trip around korea

Are you crazy?”

“What do you mean?”

“There’s no way you can do it”

“Yes, I can. I will. I don’t care if it breaks. I’ll walk the rest of the way, but I need you to get it in the best shape possible.”

“Alright, well…come back in a couple hours”, the mechanic chuckled as he walked back into his shop.

There are a lot of people in life that will tell you things are impossible. You might wonder why I chose these words to catapult my story, but I’m not going to get into detail; for the ones that are driven to explore, driven by adventure, driven to live and learn more about themselves are the ones that will understand why I chose to ride my motorcycle around Korea.

Now this never seemed like an impossible thing for me to do, and with my contract ending in 3 months I wanted to take advantage of my time spent in Korea and leave with the full experience.

My 10-day journey started with a trip to the mechanic, a borrowed tent, a stop at Dongdaemun’s camping district, a handy Korean road map, the knowledge that you can pitch-a-tent pretty much anywhere along the coast (just check with the locals first), and the idea to circle the country; everything else was left up to the roads.

1)  

Jeju’s Jeongbong waterfall is quoted to be “the only Asian waterfall that falls directly into the ocean”. I like the ferocity of this quote so I decided not to do any research to find the truth in it and just let it be.  It truly is a breathtaking site and worth the 2000 won park admittance; it is also located within 20 km of Seogwipo’s other waterfall Cheonjiwon. 

2

After driving along the shore roads on the west coast of Jeju, the rocky cliffs forced me to merge onto the 1132 expressway which is where I found this sexual wonderland (not to be confused with Jeju’s other sexual wonderland Loveland). The Sex and Health Museum is home to grand sculptures of people at play- much like these sexy women who urged me to snap these erotic photos.

3)

Lonely Planet Korea claims it takes 7-8 hours to climb Hallasan’s summit, and I would have followed that advice had it not been that I was rushing to catch a ferry to Busan and hadn’t the time, which is partly excuse of the goofy look. The hazy background often comes-and-goes due to the altitude and location to the sea; the mist passed within 5 minutes but my camera hadn’t the life left.

4)

This ajumah approached me with a sweetened deal of 5 king crabs for 50,000 won- so after stopping at the local shop for some butter to melt in her microwave I took her up on the bargain. Yeondok’s port is home to a seafood market that is surrounded by restaurants with tanks swelled with ocean delights.

5)

After cruising and sleeping on beaches and mountains all along the coast line I pulled into a Baekam on a cloudy day and met Bryce the owner of this Baekam Springs Hotel.

Each bedroom is furnished with a bathtub that is pumped with natural hot-springs water, or if you are just passing through; you can opt for a cheaper alternative and just use the bath-house for 6000 won, either way it’s a very relaxing excuse to stop in Baekam.

6) This spectacular fountain rests just off the shore of Kolaybul’s white sandy beach. At night the town gathers closely around and watches the colourful streams dance to Andrea Bocelli’s Time to Say Goodbye.

7) It is told that a young man and woman paddled a boat out to an island, in which the man had to leave shortly after, promising his quick return. That night the waves grew violently and he was unable to make the venture and it was the same storm that threw her from the island ending her life. From that day forth that fishing village was struck with barren catches as it was said that the woman’s tears had warded off the fish. The people of the village began creating phallic wooden carvings and sending them to sea as a tribute to the virgin woman- this action resulted in the end of the curse and the village once again flourished with great scaled bounty.

8) Walking out of Daechon’s E-Mart, I was startled to hear the sound of muffled barking as I witnessed this dishevelled puppy as one of the new victims of dog lockers.

9) Jeongdongjin is home to a happening beach-town pumping with late night karaoke and long sandy beaches. Its name derives from the Joseon Dynasty out of its directly-eastern position to Seoul’s Gwanghwamun. 

10) After spending the night sleeping on a mountain along the Mokpo’s West Sea, I woke to board the 4 1/2 hour ferry boat to Jeju. It is a good idea to book your tickets a day in advance to avoid the lines in the morning. Prepare for choppy waters but all the nice people on board make for a smooth ride.

11)Unlike my previous boat ride; Jeju to Busan’s 11-hour overnight ferry gives you much time to catch up on needed rest. Prepare to bring some ear plugs for the late night television viewers in your cozy room of 100. 

After 1340 km on my bike and one sore ondongy I departed on my 230 km trip back to Seoul. Stopped at a red light just outside of Jeongdongjin, several police officers were standing car-side before one called me over. I doing nothing illegal just followed procedure and cruised through the red light to meet him. The cop anxious at a chance to meet a foreigner asked me my name and age while checking out my bike. Before letting me go he asked me where I was going; Seoul I said, as he chuckled mimicking my mechanics reaction. 

teaching oversees is a breeze

Imagine waking up to your alarm clock, but instead of turning it off right away- you take a moment to picture your family back home getting ready to sit down for dinner.  The sun illuminates your room as you get out of bed, enjoy a big stretch and breathe in your new life in South Korea. Outside your window is one of Korea’s breathtaking mountains, which is perfect because you’re just about to get onto your motorbike and cruise the countryside, rolling alongside rice paddies and chili patches, slipping through little fishing villages and getting lost in your endless freedom.  As you can see, I had the time of my life in Korea.

I started thinking of teaching overseas in Asia my first year of university, and by the time I graduated, I had only talked myself further into it. It looked like a great opportunity to get a feel for teaching before committing myself to teachers college-and more importantly, for me at least, was to start seeing the world.  So if you are sitting there, thinking that you know you do not want to settle down at a job just yet, or you really don’t know what you want to do, maybe this will help get your mind flowing.

 There are many countries that are looking for English teachers; China, Japan, Taiwan and Thailand are among some of the most popular. Since I have only taught in Korea- I will help you go through the process of finding a teaching position and filling you in on what to look for, while shedding light on what you should expect.  So come on, check it out. 

Korea is a highly driven country, where school and education more often than not, come first- so do not be frightened to see children working harder than you ever did throughout school.  It is their culture and it is what has made them one of the fastest growing economies in the world.  Koreans work hard but they also know how to enjoy their time outside of work, and you can find a good number of South Korea’s 48 million filling one of its amusement parks on a sunny summer day, hiking the dormant volcano on Jeju Island, shopping at one of Korea’s extensive network of underground malls, painting their body at the annual Boryeong Mud Festival, rocking out at one of the Seoul’s free outdoor concerts, or eating at one of Korea’s famously spicy restaurant at four in the morning. Everything you dream and even things you haven’t, you will find in Korea.

                You are probably wondering “how do I get around Korea when the only word I know is anyong-haseyo?”  Well, I will let you in on a few tips that might make your life abroad a little easier.

Imagine a culture with a society based around perfecting skills, family gatherings, eating big meals and karaoke- you are going to meet a lot of smart, loving, hungry, fun people- but sometimes they might tend to be reserved, and it has a lot with their shyness towards speaking English, which is totally understandable. To make these Koreans feel more comfortable, it is helpful to initiate conversation and reinforce that you understand them clearly- and more often than not, you will end up at a local Korean barbeque at 3 in the morning, being dragged to the karaoke- you better not say no, or you will be missing out on a friend for life, and one hell of a good time.

A good percentage of the youth in Korea have a grasp on the English language, if they are not already fluent- so you are never too far from conversation.  And remember, there is a huge underground of English teachers from all over the world- and you are all going through the same experience.

Ok, so assume that you have decided to go to Korea, and you have already researched the culture thoroughly. Now you are asking yourself “what do I need to do next?”  Well you would have to find a school.

There are many websites to locate schools in South Korea: www.daveseslcafe.com, www.worknplay.com.kr, and www.englishspectrum.com are some of the best, and have thousands of recruiters or schools looking to hire someone like you, a university graduate. Semesters start in September and March, so there is always an increase of positions accordingly, but one-month winter and summer camps open up all the time- so there are always plenty of jobs to be had all year round.

              With the abundance of jobs there is room to find the best school for you.   Ask yourself the questions, do I want to work night classes or day?  Teach small classes or big?  Teach adults or children?  Work Saturdays?  And most importantly, which city in South Korea do I want to live in?

              Another important question to be asking yourself, is what should I expect from your school? This is where I can help you. The standard expectations for a first time teacher are:

·         roughly 2.0 to 2.3 million won/ month (2000 – 2300 Canadian dollars)    

·         house or housing allowance 400,000 won ( 400 Canadian dollars)

·         roundtrip flight- return paid upon completion

·         10 days holiday + statutory holidays ( believe me there are many)

·         Bonus month pay upon completion (2000-2300 dollars)

·         Pension and medical coverage

               I know it is a hard decision to just pick up and go, so you can help put yourself at ease by asking to speak to one of the foreign teachers at your school. They can give vital information as to whether the school is well run, if they pay on time, if they have a consistent schedule and most importantly if it is a fun environment.

               Now that you have found a legitimate school, the business side becomes involved. Believe me this process can sometimes get frustrating, but do not let it deter you from teaching abroad- for the rewards are far greater than the hassle.

               First, you will need to contact your university and order a sealed transcript ($8/each- it is good to order more than one if you plan on teaching for more than one year) it takes around 3 weeks to receive. Meanwhile, you can drive to the nearest police station that performs criminal checks and ask for the vulnerable sector search, tell them that you are going to teach English overseas and they will understand.  This process takes 2 weeks and costs $40 and you can get as many copies sent, within reason.

               Send the above two documents to your schools Korean address, along with your original diploma (order another original if yours is framed on the wall or magnetized to the fridge), 2 passport size photos, resume, and a copy of your schools contract signed.  In as early as two weeks, your                                                          Korean contractor will send you a visa number that you need to bring to the Korean Consulate in Toronto, go to www.koreanconsulate.on.ca/en/ (click E-2 visa guidelines for complete instructions) to clearly see the specific details. If you live two hours away or further from Toronto, you can perform this step over the phone, rather than fighting your way through Toronto’s ferocious traffic.

              Unfortunately, you do require making an appearance eventually when your visa sticker is available, you have to go to the Korean consulate and have your passport stamped with an E-2 visa- allowing you to teach English overseas for a one year period. 

             There are a few things to consider if you plan on travelling outside of Korea during your stay.  You are going to need to ask for a multi- entry visa.   It comes compulsory for Americans, but up here in Canada we need to request it and pay the small fee, which is totally worth it.  Also, one more important reminder, make sure your passport does not expire while abroad.  If have already booked your flight, show your electronic-conformation to the passport office and they can speed up the process, and if you are sweet enough try your luck at the Korean consulate.

             That is it you are finished, nothing else to worry about, right? You have a new exciting job, which pays well and gives you the freedom to explore and meet new people. What else could you ask for? How about experience!

              Unfortunately, I cannot give you experience; only time can give you that. But before you walk into a classroom filled with rambunctious kids or eager adults, it helps to have some ideas or knowledge to fall back on. Some schools have strict teaching guidelines. Some have books or a curriculum to follow.  While others might give you complete freedom within the classroom- so it is a good idea to always be thinking of new teaching ideas that are fun and interesting. For help on teaching tips for all ages check out www.daveseslcafe.com.

             Don’t forget, most contracts are for one year so think carefully while you pack.  You will be able to find most products in Korea from English bookstores, McDonalds and silkworms, all the way down to Kraft Dinner- so you aren’t cut off from the world just yet.  Also think about bringing a laptop to stay in touch with your family back home, and if you are of the fairer size like myself; bring some extra clothes and shoes- they really do go the extra mile.

             Lastly, before you go and jump on a plane to Korea, I have to be cheesy for a second- so you have been forewarned.  Everything I have mentioned prior is all well and good, but you need to know that the most important things to bring with you are good energy, a positive attitude and sense of adventure. There is nothing better than looking back on the year and noticing a difference in your student’s speech and gained comfort in the English vocabulary and who knows you might even learn a thing or two about yourself along the way- I sure did.

For those of you who are still wondering what anyong-haseyo means, it is a polite way of saying hello.  So go spread the word.  Happy travelling 

spotlight comedy night

We all have friends that claim they’re funny.  You know the routine “Hey, you have to hear this joke- So, this proctologist and a donkey…. Ahhh, forget it”. We’ve all heard it before; anyone can tell a joke, but a soul that lives and breathes comedy is a little harder to come by, which is why Spotlight Comedy Club was formed. This is not your ordinary Comedy Club in Korea- meaning you’re not going to see your roommate or drunken next door neighbour up on stage. What Spotlight Comedy Club does is reel in professional comedians from all over the world to bring you the funny.  September 26^th is going to be Spotlights’ 5^th event since its creation in 2007- with the company of Australia’s uproarious Jonathan Atherton and America’s stronghold Terry Johnson AKA THE REAL TJ performing 40 minutes apiece. These two comedians have over 40 years in the game and have a resume that spans the globe. Multi-tongued Lonely Planet star Atherton is owner of two comedy clubs in Singapore and Kuala Lumpur where he feeds audiences with his sexual blend of multiculturalism. While, The REAL TJ’s career boasts writing for In Living Colour and Harlem Globe Trotter hype-man MC. The two of them have shared stages many times prior, but this will be their first time in Korea, and they are looking forward to spreading some love. The evening is going to be a riot, and also a rarity, as it is Itaewon’s first comedy show performed underneath the night sky. With a rooftop venue accommodating 150 seats, be sure you are one with a ticket, so you are waiving it in your friends face and not vice versa. The doors open at 7:30 which will give you plenty of time to throw back a dozen beers before the show starts at 8:30. Reserve your tickets by emailing Spotlight founders Bernard Hughes and Kristie Bromenshenk at spotlightcomedyclub@yahoo.com.  

sungha jung

Walking into Itaewon’s Urban bar I overheard two musicians talking about Sungha, “I wish I could play like this kid when I was his age” one said. “I wish I could play like this kid now” said the other- and this couldn’t be closer to the truth as I witness the 12 year old legend-in-the-making Sungha Jung wail away on his acoustic guitar to Michael Jackson’s Billy Jean.

It goes without saying that he’s not your average Nintendo DS enthusiastic preteen with nearly a million hits on YouTube- revamping the classics of Stevie Wonder, The Beatles, Eric Clapton, Simon and Garfunkel, Bob Marley and Nirvana; just to name a few. Sungha’s been shredding through every ounce of music he can get his hands on. 

Growing up listening to his father’s 60’- 70’s pop collection is where his journey began. At 9 he picked up the guitar emulating his father and began as any beginner does- basic chords, scales, tuning and of course repetition.  Soon he began taking lessons and shortly after that he embarked on teaching himself the art of finger-style. When Sungha couldn’t get the tabs for a song he would study it by his dedicated ear. With a passion that has driven him to practice (on average) 4 hours a day it is easy to hear why Sungha has been receiving so much hype.  Now, he learns and rebuilds songs in as little as two days and posts his videos on YouTube.

This is where things began to blossom for Sungha. His videos began to spread like seedlings in a windblown tree and scattered across the land- reaching the right hands and taking fruition.  German guitarist Ulli Bogershausen was one of those hands that instantly became admirers of Sungha’s talent. The two have been in contact ever since and has even played a concert in Frankfurt, Germany with Ulli.  When I mentioned his name, Sungha’s eyes lit up “It was amazing playing with Ulli. He is my musical inspiration”. In fact, Sungha has performed with many of the guitarists he admirers and studies- like Japan’s Katori Oshio and Austria’s Thomas Leeb.

Sungha like most children attend school, but what he does outside of it is shaping his future. Always remaining poised and humble- Sungha played Masaak Kishebe’s Rainy window at the premiere of 2007’s August Rush. And while most students perform presentations in school- Sungha has performed at a concert at Jamsil Stadium in front of a crowd of 8000. This only adds to his list of live performances, concerts abroad, and guest appearances on television.

As much as he enjoys recreating his favourites, Sungha also composes and arranges his own music with 8 originals to date.  I asked him where a 12 year old gets his inspiration- he explained to me through his interpreter that having been able to play and build friendships with his mentors, has intensely added to his drive and passion- composing Missing You upon Thomas Leeb’s departure and Voyages with Ulli after being taken under his wing.

Now jamming with America’s Trace Bundy in the corner of Itaewon’s Urban amidst a room full of photographers, he embraces it all like a veteran, nodding his head and cracking a smile after each melodic journey. Just shy of 13 and already 4 years into the game there is no showing what echelon he will be setting the standards for- because right now he is too busy living his dream. If you want to check out, learn more, or follow this incredible guitarist- you can rock out to his nostalgic collection and incendiary originals on www.myspace.com/jungsungha.

                                                            6/28/09

quilitoa loop- printed in spec

Lying across the row of torn seats at the back of the bus, all I could think was that “I can’t believe I’m in Ecuador”. When in my life did I ever think I would be here?

Ryan and I arrived in Latacunga 2hours and 2 dollars later to a sombre rain-shower that did not give way to bad spirits, as we were greeted with smiles by colourfully dressed locals. We sat down at a bench to hide from the rain and try some food from the market. Our limited Spanish left us ordering “dos” of whatever they were serving, which turned out to be a chunk of pork, rice, potatoes and an ensalada, served with homemade chocolate milk out of a huge steel cauldron- all for $1.75 each.  

Latacunga was not much of a dwelling spot, more of a stop-over on our journey through Ecuador’s remote Andean villages within the picturesque Quilotoa loop. I did manage to get a haircut before departure, in one of Latacunga’s countless barber shops before heading to Zumbahua. 

I was surprisingly alert to be on my fifth bus in the past twenty-four hours and was able to capture the hand-sewn patchwork of the rolling Andean mountains. Ecuador’s central highlands- contain 8 of the country’s 10 highest peaks; including Volcano Cotopaxi (5897m) and Volcano Chimborazo (6310m) and is home to Laguna Quilotoa, a breathtaking volcanic crater lake.

Discovering this hidden village wrapped amongst the clouds, took me back to a much simpler, beautiful lifestyle. As I joined the children at play, the most spectacular sunset set fire to the sky. I stood in awe before showing the kids how to spin a basketball as they practiced their English on me; “How are you?”... “What is your name?” Everything was so real and perfect that I’ve always imagined travelling to be and I knew that its impression would stick with me and be my driving force, long after I am too old to drive.

The sun began to shine as we boarded a pickup that was driving us to Chugchilan along the worn out death defying cliff-sides of Quilotoa.  The altitude hit me, so I laid my head to rest upon arrival, waking 18 hours later to the owner of the hostel brewing a medicinal concoction for me to drink, containing onion root, calamine, oregano, and leaves from apple and orange trees. Yummy! I drank 6 cups of the 12 cup pot and woke the next morning at 4:45 am to the sound of my alarm, alive and revitalized.

Ryan and I hopped into the back of the truck with only the night sky above our heads as we embarked on a magnificent journey descending through the mountains. With the sun inching its way above the horizon it gave way to the most amazing views of the two towering volcanoes that parented this untamed region.

Along our ride, a boy jumped onto the back of the pickup and piggy-backed a ride to the market (fairytale pun not intended).  And not long after an older couple came running to hitch a ride as well- his wife was just out of reach as the gold-toothed man jumped, grabbing the ledge pulling himself up. I explained to him, that if someone left their wife behind in Canada- they would be in a lot of trouble.

 A colourful commotion caught my eye as we thundered down the bumpy road.  The market looked like a zoo, with a dollar sign on everything that moved.  The smell, the squeaks, the squeals, the rawness of bartering for subsistence- it was a true beauty to witness life at its purest form.

I was overwhelmed by the fluidity and motion of their day. By 6 am, trucks of alpacas have been unloaded, miles of bananas laid out, and pigs purchased and hoisted onto the roofs of trucks. I took in the experience as I tried my luck with some of local vendors. I bought every vegetable under the sun, and waited 30 minutes to get change from a 10 dollar bill. Note to all whom are reading, bring change!  

As we were leaving, a cheerful elderly woman waved us over and poured us each a shot from a gas can- we foreignly drank it down and bit our tongues at ever accepting. Now feeling like Hercules, we boarded our bus. Walking to the back my head was on a swivel as I captured a wide-eyed child buying cotton candy, a woman wearing a feather-tipped hat standing with broom in hand, a pickup truck filled with smiling Ecuadorians far exceeding its capacity- and as our bus began to depart I heard the distressed squeals of a pig- arguing over the price of his head. As dust began to fly, I could only think “Wow! So this is Ecuador”. 

panchos review

Do you crave meat? Do you dream of succulent meat tender enough that you cut into it with a fork? Plate after plate of top sirloin steak, pork ribs, moist chicken breast wrapped in bacon, sausage links, and who can forget lamb; a thick and juicy cut of lamb with a fat that melts in your mouth. If this has got your mouth watering, than Pancho’s Churrasco BBQ Grill Fiesta is your new haven.

Every Thursday night from 6:30 to 10:30, Itaewon’s Pancho’s is host to an all new all you can eat and drink Brazilian barbeque. With a menu of nine different cuts of meat cooked to perfection by a Brazilian chef, accompanied by garlic rice, veggies and sweet pineapple coated in cinnamon fresh off the grill all washed down with endless pints of Hite- you will undoubtedly be leaving satisfied.  

Where many galbi restaurants charge buy the gram you could leave full spending around the same price, but Pancho’s is offering  a great variety of quality cuts of meat, grilled with precision and sliced off of a skewer directly onto your plate for only 29,500 won.

Along with Thursday nights all you can eat Brazilian Barbeque and free taco Tuesday’s (with purchase of beer) Pancho’s offers an array of Mexican favourites including crunchy tacos, beefy burritos, cheesy enchiladas and quesadillas, deep fried chimichangas and mountains of topped nachos.  Aside from its southern menu Pancho’s also includes many western delicacies; burgers, salads, and Canada’s claim to fame poutine. If you aren’t hungry stop by for an ice cold fruity margarita or daiquiri or San Miguel on tap.

As one of Itaewon’s longest standing restaurants with over 13 years on the strip, Pancho’s extremely personable and humorous owner Mrs. Oh has seen a lot of restaurants come and go. Sitting down over a refreshing mojito, a drink Ernest Hemingway made famous and Pancho’s has mastered, Mrs. Oh filled me in on her why she started Pancho’s.

 After traveling to Mexico and falling in love with the food and its spice she came back to Korea and wanted to bring a fresh change to the market. Within the international district of Itaewon there were plenty of burger joints, but Mexican food was as foreign as teachers. Mrs. Oh has had quite the variety of interests, starting the Reggae Bar with two Canadians and working as a travel agent, but Pancho’s has always remained her passion. With colorful samba and salsa in the background you can catch Mrs. Oh any night smiling and swaying to the music.

Whether on a date, hanging with your friends, or business gathering Pancho’s will accommodate any size outing- with a comfortable open setting and seating for over 100 patrons’ make Pancho’s your next trip to the border. For reservations call 02-792-4767.

koreas gone national

Two weeks before arriving in Korea, Clint Johnson got a call to coach the Korea National Cheerleading Team. His schedule had just opened up- so he took the perfect timing to try something adventurous and he jumped on the challenge.  Starting his passionate career as a cheerleader at the University of Missouri in 1991- he has left behind him an impressive history in the State of Missouri teaching camps, coaching varsity and acting as state director of Universal Cheerleading. As you can see Clint is well suited for the job, but faces a difficult task ahead of him. Aside from only having four weeks to prepare for the Nationals in Orlando, Florida- this is the first year that Korea has been fitted with a National cheerleading team.

Cheerleading is not an entirely new concept in Korea- it can actually be seen all around you. If you’ve visited any basketball stadium or baseball park, you have seen intensely spirited dancers cheering on your favourite teams. Or perhaps, you’ve driven past the opening of a new store and saw a team of dancers drawing your attention to new deals that await you inside. But what Clint is faced with now- is turning a particularly dance and cheer filled routine, traditionally deemed “Korean style” into an equally stunt-based routine to compete on an international level. 

I luckily had a chance to meet the team during one of their practices at Kookmin

University and sat down for sam-gyup-sal at a neighbouring restaurant. I pulled up a seat next to Kim, Min Uk- a student from Anyang Technical College and he introduced me to the team.  He told me that the majority of the team is made up of high-school students but has a few teammates in college, one of them being Byeon, Woo- Jin who is also a member of the musical Jump. The team has grown into a family over the past few weeks together and lunch is just another chance for them to enjoy time together.

It’s an interesting story as to how this team was formed- being that cheerleading has been around in Korea for some time without a national team, two students took the initiative to shed light on the idea. Choi, Hyojeong (Rose) and Kim Minji (Unyss) of Choongshim International Academy contacted a coach in the states and flew him in to begin working out routines. This began to gain some attention and eventually brought Ivy Lee, the President of the Cheerleading Association into the picture. She held a festival for athletic students and chose the best students to create a national cheerleading team. Some of the students’ backgrounds were not in cheerleading, they just happened to be overall athletic individuals and passionate. 

With the competition only days away the excitement has kicked in. Even though they are a new team who are still learning an entirely new routine and on such short notice- they are overtly positive and eager as they bounce around the gymnasium.  As I got up to leave, I gave them my dose of encouragement the only way I knew how after living in Korea for the last year and a half and shout out “Fighting”.

You can watch the National championship and cheer on Korea from the comfort of your home at www.Varsity.com on Friday, April 24^th at 11am, Florida time. Fighting!

in tune with sweetlou

In a country where infants to ajumma’s own either an Ipod, PSP, or a hand phone with mp3 capabilities - why do people still have the same response to the question, “What kind of music do you listen to?”

                               

It’s understood that the question is a little vague, being the battalion of genres, but anything is better than saying ‘everything’!

Hip hop - Perfect that’s an answer. Rock – another!  Funk, soul, jazz, opera, classical, ballads, Cabaña - these are all kosher answers. Country is another,

though - not globally accepted. Even theme songs to television shows and humming in the shower are acceptable - Whatever it may be, elaborate.

It’s a proven fact that Noraebongs outnumber universities, hospitals, and birth control clinics combined - so you would think people would be more finely in tuned to a proper response. (I would like to point out, that this question is definitely not a single poison-apple dilemma strewn about the city of Seoul - but a bubbling cauldron intoxicating the World, by musically resistant hellcats with a grudge to place a kibosh on music amalgamation). 

I don’t know if it’s only music lovers that appreciate this question, or if it’s just people taking the ‘easy route out’ - but by asking people ‘what kind of music they like?’ you are spreading a sound that’s universal.  Music integration at it’s finest. Like your mother always said ‘word of mouth’ is the best way to sell her delicious baked goods. And much like your ‘momma’s cookin’, music is soul food for the ears.

           

If I asked G-d what music he listened to, I’d wager my healthy hogwan salary that his response wouldn’t be ‘everything’. He would sit me down over a Hite, and tell me how the synthesizer in Zeppelin’s “All of my love” gives him the chills.  How Buena Vista Social Club’s ‘Chan Chan’, ‘Pa Mayte’, and ‘Candela’ are perfect cooking songs for a first date.  How James Brown is the quintessential father of funk, flocking a ‘murder’ of artists to peck away at his golden, hot leathered carcass.  How no way in hell, will or could, Kanye West ever come close to seeing-eye to eye (pun intended) to Stevie Wonder’s genius.  Or about the amazing magician of hip hop,/jazz/soul/funk/experimental Madlib - who’s put out countless records, literally countless. Know one has ever counted this high without being distracted - or had their mother call them because she misses them.

A response to this question doesn’t have to be entirely specific.  Aside from the true ‘beat heads’ this question is tossed around, as a form of discovery, into a canal of interests.  Or in the worst case scenario, conversation on its last legs eking for a quantum leap into ‘scoring’ some digits “Oh my gosh, you love the jazz flute too...No way, can I get your number”. Using a group’s genre, or instrument you play are both legit answers: it narrows the gap from the gargantuan of styles hitting the streets, alleys, back-alleys and even way-back-alleys bridging the confusion from “awahhhhh???” to “ahhhhh, that’s cool”. 

Last week I was diggin’ for headphones at ‘The Headphone Shop’ inside Yongsan Digital Complex. When I brought up the question to the owner Ryan, and how much I loathe the response ‘everything’. Ryan’s feelings were just as impassioned “customer’s ask me all the time which headphones are the best?’ and my response is always “What kind of music do you listen to?”

Robert Frost once wrote about a diverging fork in the road and having to choose one path. Well, you are now at this fork and have an important choice – cruise through the easy route and say ‘everything’ - or foot the road less traveled and share your musical knowledge to the humble drifters and passionate souls along the way, who are in search of a thimbleful of music to help their deserted minds flow once again. 

brock art- not just a sharpie in a bathroom anymore

Do you ride the bus to school?  Or are you one of the students that park in the McDonalds plaza to get out of buying a parking pass? Well however you make your trek to class it is hard to miss the sculptures that compliment Brock’s campus so peacefully.

            Lutz Teutloff,  a long-time native to the Niagara Region has a passion for the arts and a  vision of how “an engaged idealist can bring art to people outside a museum”.  Teutloff’s caring  German heart, for all those that had lost hope, loaned part of his impressive art collection that has donned the campus grounds since 1988.  From ‘The Gate’ at the entrance to ‘The Bullet’ in the middle of Isaac Brock circle all the way to ‘The Animals’  in front of Schmon Tower, you cannot escape the message of nature mixing with art and science.

                        What’s cool about Lutz Teutloff’s collection is that all the pieces are composed in a post-modern era.  For all you junkies that are unfamiliar with this term, it means that each piece can mean whatever you take it to be.  Through research and  minimal guidance I now see the sculpture “The Animals” as  “ a pathway built on our knowledge, our experiences and our responsibility.  Each stone represents something close to us and all together we can cross the path easily, achieving anything we put our mind too”.

            Take the sculpture of the bullet ‘She Wolf’ located in the Isaac Brock circle that the school-bus drives donuts around.  I asked my friend and Spanish classmate Arden Witter what she thought of it. Arden described it as “a mutated bumble bee with 6 legs which is good, a little odd but still good.  I see a distinct symbolism of war between technology and humans.  I see moulded individuals marching to war with bullets on their shoulders.  I see the depreciating cost of life in a world fantasized with war.

                       

            Obviously we are not all going to share the same views. But these pieces aren’t there for us all to agree upon. These sculptures were placed carefully around the campus as giant conversation pieces to create discussion amongst students to further there imagination,

           

In writing this, I want students to be more aware of the art as well as symbolism that can jump out at you, when least expected.  If you don’t have a great imagination or you find yourself staring at a sculpture with a blank face, I would suggest 1 of 2 things.  Either open your mind to the possibilities… or consult a physician for your lack of personality.

            If your interested check out all 9 sculptures campus wide. Find out more information at the office of University communications or www.niagaraart.com, click Brock.

antonio's

As I sat down with Antonio, the owner of Vinoteca Ristorante Italiono: Antonio, three new Italian restaurants opened their doors before we even finished our pesto roso. That’s not the entire truth, but it feels like it these days as Itaewon is turning into “Little Italy”. With over 8 Italian restaurants to choose from- the question now remains “Which is The Italian restaurant to visit when you are craving a taste of Italy?”

When creating his restaurant, Antonio’s main goal was to bring authentic Italian cuisine to Korea for people to taste the difference. How did Antonio do this you might ask? Well for starters, three native Italian chefs grace the staff between Antonio’s two locations in Itaewon and Gangnam. These chefs grew up in Italy and have spent their lives in the kitchen recreating their mother’s recipes. As brilliant as their food tastes they are very modest “my mama is still the best”, Omar the head chef at Antonio’s Itaewon humbly admits, when I asked him “who is the best cook in his family?”

            When you walk into Antonio’s you are greeted by its warm feeling; the rustic orange finish compliments the dark wooden seating and its open concept allows you to watch as the master chefs prepare hand stuffed tortellini, homemade pizzas and hand made cannoli. Choose a window view over the Itaewon strip, relax beside the inviting piano or warm your bones and sit next to the towering wood oven during these chilly winter nights and watch as your pizza is being masterfully prepared.

            Experience the difference between a foreign take-on-Italian and authentic Italian. Antonio prides himself on his authenticity and imports everything from his choice selection of hams and cheeses to his olive oil and pana da cucina. “We aren’t the Italian restaurant in Korea, we are The Italian restaurant”, Antonio proudly states. “Great Italian food begins with great ingredients, and this is where you can taste the difference”.  The cicatelli for example, is a homemade pasta in a traditional mushroom cream sauce- though instead of opting for a Korean whipping cream that leaves the sauce in a runnier state- pana da cucina, an Italian cooking cream, is used allowing the sauce and mushrooms to fuse with the noodle in a much heartier consistency. It is the small things that end up making the big difference.   

            Another factor that differentiates Antonio’s is the all Italian wine list that spans through 9 regions of Italy including: Veneto, Toscana, Sicilia, and Antonio’s home town of Puglia. This was deliberately done to allow an Italian wine to compliment an Italian dish. Italy is broken into 20 diverse regions, each spawning their own style and unique flavour. Each month starting in February, Antonio is recreating a taste of Italy from each regions specialties. February is dedicated to Venice, a city resting on the Adriatic Sea, so be ready to enjoy a beautiful combination of seafood and pasta.

            Leafing through the menu, over a cup of fresh brewed coffee, Antonio told me an interesting tale of the history of the margherita pizza. Napoli native Raffaele Esposito was the owner and baker of Pizzeria di Pietro e Basta Cosi in Naples. One day he decided to make pizza in honor of the Queen who was visiting Naples in 1889. He brought three pizzas to her and told her to choose one- the Queen chose a pizza consisting of green basil leaves, white mozzarella and red tomatoes- the color of the Italian flag. And from then on the pizza was named after her majesty, Queen Margherita of Savoy. And you can cut into your own delicious wood oven margherita pizza, or you can sieve through Antonio’s extensive menu boasting four pages alone of there wood oven delicacies, followed by fluffy pastas, rich risottos, salads and soups, grilled meats and of course, sinful desserts.

            As I packed to leave, the sound of a piano began to echo through the restaurant. I turned around and found Antonio sitting on his throne striking the keys to the tune of happy birthday, serenading a table of starry-eyed women who all got to enjoy their own authentic taste of Italy.