RETROACTIVE POST

First off, I would again like to apologize for my serious lack of 'blogging' in the past few days. It has been insanely busy and this is the first time that I have been able to sit down and actually write about everything that's been going on here. Please be advised that I am writing this all from memory, but I'm pretty confident that I can recall most of the details! Also, please don't mind the poor spelling/grammar haha.

So let's rewind about 3 days or so (time difference can get extremely confusing!).

It all started Thursday night. My friends and family all came over to my place to meet up before leaving for the airport. At this point it still never settled in that I was leaving for Korea (sidenote: Yes, yes, I'm going to Australia for school, but I decided to make a pit stop on the way to visit my friend Shawn who has been teaching English here since August). Anywho, my mom, Lino, Justin and I piled into to one car, while Core, Jen, Aly, and Ash followed us. My stomach was in a naught and I couldn't concentrate on anything. I had this 'werid-kinda-gag' feeling (yes, MOM, I inherited that from you haha) the whole time at the airport. So we all managed to get to terminal 3 and I had to check in my bags. This was a process in itself. I knew I was allowed to bring two fifty-pound bags and a carry-on. Okay fine. I was also well prepared to pay the extra fees because I knew I would be over the weight. When the lady weighed each of my suitcases, I could tell by the look on her face that I was over. Best line of the night: "This time I let you go, next time, maybe not so lucky." (said with accent). I chuckled to myself and knew that I was going to have so many of the moments in the future.

Once my bags were checked, I wasn't ready to say good-bye just yet, so we all sat around a little café and made a few quick jokes before I had to go. Then, 9:15pm rolled around and it was time for me to go through security. I don't even know how to explain how I felt at this moment. Leaving behind my family and friends is definitely the hardest part about this entire experience (I heart you guys <3). I'm going into the details of all the tears. If you were there, then you know exactly how it went down. If you weren't, trust me, it was probably for the best.

So I waved goodbye and my adventure began! Security was a breeze, but the old man did check my bag over (I think he was confused by the power adapter I had shoved in there). I'm pretty familiar with Pearson Airport so I knew I had a lot of time to kill before I headed to my gate. I strolled around for a bit, browsed the duty free shop, bought my last ever Tim Horton's coffee ☺ Eventually, I made it down to gate (C34?) and took a seat next to an Asian couple. If I weren't scared of being such a creeper, I would have taken a picture of everyone waiting at the gate. Even though there were like 500 Asian people all gathered around (there were two flights going out, one to Korea and one to Hong Kong), the noise level was extremely quiet! I was so surprised, but then again even in my experience in Canada, most Asian people speak very quietly anyways.

I managed to find one young, white girl sitting a few rows down from me. I made my way down to her and asked which flight she was on and of course it was the opposite one of mine. We got to talking and she was going overseas to teach English too. I think this whole English thing is pretty popular. I know of about 5 people who have done it and most of them have had a positive experience. It was nice to find someone to sit and talk too for a while, and it definitely killed some time. Then at 10:30pm, I went to make an important phone call, as promised. Thanks again for listening to my rants! The timing thing is a very small issue in the big picture!

Boarding time. I scoped out the group before I got in line. There were about 10 kids…errr, babies in the group. Knowing my luck, I knew I would be near one. Was I right? Absolutely. Two rows over and up from me were two small babies….I'm talking like 6-10 months old. This is going to be a LONG flight. Luckily they only cried for the first and last hour of the flight, I figured it had something to do with the air pressure hurting their ears. The rest of the flight, I must say all of the babies/children were well behaved, probably passed out from the gravol shoved down their throats 10 mins prior to takeoff.

Right before I got on the plane, there was a line of security I had to go through. These guys were not messing around, they had guns and police dogs and the whole nine yards. I was asked to step aside by one of the men (Maybe because I didn't fit in? have I now been a victim of racial profiling?!). He asked to see my passport then began to ask all kinds of questions about where I was going and how much money I had. I even had to pull out my wallet and flash my cash. Eventually he let me go, but it was sort of a random experience.

So I settled into my window seat (thank god, it made for a much better sleeping position), next to a young Korean guy. I introduced myself right away because if I let too much time pass, it might get a little awkward. I made friends with him pretty quick and he told me how he just finished high school in Canada and was going back home for college (All I kept thinking in my head was how if he stayed in Canada for school, he would probably have to write the YELT test….oh Admissions…. haha).

Oh, I forgot to mention how HUGE the plane was. It had 2 floors! Now I've done my fair share of traveling and I've never seen such a giant aircraft. But with so many people and such a far journey, it makes sense. After takeoff, I feel asleep pretty fast. It was long and emotional day and my plan was to try and sleep as much as I could. I was probably out for about 30 mins before I was woken up by the flight attendant (speaking of which, Korean Air Lines has the best uniforms ever, looks like they were transported from the 50s, I creped them a bit during the flight and try to sneak a picture). It was about 1:30am and it was time for dinner (?). Weird I know, but I figured I should eat now because I had no idea when the next time I would be able to get some food. I had two choices and I break them down as follows: Option A: Canadian dish and Option B: Korean dish. I wasn't feeling quite adventurous just yet, so I opted for the Canadian one, which was some sort of beef and mashed potatoes. It was pretty decent considering the horror stories of airplane food. So I ate quickly and feel back asleep until about 4am. I was up for a bit and had a little snack, some water, etc. I was too tired to read and unfortunately the flight didn't play a single ENGLISH movie…it was Korean TV shows and news. The only English program was a short documentary on David Beckham, random I know haha, so I just sat there for a while thinking about everything. How I had planned this trip for so long and it was actually happening.

Eventually I managed to fall back asleep and was woken up again for breakfast. Once again I was confronted with two options, but being the chicken that I am, I went for the omelet and fruit platter. It was okay, dinner was much better by far. After this meal, I REALLY needed to pee. This was my dilemma when I was trying to figure out which seat I wanted for the plane. A window seat for easier sleeping positions, but then I constantly have to ask or crawl over people to get to the bathroom, or an aisle seat, which may not be as comfortable, but at least I could get up as much as I wanted. As you could now tell, I went for the window seat, which I still feel was the best option. I successfully climbed over two people and walked to the bathroom at the back of the plane to stretch my legs. This was the only time I got up the entire flight, props to my bladder and me.

By this time, we were getting close. I got an overwhelming feeling of nervousness and excitement. I was super excited to see my friend, yet nervous for entering a foreign country. When the plane landed, I bolted out quick time. I never understand people who take their time when getting off a plan…hello?! You were just cramped up inside this thing for 14 hours, don't you want to get off?!

Made my way through customs, which was a breeze. The guy didn't seem too friendly, but he didn't give me any trouble. I followed the signs to baggage (thank god they were in English!). This is where my first Korean adventure took place. It seemed as if everyone's bags were coming out but mine! In my head I though back to the airline woman who checked my bags in Toronto….maybe she didn't put my bags through because they were too heavy?! I was getting really nervous at this point. I put my carry on bag and pillow/blanket set over my shoulder and somehow the set much have fallen onto the floor. When I put my bag down, I noticed the pillow set was MISSING! I looked everywhere, all around me. Great, I thought, I've been in Korea 30 mins and already something has gone wrong. I decided that my 30$ set was gone. Then good news: my suitcases came out, one right after the other. Thank God. Then as I was getting myself organized, I noticed a young girl yelling (well, it sounded like she was yelling) at what appeared to be her younger brother. I was just casually observing what was happening and then the little boy, maybe about 8, came up to me with my pillow set! Ah ha! But honestly, I couldn't even be mad about it. Maybe it was an accident, maybe he felt bad about it. It didn't matter either way because he couldn't speak English and at this point I was too tired to even care.

My first challenge in Korea was to get some change for a pay phone to call Shawn and let him know that I had arrived. I opted to scope out the nearest currency booth because I figured they might speak a bit of English. Semi-right. It was a struggle, but I used my hands a lot to explain that I wanted to change a Korean bill into coins. Easier said than done. I managed to get it and I walked through the exit gate and found the nearest phone booth. It was the craziest looking phone booth I ever saw, all high tech with a touch screen and what not (I'll try to get a picture of it next time!). I got a hold of Shawn and then discussed my options: taxi or bus….I decided that a bus might be easier and said I would call back if I had any problems. Little did I know, I would have to call back like 4 times haha.

I found an information booth and was told that the exact bus I needed wouldn't start running until 6:10 am, that was about 2 hours away at this point. Fine, I'll suck it up, pay a bit more and take a taxi. Taxi it is. I asked the young lady where to catch one and she explained. I must say, although she was obviously Korean, she spoke English very well. So I made my way outside and immediately got swarmed by a group of men all wanting to take my bags and pulling me to their taxi's. Ummmm NO. Grabbed by bags back and walked straight back into the airport. Way too overwhelming. The young girl told me that her shift was over in 10 mins and if I wanted she would help me get a taxi and make sure I didn't get ripped off. If it weren't for her, I never would have made it. We ended up making a deal with one man, for a total of 80,000 Won, which is about 80$ roughly Canadian. Fine, at this point I would have paid 200$. So we loaded all my stuff in and I thanked the woman for all of her help.

So we're off! The ride was just over an hour, which is what I was told to expect so I wasn't too nervous. However, I did feel like I was in "2 Fast 2 Furious- Korean Version", because they drive like maniacs here! Weaving in and out and going through red lights when no one is around! I tried not to pay attention to it though. The driver and I had a serious communication breakdown and we finally established that I was visiting my "teacher friend" and I'm "from Toronto, NOT Vancouver". Apparently they think a lot of Canadians are from Vancouver (?). We finally made it to Ssangmun Station, a subway stop near Shawn's apartment. I got out with my bags and at this point it was still dark outside. Anyone on the street could tell I was confused and a young Korean guy, probably a high school student, asked if I needed help. Yay for English! However, right at that moment a young, White woman came by with her dog and asked if I had just came from the airport and was moving here. I explained that I needed to meet my friend at this station, specifically exit #2, which is exactly where the driver had brought me (after he confirmed with Shawn on his cell phone). About 2 mins later, ta-da, Shawn arrived! RELIEF! Despite a few hiccups, I made it Korea safe and sound. To be honest, I can't even remember how our first encounter went. I was so out of it but so excited all at the time. He helped me with my bags and we traveled by foot about 5 mins to his apartment. *Bring, bring- call from home- it was Lino- just making sure I arrived safely. Everything was smooth from this point on. We reached his apartment building and made our way up the elevator.

The rest of this my first day is kinda blurry. I was running off very little sleep, and so was he (apparently he was out super late that night because some of his English friends were going back home). So what do two exhausted youngin's do? SLEEP UNTIL 2PM! Haha. It felt so good to lay in an actual bed and stretch out. Best sleep ever. Woke up that afternoon and wanted to do a bit of exploring. He took me around the neighborhood and it was a lot different than how I pictured it in my head. I thought it was going to be SUPER busy and loud all the time, but it's the opposite. His neighborhood is relatively quiet and not too many people, Shawn explained that because he lives on the outskirts it doesn't get too crazy…which makes me feel a lot more comfortable when I am walking around by myself. He took me to this outdoor sports/park area, where they have a soccer field and basketball courts, and BATMONTON courts! (yes, they take that sport very seriously). I know it doesn't sound too exciting, but this park is the best thing I have ever seen. It puts our community parks to shame, lemme tell you (pics to follow shortly).

So we walked around for a bit so I could get used to my surroundings and eventually made our way to a more traditional Korean-style restaurant. I was excited at this point so see how I would enjoy my first 'official' Korean dinner. I would also like to point out that I was more excited about the atmosphere itself, than the food. When you walk in, you have to take off your shoes (in my case, Ugg Boots!) and sit on the floor!! (ahhh, it's the small things in life that make me smile!) Shawn did all the talking obviously. It reminded me exactly of when we went to Korean BBQ in Toronto, only better. I love the idea that you get to make your own food here, it also secretly makes me feel a lot safer. So the woman brought out all kinds of veggies and meant and we got 'er goin. It was SOOOO GOOOD (avec accent, for Aly haha). Interesting fact: they don't let you eat burnt meat…apparently they think it will give you cancer or make you sick….this was confirmed when the woman came over with scissors and starting to cut off the little burnt pieces. Anyways, so you take the meat and wrap it in lettuce leafs, kind of like a pita wrap. This is definitely food I could get used to. I was stuffed by the end of it. When they first bring out the food, you're thinking 'there is no way I am going to be full after this'…..I beg to differ. I couldn't breathe. Paid for the meal (super cheap!) and enjoyed a free coffee.

Then we went to the bar right underneath his apartment and had a few beers….err, Cass (I think its called). Once again, super cheapppp. Then I wanted to try "soju", which is kind of like the Korean version of Vodka. Bought some mix at the store and had a few drinks to relax and catch-up. That was basically my first real night in Korea, a left out a few things, but good god this blog is long already and I am just getting started….

Day #2- Couldn't sleep in. Jet leg, anyone? I was up at about 4 or 5am, which at home would be early afternoon. So we got up and decided to make a few plans for the week. I'm pretty much open to everything at this point. To me, everything here is new and exciting. I know for Shawn, he sees this everyday, but to me, its like a whole new world to explore! We decided on taking the subway to a sort of historical park, Deoksugung Palace. Classy eh? (I totally just dug the ticket stub out of my purse to make sure the name was spelt right haha).

While waiting for the subway, a young girl called out to Shawn. One of his students. "Shawn! Shawn!". She was so friggin' excited, it was the best thing ever. He asked how she was doing and she replied "I'm Fineeeee", with a huge smile on her face. That had to have been the highlight of my day. I think its awesome that she spoke to him in English and was confident enough to get his attention. You go girl! haha

It was beautiful at the park and I took some really nice pictures. I must say Koreans have a great sense of pride in their history and I totally respect that. The park ended up getting pretty busy by the end of the afternoon as we made out way out.

The subway itself is an adventure as well, I have to post a map of it to explain just how intense it is. First of all, Toronto has what, like 2 main subway lines….okay, Korea has like 8. All color-coded though, but still very overwhelming at first. Shawn navigated like a champ though, so we never got lost or anything. I'm not sure if I'm brave enough yet to go on a solo adventure, but by the end of the week, I'm sure I'll feel a bit more comfortable (So far, I know the name of the stop I need to be at, and I know its #413 on the line…I'm learning, I'm learning) Oh I forgot to mention that to ride the subway, you need a "T-Money" card, which you put money on and then swipe when you enter and leave the subway (again, it's the little things that make my day!). I also thought the subway would be crazy busy, but its not too bad. Sometimes it's a bit crowded, but that's expected. Its nothing like how I thought it would be.

We made it back to his neighborhood and went out for dinner again. Its so true that it costs more to by food and make it here than it does to eat out. Random thought: I'm always puzzled by the fact that restaurants give you so much food to eat, but Asian people are usually very small (?). Anyways, we had some sort of meat dish again and it was really good as well. I'm so glad I've enjoyed the food here so far, I was a bit nervous about that. Oh and I also had my first real tasting of KIMCHI! (whooo!) It's a bit spicy, but not too overwhelming.

Back at the apartment, we watched some TV (about 3 or 4 English channels) and fell asleep pretty fast. Its exhausting walking around a foreign country!

Day 3: The weather was overcast and a bit chilly, but nothing at all like back home (Hope you're all enjoying the snow suckers! Haha). We decided to make use of the subway again and travel to the infamous Building 63…which you guessed it, has 63 floors of goodness. It's built on Yeouido Island, overlooking the Han River in Seoul, and is the 3rd largest building in South Korea (thank-you Wikipedia!). The building itself was beautiful, but the whole slogan "love your life, love your dream" seems a bit grammatically incorrect, then again, who am I to talk?

We bought a ticket for "Sky Art", which is an art gallery located on the top floor. It was stunning up there, kind of like the Korean version of the CN tower, complete with glass floor and everything. It was definitely worth the 12,000 Won (which is like 12$). That's another thing I noticed here; things are CHEAP. It doesn't matter what you want to do, you can bet that is going to be cheaper than at home. I feel like such a baller here with my Korean Won. Haha.

After that adventure, it was getting pretty late so we headed back. Our usual "whats for dinner?" dilemma came about…this time, we opted for a little place right by his house that serves the Korean version of Chinese food! Mmmmmm! So I was all excited to go there…until the food arrived and I realized quick time that I couldn't get a fork! Everyone here eats with chop sticks…everyone. I know, I know, I get it 'I'm foreign and not cultured enough to use your utensils". Panic mode set it. Usually at the other places you get a spoon with your chopsticks, so I use a combination of both, I know I look like a tool, but still. But at this restaurant, I didn't even get a spoon! Oh man, I was in over my head at this point. Shawn attempted to show me how to use chop sticks the first night I got here, but it was really like mission impossible. I'm just not coordinated enough and I'm the first one to admit it. Luckily, we ordered noodles…so I was somewhat able to use the chopsticks. I'm sure I was an embarrassment to the Korean culture, which is why I have decided to take a fork from Shawn's apartment and carry it with me where ever I go, just in case. I really do want to learn how to eat properly by the end of my trip, but I can't promise anything haha.

The Chinese food was really good as well. We also ordered these perogie-type things. Mmmmm. Good stuff. But the best part of the whole dinner was how NOTHING and I mean NOTHING was in English on the menu. It was a true test of Shawn's Korean-speaking ability. I really must say how impressed I am with his Korean-ness. He knows a lot words and phrases! This language is not easy, lemme tell you. So far I've only learned, 'hello', 'thank you', and 'delicious' (random I know) haha. Oh and it sounds like "im-na-da", I know that's not how you spell it…but its basically a polite phrase people say at the end of certain sentences, I always hear it around and especially on the Korean news channel. Anyways, I think its awesome that Shawn was dedicated enough to take the time and learn how to communicate with the people here. I'm so thankful he's here to order my food and show me around or else I would be seriously struggling!

That was my third night in a nutshell. We came back to the apartment and I showed him Russell Peter's 'Red, White, and Brown" DVD. Classic. "D.D.R.- It's a revolution!" ha. I'm still on a mission to find one of those machines here, I will keep you posted.

Oh man, I think I'm all "blogged out" for now. I know I have a lot more random stories to tell, but its 10:45am here and I think its about time I got out of my pj's. For those of you dedicated enough to read this ridiculously long post, I hope you enjoyed it!

There will be lots more to come!

Xoxox.