These days, I’ve had a hard time putting down Peter Hessler’s Oracle Bones, a book that explores the recent rapid changes of China’s politics, economy, and culture. I just finished a chapter which investigates the Chinese government’s lack of effort to preserve traditional architecture, especially that of the hutong, water alleyways bordered by courtyard homes. …
Month: April 2011
I’ve really come to know and love Korean food. It took a while for me to acquire a taste for the distinct, bold flavors of Korean cuisine, but after two years of eating it, I now prefer it on any given day. Not only is it (generally) healthier as it’s packed with vegetables and nutrients …
It’s official. After a long, cold winter, spring has finally arrived in Seoul: old men gather around plastic furniture at local convenient stores to drink makeoli, cafes and restaurants spruce up their patios, and best of all, the flowers bloom. While the magnolias and azaleas are stunning, no flower can compare to that of the …
As a kid, I was probably one of the pickiest around. If it wasn’t pasta, pizza, or cheese, it wasn’t going on my dinner plate. There were a few exceptions like olives and artichokes and spinach. Come to think of it, I was probably Italian in a past life. I was so picky, in fact, …
Since my arrival in Korea, I’ve spent my weekends exploring the different neighborhoods of Seoul. I feel like I’ve covered a lot of ground but of all of them, one has remained my favorite. Hongdae is known by most for its amazing nightlife and I have to admit that’s what initially kept me going back …
I feel a bit ashamed at the fact that after living in Korea for two years, I can count on one hand the number of places I’ve been outside of Seoul. So, with the arrival of spring, I’ve made a resolution to get out of the city as often as I can. This past weekend, …