Land of the Morning Calm

After months of planning and preparation I have finally arrived in Korea. I arrived in Seoul late last Thursday night (just before midnight) after a much delayed flight. As I made my way through Incheon International Airport I was impressed how clean and beautifully designed the airport was. Incheon has consecutively been rated the world's best airport and it’s easy to see why. Incheon’s layout and design is unlike anything I have seen back in the states.

After waiting over twenty minutes at the baggage claim area and watching everyone else from my flight claim their belongings, I knew I was out of luck. I went to the lost and found desk and filed a report. The United representative informed me that my luggage was still in Chicago and they would send it to me once it arrived in Korea. I left the airport with just my carry-on bag and ended up taking the train to Daegu, my final destination and new home for the next year.

I arrived in Daegu around 1 in the morning and was greeted by a fellow coworker of mine who took me to my new apartment. The apartment was a welcoming sight to see after so many hours of traveling. I quickly settled in and fell asleep. A few hours later I awoke for my first day at the St. Louis School. I spent the day (Friday) observing various classes in preparation for my first day of teaching

On Saturday, I wandered the streets of my new neighborhood and city. Daegu is South Korea’s third largest city and it's known for its "fashion and high-tech industries". The city is located in the south-eastern part of Korea and it sits in a basin that is surrounded by mountains.

The view of Daegu from a park near my apartment.

The street outside my apartment.

My apartment.

On Sunday, a coworker of mine invited me to go hiking. Even though I was still jet-lagged, as a hiking enthusiast I could not pass up the offer. The hike was really beautiful and more intense than I was expecting. Since my luggage had yet to arrive in Korea, I was totally unprepared as I trekked up and down four "mini" mountains in my Hurley slip-ons. The resulting pain, however, was totally worth it. The weather was perfect and the views were amazing. It's nice living in a city surrounded by so many mountains, I'm looking forward to many more hiking adventures throughout the year. 

The view of Daegu at the beginning of the hike.

Only in Korea will you find exercise equipment along a hiking trail.

One last hike shot.

Monday was my first day of teaching. After working all week and getting to know my school, I could not be happier. The students, director, and my fellow coworkers are all great. 

Till next time!