On Saturday, July 14th, the Harrington's loaded up the car and made the trek up to the big city for the second weekend in a row. Rather than setting out for the 1988 Olympic Park to watch a B-Boy competition, the Harrington's were set to watch South Korea's 2012 Olympic Soccer Team compete against New Zealand before being warmly sent off with the love and support of their nation and a few native English teachers.
Opting to take advantage of the big city, the couple headed out early with intentions to tour some top Seoul sights before the set off for home. However, upon pulling into the parking lot of the World Cup Stadium and realizing there was an IMAX theater showing The Amazing Spiderman in 3D and plenty of other distractions to keep the couple occupied until the games start time, they opted to stay on the World Cup Stadium premises and make the most of the day.
The Harrington's are always up for an adventure and checking out new things, including things which may be unusual to their specific leanings. On July 7th, the couple embarked on such an adventure, singing along to Nickle Creek and Jalan Crossland on the two hour drive to Seoul's Olympic Park where they were set to enjoy an evening fully immersed in the best of hip-hop, b-boy, popping and locking culture.
Aside from bluegrass blaring from the speakers, the days trip was additionally highlighted by driving through Osan, South Korea where none other than Chuck Norris began his martial arts career (Melissa brought in July by working through Chuck Norris' autobiography/biography Against All Odds and was filled with legitimate Chuck Norris trivia on this recent road trip).
The weekend of June 2nd and 3rd saw the Harrington's taking on Broadway shows and Wedding Ceremonies. Beginning on Saturday morning, the couple headed down to Daejeon Station where they were limited in train ticket options and therefore ended up with standing room only tickets on the two-hour 'slow train' to Seoul. Not too eager to stand for the entire time, the couple found a short set of stairs between the proper train cars and took a seat while the world outside flashed by through the door frame window.
Soon enough, the couple was encompassed by the herd of people that is Seoul Station on a Saturday (perhaps everyday?) and made their way onto the Subway and toward BlueSquare where they would soon take a back-of-the-theater seat to watch the stunning and impressive Broadway Musical Wicked.
Although the couple was as far from the action as possible (other than sitting around at home), the show was absolutely worth the standing-room-only train ticket and left Melissa literally sitting on the edge of her seat for more than half the performance.
Semi-recently, Lady enjoyed a 10k walk-a-thon after being kicked out of O World's Flower Land. She is constantly receiving the attention of all who are in her presence although she'd just as rather be sniffing trees and scavenging for food bits than have people admire her for her strength and courage at only 3.5 legs.
In other news, there is never a lack of things to do on the Peninsula and with the warmer weather, why not get out of Daejeon and check out some of the upcoming events throughout May and the Summer months?
One of Korea's biggest spring events is going to be the Expo 2012 in Yeosu. If you're interested in going, but don't know if you want to spend cash to get a ticket, check out Korea Tourism Organization's Contest and get a shot at winning FREE Tickets! Or, head to the main website and simply purchase tickets.
Expos are uninteresting, eh? Why not head to Seoul, May 31st - July 31st, and enjoy the Broadway Hit
Unfortunately, all journey's must eventually come to an end. So, with the smoky smell of the no-rae bang still clinging to their hair and minds buzzing with lyrics, the Harrington's got themselves together by 5:30 am and made their way by taxi to the Dunsan Bus Terminal to catch the bus to Incheon International Airport. Remembering the problems they had earlier faced in finding storage at Seoul Station, the crew had decided to go first to the airport to drop off luggage before heading into Seoul by the Airport Express line. Fortunately, the bus ride from Daejeon to Incheon afforded the Harrington's an extra 2.5 hours of napping before arriving at the airport.
With luggage taken care of, the Harrington's arrived at Seoul station, snagged a taxi and made their way to Gyeongbukgung Palace in time to watch the changing of the guards. Wanting to squeeze a little more excitement out of their hours in Seoul the Harrington's opted out of exploring the palace in it's entirety and made their way toward Insa-dong follwoing a mish-mash of typical Korean lunch items (kimbap, udong, pork cutlet, etc.) Insa-dong then provided the glorious souvenir shopping opportunity that the Harrington's had thus far been longing for. In and out of shops filled with the perfect gifts for family and friends, M&M worked hard to keep track of 'their' foreigners amongst all the other Insa-dong foreigners. Finally, with shopping accomplished and time winding down the crew headed back to Seoul station to part ways.
Warm, long embraces, a few tears and wishes for a happy new year sent 4 Harrington's U.S. bound and 2 Harrington's Daejeon bound.
Having family visit during the heart of the holiday season was a true blessing and joy for the Harrington duo. Saying good-bye is always difficult. But knowing that four of the most precious people in their lives now had a deeper understanding of the duo's love for Korea and the people here made the parting that much more managable.
Now, who's coming next year? 2010 it was Haleh...2011 the Harrington's...and 2012...???
(Perhaps what's more important is knowing whether or not M&M are sticking around Korea until 2012, and that's just something we don't know yet...)
The weekend of July 18th the Harrington's found themselves on the road with Kolt and Holly Callaway, drinking smoothies from a Ziploc and hoping that Everland would live up to it's hype. Just under a couple of hours by Kia Matiz and the couples were parking, gathering thier water, cameras and peanut butter jelly sandwiches and heading into the main gates of South Korea's Everland Amusement Park owned by one of Korea's leading companies, Samsung. Upon entering the park, the couples were greeted by the magic of dolphins hanging from trees and European mountain scenes...it was bound to be a good day.
Not wanting to waste any time, the group of four quickly made their way to Everland's claim to fame, the T-Express. Known for being the world's steepest wooden roller-coaster, T-Express draws in the crowds year round. For the Harrington's and Callaways, the T-Express was first on the list of rides to ride, and the four were far from disappointed. After a short 40-50 minutes of standing in line, the crew took their seats near the back of the coaster, buckled up and hoped for a thrilling ride. After a steep climb the couples were SHOCKED by how quickly and how steep the 'steepest wooden roller coaster' lets the riders fall into a series of twists, turns and near decapitations. Having survived the coaster once, the four friends made a few rounds in the animal 'kingdoms' before returning for another go on the T-Express. That's right, T-Express, 2 Times because they're champions!
For the Callaway's and the Mrs. of the Harrington clan, the animals always hold a special appeal. Everland's animals were no disappointment. From 'Wild Babies', to swimming seals, to acrobatic monkey's, prehistoric turtles to oddly functioning kangaroo's the animals of Everland are constantly entertaining and fascinating. Between one zoo enclave to the next, the four friends made their way into an animal show which highlighted birds that fetch 1,000 won bills, dogs that play pianos, and a myriad of animals that run across a stage. All in all, very good times to be had amongst the animals of Everland.
The following photo collage serves as a warning message to all who may one day venture to Everland. Should you be on your way to chow-down and have not been drinking much water nor eating, the following is not highly recommended. The Callaway's were not too thrilled with their decision to "Spin It" right before a picnic lunch. Learn from their mistakes dear readers, learn from their mistakes.
As is true of any day amongst Koreans, the opportunities for photos abound. Cute children and cute couples rule the lay of the land at Everland. For 35,000 - 38,000 Won, (check the Everland website or chat with Korean friends to find out about discounts) Everland is a perfect value. Food prices are reasonable (2,000 for Churro and 4,000 for Hot Dog, etc.), there is plenty to do, and the shows (animal, acrobatic, Summer Splash, Parade of Lights, etc.) are free of cost.
Were the Harrington's to make any complaints it would be only two things: 1) So many fake store fronts promising beer and European foods offer nothing of the sort and 2) There's not enough time in the day to do all that one would surely love do on their Holiday at Everland!
For a bit more insight, check out some video footage from the Harrington's day in Everland.
Getting There: The Everland website provides information regarding 3 buses that leave from Seoul. Tours likely go from other locations around South Korea. Everland attendees are best to team up with a driving friend or ask a Korean friend for assistance in finding the best way to go to Everland from their particular starting point.
When to go: Everland is open year round. Even on a Saturday in June, the park wasn't too busy, nor was the whether unbearable. From what can be gathered, the heart of summer (July and August) through the fall are the most busy but perhaps also the most comfortable times to be outdoors!
A week ago today, the Harrington's were finishing off a fabulous weekend in Seoul, South Korea. Arriving Friday night, the Harrington's made their way to a friends home to settle in for a delicious dinner of Japanese Curry and a few hours of healthy conversation before settling into one of Korea's most comfortable beds.
Saturday morning came with thunder and lightening and after a shower, the Harrington's stepped out into the 'radioactive' shower that was Seoul on Saturday April 30. Not to be disheartened, the couple made their way to the subway, successfully transferred lines once or twice and found themselves in Hong-dae; a very university oriented area of the city. With rain pouring down the couple made their way between shops and cafes before finding their destination: The Trick Eye Museum. The place where dreams and laughter abound.
Following the joy of Trick Art, the Harrington's made their way to Itaewan - the foreigner neighborhood of Seoul to pick up some English books as a Birthday gift for Melissa and then to meet up with friends Jon and Whitney for a burger and beer at Craft-works Tap House. The beer and burger were phenomenal for these American taste buds that have been yearning for a full-bodied, flavorful beer outside of their own home. Filled with good eats and drinks and a bit drained from the activities of the day, the Harrington's made their way to the subway and back to their friends home for a comfortable nights sleep.
Sunday morning came and the couple enjoyed a leisurely breakfast of breakfast tacos, easy conversation and eventually a stroll to the subway station. With less effort and transfers than the day prior, the Harrington's made their way to the Jamsil Sports Complex and went to looking for the Big Top Center where they would soon enjoy their first Cirque du Soleil Performance.
The show was amazing and left the Harrington's breathless a number of times and had them on the edge of their seats throughout. If you've never been to Cirque du Soleil or watched a performance on tape, it comes highly recommended as the show itself and the level of skill showcased is beyond explanation and is therefore best viewed in person.
After a quick pit stop at Cafe Ti-Amo for a waffle and gelato with friends the Harrington's gathered their belongings and began the trek back to their Wookyeong-bil home and sweet Lady Annyeong.
To cap off April and fulfill a growing desire in both the hearts of Mike and Melissa Harrington, the couple made their way to Seoul, South Korea for a variety of activities: conversing with new friends, enjoying good food and good brews, enjoying Cirque du Soleil and most 'importantly' - the desire of their hearts, visiting the Trick Art/Eye Museum. Located in the Hongdae neighborhood of Seoul, this museum provides a number of entertaining possibilities to snap a picture or two...or 70 and spend the next few hours, days or weeks giggling to oneself while avoiding work at the school computer. Take a look for yourself at the fun and funny moments enjoyed by the Harrington's on a recent weekend trip away.
As our regular subscribers know, last weekend was a total dream. The Harrington's and a dear group of friends enjoyed some utterly magical moments, from The Nutcracker, to Burritos, to Night Scenes and Romantic Dinners the day screamed of holiday magic. Two shots which capture the magic most closely associated with the holidays are shown below: the closing bow of The Nutcracker and a Holiday Light Show played out on a city building in Seoul, South Korea. For the Harrington's these two moments rang of the holiday season in a way they've been missing this season of living in a far away land where Christmas just isn't the same. Holiday magic however, is always in the air, if only you look for it.
On Saturday, December 18th, 2010, five beautiful wives of five loving and impressive husbands were awoken with promises of a fun-filled magical day to begin at approximately 8:30 a.m. Beyond the start time, the wives were offered only one 'clue' as to how the day would unfold: "look elegant, dress nicely, if I had a suit or suit jacket, I would wear it."
With that, the ladies prepared for the unknown, full of anticipation and excitement at what may lay, unaware that soon their paths would intersect and the five wives would not only enjoy the company of their beloved husbands, but their dear friends as well.
The days events would begin to unfold as three out of five couples boarded the KTX with the remaining two couples going by car. Upon boarding the KTX, three wives were able to confirm that the upcoming day would be spent in Seoul, South Korea, doing what had yet to be determined.
On the KTX en route to Seoul
Subway Rides in Seoul--Before the Crowds
Arrival in Seoul led the three wives and their respective husbands to an impressive book store with an equally impressive Foreign Section, within minutes the three wives were united with an additional two wives and soon found themselves entering the doors of Dos Tacos, a tacquiera haven in the land of kimchi.
Burritos and Joy at Dos Tacos
With deliciousness in their bellies the wives followed their husbands lead and piled into taxis and cars as the next chapter of the days events began. Drivers arrived at their final destination and each wife found herself at the front doors of the Seoul Art Center. Posters and advertisements boasted plays, operas and the one which quickly caught the wives attention: The Nutcracker. So it was, five wives found themselves sitting next to their beloveds and cherished friends watching Korea's National Ballet perform The Nutcracker to the sounds of Korea's National Symphony.
The Seoul Arts Center: Opera House
The Nutcracker: A classic holiday performance
Filled with holiday cheer and warmed by the love and cleverness expressed by their husbands the five wives enjoyed the show and began to wonder if yet another chapter would be added to the fairytale of a day. Alas, the magic only continued and after a bit of driving and crowding into subways the wives found themselves riding a cable car up to Namson Tower. City lights and Christmas lights welcomed the couples at the top. The husbands informed their ladies that dinner reservations had been made and in about 20 minutes we could sit down to enjoy our meals together. Until then, the wives were given an explanation regarding the 'magic' of Namson Tower. The love that is consistently locked up for safe keeps on this hill in the city. It was then, each wife was presented with a lock which they would soon lock onto the chain link amongst the others which had 'stood the test of time'. Each husband and wife discussed what message they would write to include with their lock, a representation of their love. Mike Harrington, being thoughtful and committed to his wedding vows surprised his wife, Melissa Harrington by having already written their wedding vows onto papers which would be locked to their padlock. With tears in her eyes, Mrs. Harrington kissed this husband whom she so dearly loves and signed her vows, in honor of love.
Mike and Melissa Locking their Love for all of Eternity
The whole group of wives and husbands
The end to the perfect day came in the form of a delicious and gourmet meal with an outstanding view of the city. Each couple enjoyed each others one-on-one attention and company, recapping the day, their love and appreciation for one another and all the valuable, honorable, special and silly things a husband and wife are prone to discuss over a romantic dinner.
Unintentionally, Melissa Harrington and some dear Daejeon girl-friends, found themselves engaging in a bit of a "Black Friday" sort of phenomenon after celebrating Thanksgiving. Having planned a shopping trip to Seoul for the Saturday following Thanksgiving, the ladies found themselves enjoying a full out Thanksgiving meal on Friday evening then re-uniting Saturday morning to board a train and take on Seoul's shopping scene with goals of Christmas gifts and unbeatable deals in their minds.
Seoul did not disappoint. Boarding the KTX, Korea's speedy train at about 9:30 on Saturday morning (fortunately, the crazy early morning hours of a traditional 'Black Friday' did not plague this five-some of ladies) the group arrived in Seoul less than an hour later. Hitting up Forever 21 and H&M the crew found some stellar deals and continued on with the day. Highlights of the shopping day included amazing Mexican food from Taco Amigo (located in Itaewon for those in the ROK), a trip to What the Book (also in Itaweon) followed by a bit of strolling around Insa-dong picking up a few souveniers and gifts for dear friends back home.
And the number one highlight, specifically for Mrs. Harrington on this shopping extravaganza? A pair of stellar brown boots. Price tag: W218,000 (US $218). Discount: 90%. Price paid: W21,800 (US $21.80). A stellar deal that easily compares to those found by many Americans on Black Friday. Overall, a successful and fully enjoyable shopping day in Seoul for five American souls.
Getting There/Away: KORAIL offers various train options. The ladies went via KTX (45 minutes) to Seoul and returned via Mungunghwa (2 hours). Once in Seoul their Subway System will get you just about everywhere you need to go.
