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!

Sweet Tooth Satisfaction - Snow Spoon

Being that I was addicted to Pinkberry back at home, I had to find the Korean equivalent. Snow Spoon, a Korean chain yogurt shop incorporates Pinkberry yumminess and the 16 Handles concept by allowing you, the customer to choose your frozen yogurt and variety of toppings. Paying by weight allows you to mix and match all flavors. It is great for those who are looking to consume a certain amount of ice-cream. I should be speaking on behalf of my diet, but we can ignore that for the moment.

There is not one flavor from Snow Spoon that I do not like! Snow Spoon is the only place where you will find a blue soda, labeled as "blue" which is cider. These are all a must try and for those of you who are looking for something not so variety, there are pre made ice-cream sandwiches and such which you can pick up and enjoy. As for everyone else, be careful because this store can literally be the death of you with flavorful yogurts and a toppings station with all sorts of goodies, including whip cream and syrups!

Pamper Me Pretty - Korean Fashion

I recently blogged about my obsession with the Korean Fashion, and not much has changed. Feeding off of that blog, I'm extremely excited to share the Korean fashion with you. I have probably became more obsessed and more excited about the Korean fashion since I moved to Korea a few months ago. 

Incorporating metallic jewelry with cotton and fabric is an extremely hit piece of accessory in Korea and I am absolutely in love with the Vintage Hollywood Two Way Bracelet, it is a must pick up for all. Keep in mind there is a limited number of products manufactured and this is the most famous jewelry brand in South Korea. A handful of celebrities have seen with the Vintage Hollywood accessories including the oh so desirable G-Dragon from Big Bang, the Girls' Generation girl group, and Korean pop singer IU.

In regards to the Korean fashion, loose fitting tops are extremely popular. I have picked up a handful of loose fitting tops in Korea, but nothing has compared to the extremely comfortable Lounge 8Eight pocket tank. The light material top is able to keep me cool through the humid summer days. If possible, I would probably wear this top everyday. In addition to the pocket tank, I am obsessed with the Lounge 8Eight white pants which has a touch of silk pink pastel. Although the line is designed for day wear, it is definitely easy to pair pieces and transform it into evening and even clothing for a night out.

One thing to keep in mind when shopping in Korea is that almost all clothing is Free Size. What does this mean? This means that it is literally one size fits all. Problematic? Extremely. Not all women have the same curves in the same area so it can be a bit frustrating when shopping. I am grateful that Mootta offers a handful of stylish pieces that are not free size which makes shopping in Korea easier.

The best part is, Mootta is launching their first sale ever, tomorrow Monday, July 23rd so you can hop on your Korean fashion and update your closet with international fashion that is oh so stylish! I just might have to pick up a few extra items and add to my collection.

Restaurant Review - Michelles Steak

The local spot in Kongdae, Michelle's, is the go to place for those who are looking for a Philly Cheesesteak sandwich. It is almost impossible to find the right touch, but Michelle's is whipping up the closest thing.  With two types of sandwiches, the original and the mini, to cater to the foreigners who know cheesesteaks and the local Koreans who like a softer sandwich, Michelle's is a must try. Cheesesteaks are how they are back at home: beef, real cheese, vegetables, served on a fresh roll. 

The best thing about this small cozy restaurant is that you can practically order any combination that you want, even if it's not on the menu. Because sandwiches are big in size, it is suggested to share with another. Sandwiches begin at the price of $9 with a drink, definitely worth every penny when you have a crazy craving. It is definitely a bit difficult to find considering it is off the main street and up a small alley, but it is worth the walk.

Your best bet is to go from Children's Park station and follow the directions via their Facebook page.
Address: 능동로 16길 35 Seoul Korea
Phone: 02-3437-0700 

Korean Traditional Eat - Naengmyeon

Naengmyeon, the Korean cold noodle, is the perfect lunch and even dinner option for a hot summer day. Although it is popular in the summer time, it is available in restaurants all year 'round. The dish varies from place to place on the type of noodle used (some thin white, some brown flat noodle). The concept is the same: soup noodles served in an ice bowl. 

It may be a bit peculiar to have cold noodles, but it definitely worth it to have this cheap eat that averages at the price of $5. It helps to fill up your stomach and keep yourself cool. Can't go wrong with that!

Street Food Yum - Takoyaki Balls

A street version of the Japanese Okonomiyaki pancake, these squid (sometimes other seafood) pancake-made batter balls are topped with the flakes and sauce that will have you going bonkers. You can simply pop them in your mouth and have a Okonomiyaki-like pancake to go. Prices vary in the number of balls that you want, an average box of eight for three dollars or fourteen for five dollars. Definitely can't go wrong with that!

Takoyaki balls can be found all around town in Korea as a quick pick me up to eat. Ewha (the women's university), Kongdae (by the Konkuk University station), Gangnam, and many other centers of attractions. For those who are looking for a more filling meal, the Okonomiyaki Pancake is available in some locations as well. The pancake is usually topped with udon noodles, a filling meal for just $5.

The best thing about these Takoyaki balls is the way it is made. A batter is poured onto the circular cooking platform and the filing is added. It is then topped with more batter and as it cooks, a bubble will start to form. Keep in mind the batter pours everywhere. Once halfway cooked, two sticks are used to cut and pull the flat shaped filling into a ball like popper. It is something you have to see to believe. Descriptions does not work for the amazement of the technique. 

My Current Obsession - Korean Fashion

I am currently obsessed with the Korean style, so much that I have been spending a lot of money shopping here in Korea. There is definitely no harm in shopping, especially to add a new touch to a girl's closet. With this said, I have been obsessed with Mootta, a website that was recently launched in Korea, bringing South Korean fashion to the rest of the world.

Offering free shipping worldwide until July 19, it is the perfect time to jump on the Korean bandwagon and style up your closet. I think it is definitely a must to take advantage of this offer, no matter where you are in the world! Be sure to follow them on Twitter and Facebook to stay updated with their newly added weekly items as well as the trends in Korea. 

A few recommendations that I am obsessed with is the Pocket Tank which reflects the loose fitting style in Korea, the Lounge 8Eight White Pants which is cropped at the ankle, a perfect match with heels, Hayley Kiel's Mic clutch, and of course a handful of the Vintage Hollywood accessories that are trending in Korea: the Crown Skull Bracelet, the Lindsay Wish Two-Way Bracelet, and the Lindsay Leather Bracelets.