South Korean Diaries: Day 4-6 – Family Bonding in Seoul

South Korean Diaries: Day 4-6 – Family Bonding in Seoul

They are exploring South Korea as a family has been an absolute dream come true. On days 4-6, it was all about spending quality time together in the bustling city of Seoul.

We visited some incredible attractions, such as Kidzania and Lotte World, that left us in awe. In addition, we also had the opportunity to delve into the country’s rich history by visiting the majestic Gyeongbokgung Palace.

However, what truly made our trip unforgettable was our visit to Hangang Park, where we had a wonderful time bonding with each other and enjoying the stunning views of the river. Our South Korean diaries are filled with incredible memories, and I can’t wait to see what other adventures await us in this great country.

 

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family bonding in Seoul

Family bonding in Seoul at Hangang Park is a great escape for a whole heap of fun.

 

Highlights of South Korean Diaries: Day 4 – 6 – Family Bonding in Seoul

Reflecting on my recent trip to Seoul, South Korea, my heart fills with warmth as I recall our family bonding experiences on days 4-6 of our journey. From exploring the intricate architecture of Gyeongbokgung Palace to indulging in traditional Korean cuisine at a local restaurant, every moment spent with my loved ones was unforgettable.

Taking part in cultural activities like attending a Korean tea ceremony and trying on traditional clothing brought us closer, fostering a deeper understanding of each other’s perspectives. Though half a world away from home, these shared experiences made us feel more connected than ever before as we had family bonding in Seoul.

 

Day 4 – Kidzania in Seoul

As the train pulled into Jamsil Station on this busy holiday, we were ready for another adventure in Seoul. Our destination was Kidzania, a career centre for kids where they could try their hand at various professions. Although we had heard that this place was mainly for children, we decided to check it out and meet up with some new friends. The friendly atmosphere and fun-filled activities made us forget the crowded streets outside.

While Kidzania may have been geared towards kids, we couldn’t help but admire this place’s creativity and possibilities – it was a world of endless opportunities. We watched as our young companions made ice cream, acted as journalists, and even got a taste of what it’s like to be a pilot for Korean Air. Seeing their faces light up with excitement as they explored their dreams and aspirations was such a joy.

 

Kidzania Seoul

Kidzania in Seoul, South Korea.

 

Parents, let’s face it: patience is a virtue. But sometimes, when you’re knee-deep in chaos and your kids are running amuck, you might need a break. Thankfully, there’s a coffee shop on the third floor where you can kick back and relax while the little ones play to their heart’s content.

Of course, if you want to go all out and give your kids an unforgettable experience, Lotte World is the place to be. It’s not cheap, but worth it for the well-crafted rides, shows, and attractions that will keep your kids entertained for hours.

After all that excitement, you’ll need a good meal. Shabu-Shabu is a must-visit restaurant where you can indulge in thinly sliced beef and seafood dipped into a bowl of boiled, spicy stock. Just trust us on this one.

 

shabu-shabu

Shabu-Shabu, Korean Style.

 

After indulging in a delicious meal, going for a walk and burning those extra calories is always a good idea. And what better place to do that than in the Children’s Grand Park? Not only is the scenery jaw-droppingly beautiful, but the park also boasts various facilities such as playgrounds and sports fields.

On top of that, admission to the zoo is free, even though it may not feature all exotic animals. The indoor botanical garden is a visitor’s favourite, but the water feature is even more impressive. Beyond all that, you’ll find a variety of cafes and restaurants, meaning you’ll have everything you need at your fingertips. Playground doesn’t even describe what you’ll find here, so add the Children’s Grand Park to your Seoul itinerary.

 

Children’s Grand playground, South Korea.

 

 

Day 5 – A little Korean Culture

When my wife and kids left to visit family, I knew what I had to do – explore! I didn’t have to go far to stumble upon the magnificent Gyeongbokgung Palace, just a stone’s throw away from where we were staying.

The Palace is a breathtaking attraction with its vast palaces, gardens, and water features. It took me a good couple of hours to walk around the immense castle, first built in 1395 and has survived numerous difficult times, particularly with the Japanese. Overall, it was an incredible experience I wouldn’t forget anytime soon. However, I’ll save that story for my upcoming feature on Gyeongbokgung.

 

Gyeongbokgung Palace

Gyeongbokgung Palace, Seoul, South Korea.

 

My dinner that night was a Korean BBQ, an absolute must-try for any foodie. The tantalizing smell of cut-up beef sizzling on a fire in front of us was irresistible. After a day filled with cultural experiences, nothing is better than capping it off with authentic Korean cuisine.

Of course, the meal was accompanied by a range of delicious side dishes and being in Korea, it wouldn’t be complete without a bottle of Cass Beer. While it may seem daunting to venture down the side alleys in Seoul, these hidden gems are where you’ll often find some of the best restaurants in town.

So take a chance and explore; you never know what delightful treats await you in the darkness.

 

Gyeongbokgung Palace

Gyeongbokgung Palace, South Korea.

 

 

Day 6 – Hangang Park by the Han River

As a parent, sometimes you must get creative to entertain your kids. Today, I found myself in that exact situation. Without the help of my wife, our South Korean translator, I needed to devise a plan to make the most of our low-key day.

I decided to jump on the subway and head to Hangang Park in Seoul. The park is suitable in the city’s heart, with the beautiful Han River running alongside it. There’s so much for kids to see and do in this beautiful park, from cycling to picnicking and everything in between. It’s the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy a peaceful day in nature. Even though it was just another low-key day, we turned it into a fun and memorable experience.

 

Spring in Seoul

Spring is beautiful in Seoul.

 

Our day in the bustling city was filled with excitement and adventure. We were finally able to experience the thrill of playing Aussie Rules football, much to the confusion of the locals. However, most of our time was spent exploring the city on our hired bikes, taking in the breathtaking views of the river. We stopped for lunch at a familiar palace called Mcdonald’s, perfect for refuelling with some delicious fast food.

As the day turned into night, we indulged in a delicious traditional Korean dinner of spicy and garlic chicken, delivered right to our doorstep. And to top it off, we even had tap beer produced alongside our meal. It was the perfect way to wind down and enjoy the comforts of our apartment.

 

Follow the Korean Diairies with the links Below – 

South Korean Diaries: Days 1-3 – Seoul Delight for a third time

South Korean Diaries: Day 7-9 – Insadong, Baseball and Myeongdong

 

Hangang Park

Hangang Park, South Korea

 

[embedyt] http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rh1QueEKQ4o&width=700&height=423[/embedyt

 

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South Korean Diaries: Days 1-3 – Seoul Delight for a third time

South Korean Diaries: Days 1-3 – Seoul Delight for a third time

When April 2016 arrived, I had already been to South Korea twice in 10 years, yet my anticipation for a third visit felt higher than ever. I was ready to take on two weeks of pure bliss from Seoul’s never-ending nightlife; this trip would be one incredible Seoul Delight!

For this particular trip to the East Asian country, we set up a base to spend the whole time in South Korea’s capital city instead of spreading my wings and exploring the entire country as I did in an exhausting trip in Christmas time of 2013 where I visited Busan, Jeju and Muju to name but a few top choice destinations in South Korea.

With an ideally located Airbnb apartment in the Gyeongbokgung area of the city, click here for an interesting story on my Airbnb experience; it was a perfect two weeks in the big city that is always having a party, and now let’s get into the opening part of South Korean Diaries – Days 1-3 – Seoul Delight for a third time.

 

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Seoul delight

Seoul delight in South Korea.

 

 
 

South Korean Diaries: Days 1-3 – Seoul Delight for a third time

As I stepped off the plane and into the vibrant city of Seoul, I knew I was in for an adventure. This was my third time visiting this incredible city, but it never exceeded my expectations. The bustling streets were filled with locals and tourists alike, all eager to explore the many sights and sounds of the city. There was never a dull moment; from traditional markets to modern shopping centres, it simply was a Seoul delight.

 

korean dress

Arriving in South Korea and dressing up in style, traditional style. 

 

Day 1 – Arriving in South Korea for a Remarkable Seoul Delight

As mentioned, we arrived in South Korea for our third trip here. It has been a long, fourteen-hour flight, including transit; we are weary, exhausted and hungry. Arriving at Incheon international airport has lifted our spirits, not only because we have arrived at a glamorous and spectacular airport considered one of the world’s best but because we have arrived in a country that is undoubtedly number one in my book.

After arriving in Seoul, we made our way to Gyeongbokgung, a bustling part of the town home to the renowned Palace. Our Airbnb check-in wasn’t ready yet, so we visited a local food court for lunch and sampled authentic Korean cuisine. I opted for Dumpling Soup with rice cake – it was mouthwateringly delicious! And if that weren’t enough reward already – this gastronomic delight also came at an incredibly reasonable price! My first experience trying traditional Korean fare certainly didn’t disappoint; my hunger pangs subsided as soon as I took my first bite.

Finally, it is two in the afternoon, check-in time and up to the sixth floor of an eighteen-story apartment. The Room is ideal, kitchen, bathroom, living area and queen size bed downstairs and two beds for the kids in the loft upstairs. Perfect for a family of four. After a rest, it’s time to see the in-laws, at least my wife’s two sisters and their family; we meet at their fishing shop and eat one of Koreans finest and famous meals, bulgogi, a marinated beef grilled with vegetables, yummo. After the meal, it is home once again with the subway, it is a confusing system, but it works, and trains run all the time. We arrive at the apartment at nine pm, and it is fair we don’t remember much from there. We are all out like a light.

 

Korean bulgogi

Korean Bulgogi, South Korea

 

Day two – Exploring Gyeongbokgung

After a rejuvenating slumber, we awaken, ready to explore the wonders of South Korea! My wife – who is Korean herself – leads us on an incredible journey filled with culture and fun. Even through the bustling streets, she remains our faithful tour guide, translator, wife and mother all at once; however, this trip can be more taxing for her than it is for me as she treks back home.

We wander around the Gyeongbokgung area, a busy place is known for its office workers. It has a modern look, with trendy shops and many restaurants, mainly local cuisine. It also contains familiar names amongst the westerners, such as KFC, Starbucks and Baskin-Robbins, yum yum. Therefore it is amongst high-rise buildings and apartments, with just about every second shop in the vicinity being a café; no problem for me there; I love my coffee. But I haven’t come all this way to indulge in food I can eat at home, although I am sure my taste buds will desire it soon.

As we explored the bustling streets of Korea, my taste buds were drawn to a hidden gem of a restaurant known for its black noodles. Despite the crowded atmosphere, the restaurant staff quickly delivered our meal and ensured our satisfaction. The neatly prepared dish was a delight, and we felt delighted. Of course, no meal is complete without dessert, and Baskin-Robbins beckoned me again.

We returned to our apartment for a brief rest before meeting friends for dinner at Jokpal, a popular Korean franchise chain. The pork leg was the meal’s highlight, sliced to perfection and served with various delicious sides, including Kimchi, quickly becoming a staple of our Korean diet. After dinner, we took a leisurely walk through the brightly illuminated streets, taking in the beauty and excitement of Korea at night.

 

Gyeongbokgung

Mountain at the backdrop of Gyeongbokgung, South Korea

 

Day three – A Day at Everland Theme Park

Tuesday is our first full day out; we go to Everland, South Korea’s finest theme park and one that more than matches any in Australia. Everland is packed even on a school day, with waiting times for some events over an hour; I hear on weekends, it is up to two to three hours, but forget that. Everland is a fun day out. With Safari world and hidden Valley, a bus tour that guides you on land and water around the animals of Africa, with the likes of giraffes, Zebras, Elephants, and cheetahs, to name a few. But as traditional with most zoos, the animals are not doing much, but the Giraffe gets up close and personal during the bus ride.

It was time to take a break from the hustle and bustle of Safari World, so we stopped off at Snack Bar for lunch. With an impressive selection of Korean and Western cuisine alongside soft drinks and beer, there were plenty of delicious options – whatever your budget! After all that excitement in Everland earlier, though, it seemed like everyone had quite an appetite; the food hall was bustling with hungry visitors as we found our seats.

 

Everland

Enjoy the tulips of Everland, which will truly inspire the trip to Seoul – South Korea.

 

Everland was aglow with beauty and excitement for the Tulip Festival – a seasonal event that changes themes yearly but is awe-inspiring each time. As we marvelled at the stunning landscape of flowers, an unforgettable parade strode through, bringing colour and animation to fill our eyes! The tunes were infectious as floats danced past us in celebration.

Not to be outdone, Dad took Lucas on his maiden voyage aboard the regal Pirate Ship ride – it’s clear they suited both young ones and big kids alike who would not resist its appeal! This made for one spectacular day spent amongst family…and tulips galore!

It was South Korea; it was a Seoul delight.

 

The greatest theme park in South Korea

The most significant theme park in South Korea, Everland, puts on a show.

 

[embedyt] http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YwK70uIfGhE&width=700&height=423[/embedyt]

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Melbourne Diaries 2015: A Father and Son Trip to Cherish

Melbourne Diaries 2015: A Father and Son Trip to Cherish

Melbourne has always been a city of wonders, filled with incomparable experiences and memories that last a lifetime. But when you get to explore it with your son, it just gets even better.

For five incredible days, my son and I set out on a footy trip that would forever be etched in our hearts. From discovering the City’s hidden gems to exploring its vibrant culture, every moment was filled with excitement and adventure in this famous sport-mad city.

My son and I bonded in a way that only a father and son can through our shared passion for football, and it indeed was an unforgettable experience that we’ll always cherish. Welcome to the Melbourne Diaries, where father-son memories are made.

 

Melbourne diaries

The Yarra River with the mighty MCG in the background is must visit Melbourne.

 

Melbourne Diaries 2015 – A father and Son trip to remember

Two travellers with a special bond embarked on an unforgettable journey to the sunny City of Melbourne. From delicious eats and exciting adventures, this father-son duo experienced it all! Join them as we reminisce about our delightful Melbourne Diaries from 2015 – memories that will last forever.

 

Thursday, Day one – Arriving in Melbourne

Firstly, this trip was strictly an AFL footy trip (Aussie rules for those in the unknown) that brought about this short stay in Melbourne. A particular time because It’s the first time my oldest son and I have left mum and younger brother behind in Western Australia to attend to our selfish needs and watch our beloved North Melbourne Kangaroos play a game at the magnificent Marvel Stadium in the Docklands precinct.

We arrived on our Jetstar flight from Perth on the red-eye flight at eight in the morning and took the airport sky bus to the City. Our hotel, The Great Southern Melbourne, a budget hotel, is close to Etihad Stadium, so we fill the morning with a tour of the stadium that has the spectacular Docklands esplanade in the background. We are tired and need sleep, but unfortunately, we can’t check in until two in the afternoon, and there are still five hours to go before any rest.

The tour itself is a sports fan dream come true; you learn about the stadium’s short history, as it only opened in the year 2000, walk around the various function rooms, take a peek in the corporate suites, sit in a coaches chair in the AFL coaches box, go down into the change rooms and walk through the tunnel where the players run out for battle on game day and better yet, feel the turf of Etihad stadium. The tour was in-depth, the guide was knowledgeable, and the two-hour time was full.

Finally, after a quick stop at Krispy Kremes doughnuts, we could check in at the hotel; the Great Southern hotel is located on Spencer Street, near opposite Southern Cross train station; the hotel is one of the cheaper accommodations in the city centre. Still, it does the job, and the showers are warm. It’s fair to say an afternoon nap was in order before heading out to the Crown Casino food court for a feed at dinner time while savouring the mighty Yarra River in the background, which was all lit up and spectacular thanks to the big city lights.

 

 

Marvel stadium tour

The Melbourne Diaries takes a turn when my son enjoys the Marvel stadium tour a few days before the big game.

 

 

Friday, Day two – A trip to St Kilda

To start the day, a ride on the tram for the first time and its destination St Kilda, but not before buying a MyKi card at the local 7eleven first to get us where we need to go when catching public transport in Melbourne City; good thing we did as the tram inspectors were out in full force.

I’ve often been to St Kilda; I grew up in Melbourne. However, St Kilda never disappoints, with the iconic Luna Park and the glorious Beach with a couple of flashy restaurants right up close to the water, with the pier nearby to capture incredible views of Port Phillip Bay. You can even decide to wander down to Port Melbourne, only a stone’s throw away, and glimpse the ferry Spirit of Tasmania.

 

 

St Kilda

St Kilda still looks good on a gloomy day.

 

Breakfast on this occasion was Mcdonald’s, yeah I know a  boring choice, but it’s what the son wanted, and his trip too, so it’s good to satisfy the young one. After a lengthy walk down St Kilda, whether it was the retail shops or the beach, it’s back on the tram and a return to the City, where on this occasion, we get off at The District shopping Centre, again in the Docklands precinct.

Not only a shopping centre but an amusement centre with laser games and mini golf, It’s also the home of the controversial Big Wheel that had been completed once, only to be torn down again before being rebuilt; at least they got it right the second time. After another short tram trip and off to the famous Queen Victoria Market, it brought back memories of my childhood, looking at a busy marketplace with fruit and Veg stalls and a massive butcher section packed with shoppers looking for a reasonable price on their meat.

The outdoor section has your massive shopping gallery, where many bags, toys, clothes and sporting goods are reasonably priced. And don’t forget to get your hot jam doughnuts from the van outside the markets. It’s always a treat and holds a remarkable memory of my childhood in Melbourne. Dinner that night, after an action-packed day, was a delicious pizza from a nearby pizza restaurant next to the hotel on Flinders street. Small tiny, but great-tasting pizza that went down nicely.

 

St Kilda Pier

St Kilda Pier stretches as far as the eye can see.

St Kilda

Iconic St Kilda will gather many tourists year-round.

 

Saturday, Day three – The Melbourne Diaries Adventures Continue

A football day, not the official match, that’s on Sunday, but a trip to Melbourne is not the same if you don’t head over to the spiritual home of the North Melbourne Football Club and watch the team train. We catch the train from Southern Cross station to the next station over at North Melbourne; a quick walk and we arrive at Arden St, the home of NMFC.

Growing up in Melbourne, I used to live at Arden St and often watch the team train, but a lot has changed in the facilities since my childhood, with significant upgrades to give the club a professional and modern look. Watching the players prepare for an hour and seeing my son rush around for autographs was a real buzz; he envies these guys.

The occasion only got better when we were invited to have a tour of the facilities and get a feel for where the team has its meetings in the Amphitheatre; the players get their rub downs, medical area, the coaches office, and change rooms, it was another great experience for us both. Before leaving the ground of NMFC, we checked out the Roo shop to purchase some club merchandise and had a kick on the precious Arden Street turf.

Next is a tram trip into the city centre; it’s just a casual walk through the big city, eating lunch under the dome at the Melbourne shopping Centre, walking down flinders street and through the iconic Flinders Street Station and back to the hotel. Melbourne is a great city to stretch your legs and check out the sites; there are many great places to see without spending a dime.

 

North Melbourne

The home of North Melbourne Football Club takes centre stage in our Melbourne diaries.

 

Sunday, Day four – The Big Game at Marvel Stadium

My tradition where ever I go around the world is to find a decent café and make my way there for my caffeine fix with a tasty cappuccino and read the daily newspaper, which comes complimentary courtesy of the hotel. Usually, my son and I have a light breakfast that doesn’t break the bank.

Anyway, it’s game day, so we have flown from Perth to Melbourne; ironically, my team is playing a team from Western Australia, the Fremantle Dockers, who are top of the ladder and will be a challenging task for North. Still, it’s a must-win for my club because it’s win or bust whether or not the club plays in the finals.

First, it’s a walk past Etihad Stadium back over to Harbour Town; I meet up with my brothers who live in Melbourne; we lunch by the Big Wheel and have a mini shop, mainly at the sports store that sells North clothes and other merchandise on the cheap. Then it’s over to Marvel Stadium for the game. I won’t get into the game too much as it is a travel diary, but to cut a long story short, North Melbourne came from the clouds in the last quarter to steal a win in a thriller.

The trip was not wasted, never was anyway, and it’s party mode. With my son being looked after by a babysitter, a pleased friend and I headed to the Crown Casino bar for a few celebration beers; it went down nicely. The Crown Casino is a mega complex with many neat bars to drink and heaps of gaming areas for those happy gamblers, but we just stayed for the beer and wasted our money on a few cold ones instead. A delicious Dinner was obviously at the casino’s food court; we were already there, so it made sense.

 

 

Etihad Stadium

Getting ready for some football at Marvel Stadium

 

Monday, Day five.

Our last full day in Melbourne before returning to Perth for an early Tuesday morning flight. I grab a morning coffee and a newspaper to read about the great win by North Melbourne. Next, it’s off to the famous Melbourne Cricket Ground for a tour of Australia’s most fantastic stadium and some fun at the sports museum.

We take a three-kilometre walk from the hotel to the ground, a beautiful stroll passing by the casino and all along the mighty Yarra River until we reach the MCG and walk over the footbridge to the stadium that has the sounds of Australia’s indigenous people. The tour is a lot like the Marvel tour but has a lot more history, and the stadium is a lot bigger, one-hundred-thousand capacity. We get to walk on the famous turf, visit the change rooms and enter the pavilion where the cricketers sit before they come out to bat or bowl.

Next, we go to the member’s area, the Melbourne Cricket Club, and the MCC. Another rich history of the stadium and portraits of members of the past goes back over a century; it’s also home to the best view inside the stadium, which is also nearby the famous Long Room, where members like to gather a match.

The tour finishes, and it’s off to the Sports Museum, still at the MCG; it covers a rich history of International and Australian sports, covering the Olympics, cricket, motorsport, and of course, Australian Rules Football. Especially take time to view the holograms of cricketing legend Shane Warne and football champ James Hird; it’s very well done. The best part inside the museum is for the kids at the fun centre down below, where you can kick off the football, play hoops, enjoy cycling races and a whole lot more fun stuff. After finishing up at the MCG, it’s a hike and tram ride to Chinatown, another must-do in Melbourne. It was a late lunch, and the restaurant’s name had mistaken me, but I only remember the disappointing food.

A tram ride takes us back to the hotel, where our last Krispy Kreme doughnuts outing finishes the day and concludes a fantastic trip with my son. I apologize for all the sports talk—this trip to Melbournesely is a father-and-son football trip to saviour.

 

 

Melbourne Diaries are the stuff of dreams for any sports fan! We had an amazing time shopping ’til we dropped, sightseeing at incredible landmarks and trying out all the delicious eats this city has to offer. It was truly unforgettable – a memory that’ll stay with us forever!

 

Did you enjoy the Melbourne diaries edition –  Check out more articles on the great Australian City!

An Adventurer’s Guide to Melbourne in Stunning Victoria – Australia

Top Reasons To Visit Melbourne – Australia’s Most Vibrant City

 

Lunar Park

Lunar Park, St Kilda, is ever famous in Melbourne when open. 

 

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