Life like Chocolate... tastes Sweet and Bitter

Lonely Chinese New Year

2012-01-23T11:01:00.002+08:00

Its my first time celebrating Chinese New Year abroad and alone. And... It really SUCKS! It SUCK BIG TIME. When I left Malaysia I was sure that I will not miss my family one bit; except my Grandma and my big, cute and cat-behavioured dog. But last night I felt lose and lonely. At that moment I really wished I was home... Like my friend posted on FB, "Forget the ang pau money that I might get. I would trade all of it just to hug my daddy and mummy a little longer,". I my case, I would trade it all just to go back and celebrate wif them...

Chat wif my Grandma, Uncles and Aunt yesterday nite... And to be honest, it took lots of will not to cry while I'm on phone. Don't want to make them worry more than they shud; all worried cuz of my cough. Suddenly I felt so loved... It weird that when I'm in Malaysia, I never felt this kind of love before or maybe I was too full of myself to see it. But hey, its never to late to realise it and start treasuring this irreplaceable love. Being abroad I think its a good thing; helps to see things that u couldn't see and feel things that u couldn't feel ...

Though I would not tell to my family directly... but I do miss them, so so much! Though family sometimes gives you a hell lots of trouble and problems, but they are also the one u will need and want when your sad or happy... So treasure these precious little moments as one day you might just find urself missing it more than ever!

Shall sign out wif... Happy Chinese New Year and 새해 복 많이 받으세요! Wish you and your family health and prosperity in this roaring Dragon year!

Seoul

2012-01-17T22:44:00.000+08:00

Date: 14/01
Stop 1: Kraze Burger (Itaewon)

*Semi-nuke burger-it was delicious and filling!*

After arrival, we felt so hungry and so ....

Stop 2: Namsan Tower (a.k.a N Seoul Tower)
Price: 14 000 won/person (Observatory + Teddy Bear Museum)

To get there, we (me & Yan Yee) took subway from Itaewon (line 6) to Chungmuro (line 3) and took a Yellow shuttle bus; No. 2. By taking the bus, it will cost much cheaper than the cable car; 800 won vs. 6 000 won (remember to take back the same bus). Suitable for individuals who are afraid of height and also those who wanna save. I would recommend to go Namsan Tower at night cuz the view is really magnificent.

*The tower not only change colour but also

it is use to showcase an

animation about.... Go find out urself!*

We went to the Teddy Bear Museum 1st as we were told to do so... And so v did, u guys would probably need to do the same if u buy this package. Don't think that its just merely teddies! By going to this museum u will be able to understand the Korean traditional culture and way of life better. One display to another, tells u the story of each period that Korea or maybe Seoul went thru to be what it is today; mostly focused on the lifestyle and also history of some places.

*The history of the word Gomapseumnida

(Thank you; the most polite form). It is related to one of the Traditional

Korean Myth*

*If I'm not mistaken he is the first mayor of Seoul;

Seong Seok-lin. The 1st Korean historical

figure u will meet upon entering...*

*How Joseon dynasty people

worked to build

buildings*

*Event and life of government officials

in the Palace*

*Daily life of Joseon people; market*

*Enthronement of the King ceremony*

*The first street light during Joseon dynasty*

*Seoul before Korean Civil War*

*Influence of Christianity*

*Modern Seoul- University Students*

*Gwangtonggyo*

*Seoul Plaza; cheering place for Koreans

during 2002 World Cup; Dae-Han-Ming-Guk! followed by

claps*

*Famous Korean musical play; Nanta*

*Korean B-boy and Koreans' way of living

nowadays*

*Wedding ceremony*

*Evolution of Teddy Bear*

*See Mr. Bean's bear? I burst out laughing

the moment I saw it!Hahahaha, it was unexpected*

*K-drama fans, remember these bears?!

Yes, yes, yes...

Its 궁*

By the way, don't jump when you start hearing sounds; as in some bears in there will talk and all moves... so don't be shocked by it like I did!The least they can do is put up signs which tell visitors that the bear will move and talk when censored movement! It gave me a fright. And NO, I didn't scream; I just jumped!

While queuing for the elevator, u might find urself force to take a picture and later... well, may wanna buy it (Genting style). Whilst waiting for the elevator, u'll get to see some parts of the animation that was shown on the tower; outside... In the elevator... well, u'll experience something like out of the world; as this the fastest elevator on earth (as according to them). So remember to look up while riding it.

*The nite view. I never knew Seoul

was actually this big! Map is really

deceiving....*

*Oh, if u don't already know... This is also where

all couples will come...

see those up there? Its the famous love locks (outside the tower) and

also I just found out that

they have love tiles (inside the tower) as well.

If u are coming wif ur love one, remember to do this!*

P/S: Love locks and love tile have different pricing.

Date: 15/01

Stop 1: Gwanghwamun (purple line)- King Sejong Museum

and Admiral Yi SunShin Museum

Price: FOC

Come out from Exit 6 and u'll see a big park across the street; that is the place! If ur in Gyeongbukgung, just walk straight ahead and u'll see King Sejong with Admiral Yi right in front.

*Sejong Dae-Wang; creator of Hun Min Jeongeum

(Correct Sound to Instruct the People) -

more known as Hangul*

*King Sejong's Mission:

To help his people to read and write, thus created

Hangul*

*Musical instruments used during King Sejong's period

and war instrument created

by him*

*Hangul is the most scientific language*

Next door, you can find Admiral Yi SunShin. He is the most well-known and respected man after King Sejong; I think. This is due to that he was not only a devoted and faithful Admiral but also a very intelligent man in terms of war. He created the Turtle warship and also the Crane-formation tactic.

*Admiral Yi and his creation; Turtle warship*

The Turtle warship displayed in this museum is not the original size. It looked like ....

Then, after ur done... Walk further down and u'll see tables set up for u to experience writing Korean characters... You can choose to write greetings or your name; but ur name maybe wrongly translated as they use the sound of ur name (pronunciation) to match the Korean letters. U'll be given tools like the following and u shall begin!

*Right top- paper for name writing.

Right bottom- paper for greetings writing.*

By the way, if u choose to write greetings, they will send it to ur home =) and this is only for foreigners.

*Admiral Yi SunShin's statue*

Though I'm not Korean, but what he did was great, sorry to say but I think even Malaysian's hero cannot be compared to Admiral Yi; faced 133 Japanese warship (Imjin Waeran) with only 13 warships of his own. Even upon his death, he insisted not to announce it as his death will affect the ongoing war. Read more about him and u'll understand what I meant.

Stop 2: School Food, Gwanghwamun

*Top right: Naegmyeom (Cold Noddle); quite hard to eat the

noodle... [8 500 won)

Bottom right: Kimbab [7 500 won]

Bottom left: Oden Udon [8 000 won]*

Stop 3: In-Sadong + Lotte Mart, Seoul Station

Bought this is Lotte Mart for Breakfast the next morning...

* Cost 8 800 won*

Stop 4: Noodle Box (opposite Kraze Burger) + Zoo Coffee (further up on the same side), Itaewon

Too tired after one whole day of walking especially when transferring lines; so far from one another... So different from Busan! And Busan is way way bigger than Seoul! Thus end our day right after dinner.

*Thai Noodle [6 300 won]- its super spicy even after I said

to add little bit of the sauce! And the mee is under-cooked

a bit; if u left it for 5 more minutes it will

taste great*

*Finally found a cafe which actually ask if u want single or double shot

for coffee; specifically Cappuccino! So long

didn't take caffeine, after that I could barely sleep

and when I do, I dreamt of

something weird and scary! And the Tiramisu

well, was little bit disappointing, was hoping to taste more

coffee than cocoa*

Tip: If ur a budget traveller, then don't go cafes too much as it is quite expensive (applicable to Malaysians; since I'm thinking in Ringgit) but if u really need coffee, u can try the subway vending machine one or u can buy from convenient marts. But then again, staying in Guesthouse; most of them provide breakfast with coffee...

Date: 16/01

Stop 1: 63 Building - Wax Museum

Price: 12 000 won/person

To get there take the subway to Daebang station (the route we chose) and from there take the shuttle bus No. 62 or u can wait for the free shuttle bus [Yellow colour]. On the way there, we stumbled upon

*MBC station! Saw some artist's cars but don't

know who =)*

Once u get into 63 building, turn to ur left and walk straight to the ticketing booth. Don't get cheated by the directions to the ticketing booth; as it makes u go one big round! Well, at least it did for us...

*1st four person u'll see once u enter

the museum*

*Followed by Madame Tussauds*

*Presidents of America (Lincoln and Obama)

some Korean politicians*

*Famous artists*

*Halloween themed*

*Korean artist bears; Beast, Rain and

Korean movie

star*

*Hollywood movies*

This Wax Museum; to me, is very disappointing. I thought that I would get to see more stars or famous people, but turns out not and, also some of the artists and famous people doesn't look like themselves [i.e. Marilyn Monroe, Elvis, and Queen Elizabeth]. Real disappointment!

Stop 2: Hangang

To get there: Walk towards the right of 63 Building and u'll see Hangang. Its really hard to miss the river! You can also get here by subway; get off at Yeouinaru station [purple line].

*While we were there, SBS was filming on the site

from a drama I think and we were

told to leave that particular area. At 3.30 pm,

how is it possible that the park is empty

when older citizens like to take a walk with their dogs and some riding their bike?*

*One of the recreational activity here is cycling and there is also

playground for children. Vast

place for a family or friends outing. In addition, there are also

cruise tours along the river; day and night*

*My 1st experience of cycling; I can't cycle! But thanks

to Yan Yee, I know how it feels like to cycle on

two wheels! Yan Yee lets do this again when v come here; at least b4 I go back to Mas*

Stop 3: Apgujeong

The place of plastic surgery! Though I haven't found the street that is full of it, but I'll be back to hunt for it. In addition, we came here with 2 missions; (1) Bubble Tea and (2) SME.

A brief intro to the Bubble Tea shop in Apgujeong. It is called Cofioca and it is very famous among Korean celebs; yes, Korean celebs come here to get there Bubble Tea, and Koreans [fans]. Of course, among international K-Pop fans as well.

To get to Cofioca, come out from Exit 2 of Apgujeong station and walk all the way straight until u see Paris Croissant. Then turn right and turn right again at the 2nd alley. Walk down a bit and u'll see Cofioca. Famous celebs such as Dong Bang Shin Ki, Shinee, Secret, Super Junior, f(x), Beast, Brown Eye Girls, U-Kiss and many more will come here to get their Bubble Tea. And really the Bubble Tea is good!!! The Milk Bubble Tea really taste as good as the one in my University in Malaysia. Bubbles are really chewy!

*See all the colourful paper with writings on them?

It's the celebrities' signature

and messages for the

Bubble Tea Shop;

free advertising!*

Next SM Town.... Though we really want to find SM Town, but we really stumbled upon it while walk along Rodeo Street.

Really could not believe that SME actually looked like this. Its like a shady building and most people would not notice it. As according to Yan Yee, before the lighting are put up, she came here and could not find it at all. So without the lighting [brightly spelling SM Town] I don't think we could have find it either... SO thanks to whoever's idea to spell it out for people to see...

Hint: Its opposite SK gas station. See Cartier; 2nd building from the back.

Happy, that I got Bubble Tea, something that reminds me of home and also happy that we found SM Town accidentally. Hopefully, next time will accidentally bump into Dong Bang (specifically Min-min). HAhahahahah.... yeah, I know; its all only a dream. If they are so easy to be spotted or seen in person, then they are not stars! Hahahahahah....

New Year's Eve

2012-01-01T23:25:00.000+08:00

Finally, blogging this! I know its late but hey... its better to be late than never showing up =) Wondered how u guys spent your new year's eve? Party? Clubbing? Countdown? Hahahaha....

Well, here... I celebrated it the Busan way!

Took an hour and 45 mins bus to 다대포 (Dadaepo). It was a long journey and so like all Korean transportation does to me... I felt asleep, though its abit bumpy but yes, I still can sleep!

*Finally reached Dadaepo... Its actually a beach;

and during some special occasion there will be a fountain show. It is recognised

as the highest fountain/'water splatter?*

*Further down you can see the beach... and its really pretty and

breathe taking! You must really come here

especially if u have a boyfriend!

Its will be really romantic! Yan Yee and I saw this couple

sharing one pair of glove while

walking... So SWEEETTTT~~~~~~~~~ Yes, both of us envy! Since v don't have a boyfriend.*

*One of the place to explore; you can take

your own sweet time here. Oh, the Korean way of celebrating New Year's Eve is

to watch the last sunset of the year and also

the first sunrise of 2012. But sadly, it was too foggy. We could not really

see the sunset... and we are not that Gangho to stay up all night

in the cold just to watch sunrise*

*And also while walking, we saw an old couple being sweet wif one another

the husband was taking a picture of the wife

and they were so lovely... and if I remembered correctly

the husband were teasing her as well! Its only in Korea that you'll get to see this scene...

Married for so long and still

in love! Its really rare nowadays considering the

divorce rates around the world.*

*Fountain lighted up during sunset*

*Dinner....Isn't it delicious?! The set that we ordered

was only 6 000 won per person*

*Went next door, Caffe Bene for dessert; Green Tea Latte,

Cappuccino, Chocolate Cheesecake

and

Chocolate Gelato Waffle. It was so so

Chocolate-ty!!!!*

Finally back to dorm after bracing the cold weather for about 2 hrs! And I bought some present for myself for Christmas but only opened now.... And I'm really glad to see Tohoshinki's Winter Rose (Christmas Album). Was searching it in Seomyeom but can't find it anywhere... but lucky to have found this is Seoul! It cost only 17 000 won (RM 51); cheap! If buy in Malaysia, it will cost about RM 80- RM 90; since its imported from Japan.

*Front and back cover; the CD is

wrapped up like a present.*

*Once opened, u'll see the album cover and

also a postcard/picture (and more pictures on the cover) of

Changmin and U-Know in suits; Min-min

is exceptionally hot in suits! In this red jacket, it also includes a DVD; so its a

CD + DVD. Both of them also

wrote their Christmas message to fans... On the lyrics paper,

the message is translated into Korean for

their Korean fans.*

Really happy that I bought this album as I really love the songs; especially Winter Rose... I feel warm listening to it every single time! Though this album is for lovers but I think for family and friends also works... at the end of the day you still love all of them, the difference is just the degree...

HAPPY NEW YEAR

EVERYONE! HOPE U'LL HAVE A

GREAT YEAR

AHEAD OF YOU!!!

Sam (a.k.a Samantha) Birthday!!!

2012-01-01T22:54:00.002+08:00

Yup, yup... Its our little boy's birthday! 20th Birthday that is.... Our boy is very anti-social nowadays, thus we forced him out of his room.... and came to Napo-Dong!

*The whole street was lighted up; until January, I don't remember

the exact date...*

*Went for dinner in an Italian Restaurant; bread and vinegar (typical)

and see that bottle? Is actually water...hahahaha

Was surprised at 1st tooo*

*Different types of pasta that we ordered;

Carbonaras and Rissoto*

*Then also had Mocha

and Cappuccino*

*There were cards left on the table

for people to write their new year

wish and thus both Yan Yee and I wrote one and hung it

on the tree.... Took a picture of mine...

Also did one in Gangnam, Seoul but 4got to take a pic as it was too crowded and too

COLD!!!*

*Lighting in Napo-Dong; its also

one of the famous shopping district in Busan besides

Soemyeom and Busan Dae*

*Celebrated Sam's bday in Tous Le Jeus. Bought him

a Chocolate cake and sang him

Birthday Song... *

Boy, I feel bad that you are not really enjoying ur birthday but I really hope u at least enjoyed like 5%. Hope u'll be happy again =) Its sad and worrisome seeing you like that... Please be happy again! That is my wish for you.

Seoul: The Soul of Asia (Part 3)

2012-01-01T22:32:00.001+08:00

Day 4: 27/12

a) Myeongdong
Hmm.... well, all I can say bout this place is....

Yup... HEAVEN!!! Girls, u know what I'm talking about! H&M, Forever21 ... Both

I checked the webpage, and it says that there is only one Forever 21 in Korea and its in Myeongdong... Its really big... I think it have about 3-4 floors... and the selections here are way way better than those in Malaysia; price more or less the same. I bought a tube dress for about 17 000 won (RM 51) and a jacket for 19 000 won (RM57), so in total spent RM 108. There are lots of shops there as well, including branded ones too... and I think they were all on sale! Its winter sales season in Korea; nationwide... I think? It will last until February... Spent about 2 and a half hour in there... I think they also have a floor just for shoes... So girls, if u are in Seoul rite now... Go there!!!

H&M... Welll, didn't bother going cuz if I do, I'll be bankrupt in no time! So sorry... no info

After that... obviously lunch hour! We went to this shop, its called ... Erm, I 4got... SORRY!!! But its in Myeongdong as well...

*Its like Shabu-Shabu. See the signatures there?

Those are left by famous ppl; some members of T-ara, YG-Family...

Only managed to figure out these two...*

After lunch,went to explore some interesting building.... This is a Church I think....

*No sure its Christian or Catholic*

Later also went to Jongno... Quite near Myeongdong; as in waking distance!

*See this ice sculpture?

Isn't it pretty?!*

*All K-drama fans... Does this place

look familiar? Second picture on

your right... See the lighted bridge? Recognise it now?

Still can't? Well, its the famous river/stream site that you always see in K-dramas...

Yup, this place is Jongno! Its nice to walk there and romantic too I would say but definitely not during winter

cuz its FREAKING COLD!!! In addition, at the end of the river/stream, u can see

water fountain just like the one right above.... its really pretty!*

P/S: A reminder to all who are travelling far from your guesthouse or whatever... please please keep track of the station that your bound to get off... or u'll end up like my friends and I; missed the station twice! and thus, ended up reaching Gangnam at 1 a.m. exactly when subway in Seoul ends (12 a.m. during weekends).

Day 5: 28/12

a) Italian Restaurant in Gangnam (Sorry forgot bout the place name again)

This Italian restaurant have good menu and its only 10 000 won (RM 30). They serve full course meal!

Which includes appetisers, main course, and dessert. So appetisers; bread + vinegar + olive oil, typically served in any Italian restaurant. The bread is so so soft and chewy; better than Itallinnies but the vinegar + olive oil is better in Itallinnies. Then tomato soup and a slice of pork bacon pizza; was ok-ok, and also salad... normal one of course... Main course is pasta; you get to choose...

*Tomato Carbonara;

this is really good~~~~~*

Then there was also dessert; choco sherbet .... and also coffee or soda for you to choose... SO technically, this is really cheap considering the fact that we are dining in Gangnam area.... famous and expensive; its near Apgujeong (Plastic Surgery street can be found here and also a very famous Bubble Tea shop; even celebs like it, that I have yet to go)...

b) Seoul station

To buy Mugunghwa train ticket of course... It guaranteed me a seat for the 5 hrs journey back to Busan! So I am happy.... no more standing, no more backache, can sleep happily and peacefully!!! After getting our tickets (Yan Yee and I), went out only to realised that something white was falling down from the sky! Yes, as I've never see snow b4.... I became very sampat! Was excitedly telling Yan Yee that is snow... though its more like rain but its snow!

*This is roughly how Seoul Station

look like*

*See the white thingys?*

*Zoom zoom....Its SNOW!!!*

Next stop....

c) Hongik University

Took another subway line; the airport one, to get to Hongik University.... its so very different from others... much more cleaner and nicely built.... Here, u can't use your MyBi card, u have to purchase the ticket.... its 1 000 won per person; from Seoul Station to Hongik University.

In Hongdae (a.k.a Hongik University station), there is Hello Kitty Cafe....

Hanged in there for about an hour before meeting wif our hosts; JongHyun and Lina for dinner... After dinner, went to a Jazz Bar; which looks something like this... Its in the same building as Seoul Night, 2nd Floor.

Day 6: 29/12

a) Subway, Gangnam
Finally found Subway!!!! Miss it so so much!!!

*It was so satisfying when I entered

the place... the pizza smell and of course saw me favourite

cookies but didn't buy... twice the price of

Malaysia.... But the sandwich was really

satisfying; Turkey and Bacon! I don't think its in Malaysia's menu...*

b) Seoul Station

Going back to Busan... felt a bit sad to leave Seoul.... 왜?왜?!

But its ok! Cuz Charis will be back on 14/01~~~~

Warm New Year

2012-01-01T00:47:00.002+08:00

Though this song is for Christmas but... I really find this song warm since I'm so far away from my friends and family...

These song reminds me of them very much... I miss you guys!

Hope u guys will enjoy this and have a warm new year's day!

새 해 복 많이 받으 세요!

Seoul: The Soul of Asia (Part 2)

2012-01-01T00:11:00.002+08:00

Day 3: 26/12

a) Gyeongbokgung
To get to this palace is superb easy as the metro station will lead you there straight... means that, when you come out of the subway, Gyeongbokgung is just right in front of you!

*This is the side entrance to Gyeongbokgung;

subway is just right beside*

*Main entrance of Gyeongbukgung. This is

where the performance will be

held*

*Old Korean Street*

*Some old traditional house you

can see in Folk's Museum*

*Just right in front of the

Folk's Museum*

*This is what I found

right outside the palace...

It says "Museum got SEX!"

So I think its a sex museum*

This palace is the largest and biggest in Seoul. A ceremony will be perform here; changing guards. So this is what I caught on vid so far...

Then here you can visit the Folk's Museum; u will be able to understand Korean Culture more and you need one whole day for this place. As in for morning til closing as this palace is the largest in Seoul. So there are lots to see and experience. In addition, you can also try on some traditional clothes; clothes that people during that period wore (i.e. servants, guards, officials etc.) but sadly this is the only activity that I was not able to enjoy. So I really hope those of you who visit this place will allocate one day to experience this.

b) 영수증 (Yong Su Cheong)

This is the restaurant where we had our lunch. The foods served is more or less like the ones in dormitory but its way much more better and tastier! It's in Insa-Dong by the way. One of the allies. The price is cheap and the atmosphere is good.

*Small little garden you can see

in the restaurant*

*Forgot what is called...

but its seafood and spicy*

*Kimchi- Chigae*

c) Insa-Dong
One of the shopping building in Myeongdong... So if u walk down that street, u'll definitely not miss it. The shopping place is like a spiral but in square... So yeah! And we found this at the entrance....

*Its Shit! Ahahahah....

Its actually called Tung Bbang;

cuz a pastry filled wif red bean paste...

But yeah, its shaped like a shit, thus the name

and when u eat it... yeah, use ur imagination.... ahahahah

but nonetheless, it taste good especially when the weather is freezing cold!*

As I am blogging, I just realised that it 01/01/2012! Happy New Year's everyone!

My resolution for 2012:

1. To get started on my thesis research on Monday; 02/01

2. To enjoy my stay in Korea to the fullest before I return to reality; Malaysia and Psychology

3. Do my very best to survive in Psychology and hopefully able to pass all my papers and assignments

4. To see DBSK concert at least once b4 I go back to Malaysia

5. Satisfy my inner fan-girl ... do all the star-stalking

6. Better myself ; in terms of all aspects

That's all for now...

Seoul: The Soul of Asia to be continue...

P/S: Hope that everyone will have a great and fruitful year ahead... Remember time waits for no one and you only get to live once, so live everyday like there is no tomorrow!

Seoul: The Soul of Asia

2011-12-31T01:24:00.000+08:00

Hihi, I'm back from Seoul... Well, 1st off, I wanna give a shout out to Jong Hyun, Lina and Min; our hosts. Thanks for hosting us for 6 days and 5 nights. Although its my 1st experience in couching, but thanks to you guys, this experience was a not only great but a memorable one. This is the building I lived in while vacationing in Seoul; Gangnam-Gu

*This explicit sculpture helps me to find

this building everytime ^^*

*The out look of the whole building. On the floor that I lived in

I saw this door with a sign "Shinee World" in Korean.

Only know about it when my friend came

and she is a big fan of Shinee; well

of MinHo actually. Thus, on the next day, she wanted to

ring the door bell but was hesitating so, I just pressed it for her...

but no one answered... Then on the last day, she decided to

give it another try... and she noticed that the door was not fully closed thus she rang the bell again.

This time, we heard a man saying "Nugu saeyeo" and I got excited thinking that maybe its not the fan club

but rather the star themselves.... Unfortunately it wasn't, but then again if it isn't

why would u put up such sign? We speculate maybe its the manager... *

*2nd floor; more like an attic. But it is comfortable*

*The office area; so during the day, this place is our hosts'

office but when it comes to night...

Its our place to sleep...*

Seoul.... Hmmm, what can I say? Well, No. 1) the subway is so so crowded!!! Especially during peak hours, its like the sheep's are out for a walk.... whenever the train's door opens! If ur travelling in a group, it is possible that some of ur friends will get left behind, thus I suggest that everyone shud know the route to whatever places that u wanna go and make sure everyone have the Seoul Metro Map... and if ur not sure where u are, ask! It's Seoul, the number of people who are able to speak English is high... Thus, just go ahead and ask... Seoul Metro have I think about 12 lines... U might wanna highlight the stops and the interchange stations that will get u to ur destinations... Its less confusing and more convenient this way... Oh, and be aware or rather alert when ur taking Line 2 (green line) as it moves in a circle and also it has two lines outside the circle... so u really have to pay attention to the screen...

No. 2) Don't be surprise when ur being bumped by people; as if ur like a wind or something... cause its very normal that some will not apologise; so juts let it go... I have no idea how many times they have bumped into me as if I'm not a being =,=

No. 3) If ur goin during winter season, make sure ur wrapped up and also have ur moisturiser or ur mist ready... cause ur skin will dry really fast and will be really dry!

Now... where I visit???

Day 1: 24/12

a) Gupo Station, Busan

Now, to all who wanna travel to Seoul using Mugunghwa... My advise is, go to the station and purchase a ticket in advance, so u'll be guaranteed a seat especially during festive seasons or public holidays... If u go one that day itself; like my friend and I, u'll end up standing the whole 5 hrs journey... and it will definitely kill ur back and legs! Well, u can steal someone's seat once in awhile but if the owner is there, u will have to get up and stand. So do purchase the ticket in advance and ticket price differs on weekends and weekdays. Generally, standing is cheaper than seating but u are only allow to purchase standing after all seating are sold. Ur last stop will be Seoul Station from there u can get on Seoul Metro to go everywhere ur heading.

*Gupo Station*

*Mugunghwa train ticket; standing*

Day 2: 25/12

a) Changdeokgung and Changgyeonggung

Both of these palaces are next to one another... As in Changgyeongung is in Changdeokgung. In Changdeokgung you will also get to tour Secret Garden of the palace... Its scenery is superb and you will also get to see the places that King during that period spent for leisure...

*The entrance to Changdeokgung*

*The entrance to the palace*

*1st building u'll see when u enter

Secret Garden... Its a tour so, for Secret Garden there will be a tour guide,

available in English, Chinese and Japanese*

*The pond next to it. Its frozen, but not

hard enuf to be walked on ^^*

Entrance to Changgyeonggung is just right next to the entrance of Secret Garden...

*This tree is said to be 700 years old and u can see it on

your way out of Secret Garden*

b) Dongdaemun

All girls will enjoy this place... One of the shoppin haven in Seoul. Here you can find branded goods and there are lots of shopping malls... So I think u'll need a few days, if u really wanna go to all the malls... but goods here are expensive and cannot nego as its fixed price. On the way to the shopping area, we came across something amazing...

*See the ice sculpture? No idea whether is it man-made

or that it was a fountain and got frozen... So yeah, I think it will look

beautiful during night when the lights are on*

c) Gangnam Station

After that, I went exploring around the area that I lived in... and because it was Christmas... the street was filled wif couples and families....

*Saw Super Mario...Just have to take a pic of it*

*Then BB Cream got jealous and asked to

take a pic to... all ready wif pose^^

so cute*

*This one is taken for Yan Yee*

*Cars everywhere*

*Then saw this sign which says

"Happy Walking". After reading that I felt a bit lonely...

Cause I was indeed alone!*

*Guess what these people is queuing up for?!

The answer will shock u!!!

.......

......

Okok, there are queuing for fortune telling....

Yup, its very popular in Korea

as everywhere there is either one of two or

the whole street of it*

To be continue...

Guilty Pleasure over Weekend

2011-12-12T21:43:00.000+08:00

20% 30% 50% Wat do u think of when u see this?! I freaked! Thank goodness I brought my debit card over! Or I'll be cryin rite now whilst figuring how to survive thru out the month.

Etude House, The Face Shop, Skin Food, Missha, and Nature Republic are all having these signs up! And it was C-R-A-Z-Y! Especially Missha, since its up to 50% off on most of its best selling items; in Seomyeom- full house. People are pushing everywhere; hard to get in and out! I realised one thing thru this; people here will push u aside while ur looking at the products as if ur not looking at it =,=. Seriously, that woman; just said "Jogiyeo" push and stand in ur place! What the hell?! Am I not looking at the products u eyes-less woman! Its a good thing that I'm a bit unwell that day, or else u'll be listening to English scolding like u never did b4!

But, since I'm also in a good mood as I finally bought products for my face ~HAPPY~

*Super Aqua series- cleanser, hydro cream n emulsion

only for RM 67 (psss- all 50% off)*

Then also had a nice cup of Hot Choco in Cafe Beane (Korean version of Coffee Bean).

*Xmas everywhere. See the people standing there; unlike Malaysia, u can see

all ages of guys enjoying coffee in cafes- without laptops,

they just sat down wif their coffee n friend

n talk*

*My Hot Choco- too sweet, avoid ordering this

unless u really like super sweet drinks or

things; 4500 won (RM 13.50)*

On Sunday, Yan Yee n I went to Busan National University. Y?! Shoppin of course! Clothes there are really pretty and fashionable. Compared to Napodong; too crowded, Busan Dae is way better, not crowded at all... very nice to shop; although the fitting rooms and toilets are really small. But its not too bad. In Busan Dae, there is a cafe which I think everyone would want to go

*Welcome to Snoopy Cafe*

*Ordering counter*

*Interior of the lowest floor*

*The ceiling of the whole cafe*

*Displays*

*The wall of the lowest floor*

*Merchandise; soft-toys, small notes books,

thermos*

*Big Snoopy greeting u*

*Mugs (cute rite?) and thermos*

Since both Yan Yee and I was hungry we ordered set branch.

*This big thingy here buzzes when ur order is ready for

u to pick up. Its normal to see this buzzer in all cafes and dining places.

Its so convenient! Malaysia cafes should have this*

*Our set branch. Its was really YUMMY; especially Sunshine

eggs and the juicy pork sausages.

How I miss sunshine eggs ~sob sob~

The cup wif snoopy is

Hot Choco*

*Never knew there was a Mrs. Snoopy until

I saw this. Lots of displays along

the stairs to 2nd floor room 1*

* The first thing u see is this...

So get ur camera ready! Cause u'll definitely see

it when coming up*

*Interior of 2nd floor room 1*

*Suitable for homework or assignment time. N also

couple time ><*

*Xmas display outside the connector to

2nd floor room 2*

*Entrance to room 2*

*Here its more noisy as people here are chatting and also

there is a smoking area for smokers*

*Also have private rooms for big group of people and its

suitable for group discussion but make sure

u don't make too loud and much noise; cause it will be

annoying!*

*Big Snoopy chit-chatting wif small snoopies*

*This is the female toilet. Its so cute; as if Lucy is

saying "Here! Here! Toilet

is here!"*

*A pic wif everyone b4 departing; I will

be back soon wif Aliza, San, Yan Yee

and Eonni*

After that, when shopping around more and I bought this cute little pumps ~~ So HAPPY~~~

*Korean shoe size is very different from Malaysia; they go by

hundred like 230, 235. This is from I Love Flat, cost about RM 57 (19 000 won)*

#Kar Yee cute or not?!#

After hours of walking and looking for this place, finally v've found it! Its called Pasta Bueno, its in the eating area of Busan National Uni.

*Crab Salad, Bacon Tomato Spaghetti,

and

Chicken Creamy Spaghetti*

*Bacon Tomato Spaghetti*

*Chicken Creamy Spaghetti*

*Crab Salad; its crab stick*

*The interior of Pasta Bueno*

What a fruitful weekend?! Now I must save $$ for my Seoul trip on 24/12 =)

Do Re Mi Fa So La Ti...

2011-12-06T19:29:00.001+08:00

Date: 1/12/2011
Venue: BEXCO, Centum City
Time: 3.30 p.m.

This was the last day of the Global Aid Effectiveness Forum; which was held in BEXCO, Centum City, Busan about a week ago. People from all ages had gather at this very place to... well, u saw the vid to raise awareness of poverty and quality of education in less developed countries.

This is my 1st participation in flash mob and I really had lots of fun. Even though most of us practiced for one whole day and the flash mob only lasted for 3 mins and 26 sec. but still I had lots and lots of fun. It was really an amazing experience, moreover, we did this in Korea! This would be one of the most memorable event for as most of the foreigners in Silla Uni participated and thru this I've also met some friends.

I'm glad I did this. To those who are free or want to have some fun, try this. It doesn't matter where u are or where u come from =) and don't use study as an excuse... U still need to relax and this is very relaxing! Don't do it for no reason but rather do it because u want to =). At the end of the day, u'll look back n say "Wow,".

Korean Traditional Culture: Music Instruments and Taekwondo

2011-11-29T19:14:00.001+08:00

Date: 22/11/11

Venue: International Building, Silla University

Topic: 사물노이 (Samulnori)

사물노리 is the Korean traditional percussion music. It is known as 사물노리 due to that it consists of four different types of instruments; (1) Ggwaenggwari, (2) Jongga, (3) Buk, & (4) Jing.

* Our special class*

We learnt to play some basic notes and gosh, playing the Jongga is definitely not easy... But I have to say, that most difficult instrument here is Ggwaenggwari. Poor guy; instead of being addressed by his name, the lecturer called him, "Ggwaenggwari, ok?" thru out the whole 2 hours class... "Ggwaenggwari, understand?", "Ggwaenggwari, tasih hanbon," (Trans: "Ggwaenggwari, one more time,"). I felt very sad for him... but I can't help but laugh as it was really funny! Ahahahahahah..... I'm so sorry ><

*Our lecturer of the day. Sorry I 4got his name... but I know he is

the best Samulnori master in Busan =).*

*Pic-ky time*

Date: 29/11/2011

Venue: School of Humanities, Gym

Topic: Taekwondo

* Ready to learn some ass kicking moves!*

*Warming up 1st... Don't want any pain ><*

After warming up, we learnt attention and relax standing positions before beginning the lesson. We were told to be in sitting position; like pretend that ur sittin on a chair. That really hurts! We stayed in that position for like 5 mins cause he was explaining the techniques and stuffs. Moreover, our Korean Culture lecturer was translating it for us... Though most of our classmates speaks Korean, but sadly Pre-Beginners like me could not understand everything... And while doin so, the instructor of the day went around checking everyone's position to make sure its right! That was the longest 5 mins~~~

*We learnt these moves for the whole 2 hours

with one 5 mins break*

Whenever we followed the instructor's move, we have to go, "Huk!" as loud as possible. As if ur really attacking someone... This goes on and on and on... those who've seen Teakwondo practice, u know what I'm talking about....

This is what we did during that 5 mins... and also some resting of course!

After learning all moves and one last practice, finally 3 p.m. has arrived!

Definitely it time for....

*Pic-ky wif instructor and his helper

(two black belts; left - instructor, right-helper)*

*Then finally our Korean Culture lect...*

That's all for now.... No more live classes anymore.

Back to classroom next week =(

Pepero Day

2011-11-11T21:36:00.001+08:00

Happy Pepero Day!!!! No idea what is Pepero day?! Well, this event takes place on every 11th November in Korea; in Japan its known as Pocky Day. Pepero its a snack brand by Lotte.

Just like our Rocky in Malaysia... Its celebrated on the 11th November because, well if u place to choco sticks together doesn't it look like the number 11? Thats the main reason. In Korea, ppl buy this snack for the people they love; well, another celebration of Valentine's Day. But it can also be given to friends, and in Korea, the male will buy it for the female not the other way round.

For the past week, I've been seeing lots of promotions for Pepero in E-mart, Homeplus, & 7-11 in Silla Uni.

*Saw this in 7-11*

We (Aliza, Sam, Boya, Samnang, Kakada and i) had some crazy fun too after work... Cause we wanna do somethin memorable and thus....

*Always see celebrities playing this,

thus we wanna try too*

And in the subways; actually everywhere there are couples holding rose and Pepero hamper... envy!!!

*Black jacket- On the way to meet girlfriend

S jacket- With girlfriend....*

*This is my share of Pepero... A big shout out to Kakada, Nay,

and Samnang.*

P/S: Happy Pepero Day to all and also Happy 11.11.2011... Hope u did something memorable =0

Gwangju Part 2

2011-11-09T18:24:00.002+08:00

Next stop is the Cheomseongdae; its an observatory during Silla Dynasty. Entrance fee is 500 won, but its ok if u dun wan to pay as u can see it from the fence area also; just not up close..

Then we also went to Bulguksa Temple which can only be reached thru bus No. 11 or if ur hardworking enuf, walking is also possible... The view there is really nice since its autumn and also there is entrance fees; 4 000 won.

*This is interesting as Koreans or foreigners wrote their wishes on

the tiles and it will be used as

a roof of the buildings of the temple. Cost 10,000 won*

To go back to other historical places, u can take bus No. 10. Our next stop was Anapji; which used to be a banquet hall for royalty. Its very beautiful and highly recommended to go only during late evening or night time; when the sun is down. Why? HAhahahah....

This place is worth exploring for those who love sight-seeing. I'm pretty sure u'll would not want to miss this as there are lots of lightings to highlight the surrounding scenes and not to mention is really amazing if u are able to enjoy the view and small little ponds...

And also u must try their local delicacy known as the Gyeongju bbang... Its really delicious; the one I ate was red bean flavoured...

Gyeongju: Historical Land of Silla Kingdom

2011-11-07T20:24:00.000+08:00

Gyeongju! One of Korea's most historical place; the capital of Silla Kingdom. To get there from Busan, we (June, Min Su, Tae Un, He Fang, Kakada, Boya and I) took the subway to Napo station and the bus terminal there. The bus cost 4,500 won (one-way) and we left at 9.30 a.m. At first I thought the bus's interior would like the normal ones... but to my surprise it was more like a coach bus! Comfortable; more comfortable than the plane we (Aliza, Sam and I) took from Incheon to Busan.

*Bus to Gyeongju*

We arrived there at 10.30 a.m. Yup, its only an hour away from Busan; located at the west side of Busan. Our first stop, its none other than...

The Tourist Information Center! U'll see a gigantic map of Gyeongju; all historical locations can be found there.

*Historical site No.1: Daereungwon Royal Tombs*

*Me*

*Historical site No.2: Tumuli in Noseo-in*

*We found this; monogram of

King Gustavafvi Aldof

of Sweden*

*Explanation of his deeds in Korea*

Busan International Fireworks Festival [cont]

2011-11-01T21:01:00.001+08:00

Korean Cultural Experience

2011-11-01T20:52:00.002+08:00

Lesson 1:

Hanbok

*Males: The blue one is for the GROOM whilst

the pink one is for

commoners. The button on the commoner's vest symbolizes his

social status*

*Females: The purple one is for commoners; black one for

high social class ladies; the pink one for

court servants and the red one is for BRIDE*

*Professor Kim; teacher of the day. Giving us a lecture on

Hanbok; the name of each

pieces that make

the Hanbok and how to wear it*

*Models of the day*

*Choosing our own Hanbok*

*Help each other to secure the skirt*

*Me in Hanbok. I don't wanna take it off!!!

I wish to own one of these...It's so

PRETTY~~~ But its super

expensive tooo~~~~~~~~~~~~~*

Lesson 3:

Korean Bow

*Listening attentively*

Lesson 3:

Korean Tea Ceremony

*Every group was given their own tea set and also

the table*

*Me conducting the ceremony*

*This is how the set looks like;

the cakes and ssukdokk was given after the tea ceremony*

*Me as the host*

The continuation of cam-horring ...

That's all. U must really try this when u have the chance. It fun and exciting but most of all u get to experience something that is totally different from ur own culture.... Though Hanbok does not show ur body shape, but its a good thing cuz not only u get to hide ur fats but also, its comfortable and new I would say....

Sweets

2011-10-30T22:17:00.001+08:00

Ahh~~~~ the sweet for today....

U can find this in Nampodong, in one of the allies near the Tourist Information Center.

Order: Mochacinno and Chocolate

Price: 3, 500 won for each (applicable only to these)

*Chocolate Cupcake*

*Mochacinno Cupcake*

Bon appetite!

Busan International Fireworks: Finale

2011-10-30T22:00:00.003+08:00

The long awaited day has come and gone. Yesterday nite was really AMAZING! Its so amazing that I felt all the happiness in the world! The fireworks are so magnificent; good job to the participated countries (US, China, Japan, France and Korea). While watching it, I can't help but to feel very magical and I swear I really teared up... At that moment, I felt I've achieved the highest happiness that I can and I really really envy Koreans for their beautiful and colourful Diamond Bridge; together with the fireworks..... It really makes one speechless and all one could do is being Awed by the beauty of the bridge paired with the amazing fireworks! The time spent under the rain and crowding back to the subway is really really worth it! If given another chance, I would do it all over again! Just that the next time, I would camp in Okkuda at 2 p.m. til the show start!

I highly recommend everyone to at least participate in this event; come to Busan at the end of October and I promise u its worth the time and money. Here are some pictures and vids taken during the event...

Credits: Kakada for the pictures above...

Credits: Aliza for the vid below =)

Will upload more when I'm free 2morrow; in the mean time enjoy these =) Oh, and I just received some goodies from Keana Unni.

*Postcards, Phone strap and badge*

감사합니다,unni!

Busan International Fireworks Festival: K-Concert

2011-10-29T01:31:00.004+08:00

Here are the vids

Busan International Fireworks Festival: K-Concert

2011-10-29T00:37:00.002+08:00

Date: 29.10
Time: 7.00 p.m.
Venue: Gwangalli Beach, Busan

Look at the crowd!!!

And this is during the day,

Me and Aliza being sampat...

Groupie...

First off....

*U-Kiss as opening act*

1. Neverland

2. Ma Ma Ha Ni

*Followed by T-ara*

1. Why Are U Being Like That

2. Rolly Polly!

*Ze:a*

*MC of the night: Kim Hyun Joong &

Han JiWon (from Secret Garden)*

*Sistar*

1. Cool

2. How Dare U

*Kim Hyun Joong*

1. Do U like That

2. Lucky Guy

2. Victory

1. Where U At

*T.O.P*

*SHINEE*

1. Ring Ding Dong

2. Lucifer

1. Step

2. Mister

Will try to figure out a way to upload some vids ...

Beef Barbecue in Sasang

2011-10-27T20:59:00.000+08:00

Finally, something different and new...Beefff~~~~~ Something that Aliza can eat and something different for me to dine when out =)

*Onion and soy sauce for dipping the beef*

*Side dishes- Radish, Catnip, Lettuce, Sesame Oil,

Pepper wif salt, Carrot and hot sauce*

*Beeffff @.@*

*The white thing there is garlic slices*

Ah~~~ so satisfying after eating it. So delicious, tender and juicy! It tasted even better when all the above ingredients are used to make wrap =). Beef + Radish + Onion + Garlic + Sesame Oil + Hot Sauce + Pepper mixed wif salt, and wrapped it with lettuce.... Ahhhhhh~~~

Busan International Fireworks Festival

2011-10-22T23:27:00.000+08:00

Speechless? Me too~~~ Hope u enjoy! Those who are in Busan, head to Gwangalli next Friday for idol performance and on Saturday for the fireworks =)

Light and Easy

2011-10-22T16:57:00.001+08:00

It's Friday nite! Yesterday marked the beginning of Busan International Fireworks 2011. I'm not sure whether there is a crowd, since I didn't go for the opening (cuz it was raining the whole day and it continued to rain today; til now that is). Instead Aliza, Sam and I, went to Samyeom and met up wif Hong Ki; he wanted to introduce us to his friends, and thus continued our journey to Songjong Beach.

The journey there wasn't easy due to heavy rain (not as heavy as in Malaysia). From Samyeom, we took a bus; 104 (not really sure). The bus driver; like those in Malaysia, driven the bus like it's their father's road. The whole ride is really like a ROLLER-COASTER ride! I was afraid that I might get into an accident! And true enuf, an accident happened. Thank goodness, no one got hurt! It was only a car that got bumped into. The car was parked at the side, so when the bus was about to move, it sorta went backward a bit and "BANG!". All of us was wondering what is that, turned out to be a car and the bus driver just continued to the bus stop just in front. But then we stayed stationary for about 10 mins, to only realised that he wasn't in his seat, instead he went back to the car; which he bumped into. Don't really know what he did, but bus driver here; I guess are somehow responsible; he didn't hit and run. After that, he got more impatient and drove somehow recklessly... and also hit pavement along the way. But I'm happy that 1 hour journey ended safely!

By then, v were very hungry, cold and it was still raining! Passed by a pizza shop and decided to order one King size shrimp pizza and some chicken. The pizza was really big, filled-up the whole plate (toast plates)! And it tasted DELICIOUS! Paired wif a hot Cappuccino.... one word; PERFECTO! Oh, I forgot to mention that Hong-Ki's friend; Lily, owns a coffee shop. Its very cute, small and cozy! I would want my coffee shop to look something like that! Sorry, dun really have a pic... 4got about it!

And we also met Bryan, Simon, Soo Jin, and Romantic Pack Chang Hee...Ahahahah~~~~ After dinner, v played some Korean games; 3-6-9, Maadu (its a mind game; the number u said must be telly with the number of broken dumplings; then ur consider the winner), Police-Mafia-Doctor (we played this in primary school as well) and lots more... The punishment for loser is....

*Mixture of Tomato sauce and Mustard;

this actually taste very good!*

*Maadu game; Simon vs Lily*

*1st loser: Simon*

Then we also played one last round for this drink; mixed by me =)

*Tomato sauce, Mocha, Strawberry sauce, Milk, Mustard, Chocolate

and lots more... I don't remember anymore*

*Finally "win" goes to....... ALIZA!!!

Bon Appetite, me friend!*

Then we went to Karaoke... Aliza and Hong Ki sang their hearts out! We had lots of fun and craziness! Thanks Hong-Ki and friends for having us over =)... or else me and Aliza would probably be hibernating in the dorm...

P/S: On rainy days, if u plan to go out till late, pls reconsider it again. As me and Aliza found out that, ITS FREAKING HARD to hail a cab during these kind of night!!! Late, rain and Friday nite; bad combination! And drunk ppl are everywhere! So becareful =)

Lastly, check out these beautiful views

*Credits to Aliza*

Korea's Fever

2011-10-19T20:40:00.000+08:00

Sunday nite, came and gone. That nite was a bittersweet nite... Sweet cuz everyone was having fun and goin crazy and of course drunk! Some dishes given when goin to... don't really know that place =)

*Corns with melted cheese*

*Something like Ice-Kacang*

*Korean pancake and dunplings*

*Salad*

*Chips*

*See that big jug there? Its beer and the green bottle...

the very famous SOJU! Koreans love it; and sometimes

they mixed it! U can get drunk fast if ur not

an experienced drinker. I think v ordered bout 5-6

jugs!*

*Kakada after alcohol*

*Still her after alcohol*

The bitter part; well, I don't really wanna talk bout it cuz its not my story to tell. But I'm glad things worked out fine after that.

Then yesterday, major changes in the cafe. Well, not major but huge enuf to create a stir... among lecturers and students; even us! Ahahahah...

*See these signs? Familiar rite? Well, I'm not sure bout

illy but I don't think Starbucks

allowed the cafe to publicly

display their logo just like that... Plus, I don't think the cafe pay

any royalty fee either... Watever it is, its not of my business!*

Then today! HAIHZ... Korea's biggest obsession...

Yup, they are even on energy drinks. Give also give wif a guy celeb for girls lar. How is this energetic? Definitely not for me!

Creative Luncheon

2011-10-15T16:00:00.000+08:00

Officially stayed in Busan, Korea for a month! But it feels as if we've stayed for like 3-4 months... Time here really flies slow during weekdays and extremely fast during the weekends, maybe cuz we enjoyed our activities on the weekend. This week; today that is, we cooked! Well, not we, but Aliza... Never knew she have creative cooking skills... Thinking of the recipe on the spot! Really incredible and to top it of, though its her 1st time tryin to cook these but it's really delicious!

*Everyone eagerly watched*

*Ingredients prepared*

*Beaten by Sam; the Retired Chef.*

*Finally, the magic begins*

*Dish is coming to life*

*FISH!!!! Sorry, bout the presentation. Fire was

too big and can't really

control that*

*Yangsungi; mushrooms! See the water?

It's from the mushroom. Can't wait

to taste it!*

*Finally, its done! The sup is so

mushroomy... Oooo, the taste

can't really be described! We didn't add anything at all

this is pure mushroom sup!*

*The chef's final dish*

*TADA!!!! This tasted SUPERB!!!!*

P/S: A shout out to the emo; at Art Building, and the worker at TOAST, who are so so nice to give us tomato sauce, salt and pepper for free! Thank you so so much!!!

Hello Kitty Haven

2011-10-09T23:26:00.000+08:00

Sorry, not referring to Japan; the homeland of Hello Kitty. Rather I'm referring to their neighbouring country, South Korea. I went to Kyobo (located at the basement of Kyobo Life Insurance Co. Ltd., near Seomyeon) today, just to do some exploring of books and I'm actually quite disappointed with the amount of English novels that they have; mostly movie-based (i.e. The Blind Side, Eat,Pray, Love etc.). I only found some nice novels from Nicholas Sparks and Mitch Albom.

My heart cried in pain when I saw the condition of the books; it was all un-wrapped and bend-cracks! OMG, can't these ppl read the books wif more care! Books have feelings too! Its very frustrating that if book-lovers want to buy them but only to find it in bad condition and there are not others! Not to mention heart-breaking too for book-lovers like me; the KIASU type! Though it is not in best condition, I managed to find Mitch Albom's For One More Day, in quite good condition... Though I can find better ones in Malaysia, but price-wise not much difference!

Then I went exploring the bookstore and found...

Then, I also found that they sell single colour pencils...

P/S: There are more Hello Kitty stuff than English novels =,=. Why?!

Clubbin in Haeundae

2011-10-09T23:06:00.001+08:00

Friday nite and it's time for clubbin! This was my 1st time goin to club here and I found out that Korea have different clubs; as in clubs playin designated music. There is electro, hip hop and trans? Not really sure but definitely different clubs play different music.

We (Aliza, Sam & I) went to Haeundae and met up wif her Korean friend; Hong Ki.

After dinner, we went wondering around the market and, we found and tried lots of food...

*Some kind of fruit. Its delicious!*

*Some street food... It was so so delicious

especially when it is really cold!!! One bite

and it just warms up ur whole body!*

*Went to a bakery... They have

very cute breads and cookies!!! But sadly v are forbidden

to take pics*

*Me sampat-ing. Doesn't this shopping mall looked

cool; its like a street!*

*Dessert!!!! This is delicious; the shaved ice, red beans,

fruits and ice-cream..... Ahhhhh, it just melt in ur mouth

and its so so tasty!*

*Its a must try,

only 8,000 won*

Also wondered to the beach area only to find crowds of ppl standing and screaming... Was wondering what was goin on then remembered that Haeundae is one of the event place for BIFF... So that nite was Meet the Stars day and also there was an private after-party. And and I saw Jang Geun Suk!!!

*Credits to whoever who took

this pic*

He is so so BEAUTIFUL in real life!!! Its a waste that he is a male but not a female, bet that every guy will fall for him if he is a she. Ahahahahah....I know I will! JYJ showed up in this event too, but I didn't stay long enuf to see any other stars... cuz it was too crowded and that I'm not travellin alone but wif anothers as well so can't be selfish ....

*This is where all stars enter after arrival*

*Ppl waiting just to get a glimpse of

the stars!*

*So may ppl; unlike Malaysia... local stars are

really famous and received

great support from Koreans. Korean stars represents

Korea to the world*

*Movie posters*

*We found a gigantic post box

and the number shown

represent the total amount of

letters inside. We don't really know the purpose of it*

Then we went to a bar; forgot wat its called. Its interesting as there was this one girl who came alone and she is also very good in playing darts.... and she have that "I'm better than u" kind of face; we played earlier but only Hong Ki was good... Haihz, shud practice more in the future!

Sat there til bout 10pm, then went to a club called Elune Lounge and Dance Club.The music in this club is great! Maybe cuz the DJ is a foreigner... earlier it was a Korean; so it wasn't as good as the foreigner's. Korean ppl have a funny way of dancing. They all danced in one straight line like in a dance class. Its so so funny! Then there was this couple, they danced in sync; so cute their dance! There was also groups of 3 dancing in sync as well... And guys here are not sleezy as the ones in Malaysia; whereby the just come up to u and start dancing with u with all the touching, this doesn't happen here (according to my friend).

And this was how we ended our night in Haeundae! The next time we must come wif our roomates; after their mid-terms =) I can't wait, Oooo, thanks Son for doin my makeup...

Opening of Busan International Film Festival

2011-10-08T00:54:00.002+08:00

Finally, the long wait for Busan International Film Festival have arrived! The opening venue was at BIFF Square in Centum City (opposite Shinsegae Mall; biggest mall in the world).

*Lotte Department in Shinsegae Mall*

*Beautiful isn't it?*

*Our newly made friend; Ji Woo Unni

(English name: Rachel)*

*Busan International Film Festival

Square (BIFF)*

*Red carpet... Felt so honoured; cuz

famous stars will be walking on

it as well but later =)*

*Look at those people... We can't go in cuz we don't

have ticket =(*

*It's Shinsegae Mall behind*

Here are some of the movies that will be showing throughout the week; from 6-14 October. I wanna

watch Chronicle of My Mother; its a Japanese movie.

I know its gonna be sad and lots of crying

but I still wanna watch it. I know

I'll learn some life lesson from it. Hopefully I can still

get tickets*

*Shinsegae Mall*

Since we can't go in, thus we went to Gwangalli for dinner and dessert since its super near... And on the way we saw this very artistic and cute lamp post

*Did u see the lamp post? Isn't it cute!*

*Our dinner; CLAMS!!! Super

delicious!!!*

*Korean fried rice; u fry it in the pot (as above) and u eat

from the pot =) like what u see in

Korean dramas (not its not bibimbap)*

After dinner, its DESSERT!!! We went to this place called Cafe Gelateria... and

*These are the small cute

espresso cups that we saw*

*Cute tea cups*

*Interior of the cafe*

*Our dessert; frozen yogurt and bread; outer part is

crunchy and the inner is so so

soft!*

*Together, I can only summarise in one word;

DELICIOUS!!!!Anyone who drop by

Gwangalli must come and try this! Although this place is like

for old people and family but the dessert is worth it! Really

come try the dessert here!*

*Oooo, this is how u get ur receipt by the way*

*We found an amusement park nearby

due to the screaming and laughing at the

same time

of a girl on the

roller-coaster*

Though we didn't get to see the opening ceremony of BIFF but its ok, we ate lots of delicious food =)...

Photo credits to Aliza; Thanks lots =)

Tour of Beaches

2011-10-02T13:43:00.000+08:00

Took bus no. 200 from Silla University to Haeundae bus stop for about 2 hrs and 30 mins. Then walk bout for 10 mins; the smell of the sea and u'll see vast of coffee shops and bistros along the way. U won't feel like an alien here as well, cuz there are lots of foreigners! Caucasians, Indians, and Arabs.

After 10 mins or so u'll see this..

*Welcome to Haeundae Beach! This place is not only frequent by

tourists but also locals as well; families, couples, and friends.

All here to spend some quality time with

one another*

*This is how the whole beach looks like.

Its very different in pic, than reality.

Come and see it

for urself, its worth it!*

*See this construction site? Haeundae is getting

ready for Busan International

Film Festival this coming

week; 6/10. There will be lots of famous actors and actresses. Its lasting

for 8 days.*

*This is the sign which inform

tourists bout the event*

*Middle part of the beach is under construction*

*Cute place in a mall; filled with cafe and

restaurants*

*Instant Starbucks coffees. This is

something we don't have in

Malaysia!*

*Interior of Starbucks; so much more spacious!*

Random pictures...

*Walking track around

an Island; but u won't realise

that it is an island*

*Diamond bridge*

*Lighthouse*

*Convention Centre*

*Diamond Bridge*

*I can't find the stone =,=*

*Night view*

*This is Gwangalli Beach; view of

the Diamond Bridge

is so much better here*

*This officer is somehow singing; so funny and

cute!*

*Lots of cafes, bars and restaurants. Gwangalli

is also famous for

Seafood!!!*

Oooo, and on the way back, both of us needed toilet desperately. Thus, we went into this high class Italian restaurant to borrow their toilet. The manager was so so nice, not only he allowed us to borrow their toilet but also when we were leaving, he gave us chocolate!!!! I feel so loved!!! If only Malaysia restaurant managers practice this; friendly and helpful behaviour, instead of being cheapskate (can only use the toilet if ur a customer!).

*The Chocolate I've received*

AHhhh, some vids I took

*Street performance is very common in

Haeundae Beach*

*Diamond Bridge; it changes colour*

At end of this month, Busan International Fireworks Festival will be held at Gwangalli Beach, so come everyone; I can't wait!!!! For those who are taking the subway, make sure u remember ur way. As me and Aliza both got lost and somehow ended up in another place, and we walked for almost an hour! Then, while on the train, there is this drunk man and suddenly he PUKED! Just before he leave the train!!! Ewww.....