are…rustic. a tiny guesthouse in Hongdae that smells perpetually of incense and something vaguely floral. the landlady, who speaks approximately three words of english, has a smile that could melt glaciers. i’m pretty sure she thinks i’m a very confused, slightly sweaty, but ultimately harmless tourist.
Coffee is my lifeline. seriously. i’ve become a connoisseur of Korean coffee - it’s strong, sweet, and usually served with some elaborate foam art. i found this little place tucked away in a side street - yelp says it's the best dalgona coffee in the city. (i’m a sucker for those whipped coffee coffee things). i’m thinking of hitting up a local cafe on Tripadvisor$$ to see if its worth it.
gear list? it's pathetic. mostly just comfortable shoes (essential!), a portable charger (absolutely crucial), and a ridiculously oversized tote bag for all the snacks i’m inevitably going to buy. i’m trying to embrace the chaos, but it’s hard to do that when you’re constantly dodging scooters and trying to decipher Korean menus.
so, what have i learned so far? that navigating the subway system is a skill in itself. that kimchi is everywhere, and i’m strangely addicted. and that despite the language barrier and the perpetual humidity, this city is buzzing with a vibrant energy. the neighbors are friendly, if a little intense. if you get bored, other parts of South Korea* are just a short drive away. someone warned me about scams around Gyeongbokgung Palace - apparently, be wary of anyone offering “free” history lessons.
planning on hitting up a traditional Korean bathhouse (jjimjilbang) later. wish me luck. i’m bracing myself for full nudity and a serious test of my comfort levels. and maybe a little bit of awkwardness.
(also, this article on Culture Trip has some surprisingly helpful tips.)
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