Travel Tales Archives

The moment I experienced an Earthquake in Osaka – Japan

Jul 1, 2018 | Feature, Japan, Travel Tales

On Monday the 18th of June 2018, at 7: 58 am, Osaka was hit by an earthquake that hit 6.1 on the Richter scale, tragically killing three people and injuring hundreds of others.

The earthquake in Osaka, Japan, was the first time I had been involved in an earthquake or any significant natural disaster. While I felt safe throughout the whole experience, my memories of the occasion when the quake shook the earth are still fresh in my mind, and I can’t get over how organised the authorities were from the moment the earthquake in Osaka hit.

The city of Osaka.

The moment I experienced an Earthquake in Osaka – Japan

Sometimes the best-made plans don’t work out.

On the morning of the 18th, I left the hotel at a reasonable hour with a busy day ahead as I was heading out to Nara to visit some temples and deer. After a quick feed and coffee, I was out the door and off to the Kitahama subway station, eventually leading to the Kintetsu-Nara Line.

So far, so good.

Like any other morning in Osaka, I assume it was a routine morning for all commuters. The train had been packed with business people and students going about their everyday routine. Most eyes are fixated on their mobile phone screens and checking out the latest news or social media gossip for the day.

Halfway to Nara, with everyone minding their own business, all the mobile phones on the train gave out a loud alert, including mine. I had no idea what was going on because the message on the phone didn’t specifically mention it was an earthquake; in fact, it read:

“Emergency Alerts

Stay calm and seek shelter nearby.”

The emergency response text message.

Emergency! Take cover? WTF. Those were the thoughts racing through my head.

Was it terrorism? Were we under attack? Had there been a significant incident somewhere in the city? I was somewhat rattled by not having any understanding.

Fortunately, a high school student sitting next to me on the train had seen my puzzled look and good on her for reaching out. In broken English, she said, “earthquake.”

“Earthquake,” I repeated, and my jaw must have hit the floor because a few other people in my vicinity were laughing at my reaction to the earthquake. At least everyone on board was relaxed, a clear tale sign that things may not appear to be so bad, just another day for them, remembering that earthquakes in Japan are frequent.

It’s important to note that I never actually felt the earth move while sitting on the train. That would happen during the next 24-hours when I felt a few tremors with the aftershocks following the major quake, which got my heart racing also.

At the same time, the alarms were belting out over the phones. Announcements went over the speakers, but it was naturally all said in Japanese, so it didn’t help me get an idea of what was going on. At about the same time, I was getting my head around it. I could safely assume that the train had come to a complete halt, much like every train in Osaka.

We sat there for much longer than I anticipated, although time was going quick due to the mind being fixated on the morning’s events. I messaged my wife in Australia to tell her the circumstances, posted a message on Facebook and for the next hour, I checked the news on the [easyazon_link identifier=” B06Y14T5YW” locale=” US” tag=” fdt0c-20”]Samsung Galaxy[/easyazon_link]phone about the earthquake in Osaka.

commuters wait patiently on the train.

Finally, albeit slowly, the train began to move, taking us only as far as the next station, where we waited longer, with more announcements over the speakers and the local authorities walking back and forth on the train. Finally, we were let out of the train at the Ikoma Station, where we stayed for more hours. As the time began to crawl, boredom had indeed sunk in.

With no idea what was happening, I asked a different student, with my phone translator, “how long,” he answered it would be another 1-2 hours. I nodded my head. There was nothing I could do about it, I bought a terrible coffee from the vending machines, and I waited much like everyone else.

After about a four-hour wait, trains began to move; I decided to head back to the city instead of going out of Nara. I didn’t want to wander too far from the city at this stage, especially during uncertainty.

I took the train back to Osaka, but the sightseeing didn’t end there as I explored different parts of the city with everyone out and about in Osaka City with little fear of the earthquake that happened in the morning. While the experience stayed on my mind for the rest of the trip, I’ll never forget the moment I experienced my first earthquake in Osaka.

A long delay on the platform during the earthquake in Osaka.

A shout out to the emergency responses in Osaka

I need to applaud the emergency responses in Osaka, from the instant alert to the phones, to the authorities reacting quickly to assure everyone’s safety, the situation had been handled like clockwork, and I send a huge thank you to everyone involved.

As I said, I felt safe and out of harm’s way the whole time. However, it was a great comfort to know that the city of Osaka had organised structures in place in case of emergencies.

Google’s alert of the earthquake in Osaka.

Osaka-Kyoto Diaries – Days 1-2 – Visiting Japan for the Very First Time

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The Experience of Tasting Durian for the very First Time in Malaysia

May 14, 2018 | Malaysia, Travel Tales

Durian, the well-known tropical fruit native to Southeast Asia, captivates our curiosity not merely due to its taste or distinct appearance but predominantly due to its unique and spicy aroma that can make people flee in fright at the mere thought of trying it.

I must confess that I, too, have been acquainted with Durian for some time now. And by “acquainted,” I mean I’ve heard of this fruit but have never ventured into tasting it. However, all of that changed during a recent vacation to Malaysia when I found myself diving headfirst into the extraordinary experience of trying Durian. It was an opportunity that I hesitantly embraced, as this peculiar fruit is abundantly found throughout the bustling streets of Kuala Lumpur.

My hesitance stems primarily from the numerous unflattering reviews about durians. Like many others, these unfavourable accounts had successfully deterred me from embarking on a culinary journey with this enigmatic fruit.

However, my perspective shifted when I encountered a couple of Malaysian friends during my previous travels in Laos. They fervently insisted I try the fruit once I returned to their homeland. With no room for negotiation as a guest in their extraordinary country, I reluctantly obliged and begrudgingly embarked on this unique gastronomic adventure.

My Malaysian friends introduce me to tasting Durian.

An Experience of Tasting Durian in Malaysia

It happened on a sunny afternoon on the outskirts of Kuala Lumpur, the vibrant capital city of Malaysia. After an exhilarating day out with my Malaysian friends, riding the thrilling ATVs that whisked us through the breathtaking landscapes, we decided to make a pitstop at a charming fruit shop. As we entered, we were immediately captivated by the unique market setup that greeted us. Hundreds of durians, the iconic fruit of the country, adorned the spacious shelves, enticing our senses with their distinct aroma.

Although bare at that moment, the shelves were a sight to behold. A truck filled to the brim with fresh durians had arrived just moments before. The shopkeeper promptly shelved the precious cargo, carefully organizing them into five distinct category classes. Class-one durians, the epitome of perfection, were elegantly displayed at the top, gradually descending to class-five, which housed the imperfect but equally delectable fruits.

The atmosphere in the fruit shop was filled with anticipation as customers eagerly examined each Durian, searching for the one that would awaken their taste buds with its rich, creamy texture and heavenly flavour. It was a truly immersive experience, immersing ourselves in Malaysia’s vibrant fruit culture’s sights, sounds, and scents.

A boutique little fruit shop that hosts a range of yummy fruits.

At this stage, I couldn’t comprehend the extensive discussions about its distinct smell. Standing close, I found nothing offensive about it; it seemed rather ordinary to me. Of course, that’s just my perspective, as my olfactory senses failed to detect anything unusual.

My friends, resembling connoisseurs of selecting premium fruits, meticulously handpicked two hefty and extravagant durians, priced at approximately 30 Australian dollars each. A skilled fruit shop employee produced a substantial knife and commenced the preparation of the durians.

Gathered around a modest table adorned with a couple of stools, it was time to partake in the Malaysian-style durian experience.

Preparing the Durian for a little tasting session.

The Secret Confession of My Durian Experience

The taste of this fruit was unlike anything I had ever experienced. As it was my first time trying it, I couldn’t quite find the words to describe its uniqueness. Let me give it a shot!

The taste was surprisingly creamy, with just a hint of sweetness that mingled with a subtle bitterness. At first bite, it didn’t immediately captivate my taste buds, but the table was filled with abundant food, so I persevered in my quest to become acquainted with its flavours. I even dared to hope that I might eventually come to savour and appreciate it.

The Durians are selling fast if you can believe that.

For my confession, I must reveal whether my Malaysian acquaintances may stumble upon this narrative or perhaps not. But when tasting Durian, I am compelled to confess that I feigned enjoyment. Beneath a composed countenance, the truth remains that the allure of this peculiar fruit eluded me.

I cannot surrender myself to the sentiment of adoration for the taste of Durian. While I refrain from uttering “hate” when describing this exotic fruit, I must admit that its distinctive flavour never captivates my palate. It is worth mentioning that the Durian I sampled was purportedly of unparalleled quality.

Allow me to express my honesty when disclosing that a single durian commanded a lofty price of $30 at the esteemed purveyor in Malaysia. Rest assured. However, my eagerness to embark on another tasting venture remains quite tempered for this particular food in Malaysia.

Have you tasted Durian before? Did you like it? Explain in the comments below what you thought of the taste when you first tried Durian.

What do you think of the unique taste?

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The Moment in Life I Caught the Travel Bug

Feb 10, 2018 | Feature, Travel Tales

Throughout my life, travel has unexpectedly found its way into my heart. Growing up, I didn’t have the privilege of embarking on grand adventures or indulging in overseas escapades—such experiences were merely distant dreams. They remained unrealized.

This frequently leaves me pondering: how did a fully-grown adult with no childhood memories of travel and limited exploration during early adulthood develop a profound addiction to it?

I find the allure of wanderlust, the thrill of discovering new places, immersing in different cultures, and the sense of liberation it brings irresistible. Journeying to uncharted territories has opened my eyes to the vast possibilities beyond routine’s confines. It has breathed life into me in ways I never imagined possible.

Looking back, I realize it’s never too late to embrace the joys and wonders of travel. It’s a path rich with personal growth, discovery, and tremendous memories waiting to be made. So, I continue seeking new horizons, fueled by the passion and zest that travel has instilled in me.

The Moment in Life I Caught the Travel Bug

I sometimes ponder the same question, as it always bewilders me. My ultimate conclusion is that once travel became a part of my life, I was instantly struck with an irresistible desire commonly known as the travel bug. Once bitten, everything changed irrevocably.

As mentioned earlier, travel was virtually non-existent during my childhood, aside from the occasional journey from Melbourne to Sydney, where we savoured glorious vacations along the renowned Manly Beach tourist strip.

However, those memories now appear hazy, as the trips to Sydney ceased when I turned eleven. From that point forward, travel reached a complete standstill until I embraced fatherhood.

Teaching the Monks in Laos was an incredible travel experience.

The Story of How I Caught the Travel Bug!

The very first time I ventured to an overseas destination was at the age of twenty-one in 2002. It was an exciting opportunity from my military deployment to East Timor for peacekeeping purposes. Surprisingly, I didn’t require a passport to enter the country, as the Australian Defence Force covered everything.

East Timor left an indelible impression on me. Although we were in our little bubble, constantly on guard, I still caught a glimpse of a third-world country in the process of finding its footing. Observing the locals from afar, I gained a unique insight into their everyday lives.

After East Timor, travel came to a temporary halt. But I wouldn’t hesitate to call my visit to Timor an authentic travel experience. It wasn’t until 2005 that I embarked on my second overseas trip. This time, armed with a valid passport, I accompanied my Korean girlfriend (now my wife) to her home country of South Korea. It was a short trip but fascinating nonetheless. I had my very first encounter with an East Asian country.

With its vibrant and dynamic culture, South Korea offered me an intriguing blend of history and modernity. I must admit that I had a few embarrassing moments during my adventures in Seoul, which left me with a mega hangover. But overall, it was a memorable getaway, allowing me to explore a country with a rich heritage and a proud culture, all wrapped up in a modern package.

Gyeongbokgung Palace, South Korea

I am unsure if I could resist the travel bug, but I had a nibble.

After my first trip to South Korea (which I’ve been fortunate to visit several times since), I knew deep down that travel was my calling. However, there was just one hurdle in my path – I was utterly broke and starting a family. With these responsibilities, I had to prioritize meaningful employment.

Sadly, travel then took a complete hiatus. And it lasted far too long – a whole eight years, to be exact.

During those eight years, I did manage to embark on a few adventures within Australia. A honeymoon on the Gold Coast, a few trips to Melbourne, and some local explorations in Western Australia. I vividly remember visiting the enchanting Pilbara region in the North and being captivated by the magnificent South West Region, renowned for its wineries, stunning beaches, and towering trees.

Yet, it was always an overseas adventure that genuinely ignited my wanderlust. I spoke about it incessantly, but the reality was that I could never afford it. This constant unattainability deeply saddened me because all I yearned for was the chance to venture into unfamiliar lands and immerse myself in new cultures.

Then, in 2013, something magical happened. I ventured beyond Australian shores again, this time to the enchanting paradise of Fiji. And oh, how I fell in love with the place! Fiji truly embodied the essence of heaven, boasting breathtaking 5-star resorts, pristine white beaches, and unforgettable day tours to idyllic smaller islands. Sipping cocktails by the pool, I felt sheer bliss, embracing the lap of luxury.

But you know what? The highlight of Fiji wasn’t just its awe-inspiring natural beauty. It was the locals themselves – the Fijians. Even to this day, they remain my favourite people. Full of infectious happiness and a laid-back approach to life (and I mean very laid-back), they always had a smile on their faces and were constantly serenading the world with their beautiful songs. Being in the company of these incredible individuals made me realize that happiness isn’t tied to wealth and material possessions.

Exploring Fiji.

The Fijian trip was the catalyst that ignited a burning desire within me to explore more of the world. It opened up a new world of possibilities, leading me to countless adventures in various Asian countries. From the mesmerizing landscapes of Bali, Thailand, and South Korea to the vibrant cultures of Vietnam, Laos, Singapore, and Malaysia – I experienced it all. These journeys offered a profound insight into different cultures and allowed me to forge connections with the warmhearted locals.

The travel bug had truly bitten me, and I couldn’t get enough. I sought every opportunity to wander and wander some more, embracing the enriching experiences that travel brought to my life. The best part was that it wasn’t just me who benefited from this nomadic lifestyle.

My family, especially my kids, reaped the rewards as well. Unlike me, who didn’t venture beyond Australian shores until I was twenty-one, my children had already explored many countries before reaching double digits. I couldn’t think of a better education for them – a firsthand understanding of different cultures and their unique ways of life.

Educating the kids in new destinations.

It’s no secret that putting in hard work is critical to making progress, and that’s precisely what I did. I dedicated myself to working diligently, accumulating ample vacation days, and embarking on frequent journeys. On average, I explored different destinations at least six times a year.

Of course, to hit the road more often, I had to tighten my budget. Although my income was stable, I made the necessary sacrifices to reduce junk food consumption, cut back on alcohol, and eliminate unnecessary luxuries like pay TV and sporting memberships. I have no regrets about these choices; my ultimate goal was to prioritize travelling.

After catching the travel bug, which took about 30 years to develop fully, I realized it was only natural to start a travel blog and transform my passion into a career. While travel may not be a full-time adventure, it is rapidly becoming the focal point of my lifestyle.

Has the travel bug bitten you? Tell me your story in the comments below.

Precious family moments in James Bond island, Thailand.

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A Desire to turn a dream into Reality – Visiting Antarctica

Sep 22, 2017 | Feature, Travel Tales

As a seasoned traveller, I have had the privilege of visiting many countries with unique treasures and experiences.

From my time spent in East Timor during peacekeeping efforts to teaching English to monks in Laos and even stepping foot into the demilitarised zone of Korea, I have been enriched by the cultures and histories of the places I have explored. But, despite all of these incredible experiences, my thirst for adventure remains insatiable.

At the top of my bucket list is visiting Antarctica, a land of endless icy expanses and natural wonders that has captivated my imagination for years. Watching documentaries and reading the accounts of other travel writers who have stood on its frozen grounds only fuels my desire to set foot on those same icy shores.

While the journey to this dream destination may be long and arduous, I know that I can make it a reality with hard work and determination. So, I press forward to pursue my dreams, eager to add another remarkable destination to my ever-expanding travel resume.

A desire to cruise to Antarctica.

A Desire to Turn a Dream into Reality – Visiting Antarctica

Visiting Antarctica is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that will surely strike awe in anyone lucky enough to make the journey. Imagine boarding a massive cruise ship in Argentina and setting off towards the Earth’s most Southern Continent – it’s hard not to feel a sense of excitement and anticipation just thinking about it! Yes, it would undoubtedly be cold, but the chance to explore such a unique and isolated environment would be worth braving the chill.

And once you arrive, you can expect the unexpected – witnessing the stunning ice glaciers up close and immersing yourself in a new world is an experience that’s hard to put into words. So if you’re up for an adventure like no other, consider adding Antarctica to your bucket list – the excitement and curiosity of this journey will stay with you long after you’ve left.

One of the biggest draws of this icy wonderland is, undoubtedly, the incredible wildlife that calls it home. From the giant killer whales that rule the icy waters to the cute and cuddly penguins that waddle along the shorelines, there is no shortage of unique species to discover.

There’s something extraordinary about seeing these creatures in their natural habitat, where they have adapted to harsh conditions and fight for survival every day. And who doesn’t love penguins? These adorable little guys are a true crowd favourite, and watching them play and interact with their families in Antarctica is a true privilege. So, if you want to experience the magic of Antarctica and its incredible wildlife, don’t wait – start planning your visit today!

Penguins of Antarctica. Picture from Pexels.

Antarctica, a land shrouded in mystery and wonder, has captured the attention of adventurers and nature enthusiasts worldwide. From kayaking through the breathtakingly beautiful freezing waters to setting up camp on the ice, the range of activities is exceptional. Taking a hike in unfamiliar climates or daring to experience the polar plunge may not be for the faint of heart, but the sheer thrill of adventure makes anyone want to pack their bags and head off on a long expedition.

With abundant stunning scenery, the chance to capture breathtaking photographs of this incredible place is not to be missed. Although the uncertainty of when visiting Antarctica will be possible, one thing is sure – it’s high on the bucket list of many a wanderlust-stricken individual, myself included. As someone who believes in making dreams a reality, I’ll keep my fingers crossed and hope to visit this incredible region someday soon.

Have you ever dreamed of visiting Antarctica? Or have you already been lucky enough to experience this incredible continent? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below!

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Visiting Antarctica is high on my bucket list—picture by Pexels.

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Parasailing and Jet Skiing – Tanjung Benoa, Bali – Indonesia

Mar 14, 2017 | Indonesia, Travel Tales

I have always loved to go with the flow regarding holidays and travel. So when I found myself strolling along the beaches of Tanjung Benoa Bali in Indonesia, I wasn’t surprised that I hadn’t made any specific plans for what to do next.

There, I met a local man looking to organise some water activities on the bay. He was kind and accommodating, and it didn’t take long for me to join his group and try my hand at some of the exciting water sports on offer. That’s the beauty of travelling without a set plan; you never know what exciting experiences and adventures may come your way.

I finally caved to their persuasive powers and decided to go for it – the low prices were just too tempting to pass up. After some tough negotiations, I paid a few dollars for the events on Tanjung Benoa Beach and prepared myself for serious action on the water. As I looked out at the waves, excitement coursed through my veins.

Parasailing and Jet Skiing in Tanjung Benoa would be an adventure. And besides, even with the cost of the beach activities factored in, it was still a fraction of what I would have paid back home in Australia. With a grin, I dove in and let the adrenaline lead the way.

Need to find Luxury Bali Accommodation in Tanjung Benoa? Check out excellent prices at Booking.com!

Tanjung Benoa Beach, where the water activities take place.

Parasailing and Jet Skiing – Tanjung Benoa, Bali – Indonesia

Parasailing and Jet Skiing in Tanjung Benoa, Bali, is a fantastic experience! You can feel the wind as you soar above stunning views of Indonesia. It’s a thrill like no other – let your adventurous side loose with aquatic fun that will make for unforgettable memories!

The Process when wanting to partake in Tanjung Benoa Watersport

The next bit for me is a blur upon agreeing to their prices; again, it’s excellent. You pay at the counter, then you are rushed immediately to the boat that will take you to the Parasailing. No boring bits and no waiting around; it’s bloody fantastic, I tell you.

It is that easy when it comes to the many companies that run the Dive and Water sports in Tanjung Benoa; they want to entertain their client and make your Bali travel experience all worthwhile and get you having fun immediately.

Find the best water activities in Tanjung Benoa at Get Your Guide!

I am taking the rusted old blue boat to the Parasailing on Tanjung Benoa Beach.

Adventure Parasailing at great heights to begin the Bali Water sports

Transferring from one boat to another, there is a little bit of a wait as others have their turn in front of you, but no more than 20 minutes which any person in a hurry can live with, not that I was in a rush, of course. Being the last to go meant I got to look at their terrified faces before being hoisted into the sky, bringing a smug smile to me.

It’s my turn to go, and sorry, there is no camera for the gorgeous view. I am hit with upon rising high into the almost clear sky; if only I had a go-pro at the time. There are a few clouds about, but it doesn’t hurt the moment. The view is breathtaking, and the experience is more than worth it, especially for the cost I paid, while you relax sky-high and take it all in. It’s all over in about ten minutes, too quick; I could have spent much longer taking in the surroundings of Benoa Bali.

I was getting high in the blue sky.

I was descending from the sail.

Jet Skiing The Bay on the busy beaches

Time is never wasted on Tanjung Benoa. As soon as I am off the boat for the Parasailing, I am on the jet skis. This fantastic experience raises the hair a little more because the Tanjung Benoa beach is always crowded with boats and other jet skis everywhere you look; at times, you wonder if this is safe, you only hope it is, I suppose.

But you are not alone the whole time. An experienced instructor is with you since I have zero experience with the jet ski. Yes, I am in my thirties and have never gone jet skiing; the instructor negotiates the busy beach area until I am virtually isolated in the ocean alone. Then it’s my turn, and it’s full throttle on my own as I negotiate the sea’s swells and enjoy every moment of the first experience. The adrenaline of the whole thing is such a rush; I am like a kid on Christmas day; the smile can’t go away.

I am getting a little Jet ski action.

We go on the jet skis during our Tanjung Benoa water sports Bali experience.

Checking it off the bucket list

Being out on the water always makes me feel more alive than ever. And when I hear the engines of a jet ski revving up, or I feel the wind in my face as I soar above the sea while parasailing, I can’t help but smile from ear to ear. Sure, some people might think it’s strange for a guy in his thirties to get so excited about these things, but I don’t care.

These experiences are new and thrilling, and I’m just grateful to be able to try them out. Who knows, maybe one day I’ll even overcome my fear of heights and try skydiving too. But for now, I’m just enjoying the rush of the water and the excitement of trying something new.

What else goes on in the Tanjung Benoa Beach

When I first arrived in Tanjung Benoa, Bali, I was overwhelmed by the number of exciting things to do. I was drawn to snorkelling and scuba diving, where I explored the beautiful underwater world of Bali.

Of course, there are classic tourist activities like Parasailing and jet skis, but there’s so much more than that. dBoat tours are also a must-do, taking you to stunning attractions around the island. And if you’re looking for a thrill, don’t miss out on the keyboard or banana boat rides.

The best part? There are so many beach activities to choose from; you’re guaranteed to have a blast no matter what you decide to do.

1. Parasailing
Parasailing is an activity where you are attached to a parachute and towed behind a boat. It is a popular activity in Tanjung Benoa, giving you stunning views of the coastline and the island.

2. Jet skiing
Jet skiing is another popular water activity in Tanjung Benoa. You can rent a jet ski and explore the coastline quickly. Be sure to wear a life jacket and follow the safety instructions provided by the rental company.

3. Snorkeling
Snorkelling is a great way to see the underwater world without scuba diving. There are many snorkelling spots in Tanjung Benoa with various fish and coral. Wear sunscreen as you will be in the water for extended periods.

4. Scuba diving
Scuba diving is an excellent option for those who want to explore the underwater world more. Many scuba diving schools in Tanjung Benoa offer beginner courses. Once you have completed a class, you can go on diving trips with a certified instructor to see some of the best dive sites in the area.

5. Banana boat
The banana boat is a popular activity for families and groups of friends. You will be towed behind a boat while sitting on an inflatable banana-shaped raft. Be sure to hold on tight, as you will likely get wet!

Find the best water activities in Tanjung Benoa at Get Your Guide!

Don’t forget your travel Insurance before any beach activities

As someone who has travelled to Bali multiple times, I cannot stress enough the importance of purchasing travel insurance before embarking on extreme movements. While the beaches in Tanjung Benoa are stunning, accidents can still happen, and it’s better to be safe than sorry.

As you plan your itinerary and start compiling a list of things to do in Tanjung Benoa, don’t forget to factor in the cost of travel insurance. Trust me; it’s a small price to pay for peace of mind knowing you’re covered in case anything goes wrong. So book that parasailing adventure or jet ski ride, but make sure you have your travel insurance ready before you hit the beach.

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The Night a Korean Alcoholic Drink Made me a Fool in Seoul

Aug 5, 2016 | South Korea, Travel Tales

Greetings, fellow adventurers! Welcome to Travel Tales – where I tell all my wild stories worldwide. In Seoul, an unexpected Korean alcoholic drink entered my hands and turned me into a drunk fool for one night only (thank god!). This story might make me look foolish… but no adventure is complete without a few embarrassing moments you can giggle about later.

My first-ever trip abroad had started grandly with hopes of extraordinary encounters ahead; little did I know it would end so quickly with some humble lessons learned and plenty of laughs along the way! So please sit back, relax, and grab your favourite beer or wine — let’s reminisce on this unforgettable scene as we bring these travel tales to life at last.

The night, a Korean alcoholic drink, made me a fool in Seoul. Picture by Pexels

Setting the scene in Seoul

Arriving in Seoul as a first-time traveller was nerve-racking. I waved off pesky taxi drivers who offered me rides and waited for my Korean girlfriend, who had travelled back home earlier than me. After she arrived late at the airport, all apologetic, we were finally ready to go! We went straight towards her family’s house, where everyone gathered around with welcoming arms (and some curious glances).

It indeed wasn’t what I expected on this trip. Still, it ended up being one of those genuinely remarkable memories that stick out like no other from travels past – an experience complete with great company and beautiful moments worth cherishing forever!

We had a fabulous lunch to kick off our first day in Seoul and planned for an epic evening ahead; however, little did I know that the night would be much more than I expected! It was my sister-in-law’s engagement party – things were going great until all hell broke loose. But trust me when I say you won’t believe what happened next!

I have gotten a little more familiar with Korean food and a Korean alcoholic drink over the years.

What Happened that night with the Korean alcoholic drink?

I was a curious Aussie, standing in the cold and watching as young men charged up the street chanting. I had never seen anything like this before – it seemed to be some engagement party – or at least that’s what they called it: ‘hamn”.

As far as I could tell, women on one side were trying to persuade a group of men into their house by any means necessary, whether through music and dancing, gifts or other tactics! After about an hour’s hard work (which included more than its fair share of noise!), finally, there is a success…and with that comes treasure – namely, cheers from all gathered around ushering the future bride inside for festivities ahead!

As the only non-Korean speaking person in a room full of Koreans, I felt out of place. My Korean girlfriend sat beside me but was preoccupied with catching up after our long flight from Seoul. With everyone else deep in conversation and laughter, my attention shifted towards the food before us at the table – so much unknown to me except for its foreignness!

I mustered courage as I scooped an unfamiliar dish onto my plate; it didn’t look quite enticing, considering how tired I already felt post-travel. But surprisingly enough, that first bite changed everything – no wonder why there were so many conversations around this particular meal, like what had gotten into this house!

I was feeling so out of place and drained from the long day, but when a conversation drifted my way, I suddenly found myself becoming part of something special. It seemed like it just dawned on them that an outsider was in their presence – yet this only spurred curiosity about who I am!

I don’t know what hit me more; those questions or the Soju these young Korean men passed around. The first taste sent pleasure running through me with its smooth sensation – no wonder why they consider it one of the finest spirits ever known! But once you start, it’s hard to stop…one glass soon became two. Three, which eventually led to fifteen (no kidding)—with each drink, language barriers disappeared while laughter filled our conversations until morning light arrived – memories fully intact thanks to that fantastic Soju experience!

The rest of the night was a total blur! I shamelessly grabbed the karaoke mic and tried to serenade it, but my rendition of Boyz II Men’s “I’ll Make Love To You” didn’t quite hit all the right notes. My romantic moment quickly ended as they ripped away that fateful microphone before it could reach its climax—unfortunately for me, no lovemaking this time around.

Afterwards? Blackout-town! I’m not sure how I’d gotten there in the first place, but it looks like their momma bear didn’t precisely appreciate napping in my sister-in-law’s bed. Talk about an awkward introduction, though. The next thing I knew, there were repeated smacks on my shoulder–as if someone was saying, “hello again?!”

From the second I set foot out of that taxi, a wave of nausea crashed into me. Before I knew it, my stomach contents were exploding in front of the house where we’d been staying – and this was only the beginning! For four long days afterwards, vomiting continued to ravage my body as alcohol poisoning took its toll. Suffice it to say – all thanks go towards none other than myself for this particularly wild ride.

My inaugural pilgrimage to Korea was a colossal misstep, so cringeworthy that it’s become part of family folklore. It won’t rank in my top trips for precious memories anytime soon!

Oh yeah, and whatever happened to that girlfriend at the time? Surely her family didn’t let me stick around. Nothing could be further from the truth. I made her my wife a couple of years later, and to this day, we are still going secure with a couple of new additions to the family.

The night a Korean alcoholic drink made me a fool in Seoul was also the first and last time I ever drank Soju.

Are you heading to Seoul? Look for accommodation on TripAdvisor.