First Fruits of Seoul

I've been here in Seoul for about three weeks now and it's been the most interesting and fun experience of my life. It does really suck not to be able to speak the language. I've decided that I'm going to take a Korean class starting next month, so I should be able to pick it up quickly once I get some kind of structured learning going on.

There is so much to do in Seoul. The reason I haven't made another post is because I always feel like using my time for something else. Last night on the subway I was thinking the experience must be different for people who work and live in Seoul than for those who are purely travelers. I haven't even scratched the surface of what Seoul has to offer, yet I've been here three weeks. Working in the late afternoon is also a bit different. It allows for a night out any night, but most of the things I want to do aren't a part of fantastic night life. However, going out in Itaewon or Hongdae is really fun and I can meet a lot of Koreans who speak English.

I must apologize for the scarcity in pictures, but it's not really my bag to take lots of pictures. I should make that my bag.

Recently I went to a Buddhist temple area. I don't remember where this was exactly because I went with a Korean friend and she was just showing me around different places. I like this picture because it shows the contrast between tradition and the modernity of Seoul. I don't know for sure but I think Buddhism is less prevalent than Christianity and other religions practiced here. I heard that being a Buddhist in Seoul is more of a trend and that wealthy families tend to belong. I really wanted to take a picture of the inside of one of the temples I went in, but they were in the middle of some kind of prayer. I haven't quite figured it out yet but I can see very conservative remnants within Korean culture, but it doesn't really make sense to me. I can't really explain that well right now. This place was pretty cool. There was a large marble-like surface where people would go out and pray. Here, as well as houses and such you have to take off your shoes. I had to take off my shoes when I went into the temple.

Damn I need some new clothes. Everyone here wears really fashionable stuff. It's great to shop here because there is an endless selection. I have to start managing my money. You can spend it well and fast.

I need to get a haircut.....