When my friends told me that they were staying for 10 days, I was a little worried. I'm already a terrible tour guide to begin with, but how I was I to fill up 10 days? It turns out that there's a lot to do between San Francisco and San Jose, and I'm not just talking about shopping at Target or The Great Mall. In addition to jaunts around San Francisco, Sausalito, and Santa Cruz, we checked out the very mysterious Mystery Spot, free wine tasting in Sonoma (less crowded than Napa), the Japanese Friendship Garden (followed by bento lunches at Minato), and the San Jose Flea Market (don't go on Fridays. There's less to look at). Of course, we also did non-touristy stuff that in my opinion, can be just as interesting, if not more so, than staring at a bunch of seals when it's overcast. We got our eyebrows done at Deepa's, cruised around the Farmer's Market, played Rock Band and karaoked with older dudes (for FREE on Monday night), peed in a seedy sex shop on Broadway, and baked some crispy chewy chocolate chip cookies.
Good times, y'all.
You can check out the highlight reel for some audio-visuals.
I just have to say that deep fried twinkies are overrated.
808 in the Bay from Annalog on Vimeo.
Shout to the gals. Special thanks to Cyndi for being our Soccer Mom.
Now, I'm off to Hawaii for some quality time with the family. Yippee!
Showing posts with label friends. Show all posts
Showing posts with label friends. Show all posts
21 April 2009
15 April 2009
Homeland Homies
Hello, Internet! I know that it's been awhile... but I'm still on vacation in the Homeland. My high school friends from the Island flew out to Cali for a bit of a mini-reunion. Despite me being a terrible tour guide, we still managed to have a lot of fun.
I'm working on compiling a video of all our adventures, but here a few polaroids for you to gawk at it. Aren't my friends cute? :)
I'm working on compiling a video of all our adventures, but here a few polaroids for you to gawk at it. Aren't my friends cute? :)
08 December 2008
A New Cupcake Bakery in Seoul
My last cupcake in Seoul was quite disappointing, but from what I hear, a number of cupcake places have been popping up around Seoul. One of those new cupcake bakeries is Lynn's Cupcakes in Hannam-dong, which just happens to be walking distance from The Hagwon. Sweet!
Today, in honor of Seong's birthday (my hagwon BFF), we, including my lil' cousin, Emi, went to Lynn's for some celebratory cupcakes.
This was my first time trying Lynn's Cupcakes. Their cupcakes can't hold a candle to the moist deliciousness of Sibby's or Kara's Cupcakes back in the Homeland, but Lynn's cupcakes weren't half-bad. I enjoyed the flavors of the frosting and the cake, but did not find the soft texture of the cake to my liking (I prefer a more dense cake). Lynn's cupcakes also aren't the prettiest cupcakes I've ever had, but I would definitely return to Lynn's if I was craving a cupcake.
I'm told that Lynn's Cupcakes has several locations throughout Seoul, including a shop in Itaewon, but I can't give you their whereabouts.
Lynn's Cupcakes in Hannam-dong is located right across the street from UN Village. It's pink facade is hard to miss.
Business Hours:
10 - 8 pm
(010) 2893-6687
(02) 792-0804
The owner of Lynn's lived in America, so you can probably get further information in English if you give the bakery a call.
A funny thing happened on our way into the bakery...
A producer from KBS2's 문화지대 (Yeah, I hadn't heard of it either) was filming a segment on Lynn's cupcakes and was looking for some customer commentary. The owner of the shop, immediately pointed to Seong, who had been Lynn's first customer.
The producer, with his little DV camera, looked to the three of us and asked who wanted to speak on camera. I think Emi, Seong, and I, all short of took a step back, and tried to avoid making eye contact with the camera. Seong ended up explaining (in Korean) that neither Emi nor I spoke very much Korean. That's when he found out that we were all English-speaking gyopos, and decided to have us give our comments in English (even know he could not understand a word we were saying). Poor Seong had to translate everything!
So, the filming began easy enough. He filmed us as we picked out our cupcakes. Then, he asked us about cupcakes in America and Britain (where Seong went to school). I akwardly muttered something lame and giggled like an anime character with beat-red cheeks. I'm embarassed just thinking of it.
Just when we thought our agnozing 15 seconds of fame were over, he asked us to eat some of our cupcakes in the store. Though none of us really wanted to be on camera, we blindly followed him, like some starlet wannabe being asked to take some "artistic" nude shots. That's when the shop owner offered to give us some free cupcakes to eat on camera. She placed each cupcake on its own pedestal and brough out candles in honor of Seong's birthday.
For the following fifteen minutes, the three of us had to get all fake excited about the cupcakes, sing "Happy Birthday", stuff cupcakes into our mouth, and lavish Lynn's cupcakes with complimentary remarks.
I've seen a lot of Korean food programming, but I never realized how challenging it would be to act normal with a camera hovering just a few inches from their faces.
The segment on Lynn's Cupcakes airs on Thursday night. I'm not sure if any of our footage will make it on the program (I'm kind of hoping not), but at least we got some free cupcakes.
And, last, but certainly not least...
Happy Birthday, Seong!
Today, in honor of Seong's birthday (my hagwon BFF), we, including my lil' cousin, Emi, went to Lynn's for some celebratory cupcakes.
This was my first time trying Lynn's Cupcakes. Their cupcakes can't hold a candle to the moist deliciousness of Sibby's or Kara's Cupcakes back in the Homeland, but Lynn's cupcakes weren't half-bad. I enjoyed the flavors of the frosting and the cake, but did not find the soft texture of the cake to my liking (I prefer a more dense cake). Lynn's cupcakes also aren't the prettiest cupcakes I've ever had, but I would definitely return to Lynn's if I was craving a cupcake.
I'm told that Lynn's Cupcakes has several locations throughout Seoul, including a shop in Itaewon, but I can't give you their whereabouts.
Lynn's Cupcakes in Hannam-dong is located right across the street from UN Village. It's pink facade is hard to miss.
Business Hours:
10 - 8 pm
(010) 2893-6687
(02) 792-0804
The owner of Lynn's lived in America, so you can probably get further information in English if you give the bakery a call.
A funny thing happened on our way into the bakery...
A producer from KBS2's 문화지대 (Yeah, I hadn't heard of it either) was filming a segment on Lynn's cupcakes and was looking for some customer commentary. The owner of the shop, immediately pointed to Seong, who had been Lynn's first customer.
The producer, with his little DV camera, looked to the three of us and asked who wanted to speak on camera. I think Emi, Seong, and I, all short of took a step back, and tried to avoid making eye contact with the camera. Seong ended up explaining (in Korean) that neither Emi nor I spoke very much Korean. That's when he found out that we were all English-speaking gyopos, and decided to have us give our comments in English (even know he could not understand a word we were saying). Poor Seong had to translate everything!
So, the filming began easy enough. He filmed us as we picked out our cupcakes. Then, he asked us about cupcakes in America and Britain (where Seong went to school). I akwardly muttered something lame and giggled like an anime character with beat-red cheeks. I'm embarassed just thinking of it.
Just when we thought our agnozing 15 seconds of fame were over, he asked us to eat some of our cupcakes in the store. Though none of us really wanted to be on camera, we blindly followed him, like some starlet wannabe being asked to take some "artistic" nude shots. That's when the shop owner offered to give us some free cupcakes to eat on camera. She placed each cupcake on its own pedestal and brough out candles in honor of Seong's birthday.
For the following fifteen minutes, the three of us had to get all fake excited about the cupcakes, sing "Happy Birthday", stuff cupcakes into our mouth, and lavish Lynn's cupcakes with complimentary remarks.
I've seen a lot of Korean food programming, but I never realized how challenging it would be to act normal with a camera hovering just a few inches from their faces.
The segment on Lynn's Cupcakes airs on Thursday night. I'm not sure if any of our footage will make it on the program (I'm kind of hoping not), but at least we got some free cupcakes.
And, last, but certainly not least...
Happy Birthday, Seong!
24 November 2008
Annalog Fit Club: First Update
As announced about a week ago, Team Alexander, Prune Wonton and Cyndi, agreed to collectively lose 45 pounds by March 11, 2009. If they are successful, Team Bananna, Monkey & I, will treat them to dinner at Alexander's Steakhouse. If they fail, they must buy Team Bananna a fancy steak dinner.
Team Alexander has decided to hold off on any pound-shedding efforts until after the Thanksgiving weekend, but I still make them checki in for their weekly weigh-in. In order to monitor their progress, we've decided to employ the Wii Fit, despite its snide little comments.
(Thanks to Dani Henney for sending us the Wii Fit board!).
The Wii Fit may not be the most accurate measure for one's BMI (Body Mass Index) or weight, but it certainly is fun. The Wii Fit also comes with a variety of exercises that kept us busy all night long (with the help of some wine). The game also allows you to input your own personal weight loss goals, which can be sort of handy.
Prune Wonton measured in at XXX pounds with a BMI that put him in the obese category. Cyndi weighed in at YYY pounds, with a very normal BMI of 22.91. Yay, Cyndi!
In additon to your weight and BMI, the Wii Fit also determines your Wii Fitness age, which is calculated based on your age, weight, BMI, and ability to balance and shift your weight around. According to the Wii Fit, Cyndi is 44, while Prune Wonton is 43. I should note, however, that Prune Wonton, tried to sabotage Cyndi's fitness test, so her Wii Fit age is likely much lower.
So, you must be curious about the results of this week's weigh in. Drum roll, please...
Prune Wonton +4 lbs
Cyndi - 1 lb
Don't worry, people. It's just the first week. They still have a fighting chance.
A number of people (and by a "number", I mean, 3) have had some concerns or questions abou Annalog's Fit Club, so I'd like to address there comments here:
- First of all, thanks to Annonymous M for catching my typo. Team Alexander must lose the weight by March 2009, not 2008, as originally printed. I do not expect them to travel back in time. We'll have to save that for the next blog challenge.
- As inMySeoul points out, 30 lbs in 3 months is a lot of weight for a guy to lose unless he's contracted some stomach virus. Based on the recommendation of the Wii Fit, Team Bananna has agreed to lower the collective weight goal to 40 lbs.
- Yes, the terms of the bet are kind of skewed, since Team Bananna just has to watch and thwart all efforts to get their healthy on, while Team Alexander has to start exercising and eat more healthily, but the truth is, we didn't come up with the bet. We're just following through on a challenge initiated by Prune Wonton himself. Booyah, Prune Wonton!
- Liposuction is not expressly forbidden, but definitely not recommended.
If you have healthy living tips or words of encouragement for Team Alexander, be sure to leave them in the comments.
Team Alexander has decided to hold off on any pound-shedding efforts until after the Thanksgiving weekend, but I still make them checki in for their weekly weigh-in. In order to monitor their progress, we've decided to employ the Wii Fit, despite its snide little comments.
(Thanks to Dani Henney for sending us the Wii Fit board!).
The Wii Fit may not be the most accurate measure for one's BMI (Body Mass Index) or weight, but it certainly is fun. The Wii Fit also comes with a variety of exercises that kept us busy all night long (with the help of some wine). The game also allows you to input your own personal weight loss goals, which can be sort of handy.
Prune Wonton measured in at XXX pounds with a BMI that put him in the obese category. Cyndi weighed in at YYY pounds, with a very normal BMI of 22.91. Yay, Cyndi!
In additon to your weight and BMI, the Wii Fit also determines your Wii Fitness age, which is calculated based on your age, weight, BMI, and ability to balance and shift your weight around. According to the Wii Fit, Cyndi is 44, while Prune Wonton is 43. I should note, however, that Prune Wonton, tried to sabotage Cyndi's fitness test, so her Wii Fit age is likely much lower.
So, you must be curious about the results of this week's weigh in. Drum roll, please...
Prune Wonton +4 lbs
Cyndi - 1 lb
Don't worry, people. It's just the first week. They still have a fighting chance.
A number of people (and by a "number", I mean, 3) have had some concerns or questions abou Annalog's Fit Club, so I'd like to address there comments here:
- First of all, thanks to Annonymous M for catching my typo. Team Alexander must lose the weight by March 2009, not 2008, as originally printed. I do not expect them to travel back in time. We'll have to save that for the next blog challenge.
- As inMySeoul points out, 30 lbs in 3 months is a lot of weight for a guy to lose unless he's contracted some stomach virus. Based on the recommendation of the Wii Fit, Team Bananna has agreed to lower the collective weight goal to 40 lbs.
- Yes, the terms of the bet are kind of skewed, since Team Bananna just has to watch and thwart all efforts to get their healthy on, while Team Alexander has to start exercising and eat more healthily, but the truth is, we didn't come up with the bet. We're just following through on a challenge initiated by Prune Wonton himself. Booyah, Prune Wonton!
- Liposuction is not expressly forbidden, but definitely not recommended.
If you have healthy living tips or words of encouragement for Team Alexander, be sure to leave them in the comments.
14 November 2008
Annalog's Fit Club: The Bet
The other night our friend, Prune Wonton declared that he wanted to get his healthy on and lose some weight. Not only that, he also stated that he would lose 30 pounds by the time I returned from Korea. Oh, ho, ho...sounds like a bet.
THE BET
Prune Wonton and Cyndi have joined forces as Team Alexander. They resolve to lose forty-five pounds by March 11, 2009 (four months). If they are successful, my partner, Monkey and I (aka Team Bananna) will treat them to a dinner (appetizer, entree, and dessert) at Alexander's Steak House (some restrictions may apply. We ain't paying for no Wagyu!). If Team Alexander fails to lose 45 pounds by the deadline, then they will have to treat Team Bananna to dinner (appetizer and entree) at the aforementioned Alexander's Steak House.
RULES
1) Team Bananna is permitted to actively thwart the efforts of Team Alexander (though we will make a genuine effort to be supportive).
2) Any mention of bailing on the deal means an automatic win for the opposing team.
3) All participants are prohibited from engaging in or employing any measures that may result in hospitlization or death.
3) Neither Annalog nor any other participating parties are responsible for any injury, harm, or hurt feelings that may result from this competition.
I will refrain from revealing the participants' faces (except for Cyndi. Y'all are already up in Cyndi's business) or starting weight. If all goes well, then perhaps Cyndi and Prune Wonton may permit me to reveal more information. For now, all you need to know is that they want to lose 45 pounds cumulatively.
Please note that the 45 pounds reflect the personal goals of both Cyndi and Prune Wonton. Team Bananna, by no means, set this number. But, with that said, we are holding them to their resolution. Muhahahaha.
The Fitness Challenge began on November 11, 2008, which happened to coincide with our World Beer Night: Part I.
Oh, dear. Hwaiting, Team Alexander!
By the way, I do not recommend chili beer.
THE BET
Prune Wonton and Cyndi have joined forces as Team Alexander. They resolve to lose forty-five pounds by March 11, 2009 (four months). If they are successful, my partner, Monkey and I (aka Team Bananna) will treat them to a dinner (appetizer, entree, and dessert) at Alexander's Steak House (some restrictions may apply. We ain't paying for no Wagyu!). If Team Alexander fails to lose 45 pounds by the deadline, then they will have to treat Team Bananna to dinner (appetizer and entree) at the aforementioned Alexander's Steak House.
RULES
1) Team Bananna is permitted to actively thwart the efforts of Team Alexander (though we will make a genuine effort to be supportive).
2) Any mention of bailing on the deal means an automatic win for the opposing team.
3) All participants are prohibited from engaging in or employing any measures that may result in hospitlization or death.
3) Neither Annalog nor any other participating parties are responsible for any injury, harm, or hurt feelings that may result from this competition.
I will refrain from revealing the participants' faces (except for Cyndi. Y'all are already up in Cyndi's business) or starting weight. If all goes well, then perhaps Cyndi and Prune Wonton may permit me to reveal more information. For now, all you need to know is that they want to lose 45 pounds cumulatively.
Please note that the 45 pounds reflect the personal goals of both Cyndi and Prune Wonton. Team Bananna, by no means, set this number. But, with that said, we are holding them to their resolution. Muhahahaha.
The Fitness Challenge began on November 11, 2008, which happened to coincide with our World Beer Night: Part I.
Oh, dear. Hwaiting, Team Alexander!
By the way, I do not recommend chili beer.
04 November 2008
Crab Murder
Kent invited us over for some shabu shabu (hot pot) and treated us to some fresh lobster and crab. As I squeamishly watched Chef GP prepare a live crab for the hot pot, I thought back to my resolution to (make an effort to) only eat things that I could kill myself. That's when I decided to woman-up and ask Chef GP to let me prepare (slaughter) the second crab.
I asked Cyndi to record the whole ordeal, so that you, too, can learn how to murder a crab. Before you watch the video tutorial, I'd like to note that though the crab appears half-dead in the video, it was Pinchy McGrabby Crab prior to execution. Okay, maybe the crab wasn't as fiesty as I'd like to imagine, but I swear, its claws were pretty ginormous. My initial wussiness was completely warranted. Don't judge me.
Crab Murder from Annalog on Vimeo
I learned a few things from the whole process:
- Chopsticks can be deadly.
- Crab blood looks like ketchup.
- I am in a major need of a hair cut.
- I should not be allowed to wield any blade bigger than a steak knife.
- The mighty tasty yellow mustard-like substance in the crab is called the hepatopancreas, a main part of the crab's digestive system. In case your curious, crab "mustard" is soft, but not slimy. It also tastes like the ocean. Who knew that crab crap could be so delicious?
I asked Cyndi to record the whole ordeal, so that you, too, can learn how to murder a crab. Before you watch the video tutorial, I'd like to note that though the crab appears half-dead in the video, it was Pinchy McGrabby Crab prior to execution. Okay, maybe the crab wasn't as fiesty as I'd like to imagine, but I swear, its claws were pretty ginormous. My initial wussiness was completely warranted. Don't judge me.
Crab Murder from Annalog on Vimeo
I learned a few things from the whole process:
- Chopsticks can be deadly.
- Crab blood looks like ketchup.
- I am in a major need of a hair cut.
- I should not be allowed to wield any blade bigger than a steak knife.
- The mighty tasty yellow mustard-like substance in the crab is called the hepatopancreas, a main part of the crab's digestive system. In case your curious, crab "mustard" is soft, but not slimy. It also tastes like the ocean. Who knew that crab crap could be so delicious?
30 October 2008
17 October 2008
This is Halloween, this is Halloween (almost)
Halloween is almost upon us, and I'm pretty excited. This year, Target has a very adorable Domokun Halloween theme. Cyndi's dying to jack some of the cardboard cutouts of Domokun. Let's hope that Target will relinquish some of their Domokun decorations post-Halloween so that Cyndi doesn't have to hide a cardboard Domokun in her purse.
Not sure what I'm going to be this Halloween, but definitely not the Family Guy.
Dogs are not allowed in Target. Not sure who allowed Confuscius to bring his Yorkie.
Halloween soda. Sounds nasty, but it comes in those adorable mini-cans.
It's kind of funny that I'm such a big Halloween fan now because I don't remember being into Halloween as a kid. I definitely wasn't into dressing up. I distinctly remember one year when I reluctantly went trick or treating with my sister. People would look at my sister and say, "Oh, what a cute little witch!" Then, they'd look over to me in my striped one-piece with the boxy shoulder pads and say in a kind voice, "What are you, dear?"
"A businesswoman," I'd reply, unsmiling.
I can't recall my other childhood costumes, but I do remember wearing the hanbok for a couple of Halloweens. For most American kids the default costume is probably a ghost or witch outfit, but in a Korean household, its a hanbok.
It wasn't until college that I really started getting into Halloween. Thanks to my child-sized stature, I've found some pretty amazing costumes at the thrift stores. One year, I found a french fry costume. Let me tell you, if you want a lot of attention, you should definitely dress up as a box of McDonald's French Fries. You'll get all sorts of drunk people trying to nibble on your french fries. Hmm, I think that came out wrong. Be careful, though. You're also liable to get a few lewd comments. I remember when one drunkard shouted, "You want a chocolate shake to go with those fries?"
My most memorable Halloween was probably during junior year in college. I was helping my friend Cod hand out candy to her neighborhood kids. That year, Cod was dressed as a gnome, and I was dressed as Merrill, a blue Pokemon. Yeah, we went all out. We had been giving out candy for about an hour or so, when a group of junior high/ninth graders came to the door. They had some pretty pathetic costumes, but we gave them candy anyway. About 10 minutes later, the doorbell rang again, and we both went to the door. It was one of the boys from the teen posse. With his eyes directed at our feet, he mumbled, "Um...Can my friend get your guyz's numba?"
Then, reinforcing his notion that we were indeed still in high school, we hastily shot him down, and closed the door, just before breaking out into a fit of laughter.
That was seriously a low moment. I know I look young, and yes, I made a pretty alluring Pokemon, but having a 15-year-old ask for your number is nowhere near flattering. It's pretty heinous actually.
This year, I had a frightening costume all planned out, but since I'm going trick or treating with two little piglets, Eugene & Hugh, I think I might have to come up with a more kid-friendly costume. Oh, don't worry. I'm not going to go with the beguiling Pokemon costume (I loaned it to a Samoan football player and it has since been retired). The last thing I need is some seven-year-old asking me for my number. I'm no Mary Kay Letourneau!
I still have two weeks to decide on a costume.
I wonder if the old hanbok still fits?
Not sure what I'm going to be this Halloween, but definitely not the Family Guy.
Dogs are not allowed in Target. Not sure who allowed Confuscius to bring his Yorkie.
Halloween soda. Sounds nasty, but it comes in those adorable mini-cans.
It's kind of funny that I'm such a big Halloween fan now because I don't remember being into Halloween as a kid. I definitely wasn't into dressing up. I distinctly remember one year when I reluctantly went trick or treating with my sister. People would look at my sister and say, "Oh, what a cute little witch!" Then, they'd look over to me in my striped one-piece with the boxy shoulder pads and say in a kind voice, "What are you, dear?"
"A businesswoman," I'd reply, unsmiling.
I can't recall my other childhood costumes, but I do remember wearing the hanbok for a couple of Halloweens. For most American kids the default costume is probably a ghost or witch outfit, but in a Korean household, its a hanbok.
It wasn't until college that I really started getting into Halloween. Thanks to my child-sized stature, I've found some pretty amazing costumes at the thrift stores. One year, I found a french fry costume. Let me tell you, if you want a lot of attention, you should definitely dress up as a box of McDonald's French Fries. You'll get all sorts of drunk people trying to nibble on your french fries. Hmm, I think that came out wrong. Be careful, though. You're also liable to get a few lewd comments. I remember when one drunkard shouted, "You want a chocolate shake to go with those fries?"
My most memorable Halloween was probably during junior year in college. I was helping my friend Cod hand out candy to her neighborhood kids. That year, Cod was dressed as a gnome, and I was dressed as Merrill, a blue Pokemon. Yeah, we went all out. We had been giving out candy for about an hour or so, when a group of junior high/ninth graders came to the door. They had some pretty pathetic costumes, but we gave them candy anyway. About 10 minutes later, the doorbell rang again, and we both went to the door. It was one of the boys from the teen posse. With his eyes directed at our feet, he mumbled, "Um...Can my friend get your guyz's numba?"
Then, reinforcing his notion that we were indeed still in high school, we hastily shot him down, and closed the door, just before breaking out into a fit of laughter.
That was seriously a low moment. I know I look young, and yes, I made a pretty alluring Pokemon, but having a 15-year-old ask for your number is nowhere near flattering. It's pretty heinous actually.
This year, I had a frightening costume all planned out, but since I'm going trick or treating with two little piglets, Eugene & Hugh, I think I might have to come up with a more kid-friendly costume. Oh, don't worry. I'm not going to go with the beguiling Pokemon costume (I loaned it to a Samoan football player and it has since been retired). The last thing I need is some seven-year-old asking me for my number. I'm no Mary Kay Letourneau!
I still have two weeks to decide on a costume.
I wonder if the old hanbok still fits?
07 October 2008
Happy Birthdays!
This past weekend was the weekend of birthdays.
We drove up to the City on Saturday to celebrate the Not My Cousin Daniel's Birthday. I can't believe I didn't take any pictures!
Happy Birthday to Not My Cousin Daniel!
On Sunday, we celebrated Piglet Eugene's 2nd birthday. I made Martha Stewart's Monkey Cake, and Cyndi helped me to frost it up and make it look like a piggy. Piglet Eugene wasn't feeling well, so his mom requested a cake sans frosting. We disobeyed...but we did make him a plain cupcake decorated with a bit of decorating gel.
Happy Birthday, boys!
We drove up to the City on Saturday to celebrate the Not My Cousin Daniel's Birthday. I can't believe I didn't take any pictures!
Happy Birthday to Not My Cousin Daniel!
On Sunday, we celebrated Piglet Eugene's 2nd birthday. I made Martha Stewart's Monkey Cake, and Cyndi helped me to frost it up and make it look like a piggy. Piglet Eugene wasn't feeling well, so his mom requested a cake sans frosting. We disobeyed...but we did make him a plain cupcake decorated with a bit of decorating gel.
Happy Birthday, boys!
29 September 2008
Ahnyoung!
The air's a little nippy, the girls are in their mini skirts and knee-highs, the mosquitoes have stopped buzzing around... it's officially fall, people. It's my second autumn in the Motherland. Time has flown by!
I spent over a year living full time in the Motherland, but now it's time for me to return home. I'm leaving today with many memories and megabytes of a fond year in Korea.
Oh, don't cry, Internet. I'll be back.
I'll return to Korea in December, but it does feel like I'm closing another big chapter in this book I call Life.
In commemoration of my year in the Motherland, I've put together a video montage (of course) set to Holly Conlan's "You are Goodbye." In putting this video together, I realized that a) I need to start organizing all my photos and videos and b) I take way too many photos of food. The video barely covers my year in Korea, but it does include a few highlights and never before seen "footage."
I'd like to also take a moment for a very long fragment to thank the various people who have made my stay in the Motherland such a special memory. So, a big kamsahmnida to my COUSINS, Cyndi's cousins, co-workers from the Place That Must Not Be Named, my teaching soul-mate and partner in crime, Seong, EVERYONE from PD, everyone from PD that say that I look like 이효리 (yeah right!), all the Korean unnies, all the Gyopo unnies, visiting chingus from the Homeland, Umma, Doogal, all the people who help me get my beauty on, the ajummas who clean the officetel, and last but not least, our Korean BFF, Heng!
Oh! And Cyndi!
In commemoration of my year in the Motherland, I've put together a video montage (of course) set to Holly Conlan's "You are Goodbye." In putting this video together, I realized that a) I need to start organizing all my photos and videos and b) I take way too many photos of food. The video barely covers my year in Korea, but it does include a few highlights and never before seen "footage."
I'd like to also take a moment for a very long fragment to thank the various people who have made my stay in the Motherland such a special memory. So, a big kamsahmnida to my COUSINS, Cyndi's cousins, co-workers from the Place That Must Not Be Named, my teaching soul-mate and partner in crime, Seong, EVERYONE from PD, everyone from PD that say that I look like 이효리 (yeah right!), all the Korean unnies, all the Gyopo unnies, visiting chingus from the Homeland, Umma, Doogal, all the people who help me get my beauty on, the ajummas who clean the officetel, and last but not least, our Korean BFF, Heng!
Oh! And Cyndi!
Thanks for coming with me to the Motherland! (And thanks for picking me up from the airport.)
See you later, Motherland.
26 August 2008
친구 Time
A couple weekends ago June, Taehee, Cyndi, and I cam-hyoried it up in Jeongja-dong. I've been reading a lot of What I Wore Today blogs, so I tried to pose the gals like those fashionista sel-ca pros. I don't know what I was thinking. I can't even pose myself. I certainly had no business trying to direct others.
Anyhoo, I compiled all of the photos in a little video montage, because it just takes too long to upload all the files. Yes, you read me correct. I think it's much easier (and more fun) to edit a video than upload photos.
We also met up with Sojuhee last weekend. I was looking forward to watching Cyndi and Sojuhee thrown down a couple of bottles of the Motherland's Milk, but we only drank juice and coffee because... Sojuhee's got a bbang in the oven! Congratulations Sojuee and Mr. Sojuhee!
Sojuhee might come visit us once we return to the Bay. We hope so!
Anyhoo, I compiled all of the photos in a little video montage, because it just takes too long to upload all the files. Yes, you read me correct. I think it's much easier (and more fun) to edit a video than upload photos.
We also met up with Sojuhee last weekend. I was looking forward to watching Cyndi and Sojuhee thrown down a couple of bottles of the Motherland's Milk, but we only drank juice and coffee because... Sojuhee's got a bbang in the oven! Congratulations Sojuee and Mr. Sojuhee!
Sojuhee might come visit us once we return to the Bay. We hope so!
25 August 2008
Traditional Kayo?
Piliksu was back in town on business, so we met up with him in Seoul this weekend. Our cousin had recommended that we check out Korea House in Chungmuro. If I remember the brochure correctly, Korea House is a former residence that has been transformed into a popular tourist destination that allows visitors to view traditional Korean architecture, arts, and cuisine.
Korea House offers both a buffet and sit-down sampling of royal cuisine.
Most visitors opt for the dinner and show package, but after seeing that dinner costs between 80,000-100,000 won, we decided to just check out the show. The show is 35,000 won regardless if you purchase dinner or not.
The show features an array of traditional musical and dance performances, pre-Inki Kayo.
Unfortunately, I don't have any photos or video of the show. The reason being... I fell asleep.
I'm going to be honest. I just straight up disrespected the culture of the Motherland, and slept through nearly half of the show. In my defense, I had been up since 6:30 AM. Also, the music was just... not my cup of bori-cha. You know what I'm saying?
All of the dances were accompanied by a traditional Korean "orchestra" which consisted of various percussion, string, and horn instruments. One horn in particular sounded like a snake charmer's pipe, only sharper. I think this horn may have contributed to my compulsion to nap.
I was able to catch the second half of the show, but a part of me kind of wishes that I carried on with my nap...
I was actually awakened by the fluttering of the Korean fan dancers. It was all very glamorous; almost like a Las Vegas show, but with more clothes. This dance was probably my favorite performance.
I also saw a disturbing traditional mask dance about a farmer who first stalks then wins over a village maiden. Then, this fancy nobleman comes along and woos the woman away from the humble farmer. The nobleman manages to win the woman with the clink of his gold coins. The farmer runs off stage, allowing the nobleman to get the woman with child. After giving birth, the woman runs away with shame (or terror, I'm not sure), leaving the man with the baby. The man proudly holds up the baby to the audience (a replica of himself), all "Circle of Life" style. I think I may have grossly misunderstood the tale. At least, I hope so.
The skit was followed by a somber funeral dance involving a scarf, which reminded me of the time I went with my college roomie to midnight mass and this woman in a hanbok performed a "traditional Korean dance." She basically pranced around the altar with a blue scarf. I kept thinking she was going to singe her hanbok on one of the candles. At the end of the performance my roommate looked over to me and was all, "Uh, is that really a traditional Korean dance?" I quickly replied, "Heck no. That ain't Korean." After watching the funeral dance I now realize that the woman's dance was in fact Korean. Oops. My bad.
I was really looking forward to the percussion performances, but was a little disappointed. I think the musicians were picked more for their tiny waists and bright smiles than their percussive talents. I've seen Korean drum performances before, so I was expecting much more excitement.
The show at Korea House is valuable in that it allows you to see a variety of traditional Korean dances and instruments in one sitting, but I suspect that these performances are more Disneyland than Carnegie Hall.
Korea House offers both a buffet and sit-down sampling of royal cuisine.
Most visitors opt for the dinner and show package, but after seeing that dinner costs between 80,000-100,000 won, we decided to just check out the show. The show is 35,000 won regardless if you purchase dinner or not.
The show features an array of traditional musical and dance performances, pre-Inki Kayo.
Unfortunately, I don't have any photos or video of the show. The reason being... I fell asleep.
I'm going to be honest. I just straight up disrespected the culture of the Motherland, and slept through nearly half of the show. In my defense, I had been up since 6:30 AM. Also, the music was just... not my cup of bori-cha. You know what I'm saying?
All of the dances were accompanied by a traditional Korean "orchestra" which consisted of various percussion, string, and horn instruments. One horn in particular sounded like a snake charmer's pipe, only sharper. I think this horn may have contributed to my compulsion to nap.
I was able to catch the second half of the show, but a part of me kind of wishes that I carried on with my nap...
I was actually awakened by the fluttering of the Korean fan dancers. It was all very glamorous; almost like a Las Vegas show, but with more clothes. This dance was probably my favorite performance.
I also saw a disturbing traditional mask dance about a farmer who first stalks then wins over a village maiden. Then, this fancy nobleman comes along and woos the woman away from the humble farmer. The nobleman manages to win the woman with the clink of his gold coins. The farmer runs off stage, allowing the nobleman to get the woman with child. After giving birth, the woman runs away with shame (or terror, I'm not sure), leaving the man with the baby. The man proudly holds up the baby to the audience (a replica of himself), all "Circle of Life" style. I think I may have grossly misunderstood the tale. At least, I hope so.
The skit was followed by a somber funeral dance involving a scarf, which reminded me of the time I went with my college roomie to midnight mass and this woman in a hanbok performed a "traditional Korean dance." She basically pranced around the altar with a blue scarf. I kept thinking she was going to singe her hanbok on one of the candles. At the end of the performance my roommate looked over to me and was all, "Uh, is that really a traditional Korean dance?" I quickly replied, "Heck no. That ain't Korean." After watching the funeral dance I now realize that the woman's dance was in fact Korean. Oops. My bad.
I was really looking forward to the percussion performances, but was a little disappointed. I think the musicians were picked more for their tiny waists and bright smiles than their percussive talents. I've seen Korean drum performances before, so I was expecting much more excitement.
The show at Korea House is valuable in that it allows you to see a variety of traditional Korean dances and instruments in one sitting, but I suspect that these performances are more Disneyland than Carnegie Hall.
05 August 2008
Sticky Pics + Kaohsiung Wrap-Up
This first pic is dedicated to JS Unnie.
This sticky pic is way back from our Taiwan vacation. The machine suggested poses, so we just mimicked the models.
Here's another one from Taiwan, featuring Ben, Ben's Wife, and Ben's Brother. :)
This one is adorned with all sorts of junk because the sticky booth attendant took it upon herself to help decorate our pictures. She went crazy with the borders and message stamps.
Speaking of Taiwan... I had meant to write up a nice summary of our time in Kaohsiung, but I've sort of lost steam. I'll just say that Kaohsiung was lovely. It reminded me of Hawaii -- a little bit. We're very grateful to Ben + Ben's Brother for being such attentive hosts. I don't know how we would have gotten around Kaohsiung otherwise. There is a newly built metro system, but I don't think it's been centralized yet. The city is gearing up the World Games in 2009, so if you're interested in checking out Taiwan's largest port city, I suggest waiting until then.
Here are a few of my more scenic (non-food) photos:
Cijin Island - Home of one of Taiwan's oldest naval forts.
I'm not a fan of black sand, but the sea looked beautiful.
Dream Mall
Um...something of cultural significance?
We spent a very long morning hiking, and got to hang with a bunch of wild monkeys. Monkey poo is quite nasty. I suspect that it's particularly nasty because these monkeys are feasting on abandoned cups of bubble tea. Do not feed the monkeys bubble tea, people!
This sticky pic is way back from our Taiwan vacation. The machine suggested poses, so we just mimicked the models.
Here's another one from Taiwan, featuring Ben, Ben's Wife, and Ben's Brother. :)
This one is adorned with all sorts of junk because the sticky booth attendant took it upon herself to help decorate our pictures. She went crazy with the borders and message stamps.
Speaking of Taiwan... I had meant to write up a nice summary of our time in Kaohsiung, but I've sort of lost steam. I'll just say that Kaohsiung was lovely. It reminded me of Hawaii -- a little bit. We're very grateful to Ben + Ben's Brother for being such attentive hosts. I don't know how we would have gotten around Kaohsiung otherwise. There is a newly built metro system, but I don't think it's been centralized yet. The city is gearing up the World Games in 2009, so if you're interested in checking out Taiwan's largest port city, I suggest waiting until then.
Here are a few of my more scenic (non-food) photos:
Cijin Island - Home of one of Taiwan's oldest naval forts.
I'm not a fan of black sand, but the sea looked beautiful.
Dream Mall
Um...something of cultural significance?
We spent a very long morning hiking, and got to hang with a bunch of wild monkeys. Monkey poo is quite nasty. I suspect that it's particularly nasty because these monkeys are feasting on abandoned cups of bubble tea. Do not feed the monkeys bubble tea, people!
Happy Birthday Heng!
This post is very belated (over a week), but let's all wish our dear Heng Unni (or should I say ajumma?) a happy, happy birthday!
We did get to celebrate with her on the actual day of her birthday, but she then had to run back to the office (at 10 pm) and get back to work. So sad...
Want to know how young Heng is? You'll just have to add up the candles on the cake (from Migo).
Of course you can't have birthday cake without a little soju... Both 참이슬 Fresh and 처음처럼 have rolled out special edition bottles for the summer.
Please excuse the closed eyes. We're not drunk. We're just Asian.
Heng's engineer posse. They <3 Heng. Or, maybe they're just scared of her...ㅋㅋㅋ
We did get to celebrate with her on the actual day of her birthday, but she then had to run back to the office (at 10 pm) and get back to work. So sad...
Want to know how young Heng is? You'll just have to add up the candles on the cake (from Migo).
Of course you can't have birthday cake without a little soju... Both 참이슬 Fresh and 처음처럼 have rolled out special edition bottles for the summer.
Please excuse the closed eyes. We're not drunk. We're just Asian.
Heng's engineer posse. They <3 Heng. Or, maybe they're just scared of her...ㅋㅋㅋ
11 June 2008
Annalog is an Olympic Gold Medalist!
I'm not sure if you're aware of this but I am a Beijing 2008 Olympian... for Nintendo Wii that is. The Nintendo Wii has finally been released in Korea, and Heng got one. Yay!
As far as I can tell, aside from the Hangul, the Nintendo looks the same as the one that folks camped out for back in 2007. The only other difference is that Heng's controllers each came with a snazzy silicon cover. Are they now including controller covers with the sets back home?
Heng also purchased the "Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games (Beijing 2008)."
The Olympic game is more physically exerting than the Wii Sports games. After hours of swimming, running, rowing, and other track + field events, we looked like we had run an actual 100M race.
I don't mean to boast-- Okay, yeah I do. Despite my ineptitude in the physical world, I'm pretty darn awesome as an athlete in the virtual world.
I managed to earn a number of medals, including a couple of gold.
Look at mii in my little track suit. Aren't I intimidating?
As far as I can tell, aside from the Hangul, the Nintendo looks the same as the one that folks camped out for back in 2007. The only other difference is that Heng's controllers each came with a snazzy silicon cover. Are they now including controller covers with the sets back home?
Heng also purchased the "Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games (Beijing 2008)."
The Olympic game is more physically exerting than the Wii Sports games. After hours of swimming, running, rowing, and other track + field events, we looked like we had run an actual 100M race.
I don't mean to boast-- Okay, yeah I do. Despite my ineptitude in the physical world, I'm pretty darn awesome as an athlete in the virtual world.
I managed to earn a number of medals, including a couple of gold.
Look at mii in my little track suit. Aren't I intimidating?
09 June 2008
Guest Post: Piliksu's Scaling Adventure
As I mentioned in a previous post about scaling (facials) for men, we dragged, I mean, invited our visiting friend Piliksu to ANACLI. Since Piliksu is a dude and has not been living in an appearance-obsessed city for the past nine months, I thought it'd be interesting to get his take on the experience.
He has a lot to say.
I think we may have scarred him for life (Figuratively speaking, of course). ㅋㅋㅋ
PILIKSU'S PERSPECTIVE
--------------------------------------
I’d like to say upfront that I’m not really into cosmetic treatments. In fact, I’ve only had a facial one other time and that was also in Korea. Nevertheless, I am intrigued with the whole body/facial enhancement process and why it’s such a phenomenon in Asia; this includes full on plastic surgery. What has surprised me is the number of men who have succumbed to this trend and are willing to shell out their hard earned money with the hope of looking as beautiful as their significant others or some famous actress, although I suppose it wouldn’t hurt to have skin as smooth as 林志玲 or 이효리. To be honest, I’ve met quite a few gentlemen in Asia who say they regularly go in for facials, pedicures, and manicures. It’s a little odd to hear them talk about their appointments as if they were meeting up with friends after work to grab a beer. We tough strapping American men normally do not discuss such behavior, much less engage in it. So how was I lured into trying this out for a second time? Well, I was in Korea during a short two day layover and decided to skip out on going to the DMZ and save it for another time. The result was a free day and the two lovely ladies I was with asked me to join them for their regular treatments. I thought, “This is something I never do in the US and it’s unique. Hell, why not? I’m in.”
The dermatology office wasn’t too far from where I was staying. The first thing I noticed entering were several computer consoles in the lobby. JACKPOT! Free internet service, apparently a common perk in Korea. We first met up with the doctor to discuss our “scaling” treatment. As Anna mentioned in her post, scaling is the use of glycolic acid on your face. My understanding is that this acid removes an entire layer of skin. How this can be good for you still baffles me. I have bad skin in general--I blame it on genetics--so removing another layer of it was a little disconcerting. The doctor also concurred that my skin was not exactly up to par. In fact, I believe she was a little offended at its unsightly state, perhaps taking what appeared to be my disregard for skin care as an affront to her profession.
We were lead into a room with multiple beds and were asked to wait…and wait...and wait… and wait… I’m normally a patient person but I think we must’ve been there for over half-an-hour before anyone came in. This made me a little antsy since my time in Korea was very limited and I didn’t want to spend it lying in a dermatology office staring at the ceiling. Eventually several ladies filed in to start the process. I actually don’t remember all the steps in order, but I do recall there was constant application of different types of creams. Some of them smelled kind of funky. This was executed by the clinic’s staff and they tried their best to announce to me, the token non-Korean, each step they were about to perform. Unfortunately, I didn’t really understand what they were saying and couldn’t tell if they were speaking Korean or just heavily accented Konglish. There was also a lot of massaging of the face going on, which felt great, but I found the pressure used to be on the soft side. It was like bad foreplay (note to facial people: stronger pressure is needed to relax those muscles). After much primping by the staff, the doctor came in and began applying the glycolic acid to each of our faces with some sort of cotton or sponge pad. The initial feeling was a wonderful cool minty sensation. This eventually turned into an unpleasant stinging as if someone was tearing at your face with long nails. I’m guessing that was the part where the acid melted away the top layer of my skin. This was the doctor’s only involvement in the whole process which I found a little disappointing. When she finished, the staff shuffled back to continue additional application of random creams and their light facial massages. At one point they began to use some instrument, it could’ve been their fingernails, to squeeze out the oils and blackheads strewn across my face. I found this rather enjoyable since my face felt surprisingly cleaner afterwards.
Next was the mask. For those of you who suffer from taphephobia, I would caution you to be mentally prepared. Not only was my head wrapped like a mummy and covered in some type of green concoction as if being prepared for burial, but I had to lie still for 20 minutes while the mask settled and did its voodoo magic. Anna of course jumped on this opportunity to photograph me in my compromised position (Thanks, Anna... I hope you know payback’s a bitch). With the mask portion complete, I was ready to head out since I thought the treatment was finished. To my surprise, as they were removing the green monstrosity, a laser machine made its way into the room and tanning goggles were placed over my eyes. I was promptly subjugated to several minutes of trance alien lighting. For a moment, I half expected orifice probes to appear courtesy of the staff. Korean friends informed me later that the lasers happen to be the distinguishing piece of the scaling process and the most expensive part. Apparently, it’s the lasers that are the finishing touch in removing the blemishes and wrinkles from your face.
Overall, I found the whole hour long process to be a decent one. My face initially didn’t feel that much different after the scaling treatment. But I did notice the effects a day later. My skin was definitely smoother, but my scars, large pores, etc. were still visible. I heard that to see any real results you have to do a minimum of at least five sessions. So would I do it again? Yeah, probably, just cause the novelty of it hasn’t worn off yet. Would I do it regularly? No, I’m a little leery of regularly applying strange chemicals to any part of my body unless it’s shampoo or soap. Also, I would suggest to other guys to go ahead and try it several times for fun. But unless you’re someone like Takeshi Kaneshiro where looking money is required for your job and the ladies, I’d say go buy a nice car or fancy clothes instead with the $$$ you’d save from routine facials. I would give scaling “three-and-a-half chemical acid masks out of five.” Time to let those dead skin cells gather up and settle in for my next visit to Korea.
He has a lot to say.
I think we may have scarred him for life (Figuratively speaking, of course). ㅋㅋㅋ
PILIKSU'S PERSPECTIVE
--------------------------------------
I’d like to say upfront that I’m not really into cosmetic treatments. In fact, I’ve only had a facial one other time and that was also in Korea. Nevertheless, I am intrigued with the whole body/facial enhancement process and why it’s such a phenomenon in Asia; this includes full on plastic surgery. What has surprised me is the number of men who have succumbed to this trend and are willing to shell out their hard earned money with the hope of looking as beautiful as their significant others or some famous actress, although I suppose it wouldn’t hurt to have skin as smooth as 林志玲 or 이효리. To be honest, I’ve met quite a few gentlemen in Asia who say they regularly go in for facials, pedicures, and manicures. It’s a little odd to hear them talk about their appointments as if they were meeting up with friends after work to grab a beer. We tough strapping American men normally do not discuss such behavior, much less engage in it. So how was I lured into trying this out for a second time? Well, I was in Korea during a short two day layover and decided to skip out on going to the DMZ and save it for another time. The result was a free day and the two lovely ladies I was with asked me to join them for their regular treatments. I thought, “This is something I never do in the US and it’s unique. Hell, why not? I’m in.”
The dermatology office wasn’t too far from where I was staying. The first thing I noticed entering were several computer consoles in the lobby. JACKPOT! Free internet service, apparently a common perk in Korea. We first met up with the doctor to discuss our “scaling” treatment. As Anna mentioned in her post, scaling is the use of glycolic acid on your face. My understanding is that this acid removes an entire layer of skin. How this can be good for you still baffles me. I have bad skin in general--I blame it on genetics--so removing another layer of it was a little disconcerting. The doctor also concurred that my skin was not exactly up to par. In fact, I believe she was a little offended at its unsightly state, perhaps taking what appeared to be my disregard for skin care as an affront to her profession.
We were lead into a room with multiple beds and were asked to wait…and wait...and wait… and wait… I’m normally a patient person but I think we must’ve been there for over half-an-hour before anyone came in. This made me a little antsy since my time in Korea was very limited and I didn’t want to spend it lying in a dermatology office staring at the ceiling. Eventually several ladies filed in to start the process. I actually don’t remember all the steps in order, but I do recall there was constant application of different types of creams. Some of them smelled kind of funky. This was executed by the clinic’s staff and they tried their best to announce to me, the token non-Korean, each step they were about to perform. Unfortunately, I didn’t really understand what they were saying and couldn’t tell if they were speaking Korean or just heavily accented Konglish. There was also a lot of massaging of the face going on, which felt great, but I found the pressure used to be on the soft side. It was like bad foreplay (note to facial people: stronger pressure is needed to relax those muscles). After much primping by the staff, the doctor came in and began applying the glycolic acid to each of our faces with some sort of cotton or sponge pad. The initial feeling was a wonderful cool minty sensation. This eventually turned into an unpleasant stinging as if someone was tearing at your face with long nails. I’m guessing that was the part where the acid melted away the top layer of my skin. This was the doctor’s only involvement in the whole process which I found a little disappointing. When she finished, the staff shuffled back to continue additional application of random creams and their light facial massages. At one point they began to use some instrument, it could’ve been their fingernails, to squeeze out the oils and blackheads strewn across my face. I found this rather enjoyable since my face felt surprisingly cleaner afterwards.
Next was the mask. For those of you who suffer from taphephobia, I would caution you to be mentally prepared. Not only was my head wrapped like a mummy and covered in some type of green concoction as if being prepared for burial, but I had to lie still for 20 minutes while the mask settled and did its voodoo magic. Anna of course jumped on this opportunity to photograph me in my compromised position (Thanks, Anna... I hope you know payback’s a bitch). With the mask portion complete, I was ready to head out since I thought the treatment was finished. To my surprise, as they were removing the green monstrosity, a laser machine made its way into the room and tanning goggles were placed over my eyes. I was promptly subjugated to several minutes of trance alien lighting. For a moment, I half expected orifice probes to appear courtesy of the staff. Korean friends informed me later that the lasers happen to be the distinguishing piece of the scaling process and the most expensive part. Apparently, it’s the lasers that are the finishing touch in removing the blemishes and wrinkles from your face.
Overall, I found the whole hour long process to be a decent one. My face initially didn’t feel that much different after the scaling treatment. But I did notice the effects a day later. My skin was definitely smoother, but my scars, large pores, etc. were still visible. I heard that to see any real results you have to do a minimum of at least five sessions. So would I do it again? Yeah, probably, just cause the novelty of it hasn’t worn off yet. Would I do it regularly? No, I’m a little leery of regularly applying strange chemicals to any part of my body unless it’s shampoo or soap. Also, I would suggest to other guys to go ahead and try it several times for fun. But unless you’re someone like Takeshi Kaneshiro where looking money is required for your job and the ladies, I’d say go buy a nice car or fancy clothes instead with the $$$ you’d save from routine facials. I would give scaling “three-and-a-half chemical acid masks out of five.” Time to let those dead skin cells gather up and settle in for my next visit to Korea.
28 May 2008
Me Like Monster Diary
My friend Anonymous Monster Boy would like you to check out his Monster Diary. It's primarily intended for younger readers (so feel free to pass the link on to your homies still in elementary school), but it may be enjoyed by all readers -- at least, those who don't mind a little silliness and bad grammar.
Scaling for Men
Cyndi and I were due for a scaling, and Piliksu decided to join us. He actually wanted to go to the DMZ, but changed his mind when he learned that we'd have to trek to Seoul very early in the morning.
Tools of the Trade:
I bet you didn't think that a facial could be so involved.
The doctor lived in L.A. when she was younger, so her English was quite good. I finally got a chance to ask the doctor what "scaling" is. Scaling is basically a light Glycolic Acid mask. She says that the mask is slightly lighter than what you'd get back in the States because Asian skin types tend to be more sensitive. That's true. My skin gets very emotional when I watch sappy movies.
I don't really know any dudes back home who regularly go in for a facial (at least, they won't admit to it). I saw a number of men at the clinic, so I don't think Korean men feel as self-conscious about taking care of their skin.
You'd think that facials or scalings would be more popular with men. I mean, a pretty woman washes and massages your face. I thought men would find such an idea very appealing.
After the peel, they soothe your face with a mask that's appropriate for your skin type. I think they gave Piliksu a "whitening" mask. I'm find it curious that Shrek-green substance "whitens" your skin.
At the end of procedure, they subject you to some sort of laser light show. I'm not sure what it does. I'm hoping it's to the benefit of my complexion, and not part of some top secret science experiment. It took me four scalings before I even realized they did this. I'm usually asleep until the very end.
I've asked Piliksu to send me thoughts on the whole experience. I'll post an update, if/when he responds.
Tools of the Trade:
I bet you didn't think that a facial could be so involved.
The doctor lived in L.A. when she was younger, so her English was quite good. I finally got a chance to ask the doctor what "scaling" is. Scaling is basically a light Glycolic Acid mask. She says that the mask is slightly lighter than what you'd get back in the States because Asian skin types tend to be more sensitive. That's true. My skin gets very emotional when I watch sappy movies.
I don't really know any dudes back home who regularly go in for a facial (at least, they won't admit to it). I saw a number of men at the clinic, so I don't think Korean men feel as self-conscious about taking care of their skin.
You'd think that facials or scalings would be more popular with men. I mean, a pretty woman washes and massages your face. I thought men would find such an idea very appealing.
After the peel, they soothe your face with a mask that's appropriate for your skin type. I think they gave Piliksu a "whitening" mask. I'm find it curious that Shrek-green substance "whitens" your skin.
At the end of procedure, they subject you to some sort of laser light show. I'm not sure what it does. I'm hoping it's to the benefit of my complexion, and not part of some top secret science experiment. It took me four scalings before I even realized they did this. I'm usually asleep until the very end.
I've asked Piliksu to send me thoughts on the whole experience. I'll post an update, if/when he responds.
26 May 2008
Interview with Ian Oppa
As I mentioned previously, Ian Oppa came to Seoul for a two-week vacation. Given the fact that he was in Korea for a longer period, knows a little more Korean, and is generally more amiable than my sister, I thought he'd offer a different take on his time in Korea.
He's currently compiling his photos, but you can check out his interview below. My comments are in purple.
What was your first impression of Seoul?
Seoul??? I thought I landed in Los Angeles with the smell and the
haze of smog. Other than that, Seoul is like your typical "big city"
with lots of cars and people.
Given your Korean skills, was it easy to get around?
understood it). However, if you don't know how to read or speak some
of the language I would say that it could be pretty difficult to get
around. Because I spoke some Korean, everyone automatically assumed
that I was fluent (which I am nowhere near). I think it would be
better to feign ignorance and just speak English.
Were there any Korean phrases that you wish you knew how to say?
"Hey ajumma, why are you cutting in front of me?"
"Another bottle of beer/soju please." Oh wait, I do know THAT one!
What are a few sights that all first-time visitors should check out?
like going back in time. The changing of the palace guards is a must
see.
Bongeunsa (Buddhist temple - near the Coex, across from the Intercontinental) was very spiritually uplifting. So much so that I now am studying Buddhism. I really lucked out that it was the weekend of Buddha's birthday as the temple was adorned with lanterns and the monks were busy chanting. (On Thursdays @ 2pm, for 10,000 won you can go on an English tour, meditate, and experience a tea ceremony).
What's also so neat about these places is that they are located smack
in the middle of the city amongst the highrises. You can truly see
how time has passed by in history.
How did you like your accommodations?
with an excellent view of the city toward Seoul (Namsan) Tower. The
restaraunt and bar staff were really friendly (I even made a friend)
as well as the ajummas who cleaned my room. However, that being said,
the front desk people were robotic and emotionless. I would still
recommend this place though because of the location. I just wish that
it was closer to the subway and not up that treacherous hill (my legs
hurt just thinking about it). Me too.
If you had more time, what would you have liked to done?
I would have loved to see the country outside of Seoul. I also would
have gone to the DMZ to look toward North Korea. Oh well, there's
always a next time!
If you had more money, what else would you have liked to buy?
How did it feel to be in the Motherland (or in your case, the Grandmotherland)?
I felt welcomed in Korea. I felt like I somehow belonged there. I
though that I would have experienced more of a "culture shock" but I
just blended in (well almost). Yup, extensive arm tattoos will get you a second glance. Props to you for being tolerant of the gawking.
Seoul versus Bundang? Thoughts?
Bundang (ha ha Bun Dang) was interesting because it has that big city
feel with a lot less people. I can see how people want to live there
because you get to escape the city while still having all the perks of
the city like restaurants galore and the shopping (except no UNIQLO).
Seoul can be daunting with all the people. We may not have a UNIQLO (yet), but we're getting a Din Tai Fong!
Any tips for dudes visiting Seoul?
What surprised you about Seoul or Koreans?
will definitely encounter some rude ones. You just have to break
through the exterior of some people and they turn into the nicest
people.
As far as Seoul is concerned, where are the frigging trash cans? I
must have seen about three of them the whole time I was there. I was
shocked to see all the trash on the ground everywhere I went.
What was your favorite neighborhood and why?
I needed to go. There was shopping (a UNIQLO) and lots of places to
eat and drink. It is also a great place to people watch and see what
people are wearing and how they do their hair. When I would have to
wait for people (cough cough) (미안!), I would just park myself on the side
and watch people pass by. Gangnam has a good mix of people.
What did you think of Korean food?
Korean food in Hawaii seems saltier and "thrown together". Except for
those noodles we ate in Hongdae (thanks Cindy) I found the food to be
less spicy than what I'm used to.
Try not to eat "American" food in Korea (i.e. McDonald's, Burger
King), you WILL be dissapointed.
What's with the sweet pickles??? Seriously, what's the deal?
What is your opinion of Korean fashion?
well put together. I hardly saw sloppy looking people (sorry to say
this but sloppy as in American sloppy). You can tell that by all the
people staring at themselves in any reflective surfaces, that most
Koreans care about the way they look. But...the dudes need some help.
As Anna says, those shiny business suits are REALLY shiny, almost
disco shiny if you know what I mean. You really have to see it in
person to appreciate what we mean. Unless I was crazy (which some of
you think that I am), I would not be caught DEAD in one of those
suits. As for the ladies, high heels are the norm and that
dumbfounds me. Seoul is not a flat city. Some of the hills and long
blocks give me an asthma attack and yet, there are women in high heels
EVERYWHERE. No wonder all the girls are skinny with killer calves (and corns).
Do you think you would have enjoyed Seoul if you didn't know anyone?
trip the trip of a lifetime. I think that if I didn't know anyone I
still would have enjoyed the sightseeing , food, and shopping
(UNIQLO). You guys being there was just the icing on the cake. Yay! We were so happy that you could come out and visit!
What will you miss about Seoul?
like visiting a foreign country and having your friends there. I will
also miss UNIQLO very much (ha ha, I'm not kidding) and the sunglass
vendor in Gangnam. I'm sure that he misses you too. Now, he'll just have to stare at himself in the mirror to console himself.
Any other tips for travelers?
your country's thinking behind and think "Korean". Study the language
and the culture because it will make your time there more enjoyable.
Get a T-money card as soon as you can. It is the utmost in
transportation convenience.
Any other comments?
The largest Korean won bill is 10000 ($10) so bring a really fat wallet.
Ian Oppa's Top Ten Highlights:
1. Hanging out with friends (old and new...Piggy included)
2. Bongeunsa temple
3. Changdeokgung and Gyeongbokgung palace
4. Watching drunk salarymen try to kiss and hug each other
5. Shopping!!!
6. Namsan Tower
7. Going to my first "pro" baseball game (our team lost)
8. Eating at "Imo chib" (Insadong)
9. Having my fortune read at a saju cafe
10. Korean Airlines (it really is a great airline)
The Lowlights:
1. The pollution in Seoul (on the streets and in the air)
2. Pushy ajummas
3. Eating beondegi (could also be considered a highlight)
4. Passing by a bosintang restaraunt in Hongdae
5. The men's room of some restauraunts (oh the SMELL!)
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