tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-45504218051210425052024-03-13T23:16:23.204-07:00playing with elephants.the serendipitous journey of finding the Where and When to discover the Who and Why.Laura Hugheshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07946734116505206465noreply@blogger.comBlogger95125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4550421805121042505.post-18661499322639364242011-09-01T04:22:00.000-07:002011-10-14T09:45:21.172-07:00Looking on the bright side starts with questions.I'm pretty sure that if I sat down next to Forrest Gump right now and told him about my traveling woes, he'd be telling me how it's like a box of chocolates. And he'd be completely correct.<br />
<br />
On the one side, traveling makes you a more worldly person. You see things that bend and completely break your perception of the way things work, and you can find understanding and compassion for others in a way that the Discovery Channel just cannot relate. You can feel. You can think. You can see the world in a way that makes you want to, if you are so inclined, <i>do something to make it better</i>. And if you're not in to all that, you are at least assured the ability to impress others. Yes, you can tell your friends and family about all the wonders they have and haven't ever heard of, and cook them a more accurate, local dessert in a flash if they are craving some Thai and have some coconut milk laying around. And if you're not so cool, you can even gloat and make others wish they too had the balls to travel down dark alleyways in foreign countries.<br />
<br />
But there is a trade-off, and at the risk of sounding like a complainer I need to get this out into the world. I could try to sound more diplomatic about the issue, but the main point will come to this:<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>traveling as a girl kinda sucks.</b></span><br />
<br />
It will always suck. It doesn't matter if you speak a common language, know self-defense, or spit and grunt like a grandpa. It doesn't matter if you avoid eye contact with everyone you meet and wear sunglasses past dusk. It doesn't <i>nor will it ever</i> matter if you dress completely conservatively, or if you wear shorts and a scandalous-shoulder-bearing tank top when walking down the street. You can be alone, you can be in pairs or groups of women. It doesn't matter. You will be pegged, and you better be ready to get the raw end of the deal while your male counterparts or GTWB (Girls Traveling With Boys) walk past you on the <i>same street</i> with blissful grins like they are actually, really, on vacation. <br />
<br />
I know I'm generalizing here, and for that matter, I know I'm being hypocritical, too. I mean, traveling is my personal choice. I was not forced to venture off, and at the end of the day it <i>is</i> my time off to explore and I <i>wouldn't </i>trade it for anything. I also have had plenty of positive experiences around Asia and do not think that all people are out to assault/yell at/grope/mug/steal from/bother/harass/generally creep me out on a daily basis. I also understand that <i>all travelers</i> must be aware of their surroundings and use street smarts in order to have a safe, pleasant-as-possible trip.<br />
<br />
But why is it that, being a girl, I am a definite target to local men, no matter the country I visit or the clothes I wear?<br />
<br />
Why is it that, being a girl, if I do have a negative experience with a local, the first question asked is, "What were you wearing?"<br />
<br />
Why is it that, being a girl, I have to say <i>no</i> a million more times than guys of my age who travel the world?<br />
<br />
Why is it that the same men can go out and drink late into the night, and even have the 'power' to engage in illegal prostitution, while in some countries I don't feel comfortable staying out after dark?<br />
<br />
I'm smart and I'm responsible. Why is it that others, who may or may not even have the same amount of maturity or commitment to sustainable traveling as I and other women travelers, have the privilege to travel more freely, while we have to fight upstream just to avoid a negative experience?<br />
<br />
And more importantly, if these are the people who are able to travel freely, how can we find a way to help others in our global community without getting stuck in viscous cycles that every society faces? And, personally: how will I ever feel comfortable traveling in the places that really need help?<br />
<br />
And lastly: will anyone ever take me seriously, or am I doomed to walk foreign (and maybe my local) streets as someone who is easy to take advantage of, when I have so much bigger plans for myself and those I want to impact?<br />
<br />
Maybe I'm complaining. Maybe these questions will never have answers in my lifetime. But if we <i>don't</i> ask, and just accept, then how can we get anyone to take notice?Laura Hugheshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07946734116505206465noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4550421805121042505.post-19916551626982005792011-08-27T23:42:00.000-07:002011-08-28T19:22:55.623-07:00C is for CambodiaSure, let's state the obvious. But the experienced traveler will also know that when in this Jungle Book-inspired Kingdom, C is not just for Cambodia, but also for<br />
<br />
<b>children</b><br />
<b>craziness</b><br />
<b>cockroaches</b><br />
<b>can't-breathe-in-all-this-rain</b><br />
<b>cobras</b><br />
<br />
and of course, <b>crickets</b>, which are eaten fried on a stick.<br />
<br />
I've been in Cambodia for about 5 days now and can safely day I've experienced a very wide range of emotions here. Sometimes, I'm in awe of history and natural beauty, while other times I am annoyed or distressed at the social issues here and the way I am treated as a foreigner girl from the States. But all that aside, there have been some pretty miraculous things here we've seen and done. Some highlights:<br />
<br />
<u><b>Angkor Wat</b></u><br />
<br />
We saw Angkor Wat the first full day we were in Cambodia and I consider it a must-do if you are going to be brave enough to travel out here. You can rent a driver for the day (or make plans for up to 3 days, if you want to see every crack and crevice of each temple) for about $10-$20. Our driver took us around and made sure we saw everything we wanted to on our short timeline. Personally, a day was more than enough for me. After 8 hours of ancient-ruin-seeing, they do start to blend a little bit. A couple logistics for those who might travel there:<br />
<br />
Angkor Wat is, itself, a temple in the whole slew of temples of that region. There are many more beautiful temples than Angkor Wat, so it'd be good to do a little research if you want to pick and choose which ones to see. Also, if you do decide to visit Angkor Wat (which is the most famous of the temples so I'm guessing you'll end up there), remember that there is a strict dress code if you'd like to go to the top. <u>For men and women, shoulders cannot be exposed and you should wear pants or a skirt/dress that falls below the knees. </u>They really enforce this and you will be denied access to the top if you aren't appropriately dressed. However, on a hot day, if you'd like to wear lighter clothes to the other temples, it's okay. Just bring a sweater or scarf to cover up later.<br />
<br />
<u><b>Take a night bus</b></u><br />
<br />
Let me start off by saying: do not take the night bus if you expect to wake up feeling refreshed. If you don't like adventure, do not take the night bus. If you get carsick easily, do not take <strike>the night bus</strike> any bus in Asia. If you like to arrive at your accommodation when they are open and have a room ready for you, then do NOT get on that night bus. But-- if you like to travel cheaply; if you like to try new things; if you like to ride fast down dark, bumpy roads and hear all kinds of sounds from outside your bus; if you can sleep when you feel like you're inside both a space capsule and a very loud, angry uterus; if you can handle the 'bus hangover' you will surely feel as a result of just a few hours' sleep... then, by all means, take the night bus.<br />
<br />
Personally, I liked it. But the next day was reserved for recovery, spent mostly on the couch of our hostel's lobby playing cards.<br />
<br />
<br />
The two cities we've been in so far are Siem Reap and Sihanoukville. Here's a very short summary of my (and by 'my' I mean someone who did not do much research on anything about Cambodia before traveling there) thoughts on each:<br />
<br />
<b><u>Siem Reap</u></b><br />
<br />
Siem Reap is really cheap and has hoards of hostels for backpackers (we stayed at 'Happy House Guest Hostel' and it seems to be everything the name implies). Siem Reap has many dirt roads with bright orange sand all over, and is divided by a pretty large river full of Asia-esque brown water. There is trash everywhere and you should mind your things because street children are all over asking for food and money and trying to sell you postcards. As poor as it is, there is a lot to see and do, including visits to Angkor Wat and seeing the local markets (which we never made it to due to some illnesses and I'm still regretting). Overall, it was a pretty pleasant experience and we should've stayed longer.<br />
<br />
<br />
<u><b>Sihanoukville </b></u><br />
<br />
Sihanoukville is touted as a foreigner hub and sounded like a great place to go to the beach. Although the rains are heavy here and makes beach-going impossible, it's not so much the weather that's got me down as the rest of the locals, who kind of make me feel as though I shouldn't be out past dark. Our hostel is located a minute's walk from Serendipity Beach, which is supposedly the most touristed spot in Sihanoukville. Usually I avoid highly-touristy locations; however, I do feel some comfort in knowing we're near other backpackers and don't really feel like venturing any further off this particular path right now. Some advice for people wanting a positive beach experience in Cambodia:<br />
- Paying a little more than the minimum for accommodations goes a <i>long</i> way. <br />
- Do not go to the beach alone.<br />
- Do not buy from the children or give them gifts, as it keeps them out of school. Plus, if other children see you buy from one, you will get swarmed and maybe even physically attacked.<br />
- If you like to party, stay at Serendipity Beach. If you want something mainstream but with better views, try Victory Beach, just north.<br />
- Lastly, if you want to ensure good weather, try to plan your trip outside the July-October rainy season. <br />
<br />
That's a wrap for now. Tomorrow we're headed to the Vietnam Embassy (conveniently in Sihanoukville) to get visas for the following week. Just a week left of this crazy adventure!Laura Hugheshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07946734116505206465noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4550421805121042505.post-20188192663033755122011-08-23T07:34:00.000-07:002011-09-02T04:40:48.404-07:00SE Asia's currencies: ROLE CALLOne of the interesting things about traveling around multiple countries that I've never dealt with before is currency. In SE Asia, with distinct cultures and histories, everyone's got their own currency (with its <i>very</i> distinct conversion to USD!). Fortunately(ish), we are able to use USD here and there throughout our whole trip. However, it's always good to try to support the strength of local currency as well as preparing yourself for smaller vendors not wanting to see good ol' Lincoln in their pockets. Here's what we'll have handled by the end of our trip:<br />
<br />
<u><b>South Korean Won</b></u>: Used on the Korean peninsula exclusively.<br />
Approximate conversion to 1USD: 1,000-1,200KRW<br />
USD accepted in South Korea? No. <br />
<br />
<u><b>Thai Baht</b></u>: Used in Thailand and in neighboring regions of Myanmar (Burma), Laos and Cambodia.<br />
Approximate conversion to 1USD: 30-33THB<br />
USD accepted in Thailand? No.<br />
<br />
<u><b>Cambodian Khmer</b></u>: Used in Cambodia. Also called 'Cambodian Riels'.<br />
Approximate conversion to 1USD: 4,000- 4,100KHR<br />
USD accepted in Cambodia? Yes.<br />
<br />
<i>From Lonely Planet, I've heard it's good to have about $10USD worth of riels around when traveling through Cambodia, though ATMS will dispose USD when withdrawing cash.</i><br />
<br />
<u><b>Vietnamese Dong</b></u>: Used in Vietnam.<br />
Approximate conversion to 1USD: 20,000d<br />
USD accepted in Vietnam? Yes.<br />
<br />
<i>In Vietnam, however, ATMs will dispose dong as oppose to USD.</i><br />
<br />
And finally--<br />
<br />
<u><b>United States Dollar</b></u>: Used in so many countries it makes my head spin. For this trip, we will use USD in Cambodia, Vietnam, and Malaysia (during a layover).<br />
<br />
Basically, it never hurts to have some USD around, but make sure to have local currency on you too. AND, as always, wear a money belt or keep your money hidden tight!<br />
<br />
I'm just about done with half of my currencies, narrowing it down to the final 3 before heading home. Hopefully the conversions will come easy; if not, I'll be adding a calculator to <a href="http://playswithelephants.blogspot.com/p/quotes.html">my packing list</a> for future ventures.Laura Hugheshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07946734116505206465noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4550421805121042505.post-27379650131288198162011-08-22T00:52:00.000-07:002011-08-22T22:24:13.660-07:00Chiang Mai me.My return to the "New City" has been more than enlightening.<br />
<br />
The last time I visited Thailand, it was with an ISV (International Student Volunteers) tour group. ISV is a great program and I probably wouldn't have gotten the guts to travel to SE Asia at all if not for this program. However, there is a huge difference between traveling with a group and backpacking on your own itinerary (or lack thereof). Fortunately, many countries in SE Asia, especially Thailand, will bend over backwards for foreigners because their economy is so tourism-based. We have had many positive encounters with people here who honestly want to help us get from place to place, which counters my original Western perspective that everyone in developing countries is out to rip you off. However, there are always safety measures to take. Some major pointers for a first-timer:<br />
<ul><li>Never let go of your bags or their openings.</li>
<li>If you ride on a bus or train, try to keep your luggage with you as opposed to letting staff put it in under carriage storage. Many times, people (planned or unplanned) will raid through your things.</li>
<li>If you are alone or in a crowded area, it's a smart idea to wear a money belt. If you don't want to get caught wearing the brighter-than-neon tourist symbol around your hips, then cargo pockets are another solid option for you to store your cash, as they are less easy to pick pocket.</li>
<li>Always travel with a lock and key. Many hostels will provide lockers but rarely have locks.</li>
<li>If you take transportation (cab, bus, ferry) without a ticket price, confirm the cost of the ride before you take off.</li>
</ul><br />
When all else fails, use common sense, ask another foreigner, or follow your gut and you should be fine.<br />
<br />
My stay in Chiang Mai has had me utilizing all my knowledge of safety I could draw on, but I also got to let my guard down and join in on the culture more than I have before on a typical vacation abroad. Chiang Mai is a beautiful city with lots of color, life and culture. Home to the cheapest massages around and with breakfast venues on every corner, this place is a paradise to foreigners and Thai people alike for its services as well as its industry. Chiang Mai also has a plethora of Buddhist temples all around the city, which makes it kind of a love child between a beachy-style, San Fran wannabe and a Thai cultural hotspot.<br />
<br />
Basically, I'm in love.<br />
<br />
<br />
One note-able remark for staying in any city in Thailand (especially the big ones like Bangkok and Chiang Mai), would be to <a href="http://articles.cnn.com/2009-07-05/world/thailand.elephant.begging_1_first-elephant-bangkok-begging?_s=PM:WORLD">avoid elephant street begging</a>. When you see these guys walking around the street asking for food and money, it is safe to assume they are unhealthy, stressed out and scared. Please do NOT support their business. If you really want to support the tourism industry here by seeing elephants, <a href="http://www.elephantnaturepark.org/">visit the Elephant Nature Park</a> just outside Chiang Mai. They are a non-profit which supports elephants living free of abuse, and you can have the rare opportunity to see them in a large habitat, feed them, and bathe them in the river. By the end, you will probably even be besties. That's a MUCH more realistic and sustainable way to help our big friends and the Thai community, don'tchathink?<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzO-skFwv-Lvv2lmy7UaJBOghy5OFCsAcl88OfXm3-GeclYgAe0yH1rWV5py6j9gL5HUWb2HW2y10ZZYl0SQPPf9awaPnknSQyWyK2586pGhJwea5DieyJGva2pgZY4y85CSNirxoyJtzo/s1600/IMG_8646.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzO-skFwv-Lvv2lmy7UaJBOghy5OFCsAcl88OfXm3-GeclYgAe0yH1rWV5py6j9gL5HUWb2HW2y10ZZYl0SQPPf9awaPnknSQyWyK2586pGhJwea5DieyJGva2pgZY4y85CSNirxoyJtzo/s320/IMG_8646.JPG" width="213" /></a></div><br />
Our hostel in Chiang Mai has also been note-able. A Little Bird Guesthouse is amazing for its location and price (about $3 a night!), but aside from things being at the bare bare essentials (which is manageable), we had a rude awakening this morning when a new guest moved rooms at 7:30am because the one she was settled into wasn't satisfactory. Thus, I feel it beneficial to anyone reading this post to check out some tips on hostel guest etiquette:<br />
<br />
<ul><li>Do NOT wake the travelers. If it is 7:30am. If it is 2pm. If they are hungover. If they are jet-lagged. Do NOT wake them. Guests are paying to, above all else, sleep.</li>
<li>Do not leave the doors of your hostel room open of there are guests inside who are sleeping/changing/picking their nose. Guests are, secondly, paying for some sense of privacy.</li>
<li>Only take up the amount of space you are paying for. Got a private room? Throw your clothes and have a dance party. But if you paid for one bed, don't spread your things out with hopes nobody will show up. Odds are they will and then you'll have to go through the Shameful Bed Clearing ritual many backpackers are familiar with. </li>
</ul>Those are just some basics. Like with safety, if you use common sense you're sure to be fine. <br />
<br />
That's all for now. Tomorrow we are planning on heading out into the mountains for some more temple-seeing. then to Cambodia the next day!<br />
<br />
Take care, wherever you may be!<br />
Laura and CheenguLaura Hugheshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07946734116505206465noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4550421805121042505.post-3324800085875728162011-08-16T22:27:00.000-07:002011-08-16T22:27:03.470-07:00Getting to Thailand: planes, trains and automobiles.Minus trains, I am pretty sure Christy and I used almost every form of transportation we possibly could've to get to Koh Samui, and passed through neighboring cities and countries along the way. Oh, and we learned some amazing lessons too.<br />
<br />
From Seoul, the trip started early in the morning as we took a flight with the cheapest airline possible (AirAsia-- not the <i>nicest</i>, but definitely the cheapest) through Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia and then onto Phuket. Aside from the extremely cold conditions of the airplane (causing us both to go into tourist hypothermia and hide under our blankets like fuzzy scared blobs), we also had the joy of experiencing some amazing turbulence that caused our plane full of Korean passengers to go into a screaming fit. At first, we thought this was due to the same panic we were feeling but later overheard the Korean expression for "How fun!". Some even went so far as to pretend they were on a roller coaster. In the middle of the sky. During dangerous turbulence.<br />
<br />
Annnnnd this is why I'm going on vacation.<br />
<br />
Once arriving in Phuket, we swam through the sea of tour agencies and cabbies to find a good deal on transportation to our hostel. A tip about transportation in Thailand: barter. Barter til you're blue in the face. Set your maximum price and stick with it, and you will find a good deal. Our hostel owner (Ananas Phuket Hostel) even bartered <i>lower</i> upon arrival at the hostel because she thought we were paying our young, fairly inexperienced driver too much. <br />
<br />
The next day, we were off again on a 6-hour bus ride that finally let out on the other side of the southern arm of Phuket, namely Sura Thani. Our hostel also helped us set this up so that the bus ride was not only safe and reliable, but transferred directly to the ferry dock. From there, it was a 2-hour ferry ride to Koh Samui. Now, this is the low season for tourism because of tropical storms. We had our first encounter with a storm that night with rain so hard it forced itself through our cabbie's driver-side door. Fortunately, our next hostel is also extremely well-kept and we won't be worrying about any rain leaks while staying on the island.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfUBJjONlBe7B126kOe6_C3dWABxewHUmC67xZYYe90lKQzcnwyPnWHQc-NJtZOINRw624M8p69WapZkqN1Su8n2Am0vf4Kv-NMbdGabC0AwgJUmLXe6g0-vdq1Bw67l7Jf7K64Za_ywi-/s1600/IMG_8382.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfUBJjONlBe7B126kOe6_C3dWABxewHUmC67xZYYe90lKQzcnwyPnWHQc-NJtZOINRw624M8p69WapZkqN1Su8n2Am0vf4Kv-NMbdGabC0AwgJUmLXe6g0-vdq1Bw67l7Jf7K64Za_ywi-/s320/IMG_8382.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
The island of Koh Samui is pretty large, but the beach we are staying at, Chaweng, is made basically for tourists and will only hold our attention (and budget) for a couple days. All in all though, this place is heaven and we are thoroughly enjoying the fresh fruit, sudden rains, coconut juice, morning beaches and-- of course-- the cheaper-than-dirt shopping. <br />
<br />
I'll keep you all updated at we continue along. Next stop-- Chiang Mai, Thailand's 2nd largest city. <br />
<br />
-Laura and CheenguLaura Hugheshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07946734116505206465noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4550421805121042505.post-42078671490677225382011-08-11T17:24:00.000-07:002011-08-11T17:24:50.610-07:00annnnnd 365 days later, another take-off.So, in the spirit of offering travel tips and information, I thought I'd post my pre-traveled thoughts on what the tentative itinerary for SE Asia is. My travel partner-in-crime and I made this a pretty quick trip (20 days) through Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam because<br />
<br />
1) we've been out of our homeland for over a year and want to go home sooner than later,<br />
<br />
and 2) have commitments at home that made for a time restraint.<br />
<br />
If you wanted, you could spend several months traveling through this region of Asia, simply because it's seriously beautiful, cheap, AND transportation can take up quite a chunk of time!<br />
<br />
However, if you are looking to visit Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam in 3 weeks or less, feel free to keep checking this blog for more travel tips on what to do and not to do.<br />
<br />
A couple notes: <br />
<br />
We are leaving from South Korea, which gives us a little extra time and also will not account for jet lag that those from the Western world might feel upon arrival. If you will be on a serious international flight (which I consider to be 9 or more hours), give yourself 1 day to rest when you arrive to your final destination, especially if you are a first-time traveler. This does not mean to sleep that entire day. You should try to adjust to your new time zone as best as possible. However, take it easy. Don't sign up for a rock-climbing excursion on Day 1 or anything.<br />
<br />
Some of our stops along the way are simply to save money in terms of flying. SE Asia can be incredibly cheap to get around if you have the time to do so. Especially in SE Asia, there is no high-speed train (unlike South Korea, China, and Japan), so if you want to avoid flying, just be aware that this will take a lot more time, but is by far the more cost-effective option. You can check travel forums to ask about specific bus rides and fares to see approximate times and prices, but just know you will have to have an overall more flexible schedule.<br />
<br />
If you <em>do</em> want to fly, make sure to price check, and often! <a href="http://kayak.com/">Kayak.com</a> is a great source for cheap airline tickets, as is <a href="http://airasia.com/">Airasia.com</a>. In our case, we booked a few flights to save time, and although we had to get a little creative (by arriving in nearby cities and then bussing to our final destination) we came out with some really good deals while still saving time. It's all a balancing act.<br />
<br />
The rough itinerary of our 20 days is as follows:<br />
<br />
<u>DAY 1-10 IN THAILAND</u><br />
Day 1: Fly Seoul to Phuket<br />
Day 2: Bus Phuket to Sura Thani, boat Sura Thani to Koh Samui<br />
Day 3/4: Koh Samui, overnight boat back to Sura Thani<br />
Day 5: Sura Thani to Chiang Mai<br />
Day 5-10: Chiang Mai (including a tour to the Elephant Nature Park for a little volunteering and elephant-playing)<br />
<br />
<u>DAY 11-20 IN CAMBODIA AND VIETNAM</u><br />
Day 11: Fly Chiang Mai to Siem Reap<br />
Day 12/13: Siem Reap and Ankor Wat<br />
<br />
After this, we kind of left things unplanned. The overall idea is to bus down to the west coast of Cambodia (Sihanoukville), eventually get visas into Vietnam and then bus and boat into Vietnam (in that order). We will fly out of Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City) and back to Seattle as an end to this crazy journey.<br />
<br />
I'll be posting as often as possible during this trip to keep friends and family updated, but if you're reading just for fun don't worry-- lots of anecdotes and travel advice surely await. Laura Hugheshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07946734116505206465noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4550421805121042505.post-69331663490157611792011-08-05T03:51:00.000-07:002011-08-06T17:01:24.260-07:00Intermission.I couldn't think of a better word for my life right now. I'm going out there, but really everything's got kind of a "we'll be right back to your regularly scheduled programming" kind of feeling about it.<br />
<br />
It's probably because I have 8 days til I leave Ulsan, the city I now know better than Seattle, and less than 10 days til I take-off for my trip through SE Asia. So aside from teaching for 3 hours daily and cleaning every conceivable corner of my apartment, there's not much to focus on besides getting-the-heck-out-of-here.<br />
<br />
AND.... packing. Which, as any of my blog followers already know, I completely adore.<br />
<br />
Packing for SE Asia in August is relatively easy because it's so hot... no winter coats or snowshoes in this bag. However, with this being my 2nd trip to that region, here are a couple of items I thoroughly recommend:<br />
<br />
1.<strong> Plastic ponchos or a light (and I mean, <em>light</em>) jacket with a hood.</strong> Just because it's the rainy season doesn't mean it's cold. Truthfully,<u> the only function of this albeit very important piece is to waterproof yourself or the important things you might be carrying</u>. <br />
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2. <strong>Motion-sickness tablets.</strong> I know there are probably a lot of other important medical concerns people have when they think of Southeast Asia (like <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Malaria">malaria</a> or <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Typhoid_fever">typhoid fever</a>), but honestly <u>unless you are going to be in extremely rural areas, not wearing any bug repellant and rolling around in the dirt while drinking unfiltered water, you will probably be fine</u>. However, this doesn't mean to skip a visit to the travel doctor before you go abroad! It's better to be safe, just not paranoid. <br />
<br />
Although I'm not prone to motion sickness, transportation in SE Asia can be kind of rough on a person: long bus rides on continuously winding, undeveloped roads... boat rides for hours... it's just the kind of thing you would rather be prepared for than not.<br />
<br />
3.<strong> Passport-size photos.</strong> Apparently they are a requirement for entering Cambodia and Vietnam, along with <u>copies of the front page of your passport</u>. And some money. They wouldn't want me if I didn't have some of that.<br />
<br />
Well, that's it. That's all you need.<br />
<br />
No, just kidding. But those are definitely an overlooked top 3. If you'd like to know more about packing for an adventure, check out my <a href="http://playswithelephants.blogspot.com/p/quotes.html">Travel Kit 101</a> page and with that and some common sense you should be all set.Laura Hugheshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07946734116505206465noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4550421805121042505.post-48346874492189502402011-07-23T14:45:00.000-07:002014-03-30T17:28:32.461-07:00South Korea: the Finale.On a long hike today, I had some time to disconnect and think about what I need/want to do to bring this amazing year in Korea to its bittersweet but necessary close. And like any Human Services graduate, I came to the obvious conclusion that I wanted to write about what I had ultimately learned. You know. Bring out the highlights. Put the monsters to rest. Call out the stuff I said that, after living here longer, I disagree with now. <br />
<br />
Anyone who had the opportunity to ask me about my Korea trip one year ago would get psyched-out, pumped up answers from my plastered-on-smile face as I listed off all the reasons why I needed to go abroad (and even a few reasons as to why I <i>wanted</i> to). If any of those people got the opportunity to talk at length about my trip, they might see my mask come down and they might even get the impression (correctly) that I was scared shitless to go on this year adventure basically alone.<br />
<br />
I can sum up the first 3 months of my trip in one story.<br />
<br />
Sitting on the plane to Korea, awaiting take-off, I was in a state of shock. Everything was blurry and moving too fast, and although I was running on less then 3 hours of sleep in 2 days, the cause of my symptoms was not sleep deprivation, but utter fear. Until I left, it was easy to pretend I was just going on a vacation. As soon as the plane took off the ground, I began to sob. Do you know how silent take-offs are? It's like an unspoken agreement everyone has, lest the plane goes plummeting mid-ascent. The worst part about my particular circumstance was the seating arrangement itself. Sitting in the emergency exit row, I happened to be face-to-face with a Korean flight attendant. Strapped into my seat, I had nowhere to hide this incredibly vulnerable moment, and found it difficult to avoid eye contact with the young woman less than 3 feet away from me.<br />
<br />
Hours later, after my episode came to its end and [I desperately hoped] everyone had forgotten about it, I needed my reading glasses. Because of our emergency exit row seating, my bag had been moved to the overhead compartment of the section in front of us, which happened to be Business Class (where none of us Economy Class dare tread). I asked a flight attendant if I could retrieve my bag and she offered to help. While we were one section up, me rifling through my things, she asked me a question that made me realize who I was standing next to.<br />
<br />
<blockquote>
<b>"So, is this your first time away from home?"</b></blockquote>
<br />
It was the flight attendant from the take-off. Oh God. Fortunately, she was the nicest and most caring person who could've seen me filling enough clear little plastic cups with tears to serve my entire row. Although her sweetness and curiousity <i>did</i> ultimately reduce me to tears again, it was a really touching lesson in common culture and humanity. And an even bigger lesson in humility.<br />
<br />
My first experiences here were of discomfort. I had no bed for almost a week's worth of time my first month. I didn't feel competent at my job because, with everything in Korean, I couldn't even use the computer. I accidentally ordered disgusting food I had to eat, and didn't know which way to place my chopsticks on the table when I was done eating it. I bought aviator shades because I didn't like people looking at my blue eyes. I continued to cry. <br />
<br />
Fortunately, the feelings of 'home' started to seep in slowly as I taught myself to become literate, found some favorite restaurants, and learned to accept the workplace as a wild atmosphere where anything was possible. I was scared to say it to myself, but I actually felt confident. By the time the holidays came around, I was able to hold in tears when teachers asked me if I missed my family (by the <i>way</i>, asking that question to foreigners abroad should be considered a form of torture and banned globally).<br />
<br />
Then the Christmas package came from my family and I realized how I truly feel about gifts: they're only worth receiving if you have someone to watch the joy they've brought you as you open them. Sitting alone in my apartment, I opened my Christmas presents and vowed to never be by myself for the holidays again. <br />
<br />
Meanwhile, being a foreigner means accumulating about 1,095,807 friends you will meet for God-knows-how-long and then promptly never see again. This was becoming a recognizable pattern in my life and on a New Years' trip in Seoul, it finally clicked that we have to truly make the most of the moments life offers us and not ask for more. I can honestly say that learning this and encouraging myself to live it (because it is definitely <i>not </i>second nature to me) has made me a happier person. <br />
<br />
The rest of the year was less about keeping my head above water and more about what I wanted to give myself with the time I had left here (and no, I'm not talking about a new haircut or a wardrobe of Korean clothing). I decided to take full responsibility for that happiness I knew I could now cultivate. I picked up a new instrument. I took a semester of college classes on Korean language. I saw the friends I wanted to. And most importantly, when something was wrong, I did something about it. I was suddenly starting to feel protective over myself and this 'lonely' life I was leading, and I wasn't about to let someone come in and make me unhappy unless I let them. The funny thing about all the time I spent alone is how 'not alone' I usually felt. This is <i>not</i> to say that we don't all have bouts of the Lonelies sometimes. But for as much time as I had to myself, I was actually enjoying it. For the first time, I was enough.<br />
<br />
Now that I am getting ready to leave (<a href="http://playswithelephants.blogspot.com/2011/06/what-keeps-me-coming-back.html">which was not the easiest decision ever</a>, to say the least), that nervous, anxious feeling is beginning to creep its way back into my life. I know from experience that can only mean one thing: I consider Korea to be a home. I can't even call it a second home, because it has a different schema of home to me than the place I grew up in. Korea is not only a land I love, but it's the place where I learned to be at home <i>in myself</i>. For that reason and many, many more, Korea will always be especially treasured. <br />
<br />
As for being a foreigner, the clock is ticking down to 6 weeks: 3 in Korea, and 3 in South East Asia. As much as I am ready to assimilate at home with the culture I know best, I will miss my role as a foreigner, too. It was a lovely experiment. Sometimes, I was right on-- like diving head-first into a plate of live octopus my 2nd week in Korea. Other times, the lesson was more difficult: it took me a while to realize that, <a href="http://playswithelephants.blogspot.com/2011/05/those-weird-foreigners.html">although it's fun to be strange</a>, sometimes <a href="http://playswithelephants.blogspot.com/2010/10/comfort-of-being-waygook.html">there are logical reasons to go with the grain</a>.<br />
<br />
Sometimes. <br />
<br />
For my own sanity, I am ending my South Korean adventures with this post. A little pre-mature, I know, but that's kind of my style. Not to mention, I earlier promised to post about my upcoming trip and prefer to focus on the details of that at the moment instead of prolonging the end of something so magical.<br />
<br />
I want to extend a <i>reallllllly</i> big thank you to everyone who has been such a huge support of my travels this year. Please believe me when I say you have helped me get through some of the biggest personal challenges I've ever had, and from the other side of the world! From those who read my blog for fun, to my Skype and snail mail buddies, to the people who took the time to travel to Korea this year for little ol' me: <u><b>thank you</b></u>. Thank you readers, thank you friends, thank you family. My perspective on life has been enriched by you all this year.<br />
<br />
As for Playing With Elephants, it is not going anywhere. Please follow me through the cities, jungles and beaches of SE Asia, and wherever life takes Cheengu and I afterward. When I'm not on the move internationally, the blog will take a rest as well. <b>But never fear-- I'm always looking for the next adventure.</b><br />
<br />
From the girl who conquered Korea (and her little elephant, too)--<br />
Laura and CheenguLaura Hugheshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07946734116505206465noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4550421805121042505.post-19072467996379869782011-07-17T19:38:00.000-07:002011-07-23T05:32:14.817-07:00"See you next time, bye bye!"The title of this post is dedicated to the scripted close of every English Broadcast I have (airing Wednesday mornings at 9am through my whole school). I love and hate this greeting because often students will use it in a caricature-ish fashion to say goodbye to me. However, when I found myself faced with my last week of regular classes, I found I couldn't say "goodbye" and opted for this cliche'd expression instead, much to the delight of my students.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://playswithelephants.blogspot.com/2011/07/diy-self-confidence-for-students.html">My lucky penny idea</a> went off without a hitch. In fact, many teachers also wanted their own 'lucky penny'. It's a full-blown fad over here at Yaksa Elementary! I also found the whole venture to be somewhat lucrative:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNbTVsBJ64_TOGrTjUqH12GU2k6O_ZcGgw5SLHFtdUK1ihMJfnTNRXFXBaZjSzWtNHfBq-xiAOWHnet3_1V6aZ-7ftpwuwVbluawgdWnFXg_X7JnpJZLgogkps18HjnLN2J0nZeMQKvROC/s1600/LuckyPennyStatus.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="76" m$="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNbTVsBJ64_TOGrTjUqH12GU2k6O_ZcGgw5SLHFtdUK1ihMJfnTNRXFXBaZjSzWtNHfBq-xiAOWHnet3_1V6aZ-7ftpwuwVbluawgdWnFXg_X7JnpJZLgogkps18HjnLN2J0nZeMQKvROC/s400/LuckyPennyStatus.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
Fortunately the only person to openly cry my last week was me (hidden in my office of course!... crying is for wimps and losers!*), although I did have a lot of dejected-looking kids come up to me, or, with furrowed brow, ask me if they would see me next week. No matter how much I explained I still have a few weeks at Yaksa, the 'last class' thing really got to them. <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkWdO8mR4Xs9QnUAKlmp_WY71EHzPLJjZtkWDIRtkL_Y6YIPKvEgBZeEjWElJUdoK1JJXOJwOaGQDxeVdiyC-Qj9xE4KvhaP8kdTEjUTbhLUaaBUR9afRcW6R0keAZehtYwwVqrQeFjvZE/s1600/IMG_7152.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" m$="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkWdO8mR4Xs9QnUAKlmp_WY71EHzPLJjZtkWDIRtkL_Y6YIPKvEgBZeEjWElJUdoK1JJXOJwOaGQDxeVdiyC-Qj9xE4KvhaP8kdTEjUTbhLUaaBUR9afRcW6R0keAZehtYwwVqrQeFjvZE/s400/IMG_7152.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
The great thing about being a kid is that what seems sad now will be forgotten in a matter of minutes or days. Sure, they will remember me, but once the buzz of summer vacation hits (and then shortly after, the new foreign teacher comes), they won't be sad anymore.<br />
<br />
Some of my students asked for my email. I gave it to them and have already received two in my inbox.<br />
<br />
This one made me particularly happy that I didn't give all my students an email address to contact. I want to be able to respond properly to these kids if they get in touch, instead of feeling overwhelmed with a short burst of 'fan mail' I never reply to.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjV5ddHPJDeRsn90AIwbSN5dIJOcjFbg28n50Odk6ZxxV73jcB_x7K2PXyTXqRdudoRuIN_zmGTjBNhCU36mJVXxLalx453UrtlwvOSnuuUItGr3150MsU1pBNwK04a6VXBh6OzJSgonpH/s1600/BlogPicture.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" m$="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjV5ddHPJDeRsn90AIwbSN5dIJOcjFbg28n50Odk6ZxxV73jcB_x7K2PXyTXqRdudoRuIN_zmGTjBNhCU36mJVXxLalx453UrtlwvOSnuuUItGr3150MsU1pBNwK04a6VXBh6OzJSgonpH/s400/BlogPicture.jpg" width="336" /></a></div><br />
Lastly, one thing I worked really hard to do was have some Yaksa students sign a t-shirt for me. I started this process about 3 weeks ago, bringing in a plain white tee and asking kids to write whatever they wanted, or draw pictures, too. Signing t-shirts is not common in Korea (unless you are a celebrity autographing one), so my students found this to be really fun and special, and I felt the same knowing secretly that it was a parting gift they were making for me. By the end things got pretty detailed:<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKu1TJEeiRGtdf6S4z6ZgNfBDGm7IWUdIjuAACiM_Rru-xKCDNU05kN7BI-S1P0Vy5lD3NuW7cNa09hNF8KSrb7bt6RVMqwyo1GbBdlft7J2ucHxet1Gzlz0f1OAwkld61d_t6nZoCL65G/s1600/IMG_7267.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" m$="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKu1TJEeiRGtdf6S4z6ZgNfBDGm7IWUdIjuAACiM_Rru-xKCDNU05kN7BI-S1P0Vy5lD3NuW7cNa09hNF8KSrb7bt6RVMqwyo1GbBdlft7J2ucHxet1Gzlz0f1OAwkld61d_t6nZoCL65G/s320/IMG_7267.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><br />
<br />
I still have 4 weeks left in Korea: 1 devoted to deskwarming (creative posts sure to follow this week!); 1 for Yaksa camp; 2 for low-level classes. However, with regular classes out of the way, things are definitely starting to wrap up.<br />
<br />
<b>So as they (and by 'they' I mean 'I') say, "See you next time... bye bye!"</b><br />
<br />
-Laura Teacher<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<i>*This is just what I told myself while holding a fan to my face so I can get to the next class without tearing up. I'm my own emotion ninja.</i>Laura Hugheshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07946734116505206465noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4550421805121042505.post-73141624771310120042011-07-17T07:19:00.000-07:002011-07-23T05:32:14.820-07:00"Boryeong's magical mud cures the everyday case of dry skin, sanity and sobriety", says random foreigner.This weekend, another first I wanted to experience before my departure from South Korea: getting slicked-up at the Boryeong Mud Festival. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Boryeong_Mud_Festival">According to my Wiki-ing</a>, this is the 14th annual celebration of Boryeong's healthy, clay-based mud to advertise beauty products made from a local, organic company. What better way to sell something than with free samples? Better yet, what better way to sell something than with mud slides, beach access, and loads of alcohol at the ready? I don't know of many.<br />
<br />
We left with a small group of foreigners very early Saturday morning for the 5-hour bus ride from Ulsan to Boryeong. After checking into the pension nearby, we were ready for action and made our way to the beach!<br />
<br />
I never experienced a traditional frat-style 'Spring Break', but after this weekend I'm pretty sure any potential desires to join in on one in the future were prematurely fulfilled. People really didn't hold anything back. In fact, for as excited as I was all month to attend this festival, as soon as I stepped off the bus I felt immediately uncomfortable. To be greeted by a sight like this when you are completely clean is really awkward.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZCtAK_aC0Kib2OXSjWT8tTUqnq6nxsgtXD2JGFw7pZqNHxutldnpPIqahONVTYjWwPIiHF9hdCb1Xqa_nU4FjERT1dRZexW7xDXe_uzqnHvr_dTkrIYXlHFKkK2AzfoObB0bRiM_feCRO/s1600/IMG_7285.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZCtAK_aC0Kib2OXSjWT8tTUqnq6nxsgtXD2JGFw7pZqNHxutldnpPIqahONVTYjWwPIiHF9hdCb1Xqa_nU4FjERT1dRZexW7xDXe_uzqnHvr_dTkrIYXlHFKkK2AzfoObB0bRiM_feCRO/s400/IMG_7285.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
Thankfully, the weather soon changed into an all-out monsoon and we were able to get messy enough to talk ourselves into getting muddy. After that, we fit right in!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgASRblXekzL_TiAmoPr5A79uoUmk8Wofjkf_5K2Z3RLf8q5MQNlf9Jg8sio_Vv7gIvCWpTTpFTw7KZ11xZ_Jq7douTZqNC8miivrzEGPQLFoZQJJISOPgm-Ruq-rG321CvxClIxmJx1U-D/s1600/IMG_1188.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgASRblXekzL_TiAmoPr5A79uoUmk8Wofjkf_5K2Z3RLf8q5MQNlf9Jg8sio_Vv7gIvCWpTTpFTw7KZ11xZ_Jq7douTZqNC8miivrzEGPQLFoZQJJISOPgm-Ruq-rG321CvxClIxmJx1U-D/s320/IMG_1188.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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We also found plenty of time to lay on the beach and go swimming. Cheen-gu also liked hanging out with us. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIrZMrbWRpIEMykyTH9fB187j1Px2II4xGlLhkr3SXSY9AjJ9xLZXiOalgWEkXK2B8wdvI1QiYIv1fVA56XUqDBdkvg32chrhT5DV680sCGZHPodgdnb9AFf8O7JJrK193rmuqStSY1rEo/s1600/IMG_7324.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIrZMrbWRpIEMykyTH9fB187j1Px2II4xGlLhkr3SXSY9AjJ9xLZXiOalgWEkXK2B8wdvI1QiYIv1fVA56XUqDBdkvg32chrhT5DV680sCGZHPodgdnb9AFf8O7JJrK193rmuqStSY1rEo/s320/IMG_7324.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
So what does one bring to a mud festival?<br />
<br />
1. Camera (waterproof if possible; if not, wrapped in plastic or inside a ziploc)<br />
2. Money<br />
3. Phone<br />
4. Optional but useful: towel and extra plastic bags for wet/muddy clothes<br />
5. Sunglasses<br />
6. Sunscreen<br />
<br />
One extra item we found almost necessary by the end of the weekend were 'wet bags', designed specifically to hold small personal items (see numbers 1-3) in a completely water-proof bag with attachable lanyard for around your neck.<br />
<br />
Oh, and you might want to bring some courage too... of the liquid and/or mental variety. This crowd demands it.Laura Hugheshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07946734116505206465noreply@blogger.com24tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4550421805121042505.post-50612354016726635392011-07-13T08:11:00.000-07:002011-07-23T05:32:14.823-07:00Don't be afraid.Living in a crowded city, you're bound to hear all kinds of noises at night. Traffic. Cats fighting. Drunken serenades. I myself have suspicions of the world's largest copier/washing machine/wave-making bed/ iron lung that resides in the apartment above me and makes a strange yet monotonous sound all night long. These things we put up with because we live in a city of millions.<br />
<br />
However, there are some things we should not put up with.<br />
<br />
Tonight I heard some men yelling outside my bathroom window, which faces an alley. Normally I wouldn't think much of it, but after about 15 minutes it was more than noticable, and I realized that other neighbors were stepping outside to tell the two men to pipe down. As I tried to peer through the incredibly tall window, a third voice came on the scene-- a woman's-- and that's when things started to get really ugly. I couldn't understand everything, but she was yelling "Stop it! Stop it! Don't do that!" in Korean, and the men's voices only seemed to be escalating.<br />
<br />
I was a little more than disturbed, and a little more than a LOT bothered by the fact that I felt powerless to call for help. <br />
<br />
I was encouraged by another rad traveler (whom I happened to be talking to at the time) to call the police anyway. 112 is the number for the Ulsan Police, and although there weren't any people on staff at the time for English, we made it work. By the time the police got to the area, the scene had calmed down (which homefully is evidence that the fight also ended, but I'm not sure). <br />
<br />
My main point, to whoever is involved or wherever you are, is to not be afraid to call. Even though the officer only knew how to say "policeman" to me, we worked with what we could and I was really impressed to see them respond so well, and so fast (and so patiently as I stumbled over myself in broken Korean).<br />
<br />
You can do this, too. And although we know it's the 'right' thing to do, it's often overlooked at how it's not the 'easy' thing to do. When it comes down to it, no matter our reasoning for adhering to the Bystander's Effect, the bottom line is this: if you don't do it, who will?Laura Hugheshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07946734116505206465noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4550421805121042505.post-51810421120904615512011-07-12T19:47:00.000-07:002011-07-23T05:32:14.827-07:00The Business Trip.I made this on xtranormal.com last night to summarize the typical 'Oh, so you want to leave school during your working hours?' conversation. <br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="314" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/n8hOiD0dplY" width="500"></iframe><br />
<br />
You can find other xtranormal videos about teaching in Korea on youtube as well, made by many a perplexed Guest English Teacher just trying to cope with humor.Laura Hugheshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07946734116505206465noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4550421805121042505.post-29841008073655391872011-07-08T00:34:00.000-07:002011-07-08T00:36:57.790-07:00Bucket List: South KoreaWhen I first came to Korea, there were an overwhelming amount of things I wanted to experience, but they were all pretty vague. Things like, "try the food" or are inevitable, but what kinds and where and how are all another story. So now I'm making it that much easier for you, should you ever find yourself in the good ol' ROK. <br />
<br />
In the year I've lived here, I can safely say that I have done (or considered, or wanted to, or have heard great things about) all the items on this list. Some are tourism-based, and some are made for the average day out. Try them all if you dare, and you just might know what the <em>real</em> Korea is like.<br />
<br />
<br />
<strong><u>Go to an outdoor market.</u></strong><br />
My one constant I try to do in every new country is visit an outdoor market. This is where the people are. This is where their food is coming from. This is what makes the smells, sounds and tastes of their community. This experience also shows just how different our cultures are because the way animal rights and food safety are viewed can be a whole different concept in another country. Look for a 시장 (<em>shi-jang</em>) and allow yourself to be impressed, surprised and even a little grossed out at what you see (remembering, of course, that it's not better or worse-- only different).<br />
<br />
I've seen many an outdoor market in Korea, but my favorite was the Jicalgchi Fish Market in Busan. Both a great representation of culture and traditional commerce as well as an intense market-ing experience.<br />
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<strong><u>Use a squatter toilet.</u></strong><br />
Because all the Koreans (and the majority of the non-Western world) do it.<br />
<br />
<strong><u>Noraebang the night away.</u></strong><br />
Also known as a "singing room", 노래방 (<em>norae-bang</em>) is a pretty unique experience, and a really fun one at that! You can buy snacks and drinks inside, so pile in with your friends and belt out a few tunes (English and Korean songs are available in every <em>norae-bang</em> so no worries about not knowing Korean, either!).<br />
<br />
<strong><u>Go to a traditional Korean restaurant.</u> </strong><br />
They're cheaper AND generally taste better. If you want to try something pretty basic, go with 비빔밥 (<em>bi-bim-bap</em>). If you're more daring, go for some 낙지 (<em>nak-ji</em>). Either way, a traditional meal will bring you a million little flavors in tiny bowls, so you can try a plethora of dishes without wasting a ton of food. Anything you don't like, wash down with 소주 (<em>soju</em>) and you'll forget all about it in no time.<br />
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<strong><u>Listen to k-pop.</u></strong><br />
Listen to it live if you can. If not, go a night club and see it implemented in the middle of a drunken crowd well past midnight.<br />
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<strong><u>Watch a live sports game.</u></strong><br />
If not for the actual sport, then to see and hear the Koreans chanting fight songs. It's amazing.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6_ECb0tdZLVnN7VNB6E1j3n74qOQiZrKC8xFCUfvRdRHIFXFempAPaV1-l5oCv6O-LRLWckTLxBPS491tviDsn49l_KV0S4hHF8hmkeYxVfomoq0A4wgBAY0ux0aRjBoZ-_9B8mZyaaLe/s1600/IMG_1279b.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" m$="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6_ECb0tdZLVnN7VNB6E1j3n74qOQiZrKC8xFCUfvRdRHIFXFempAPaV1-l5oCv6O-LRLWckTLxBPS491tviDsn49l_KV0S4hHF8hmkeYxVfomoq0A4wgBAY0ux0aRjBoZ-_9B8mZyaaLe/s320/IMG_1279b.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<strong><u>See some lanterns.</u></strong><br />
If you are in Korea during the spring, there are celebrations all over the country for Buddha's birthday. In Seoul, annual festivals are held where lanterns of all kinds line the streets, and temples are decorated in colored paper, looking realllly magical at night.<br />
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<strong><u>Get dirty.</u></strong><br />
Another festival Korea is famous for is the mud festival, occuring in early to mid-July. Because who doesn't love to get a little muddy? Want to see the foreigner scene during this event? Check out the beaches in 볼영 (<em>Boryeong</em>) the second weekend of July.<br />
<br />
<strong><u>Fireworks festival.</u></strong><br />
In Busan every October, the International Fireworks Festival rules the beach for a weekend.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNZ_2-IpuDOxrz5uaPZeto9f63pDM4JXzkQBsW88wQeb6d2gZA3q2GIF3k7vHbvGixwfcGxn_sl8KuEoZJDwWI9Dd5LSdWXhcQ4iZ_Oz05riA_PYg_hoQlpEapH4OysnebRsMWhT5nnMcK/s1600/IMG_3473.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" m$="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNZ_2-IpuDOxrz5uaPZeto9f63pDM4JXzkQBsW88wQeb6d2gZA3q2GIF3k7vHbvGixwfcGxn_sl8KuEoZJDwWI9Dd5LSdWXhcQ4iZ_Oz05riA_PYg_hoQlpEapH4OysnebRsMWhT5nnMcK/s320/IMG_3473.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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<strong><u>Visit Jeju.</u></strong><br />
USA: Honolulu :: Korea: Jeju Island.<br />
<br />
In other words, Jeju is not only a honeymooner's perfect love nest, but also a tropical paradise. Catch it if you can.<br />
<br />
<strong><u>Stand atop a tall tower.</u></strong><br />
There's almost one in every major city: Seoul, Busan, Daegu... the list goes on. You can see almost the whole city from up high. How's that for getting the lay of the land?<br />
<br />
<strong><u>Ride the bus.</u></strong><br />
The organization and chaos go so hand-in-hand that it's just as easy to get where you're going as it is to be completely lost. Take an easy route and hold on tight.<br />
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<strong><u>Let yourself bump into an old person on the street.</u></strong><br />
... if they don't bump into you first.<br />
<br />
<strong><u>Go to a Korean wedding.</u></strong><br />
If you really want to see some cultural differences, say "YES" when a Korean friend asks you to go to a wedding.<br />
<br />
<strong><u>Visit an amusement park.</u></strong><br />
Not only are rollercoaster awesome, but there are a few rides you definitely won't find anywhere else in the world sitting inside South Korea. Don't expect Disneyland quality, but don't expect Disneyland prices, either (or Disneyland lines). <br />
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<strong><u>Watch the sunrise in 젼동진 (<em>Jeondongjin</em>).</u></strong><br />
It's the first place the sun hits Korea in the morning, and supposedly the most beautiful sunrises you will see in the ROK.<br />
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<strong><u>Watch the sunset in 볼영 (<em>Boryeong</em>).</u></strong><br />
Or any other west-coast city of Korea, really. Or from your 5-story roof. It's all the same; sunsets can be pretty beautiful here.<br />
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<strong><u>Ride the KTX.</u></strong><br />
Because bullet trains are one method of transportation the Westernized world has just not got its hands on yet, and it's miraculous.<br />
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<strong><u>Buy some outrageous Korean fashion item and wear it in public. See how nobody cares.</u></strong><br />
This could be a really short skirt, a top with a ruffled collar, a silly headband, a plush animal hat, or matching couples attire. You'll be surprised how you actually fit right in.<br />
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<strong><u>Snap some shots in a photo booth.</u></strong><br />
You'll be happy you did.<br />
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<strong><u>Visit the DMZ.</u></strong><br />
This is definitely a tour-group-type-thing, but if you go with the USO you will have an excellent and safe tour. History buffs will love it. Photographers will love it. Little kids will <em>not</em> love it, so if you're a family hire a sitter to take the tikes to Everland while you trod to the border.<br />
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<strong>Any additions to the South Korea Bucket List? </strong><br />
<strong>Please comment in the space below!</strong>Laura Hugheshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07946734116505206465noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4550421805121042505.post-74565211479612142742011-07-03T00:00:00.000-07:002011-07-23T05:32:14.831-07:00DIY: Self-confidence for students.I know that being a good teacher isn't about giving things to your students; being a good teacher is about getting students to think for themselves so they can lead a capable and sustainable life. We can't just give them answers, or ideas, or things. They have to cultivate their own learning from the seeds we plant.<br />
<br />
But I'm also the kind of teacher who, now that there are only 2 weeks left in public school, wants to bribe her students into remembering her. Or at least leave them with something special.<br />
<br />
However, calculating it out, I have 22 classes weekly with about 30-32 students each.<br />
<br />
22 classes x 30 to 32 kids = OVER 660 STUDENTS.<br />
<br />
Soooo getting them all Rolex wristwatches certainly isn't an option.<br />
<br />
What's cheap, cultural to the US, and <i>not</i> candy, which will be eaten within a day and quickly forgotten about? What's something they will want to <i>keep</i>, without breaking my budget?<br />
<br />
And then I had an idea.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqUb-ku5W0UcIENlX6sax2JREGTd3MQ1iqOAWCaLPBhR0RR8Nk-vkEnhhwywShOU6JpaVhdQAyaI-_Cz68cqbE989tdn0yUsq4P6gI1EpyRlfiPyiU_lU35px8_DFRhteuxc48Kaedn_Ak/s1600/IMG_6620.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqUb-ku5W0UcIENlX6sax2JREGTd3MQ1iqOAWCaLPBhR0RR8Nk-vkEnhhwywShOU6JpaVhdQAyaI-_Cz68cqbE989tdn0yUsq4P6gI1EpyRlfiPyiU_lU35px8_DFRhteuxc48Kaedn_Ak/s400/IMG_6620.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><br />
With the concept of 'lucky pennies' being foreign to Koreans, I thought this was a really good opportunity to give them all a little US money. After making a template, printing them on colored paper, and cutting them all out, I glued these pieces of paper to pennies sent over by my mom (thanks again, Mom!). <br />
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Cheap. Cultural. Fun.Laura Hugheshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07946734116505206465noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4550421805121042505.post-5732874703831725142011-07-02T05:05:00.000-07:002011-07-23T05:32:14.835-07:00Colored lights, bubbles, and a plastic cake: A Korean Wedding Story.This weekend I finally got the opportunity to attend a modern Korean wedding. Although I was told many times this year by co-teachers and other Korean natives that this celebration pales in comparison to a traditional Korean wedding, I was still really curious to see what it would be like.<br />
<br />
Thanks to my friend, Christy, who invited me to a wedding a teacher at her school was having, my curiousity was definitely satisfied, although this event has left me in a slight state of confusion and shock.<br />
<br />
We arrived at the hotel where the wedding and reception were to take place. The first thing we were prompted to do was meet the bride. We turned the corner down a crowded hallway to see this tiny yet utterly lavished room designed specifically for the bride to sit and have photos taken with visiting guests. She looked like a Korean princess who just happened to have been placed in the middle of all the chaos: people running around, bringing in flowers, exchanging envelopes, getting meal tickets. We [awkwardly] snapped a couple of photos with her and waited for the wedding to start. <br />
<br />
When I walked into the venue where the ceremony would take place, I was pretty amazed. Music bumping, people chatting, and the officiator was getting ready at the front, atop a huge platform-esque pulpit. Not to mention an adorable photo slideshow of the couple and the moving-and-color-changing rainbow lights, which added a certain Korea-ness that is wholly unique. Finally, the main feature-- the aisle-- which looked more like a model runway than anything I've ever seen at a wedding in the States. Lined by lights and raised about 6 inches off the ground, I suddenly became really excited for the wedding to begin. Fashion show! Fashion show!... I mean... wedding?<br />
<br />
When the wedding party (no brides and groomsmen at this wedding) came out, there was one person designated to be the official 'toucher-upper' of hair, jackets, and the bride's dress, of course. This upped her 'princess' status quite a bit in my eyes.<br />
<br />
For all the pomp, there didn't seem to be much reciprocation from the audience... I mean, er... the guests. Korean culture, even after living here for almost a year, still shocks me quite a bit. During the ceremony, there were full-fledged discussions being held by those in attendance. People answered their phones. And once the officiator began talking, many people (including our small group) <i>left the ceremony room</i> in favor of going somewhere else to sit down and wait until the next portion.<br />
<br />
Um.... what?<br />
<br />
Usually when I observe another culture, it's just that: an observation. As in, from far away, where I can feel removed from the scenario. Today tested my cultural competency in a way it's not usually tested because I was a true <i>part</i> of the schenenagains going on. And as much as Chsirty and I giggled to one another and wondered what the <i>heck</i> was going on, we also tried to keep a poker face about it and pretend that leaving a wedding ceremony in the middle because it got 'boring' is perfectly normal.<br />
<br />
We were beckoned back to the service by the alluring sound of this man's voice as he sang to the newlyweds about getting married:<br />
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And later, after cutting the cake (which seemed to be only symbolic; not only did we <i>not</i> eat wedding cake at the wedding, but the bottom two layers of the 'cake' were actually plastic!), bowing to the parents and offering a 'thanks' to all the guests, the bride and groom proceeded back down the aisle as husband and wife. Their first challenge as a married couple: making it through the haze of bubbles, fake snow, and fire-crackers <i>aimed at their faces... </i>and coming out alive.<br />
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The final blow to rock all my paradigms about marriage ceremonies was that in Korea there is <i>no dancing</i> at the reception. None at all. And that's all I'm going to say about that.<br />
<br />
Congratulations to the lovely young couple! It was a beautiful wedding, and it definitely shook up my world a little. All in all, I do love Korea, but I'm glad that getting married here isn't in the cards for me. Some cultural ideas we just can't give up.Laura Hugheshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07946734116505206465noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4550421805121042505.post-7030518311777016992011-06-24T01:23:00.000-07:002011-07-23T05:32:14.838-07:00How to send a hug in the mail.It's as simple as that.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrXEsNgEMuXzlsD5NzlCshoLmo8oZoJiTXM7mUDExP8UmKM3-dIlT82aD4qhhJE2tR9p70mBpEHHgCrUviiwkZJ01xyrgc4Hzuis8l7l4RfN2HWLuhbMwj15LBFv4CSisXQ-P9dTiy_Hke/s1600/IMG_6632.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrXEsNgEMuXzlsD5NzlCshoLmo8oZoJiTXM7mUDExP8UmKM3-dIlT82aD4qhhJE2tR9p70mBpEHHgCrUviiwkZJ01xyrgc4Hzuis8l7l4RfN2HWLuhbMwj15LBFv4CSisXQ-P9dTiy_Hke/s400/IMG_6632.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
Just a testament to all the amazing things you can do for someone,<br />
even if they're far away.<br />
Thank you, Kate!Laura Hugheshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07946734116505206465noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4550421805121042505.post-86402932990726827302011-06-23T23:28:00.000-07:002011-07-23T05:32:14.841-07:00K-pop Friday.For all the months I've been here, my blog has-- strangely-- managed to be almost devoid of Korean music. Considering how high I put music on the list of life-influencing factors, it's time to let you all in on the emotionally fascinating music that is K-pop.<br />
<br />
Unlike pop in the States which focuses on gettin' crunk or scoring ladies, the heart throbs that run the K-pop kingdom seem to have different agendas. Performer 'Beast' (stage name 'B2ST') sings the summer single 'Fiction' with an angst I can only call dedicated.<br />
<blockquote><br />
"I can't believe the fact that you are leaving me... I will re-write the story of you and I."</blockquote><br />
My 6th grade girls <i>love</i> B2ST in a fanatical way only pre-teens can love a pop idol. In fact, my Korean co-teacher jokes that he should get a B2ST face mask so they will focus better on their English lesson. Not a bad idea, considering I find "BEAST" written all over their desks after class.<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="286" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/ZAzWT8mRoR0" width="450"></iframe><br />
<br />
<br />
On another note, my co-teacher shared this video with me today. I'm not familiar with the artist or the song, but I thought it was a really good representation of the unique style and feel Korea has in their pop music videos. Sharp, colorful and modern, borderlining on freaky.<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="286" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/ixfXGcuINx4" width="450"></iframe><br />
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Happy Friday to those near and far!<a href="http://youtu.be/ZAzWT8mRoR0"></a>Laura Hugheshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07946734116505206465noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4550421805121042505.post-61401377257673888122011-06-21T22:44:00.000-07:002011-07-23T05:32:14.845-07:00Photojournalist Shot of the Day.It's been a while. Like I said: <em>not a photojournalist. </em>Otherwise I'd have to fire myself for posting such an out-dated photo. Still, it was a pretty magical catch.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf9H_i8dzgOoKaI6V_JNvgOlFbwNPNiF4BFXuws04Vhn53rP572pxf7eo7nfdGpMfatXwTcZYiO93V3TTSKuUIrJJZolscOD0TmCz7Q3SkOBfTbbQfHNS_HwXpc4yO0f5JfRldZhqrGuKE/s1600/IMG_4002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" i$="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf9H_i8dzgOoKaI6V_JNvgOlFbwNPNiF4BFXuws04Vhn53rP572pxf7eo7nfdGpMfatXwTcZYiO93V3TTSKuUIrJJZolscOD0TmCz7Q3SkOBfTbbQfHNS_HwXpc4yO0f5JfRldZhqrGuKE/s400/IMG_4002.jpg" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A woman wears Hanbok, traditional Korean attire, <br />
and bows to honor Buddha's Birthday, May 5th in Seoul.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Laura Hugheshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07946734116505206465noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4550421805121042505.post-20294420106036799882011-06-21T07:27:00.000-07:002011-07-23T05:32:14.848-07:00Extra credits.By now, dear readers, you have become familiar with the English program I teach in Korea. Maybe even a little too familiar. And being the Guest Engligh Teacher, I guess I can't really help it. But the Korean public school system actually offers elementary school students some really interesting subjects aside from the basic courses such as Korean, English or math, and I think our own home countries could really benefit from implementing them.<br />
<br />
First is Ethics. In Korea, even students as young as elementary-age learn how to deal with dilemmas ethically and think critically. With the rise of technology (and especially in Korea where kids of all ages have easier access to the internet and other privileges), it is really crucial to have students aware of issues that can affect their daily lives, such as anonyminity online. Another part of the Ethics course is to <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aCR1CndBm_g">examine the North Korean language</a>-- which differs slightly from the South Korean language-- to prepare for re-unification. When I asked my co-teachers how they know so much about the North Korean language (since NK has that whole "I'm not speaking to you" attitude most of the time), they said that people examine the news broadcasts and assess the language differences from there. Fascinating.<br />
<br />
Another class that my school is particularly proud of (and one that really impresses me) is our Safety program. Next to the English lab, we have an entire area dedicated to learning all kind of safety precautions, including CPR, fire safety, and how to drive a car through arcade-style simulations. The other day, someone left it unlocked and this waygook took the perfect opportunity to snap a couple shots of all the glory that is this room.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXflkjfnQfW2x7u8XhV_FTHQ_TgVg4C45xX0MoNFLDfCmYDAvHkBMi9tHUBNsl9dSmDCOoUHkllyUEX-NIlOGzs61wySJNYKFXQV77TixnedOylWTRFHg4PrUg9OopaqSRnETlkqi9wUlR/s1600/IMG_1623.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXflkjfnQfW2x7u8XhV_FTHQ_TgVg4C45xX0MoNFLDfCmYDAvHkBMi9tHUBNsl9dSmDCOoUHkllyUEX-NIlOGzs61wySJNYKFXQV77TixnedOylWTRFHg4PrUg9OopaqSRnETlkqi9wUlR/s320/IMG_1623.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />
I'd like to note that kids in Korea cannot get a drivers' license until they're at least 18, but most people wait until they're well into their 20's. Still, it's good for kids to know about traffic laws, and be familiar with driving in the event of an emergency! <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzF_qk4ELnCzmHoel1hYuceAQSR7vJp8Kgd4Cn3SDT0eTr7UwR0WqzUMqXq4NKasjVZE4lvnDDf8TZXLp_ao4cLjAQVfEXI2Ot1c52UXJJNr0XtniAhYCD7c5owvkTxGwCB06ail4xH1N5/s1600/IMG_1618.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzF_qk4ELnCzmHoel1hYuceAQSR7vJp8Kgd4Cn3SDT0eTr7UwR0WqzUMqXq4NKasjVZE4lvnDDf8TZXLp_ao4cLjAQVfEXI2Ot1c52UXJJNr0XtniAhYCD7c5owvkTxGwCB06ail4xH1N5/s320/IMG_1618.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
That beaming firefighter's name is Sappy. She and her male counterpart, Happy, are about to put out the fire in that burning building. I walk past this wall poster about 49812450 times every day.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8HSyu31kuyIbfnKeKvHicnXlyfhzQKUizrmKHGsSsc_jbwanADv9303uJWl67WyJeN_3a26iPBYYwp0sHY2JtaseyN5VzgclMGxC2Cp4hcvjveYTgdzrVZby2dxg3lQ2oxkb-Y8gl_8T6/s1600/IMG_1621.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8HSyu31kuyIbfnKeKvHicnXlyfhzQKUizrmKHGsSsc_jbwanADv9303uJWl67WyJeN_3a26iPBYYwp0sHY2JtaseyN5VzgclMGxC2Cp4hcvjveYTgdzrVZby2dxg3lQ2oxkb-Y8gl_8T6/s320/IMG_1621.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQOQEKoK4GiyskRkNvcB0je6hygb4gAmmDWZpSS8Pgk-xDoveiLuz_Qe91k4H5Ul-JkokXwovinUMQm66e62kTy4GgTDFpOZ08poi3e-7RISQNH1Va0e42Z4kX6dO0nX1bEUfj9ePH3JT_/s1600/IMG_1619.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQOQEKoK4GiyskRkNvcB0je6hygb4gAmmDWZpSS8Pgk-xDoveiLuz_Qe91k4H5Ul-JkokXwovinUMQm66e62kTy4GgTDFpOZ08poi3e-7RISQNH1Va0e42Z4kX6dO0nX1bEUfj9ePH3JT_/s320/IMG_1619.jpg" width="240" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9iO_3sgrKknDHQi1lHbhyRgufWgYOF56JTB286VIs0CsbU4tQS2A3jL5vRdBwqp5zlrj39i6cU36OfyBfwjVqKDIBDs5PxGSOiOePNqQzDLBn_PRqbmgm_o_QXW6cz43Rc5dqwHbYHv2e/s1600/IMG_1620.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9iO_3sgrKknDHQi1lHbhyRgufWgYOF56JTB286VIs0CsbU4tQS2A3jL5vRdBwqp5zlrj39i6cU36OfyBfwjVqKDIBDs5PxGSOiOePNqQzDLBn_PRqbmgm_o_QXW6cz43Rc5dqwHbYHv2e/s320/IMG_1620.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-sF7iDQSy_m_NcIGHXorp1ksf18rFufHGdUxpjsF2_TXuaJuhKVQSZ8Ls7nRm5_9x21Z5J4iyFeMMQmB4EiZKNs2kaMIvTW-CcXlXvlAyJKuJo717nGTNa-D0GzDEsdhXW9J3vehsGSHg/s1600/IMG_1622.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-sF7iDQSy_m_NcIGHXorp1ksf18rFufHGdUxpjsF2_TXuaJuhKVQSZ8Ls7nRm5_9x21Z5J4iyFeMMQmB4EiZKNs2kaMIvTW-CcXlXvlAyJKuJo717nGTNa-D0GzDEsdhXW9J3vehsGSHg/s320/IMG_1622.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
When I see amazing programs like this in place for students in Korea, I wonder what we could be doing better for our young minds in the States if not providing them with the skills to be safe and think critically about their world. I think Happy and Sappy would agree.Laura Hugheshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07946734116505206465noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4550421805121042505.post-25126462007014750532011-06-15T22:05:00.000-07:002011-07-23T05:32:14.851-07:00Hope in sight for all us veggies in a veggie-less world.Among the laundry list of things that makes me different from Koreans is the fact that I came here vegetarian.<br />
<br />
..."came here vegetarian" being the operative phrase. <br />
<br />
I found it really difficult to go by without eating meat here. Even things that seem to not have meat in them will often come with diced ham or other little shreds of beef. I can't tell you how many times I've had this conversation with a local (in both English <i>and</i> Korean):<br />
<br />
<br />
<blockquote><b>Me:</b> Does this have meat in it?<br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
<b>Waiter/co-teacher/Shop owner: </b>No, do you want meat?<br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
<b>Me: </b>No. Please no meat. I don't eat meat.<br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
<b>Waiter/co-teacher/Shop owner: </b>...................<br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
<b>Me:</b> <i>(pointing to menu or saying the name of the dish over and over and making a huge 'X' symbol with my arms)</i> This, meat, no. Meat, no. Meat... NO.<br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
<b>Waiter/co-teacher/Shop owner: </b>Ok, ok.</blockquote><br />
... and 15 minutes later, I have a wonderful dish of meat-filled food.<br />
<br />
My reasoning for not eating meat is multi-faceted, but the main pillar is because of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Factory_farming">factory farming</a> (by the way, if you are reading this and <i>haven't</i> watched <a href="http://www.ovguide.com/movies_tv/food_inc.htm">Food Inc.</a> yet, you are virtually and morally obligated to do so by the end of the week). I asked my co-teachers about what countries export their meat to Korea, and was disappointed to find that the US is on this list. In short: the factory-farmed meat I want to avoid in the States is now travelling a <i>further </i>distance than before, makng it even less sustainable than it already was.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2MDYwhqX_0oaMiCP6cjSPV_O2sP2UMFem3Yuok82g2OQMWkSEQtOn8SU50DVyP4D6XDfQ35KjOg6U91LRxTgkY-9kMYkhEapS8K83BEEQc2AHMr6AEYI08SasRkpWEeUffEtBnPW6j_oW/s1600/foodinc.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2MDYwhqX_0oaMiCP6cjSPV_O2sP2UMFem3Yuok82g2OQMWkSEQtOn8SU50DVyP4D6XDfQ35KjOg6U91LRxTgkY-9kMYkhEapS8K83BEEQc2AHMr6AEYI08SasRkpWEeUffEtBnPW6j_oW/s1600/foodinc.jpg" t8="true" /></a></div><br />
Although I do know (and seriously commend) a few vegetarians living here as foreign teachers, the fact is that, for me, I would be less comfortable eating absolutely NO meat because of my school staff and Korean friends. Sometimes, there is no meat-less option, and at least by eating chicken I have the ability to chew on something whilst sitting around with those who have a full pallete to work with. This is not my country. For me, it just seems polite.<br />
<br />
A bummer? Sure. I would rather be vegetarian. And sometimes I even feel a little frustrated about what I can only refer to as being "force-fed meat" (see the example conversation, above). But sometimes that's part of cultural competency, especially in a professional atmosphere. It wasn't a choice I was thrilled about, but since I have only been vegetarian for a couple years, it was a change my body could make to better adapt to the life I have here.<br />
<br />
However, I did find this yesterday, through a fellow foreign teacher, and thought it was definitely worth sharing: <br />
<br />
<a href="http://aeriskitchen.com/category/korean_food/vegetarian_ovo/">Aeris Kitchen</a> is a recipe blog that has a Korean cooking component for [lacto ovo] vegetarian dishes. Despite the content of this post, I do want to make it clear that there <i>are</i> vegetarian options here on occasion, and they are pretty basic (and thus easy to make). Aeris Kitchen makes it easy to find and re-create vegetarian Korean dishes, whether you are living abroad or back at home. I know <i>I'll</i> be using it when I go back to the States.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitRJeV2LA4jyCEfyBchvxrA3CfNezkTCe5W6Y6U4XM2EekVL01lP4XTHrRCswV7Q9pn-GJP_bSxf4mpwCqTw_0aGhh9N8eetcXaZL0EjupV4DPksfjeUX51aOyaPeEK5Sj5wtOGQkp89LW/s1600/butter_bean_jeon_01-.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitRJeV2LA4jyCEfyBchvxrA3CfNezkTCe5W6Y6U4XM2EekVL01lP4XTHrRCswV7Q9pn-GJP_bSxf4mpwCqTw_0aGhh9N8eetcXaZL0EjupV4DPksfjeUX51aOyaPeEK5Sj5wtOGQkp89LW/s400/butter_bean_jeon_01-.jpg" t8="true" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<b>UPDATE ON THE VEGGIE FRONT</b>: I don't know what to say, but after TEN months of being at my school and eating in the cafeteria daily, <i>today</i> my co-teacher decided to tell the lunch ladies I don't eat meat. <u>Today. Right before I went to publish this blog post.</u> I had just been eating around the meat and giving the extra to the school staff (very Korean, I know), but now the lunch ladies are replacing my meat with extra veggies. On today of all days. Sometimes, the 'ask and you shall receive' thing totally applies.Laura Hugheshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07946734116505206465noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4550421805121042505.post-28784036565510243752011-06-13T06:09:00.000-07:002011-07-23T05:32:14.854-07:00Summer just wouldn't be summer without it.I wanted to write a haiku in honor of this weekend delight, but honestly there is too much going on here to fit it all into a 5-by-7-by-5-syllable format.<br />
<br />
No. This is something completely out of all of our leagues.<br />
<br />
Let me introduce you to the traditional Korean summertime snack, 팥빙수 (or <i>pat-bing-soo</i>).<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6q2MmJP_QG920DpuxiJ7kpsdJTBCeFqgawYMQEm6tSBWan6LubEcpj7czqynUSW0jaBcgOljtu9P8ih92sBjFzEyL5F-l2MhnqCtaNx03w6n1_VnYn2I_gInIj2ISfnuzzy8452Wv3IBm/s1600/IMG_6606.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6q2MmJP_QG920DpuxiJ7kpsdJTBCeFqgawYMQEm6tSBWan6LubEcpj7czqynUSW0jaBcgOljtu9P8ih92sBjFzEyL5F-l2MhnqCtaNx03w6n1_VnYn2I_gInIj2ISfnuzzy8452Wv3IBm/s320/IMG_6606.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Now, upon first look, I kind of wanted to run away. In a typical dish, one could be subject to find:<br />
ice<br />
red beans<br />
fruit<br />
random jelly<br />
rice cake<br />
cereal flakes<br />
and some kind of sweet milk.<br />
<br />
To me, it sounds like <a href="http://images.scholastic.co.uk/assets/a/94/76/caterpillar-prv-12-195082.jpg">something the Very Hungry Caterpillar would fantasize about</a>, but it's really just the typical snack Korean use to cool off on those very hot summer days.<br />
<br />
This weekend, I knew it was time to girl-up and find me some <i>pat-bing-soo</i>, if for no other reason than to write a blog about how much it weirded me out.<br />
<br />
Maybe I've been here too long and will accept red beans in and on anything, but I actually really enjoyed sitting on the floor of my apartment, windows open, eating this thing. And-- even better: since it's not ice cream, I felt absolutely no guilt for eating it all... even if the lady I bought it from <i>did </i>ask me if I wanted two spoons. <br />
<br />
With that mystery solved, it's good to know I can walk down the blazing hot streets of my Korean summer no longer in fear.Laura Hugheshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07946734116505206465noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4550421805121042505.post-47164309372468451892011-06-10T02:21:00.000-07:002011-07-23T05:32:14.858-07:00Not just the typical, "neener neener neener."<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This morning, there was a pretty major incident in one of my 5th grade classrooms. Like any good Guest English Teacher, as soon as I made it to the Teacher's Room, I logged onto Facebook and sent out an SOS via status update into the virtual community:</div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6Mu48Ndx1LaFrOoOKWGlJBwcbmatligWZ9uTkqIPPsvlmceWFzJqyPd0el_6wioz47fK5P-9PEOzZ1bpqgbBB_RRtqjxK1fe11porcwv6Vz-8_y74tAIPTJuyke9pmF2sdZEjNcSwvNc4/s1600/BullyingStatusUpdate.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6Mu48Ndx1LaFrOoOKWGlJBwcbmatligWZ9uTkqIPPsvlmceWFzJqyPd0el_6wioz47fK5P-9PEOzZ1bpqgbBB_RRtqjxK1fe11porcwv6Vz-8_y74tAIPTJuyke9pmF2sdZEjNcSwvNc4/s1600/BullyingStatusUpdate.jpg" t8="true" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Upon a first-read, the drama of the situation seems entertaining, almost. And with the language barrier I have between me and the students, it does seem comical to think about how I-- as 1 of 2 adults in the room-- had to sit there and witness the whole thing unfold without contributing whatsoever. Sure, it was scary, but hey, it's one for the books, right? Besides, nobody got hurt. Doesn't that mean we can laugh about it?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The interesting thing is: that's exactly what the students do. This boy had tuned out all verbal and physical commands (clearly just running on <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Id,_ego_and_super-ego">Id</a> at this point); his actions, harmful to others and to himself, took learning off the list of priorities as the entire room was concerned for the safety of the group. However, the boys who held him down got up to do so as if it was routine. They grabbed him in big bear hugs and tolerated the kicking and jabbing coming from the perp while another appointed student dashed off to find the homeroom teacher. The rest of the students knew to stay clear.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">All in all, it was a pretty organized affair.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">What gets me about this situation is that is <i>was</i> so organized and casual, when this boy obviously has pent-up anger and quite possibly needs to see a counselor or use another program outside of public school to receive education. In short: the public school doesn't have enough resources to suit his needs.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This is a very common problem in Korea, as many Guest English Teachers can attest to. There is little the teachers can do, aside from talking to the parents about the issues. When I asked one of my Korean co-teachers about on-site counseling (like, if there is any), she said this (paraphrased):</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><br />
</b></div><blockquote><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>"Of course. But many parents don't want to take their child [to the school counselor] because they don't want to think their child has a disease. What happened today, it's from a disease, but many parents won't accept that."</b></div></blockquote><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This cultural desire to be the <i>same</i> echoes throughout the public school system. Every child is expected to be the same in ability and performance. This is precisely why all subjects are taught by age group (grade), not level of ability. Thus, it's not uncommon to have children who are well above average in your class, bored to pieces; it's equally likely that you will have some students who are below average or dealing with behavioral disorders which have yet to be evaluated. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">And that makes for a pretty interesting class.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">A friend of mine also opened my eyes to another perspective on the matter: bullying. Disorder or not, the kids who pick on each other and create fear within an individual or among a group should be considered a bully. Although I felt some sympathy to see the student from this morning return to the English Teachers' room crying his apology to us, I do consider him a threat to his classmates. I assumed, upon coming to Korea, that there would be less bullying here than in the States. However, it's becoming apparent to me that bullying is just as common here as anywhere else, and visa versa.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">According to Jae-In Lee (n.d.) from a study on bullying in Korean public schools:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><blockquote><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>[Those who bullied], in particular-- those who bullied the weak[er-looking students, were] less mature and more distorted in the developmental stage. The students [who] bullied the weak needed to be counseled as much as the bullied.</b></div></blockquote><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">In a society where success in education is <i>everything</i>, I hope that soon there will be more moderation in the realm of mental health for young children, not only for those who are victimzed by bullying, but for those who throw the first punch. Looking at outward, negative actions as a sign of deeper, unmet needs, and getting parents to accept their child as <i>who they are</i> as opposed to the mold they 'should' fit into could work wonders to relieve Korean students' stress and diminish unhealthy behavior.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">And it would sure give those poor chairs a break from being thrown around my 5th grade classroom.</div>Laura Hugheshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07946734116505206465noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4550421805121042505.post-54841080459861445832011-06-09T02:09:00.000-07:002011-07-23T05:32:14.862-07:00What keeps me coming back.This week, I sent my first box home. Things I don't need here: winter clothes, souvenirs; maybe even some things I will end up donating upon arrival in Seattle (which makes the value of those donations, thoeoretically, <i>way</i> higher because of shipping costs!... but I digress). Two more boxes sit in my apartment now, open but empty. It is a constant reminder to me of my looming departure. There's excitement as well as sadness; hope as well as anxiety. All in all, it's a happy thing. I may not always like change but <i>boy</i> do I love packing.<br />
<br />
It wasn't easy, though-- getting to this point. For those of you who aren't famliar with the system here, my 1-year contract is up for renewal in August. To give the Metropolitan Office of Education enough time to fill my place, they needed to know if I was renewing or not by mid-May. I've never had such a difficult time giving someone a "yes" or "no" answer (and for those of you who really know me, you know that's saying a lot). Nay, there were many times I flip-flopped, debated, and utterly freaked out (which, sadly, happened at least twice). I try to refrain from outright asking for advice; however, I found myself in desperate need of some. Friends and family alike had their take on how to make the call.<br />
<br />
Some people suggested a healthy dialog.<br />
<br />
Others thought I should make a list.<br />
<br />
Some even suggested flipping a coin to see how I felt about the outcome.<br />
<br />
After trying everything, I almost found myself more lost than before. I talked myself in circles and flipped a variety of coins (for some reason I thought the type of coin might make a difference), all to no avail. And the list part-- MY typical default-- was the worst one yet! On the "Pros" side were the important, hard-hitting and adult-type aspects:<br />
<br />
job security<br />
housing security<br />
relatively low cost of living<br />
amazing health care<br />
continue learning a language<br />
continue traveling<br />
<br />
Wow. Well <i>that's</i> the way to shove me out the door.<br />
<br />
This is a dillemma that many a Guest English Teacher face in Korea. The fact is that, despite our complaining and serious confusion in this culture at times, the Korean government has made it almost <i>too</i> enticing to leave, especially in this economic climate. That's why many of us stay here after a year, whether we had planned to or not. It attracts all types: people who are trying to save money; couples who want to work and travel; legitimate teachers (the rarer breed); and party-hearty die-hards who can reconcile their lifestyle in a culture that accepts them as both an educator and as a drunken fool.<br />
<br />
With all that said, many people ask me why I decided to leave Korea after only 1 year.<br />
<br />
I often get asked this question as if there must be something wrong with my situation, like I got shafted on the school/principal combination, or I finally snapped after eating <i>kimchi</i> every day. <br />
<br />
The best way to describe why I'm leaving is this: it's about love.<br />
<br />
<blockquote><i>"Love, like truth and beauty, is concrete. Love is not fundamentally a sweet feeling; not, at heart, a matter of sentiment, attachment, or being 'drawn toward.' Love is active, effective, a matter of making reciprocal and mutually beneficial relation with one's friends and enemies.<br />
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Love creates righteousness, or justice, here on earth." --<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carter_Heyward">Carter Heyward</a></i></blockquote><br />
We all have to listen to our inner voice. Sometimes the voice inside of us is really loud, and it shouts for us to do something. But sometimes it's quiet and small. That doesn't take away from its value, or mean we can ignore it. We just need to listen closer in order to understand what it's trying to tell us. <br />
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The love I have inside of me is to affect change for those who need it. It's not the kind of thing that fills me with rom-com joy, or has a 'happily ever after' tacked onto the end. It's not even something I think could lull me to sleep at night. In fact, that voice screams at me daily to get up and do something for others. But the voice that prompted me to go back to the States was small and scared, because starting over-- even at home-- is difficult.<br />
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I was afraid, for a time, that going home meant I was failing myself, like I wasn't able to live across the world alone. What I ended up realizing, after a million coin tosses, 2 lists and an emergency international call to my parents, is that it takes just as much courage to follow your passions at home as it does if you're on the other side of the world.<br />
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And now that I know, doesn't that make every day an adventure?Laura Hugheshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07946734116505206465noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4550421805121042505.post-33626015584779252392011-05-31T21:49:00.000-07:002011-07-23T05:32:14.865-07:00haiku in honor of my afternoon snack, vi.<div style="text-align: center;"><em>Ice cream in a bag,</em></div><div style="text-align: center;"><em>You are my hot, summer joy.</em></div><div style="text-align: center;"><em>You won't melt on me.</em></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuvCJc2ihfjKMyWZsCPUCZnm2F9kyQXy6I5a1jzaCm9h0g53tfxxs4MyACMRlExHU-XwhzC9QVgadPoz0H-Ue_CG7AwDxUzwG-Idhl6YKz85sqDzR682vQ61y_9w-yH6pZeDiOHgjkGFA-/s1600/IMG_1411.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuvCJc2ihfjKMyWZsCPUCZnm2F9kyQXy6I5a1jzaCm9h0g53tfxxs4MyACMRlExHU-XwhzC9QVgadPoz0H-Ue_CG7AwDxUzwG-Idhl6YKz85sqDzR682vQ61y_9w-yH6pZeDiOHgjkGFA-/s400/IMG_1411.JPG" t8="true" width="266" /></a></div><br />
I'll admit-- the first time I laid eyes on these little contraptions, it seemed unnatural. I mean, this is <em>ice cream</em>... if I can't see it, and lick it off a cone, what good is it to me? All it took was one squeeze and I was sold. Not to mention, it's got all the flavor of ice cream but it's not as heavy on the cream. It's becoming blatantly obvious as to how these Koreans stay so flippin' thin.<br />
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Summer weather, come swiftly. I gotsta get my ice-cream-in-a-bag on.Laura Hugheshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07946734116505206465noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4550421805121042505.post-84343654207887796252011-05-31T03:28:00.000-07:002011-07-23T05:32:14.868-07:00Camera G33kOkay, it's no secret that I'm a really big camera nerd. Also, I love traveling (see 'camera nerd'). So what do you do in a foreign country when your steady and true travel companion-- your Canon or your Nikon-- is in need of repair?<br />
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Like, let's say you drop your favorite lens.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAPZCjRPBPEJBlKK17lVnepZU4tbdPfn6O1g_sOVVU2oatP7Fyae10luCrKL52cwbL7XfNhbSIqZi1PoYRtELMZ5kVgekZ_qpvFqBNWYdq13T0ZOsnKhhtOpX1P6i6sXw_LbNLADo8hzGA/s1600/IMG_5751.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAPZCjRPBPEJBlKK17lVnepZU4tbdPfn6O1g_sOVVU2oatP7Fyae10luCrKL52cwbL7XfNhbSIqZi1PoYRtELMZ5kVgekZ_qpvFqBNWYdq13T0ZOsnKhhtOpX1P6i6sXw_LbNLADo8hzGA/s400/IMG_5751.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
Ouch, indeed.<br />
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Fortunately, if you live in Ulsan, South Korea, you can take all of your Canon goods to the following service center. As with basically all services I've encountered in Korea, it was relatively inexpensive (even for being a brand servece center) <i>and</i> of course... extremely fast.<br />
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From the Jung-gu Home Plus, take bus 127 to the Taehwa Rotary and walk about 1 block down from the bus stop. Look for a bright green building (you will also see Canon signs by this point) and head on up the the 4th floor. All you need to provide is your broken equipment, name and cell phone number. They'll call or text you when it's ready for pick-up.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH60KkpoQAdU8PErTjyMDvhHG9lNFZhKrIDEI1cm2CfQS3FBASvqTQ195nLLK1GWL8dEDaEaMkrnBJYUPAxj057xRNh31W-6ikQrJNH1YzqfUIeHf9fvXuv_EsIl06S-RiA6YpTz8n9G4K/s1600/IMG_5754.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH60KkpoQAdU8PErTjyMDvhHG9lNFZhKrIDEI1cm2CfQS3FBASvqTQ195nLLK1GWL8dEDaEaMkrnBJYUPAxj057xRNh31W-6ikQrJNH1YzqfUIeHf9fvXuv_EsIl06S-RiA6YpTz8n9G4K/s400/IMG_5754.JPG" width="400" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBpie_mzVEd4cKc5BDq2gHLjxHZuuF3hOGhUgAE2wBDqdZvuy3YrrQ0EF5KDsWzORYqHEQ1bpqq0EhPq7ob2XUQSmZqm5k3Vlm8ehXLv0pG5XFyzdeVtvBVfykL-tz52BXZZQ6hG1FPVNC/s1600/IMG_5755.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBpie_mzVEd4cKc5BDq2gHLjxHZuuF3hOGhUgAE2wBDqdZvuy3YrrQ0EF5KDsWzORYqHEQ1bpqq0EhPq7ob2XUQSmZqm5k3Vlm8ehXLv0pG5XFyzdeVtvBVfykL-tz52BXZZQ6hG1FPVNC/s400/IMG_5755.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
Good luck to you, travelling photographers!Laura Hugheshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07946734116505206465noreply@blogger.com0