Seoul Searching: Lost in Translation (and Noodles)
okay, so. i’m still processing *Seoul. it’s a sensory overload in the best (and sometimes slightly overwhelming) way. i landed here yesterday, and the air… it’s thick. not in a bad way, more like it’s saturated with the scent of grilling meats and something sweet, maybe chestnuts? i just checked and it’s… humid. like, clothes stick to you humid. hope you like that kind of thing.
i’m a freelance photographer, so my whole trip is basically one giant gear test. i'm trying to capture the city's energy, the quiet moments tucked away in the alleyways, the ridiculously photogenic street food. and honestly? it's been a mixed bag.
first impressions? chaotic, but organized chaos. the subway is a masterpiece of efficiency - seriously, buy a t-money card immediately. it'll save you so much stress. i heard that someone told me the Seoul subway system is the most efficient in the world, but don’t believe everything you hear! it’s still a learning curve.
my little Airbnb is in Myeongdong, which is… intense. think Times Square, but with more skincare and questionable fashion choices. but it’s a good base. i’ve been wandering around, getting deliciously lost. i spent a solid hour just watching a group of teenagers do a synchronized dance routine outside a coffee shop. no idea what it meant, but it was captivating.
I'm trying to embrace the unpredictable. threw caution to the wind and tried some tteokbokki from a street vendor. it was spicy. really spicy. i think i lost a few taste buds. but worth it. i’m definitely going to need to hit up a pharmacy for some yogurt (I hear it’s a traditional remedy).
Overheard gossip at a cafe: “Don't even think about ordering the bibimbap at that tourist trap near the N Seoul Tower. it’s overpriced and tastes like cardboard.” ouch. thanks, lady! i’ll keep that in mind. i’m sticking to recommendations from locals for now - a great place to find food is on Yelp.
the weather here is a real mood. the temperature is hovering around 31.53°C, it feels like 33.74°C, and the humidity is clinging to everything. it's not unbearable, but it definitely makes you appreciate air conditioning. i was reading that the average temperature in Seoul during this time is around 32°C, so maybe it's not so crazy.
I'm planning on spending tomorrow exploring Bukchon Hanok Village, which supposedly has some of the best-preserved traditional Korean houses. i also want to check out the insadong area for some souvenirs - and maybe a traditional tea ceremony. i hear that buying calligraphy brushes in Insadong is a must-do, but be prepared to haggle! Check out TripAdvisor for tours and experiences.
My neighbor said I should definitely visit Gyeongbokgung Palace. Apparently its best to go early in the morning to avoid the huge crowds.
It's all a bit overwhelming, to be honest. but in a good way. i'm taking it one spicy noodle at a time. i'm also considering joining a photography walking tour - it might be a good way to get my bearings and learn a few local secrets. i'm finding inspiration in all the small things: the way the sunlight hits the buildings, the sound of the annyeonghaseyo greetings, the sheer density of people.
I’m thinking of checking out some of the independent galleries in the Gangnam* district. I've heard there's a really cool scene there and the art is fantastic.
Seriously though, Seoul is a whirlwind. i’ll keep you updated on my adventures (and my spice tolerance). and hey, if you’re ever looking for a city to get delightfully lost in, add Seoul to your list. You won't regret it. Maybe. Unless you hate spicy food. then maybe reconsider. you can find helpful guides and resources over at Lonely Planet.
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