Everything about South Korea: A tour experience

I remember boarding a plane for the first time and getting settled in an aircraft like a lifetime accomplishment. I don't usually travel on my own though I want to explore the wonderful destinations of the world. Sad.

Last year, there was an international educational trip endorsed by our department and that was an EdukCircle South Korea tour. The purpose of the trip was to expose students to business opportunities through seminars and explore the national sites of South Korea. Upon hearing the opportunity, I debated whether I should grab it or not. The rule was if you denied the opportunity to go to South Korea, You would be forced to conduct a research about pollution in different areas which was a hassle. Ofcourse, I know how to make a documentary but imagine having no idea how to get to these said areas.

I communicated to my mom and dad about the trip. To my surprise, they immediately let me join the South Korea tour. I didn't need to persuade them, they just agreed which was a relief to me. I was given weeks to prepare for the said trip and I'm telling you, me and my mom spent days buying new baggage, essentials and new clothes just for the trip. I also applief for Philippine passport. For the South Korean visa, the travel agent asked our batch to comply with the requirements and submit neccessary papers in envelope to process our own visa.

When we arrived at Incheon International Airport, the temperature was so icy even though it was summer season. Our korean tour guide was sweet and friendly. She communicated very well in english. The batch was divided into groups. Upon arriving at the hotel, me and my friends ( we were three people) settled in and arranged our things.

We spent five days listening to seminars and jotting down notes at Seoul National University, one of the most prestigious universities in South Korea; and getting around the national sites of South Korea. Among the topics I listened to, what I liked the most was this speaker who discussed about estblishing a business in South Korea and getting to know the preferences. Indeed, It's not easy. When you are setting up a business in a foreign country, you have to get to know its culture, history and its people's wants and preferences.

For the tour part, we traveled around in group and that group consists of our friends and close ones. We traveled through Gyeongbokgung palace. According to the tour guide, It was the main royal palace of Josean dynasty. The inside of the palace consists mostly of relics from the past.

We continued to explore the other national sites of South Korea. For every trip, my friends and I would purchase souvenirs.

We also shopped for beauty products at this beauty shop. The prices were somewhat overpriced compared to the prices of beauty products in the Philippines. Although I'm not a fan of makeup or other beauty products, I still purchased face masks,lip balm,eyeliner and lipstick but they were only souvenirs. I intended to give those away to my love ones. I wanted to save some Won.

South Koreans have smooth light complexion free of pimples, wrinkles and blackheads. They are really dedicated into taking good care of their skin.

As for the food, I noticed that most South Koreans eat green and leafy vegtables. The South Korean cuisine is very simple and most of the meals served were very filling to the stomach. I also love the spicy taste of korean barbeque!

On the last day of tour, we explored the Nami island. Nami island is famous due to some romantic scenes from the Korean drama "Winter Sonata" that took place on the island.The design and architecture of buildings are somewhat french inspired based on my observation. There were also fun activities such as riding a bike, fishing and etc.

After that, we traveled to Myeondong mall for another shopping spree. Yay, another souveneir to purchase!

My trip to South Korea was awesome. I was able to get to know different locations and some locals. It was worth the money and time.