By Honorary Reporter John Paul Vergonia from Philippines
Illustration= John Paul Vergonia

The imminent arrival of spring got me thinking of what I'd do the next time I visit Korea, especially things beyond the usual popular stuff like kimchi, taekwondo, K-pop, K-dramas, K-food cosmetics and electronics. The following are my top ten picks for spring travel in Korea.

1. Homestay during the entire trip

Living with the locals is a good primer on Korean life through helping out with daily chores and trying new things with the host family. Starting my travel with a Korean family will surely make my stay even more memorable, especially in a rural area.

2. Try homestyle K-cuisine

A homestay also offers a great opportunity to taste authentic Korean recipes and homemade food. I love the setup on a Korean dining table and wish to learn the traditional way of cooking them. This culinary experience is sure to satisfy the chef in me.

3. Explore less-traveled alleyways

I know of interesting finds in Korea's underappreciated neighborhoods. Most of them have an unusual vibe compared to those pumping with activity in cities. I want to especially discover old places and those of culture.

4. Get lost in the subway

Korea's efficient public transportation network is one of the world's best. Get lost in the vast web of Seoul Metro for a deeper understanding of everyday life in Korea. Many stations are located near cultural sites or happening neighborhoods.

5. For folk's sake

Through Korea's stellar mass transit system, I want to visit a folk village, especially the one in Gyeonggi-do Province, and wear Hanbok (traditional Korean clothing) again. Exploring a Joseon Dynasty-style village and its historical streets is a wonderful cultural experience that highlights Korea's culture and history. There are also workshops, unique food experiences and live music.

6. Traditional fermentation farm

The core flavors of Korean cuisine are present in ganjang (soy sauce), doenjang (soybean paste), and gochujang (spicy red pepper paste). A traditional farm that produces these usually has hundreds of onggi (earthenware jars) lined up against the clear blue sky. Visiting this farm will definitely test my senses.

7. Mountain climbing to join nature.

Mountain hiking in spring is great as the mountains in Korea are lovelier at this time and thousands of cherry trees are in full bloom. Experience forest bathing, set up camp on the mountainside and reach a trail's peak while enjoying picturesque surroundings and becoming one with nature.

8. Monk for a day

Like a homestay, Templestay in Korea shows firsthand the life of a Buddhist monk. My first trip to a Korean Buddhist temple was to Haedong Yonggungsa in Busan, and it was the most memorable part of my cultural tour at the time. Meditate inside the main sanctuary and see monks chant, but more importantly, appreciate all living things at least for a day.

9. Tour of Demilitarized Zone

A tour of the Demilitarized Zone aka the DMZ is definitely at the top of my Korea travel bucket list because of its historical significance. Despite only select areas being open to both civilians and tourists, I want to learn not only the history of the area but also the DMZ's role in promoting a permanent peace on the Korean Peninsula.

10. Meet President Moon

I am a fan of President Moon Jae-in and his administration's recent accomplishments, especially his efforts to bring peace to the peninsula and the immediate response to the COVID-19 outbreak. Seriously, if I had the chance to meet him, I would shake his hand and tell him he's doing a great job for Korea.

chaey0726@korea.kr

*This article is written by a Korea.net Honorary Reporter. Our group of Honorary Reporters are from all around the world, and they share with Korea.net their love and passion for all things Korean.