Jeju Vacation

Last week we took a quick trip to a neighboring Korean island called Jeju. Jeju is the ultimate getaway place for Koreans and several neighbors like the Japanese and Chinese. It is a volcanic island and the source of all good products (Jeju grown products like tangerines are better than any other according to most Koreans). It is also a hot honeymoon spot similar to Hawaii. It is only a short 50 minute flight from Busan which was perfect for E. The idea of flying was fun for her and she is at a great age to travel. We had great weather (except for the last day) and were able to do lots of fun things.

Jeju is full of local legends. One is about the grandfathers that are carved from the lava rock placed at entrances as a guard from demons. They also are thought to be gods offering protection and fertility.

Yongduam Rock was created by years of crashing waves but there are several myths like a dragon stealing gems from the mountain and being shot down into the ocean with his head frozen on top or a horse who dreamed of being a dragon was frozen when a soldier stopped him from ascending. Whatever the story it was a beautiful formation.

Chenjeyeon Waterfall is one of several falls on the island meaning 'the pond of the gods'. Seonimgyo Bridge overlooks the 3-part falls and is carved with seven nymphs which descend from heaven at night. E's favorite part was climbing on all the rocks.

Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak (Sunrise Peak) is the top of a volcanic eruption that happened under the sea. It was quite an amazing site from below and at the top of the crater.

Manjanggul Cave is part of the longest lava tube in the world (about 13 km long). Only a portion is open for the public and at the end is this amazing lava formation. E really wanted to see a purple bat in the cave but we had to tell her they were all hiding because they were scared of people. One thing she kept saying about our trip was that she had to wear her jacket because it was cold and that the bats were hiding. It's funny what kids remember!

Jungmun Beach was beautiful! We made several trips back. The sand was course (nice for easy cleanup) and the water was clear, blue and a great temperature. We could be in about 8 feet and still see the bottom. We also loved having some real waves to play in as most of our local beaches are flat.

We decided to go watch a dolphin show and weren't disappointed. It was a 3-part show with monkeys, seals and dolphins. It was great for E and for us!

Jeongbang Falls is the only waterfall in Asia that falls directly into the ocean. Truly amazing.

On our last day we rode the bus to the Jeju Folk Village Museum which is a village created to resemble life on Jeju in the 1800's. Unfortunately the tropical store hit and we only made it to the gate before we went home. Maybe next time?

Overall it was a great trip. E was a great vacationer. We were able to find one of the best burger shops we've ever been to and E found a new best friend that we had to stop and talk to every time we walked by. A highly recommended vacation spot in Asia!