Korean Traditional Eat - Sundae 순대

Sundae (순대) is an extreme traditional Korean eat, but also considered a peculiar dish for many, especially foreigners because of its strong tastes. Most commonly made from boiling or steam cow or pig intestines and filled with a variety of ingredients, this blood sausage is something that many cannot tolerate. Most Sundaes are filled with cellophane noodles (dangmyeon), pork blood, fermented soy bean paste, glutinous rice, kimchi, and or soy bean sprouts. It is a popular eat in Korea and they come in all different forms.

Depending on the area stirring up Sundae, the most common is the cow or pig sausage served whole and consumed just like that. Other areas specialize in different kinds which is made of squid (Ojingeo Sundae), Alaska pollock (Myeongtae Sundae), Brown Coacker's air bladder (Eogyo Sundae) and many others. 

For those who are trying out the dish for the first time, you can find this along the street through the street vendors. It is a good idea to share with others, just in case you are not used to the unique taste. Another suggestion is to have the 순대국 which is a soup version of the traditional eat.

Story of My Life - Sokcho Travels

Sokcho is a must visit for those who are looking for a clean and clear blue water beach in Korea. Located in the northeast region from Seoul, it is a bit of a hike to get to, but definitely worth it. With buses running from two of the main stations in Seoul, the travel is roughly three hours. It is a good rest to have after a long day of tanning and body surfing.

 Although Sokcho is far from Seoul, there are a number of tourists and foreigners that visit the area. In addition to the physical appearance, you can distinguish the locals from the rest by beach habits. Koreans are usually hiding from the sun, in every way possible, so there are a number of tents scattered around. In addition, although bikinis are recommended for the beach, Koreans will jump into the water fully clothed. An alien feeling to us, but you will see some locals in bathing suits and swim wear, with minor influences from foreigners.

With all the peculiar habits of Koreans that we are not used to, there are a handful of benefits as well. This includes the drop off menus as you tan for delivery services of all kinds-fried chicken, pizza, full meals-the best is McDonald's. If you thought New York was convenient with cold drinks and icecream, McDonald's in Korea has someone walking around to take your order and deliver it, everything but cones that is. I wouldn't get too picky since I can still order an Oreo McFlurry with my full value meal!

For those looking for an authentic meal in the area, seafood is the big recommendation. Seafood includes king crab, there are a number of restaurants serving up fresh crab, as well as a variety of other seafood (fish, octopus, squid, conch, and more) that is cut up and served fresh when you order. Talk about good sashimi! There is also a bunch of other dishes which includes the Squid Sundae (squid roll), Potato Pancake, and Naengmyeon 냉면 (cold noodle).

Nonetheless, Sokcho is a must visit, being that it is one of the top beaches in Korea. It is easy to plan and have a one day getaway without knowing any English. As a heads up, there aren't as much coffee shops as there are in Seoul so be ready!