Hey Seoul Sister: Happy Birthday Buddha!

This past weekend I had the pleasure of experiencing a new part of Korea, Busan. Busan is South Korea's second largest city, with a population of about 3.6 million. Busan is known for the 5th largest port in the world. Compared to Seoul's population of over 10 million, Busan was a little slice of heaven.

After riding the KTX for about 2 hours and 50 minutes, I arrived in Busan to bright sunshine and smiling people everywhere. I stayed in Haeundae which is known for its big, sandy beach, flooded with tourists and Koreans with their umbrellas and tents. We stayed in a "women's only hostel" called The Planet Guesthouse. This place was wonderful. Super modern decor, comfy bunk beds, and best of all right on the beach. In the morning, the owner, made each of us breakfast. "A Korean specialty" a fried egg atop a piece of toast with strawberry jam and butter, then drizzled with ketchup and mustard. Strange, yes, but delicious.

Highlights of our trip: laying on the beach in the sun (let's be honest, I am ghostly).

Eating an expensive Italian meal (including an amuse bouche to start, and perfectly cooked pasta).

Taking a night boat cruise and viewing the bright lights of the city.

Visiting Jalgachi Fish Market and getting harrassed by Korean men to eat raw, bloody, sliced up sea worms.

Eating candy coated strawberries on the street. Buying new hair accessories.

Eating two Korean meals in one day. Going to the top of Busan Tower.

Buying 5,000 won shirts and getting completely drenched in the rain.

Drinking gin & tonics and extra large beers at Thursday-Party and meeting awesome new people.

Eating burgers and fries to cure the hangover. And spending quality time with a great, new friend.

As I was exploring this great new city, I wondered whether I would want to stay in Korea for another year, and possibly move to Busan. The city was that appealing, with beaches, great people and culture. I'm going to tuck this idea away for now and ask myself again in 3 months whether or not Busan could be my future home.

All and all it was an amazing weekend, thank you Buddha for being born!