By Honorary Reporter Isabelle Pia Sison from Philippines

Photo = Isabelle Pia Sison

Because of COVID-19, I am relegated to reminiscing about my memories of traveling to Korean cities. Spring is my favorite time to travel there because of cherry blossoms everywhere and the hope of a new beginning.

The following are places in Korea that gave me beautiful spring memories.

The southern coastal city of Yeosu, Jeollanam-do Province, has a fabulous night view.

Yeosu
Yeosu, Jeollanam-do Province, is far from Seoul but worth visiting especially during spring. To most travelers, Yeosu is not a popular place to visit, and I went there after meeting many Korean friends from that city. What I discovered is a beautiful and attractive destination.

On the first night of spring in 2017, my friends and I went to see the famous sea view of Yeosu at night, and it did not disappoint. We took the crystal cable car overlooking the beautiful night view and indulged in the food and drinks at Nangman Pocha, where food kiosks are lined up along the sea. By day, we drove along a flower road as the streets were filled with cherry blossom trees and had coffee at cafes overlooking the sea.

Jeonju Hanok Village is a great place to experience traditional Korean culture.

Jeonju
Jeonju, Jeollabuk-do Province, is famous for Hanok (traditional architecture) and food. In spring, my family and I went there and spent most of our time trying the city's well-known dishes such as bibimbap (rice mixed with meat and vegetables) and tteokgalbi (grilled short-rib patties).

Jeonju Hanok Village was also vibrant and lively. Having my family with me at the time in spring, I appreciated how Korea and my home country of the Philippines are similar when it comes to family. The city resonated with youthful and family-centered vibes. My mom considers Jeonju her favorite city in Korea and we can't wait to go there again.

Yeongildae Beach in Pohang, Gyeongsangbuk-do Province, is great for riding tricycles or just relaxing.

Pohang
My friends and I left our comfort zones and sought new experiences in Pohang, Gyeongsangbuk-do Province. We visited during the warmer days of spring and thus enjoyed sunny weather and outdoor activities there. Pohang is a peaceful and relaxing city where we mostly enjoyed the sea breeze instead of going to tourist spots. My favorite activity was renting a tricycle and riding along Yeongildae Beach.

Daecheon Beach is home to the famous Boryeong Mud Festival.

Boryeong
This hidden gem is probably the closest to my heart among all of the Korean cities I've been to. Boryeong, Chungcheongnam-do Province, is home to Daecheon Beach, which was close to where I attended college in Korea. My friends and I used to visit here a lot.

We went on day trips to the beach to enjoy the nice spring weather and eat lunch at the seafood buffet restaurants along the beach. We spent most of our time there discussing our plans and sharing stories. Having a cup of coffee in this quiet neighborhood while waiting to catch the last bus back to our university also remains a vivid memory.

enny0611@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.