Welcome to Korea  (part 1).

It all started back in 2021 with a 3 second Samsung advert on TV.  All I heard was 3 words and incredibly beautiful music. Honestly, just 3 words "Permission to dance". But I had to search of course. So, Google for help. That is the day!!!! The day I discovered new language, new culture and new interest. The day when dream was born and persistence never left. That was the day I had something to look forward to. Up till this day, I cannot believe that 3 words can make you follow your dreams and tick that bucket list😊
It only took 3 years:) :) :) to finally put my feet on Korean soil. I did a lot of research and preparation. I learned basic Korean by myself, I looked at all possibilities that would allow me to come here. I saved money, but most importantly I did not give up, when I thought it was impossible. The day I arrived at Incheon airport, I couldn't believe my eyes, ears and everything else. I stood at the very place that I had seen on my mobile screen, TV and photos so many times. It seemed surreal 💕

Day 1. It was rainy and gloomy. Woke up very late in the afternoon after jet lag. Looked outside my window on the 20th floor of the skyscraper. What now?? I am in Seoul!!! DANG 👀 Let's explore. The city is huge. Wherever you look, there are streets and more streets, and cafes and shops and people and transport. Overwhelming, but at the same time incredibly easy. You will never get lost in Korea. Their transport system, directions, navigation is what I call "Korean" level. Highly precise and accurate. The first visit for me was National War museum of Korea. It was 8 min walk from my apartment, but the day I found it, I felt so clever and achieved 😁. I actually seen something, good job. Museum is great, for free, of course. Great facts about history, huge, so reserve all day. The next challenge of the day was to find halal food. Must say not easy, but not impossible. Who would have thought Itaewon halal shops are just 20 min walk. Not me, at least not for the first 5 days. And there is a piece of advice. No matter what you have researched or seen or heard online, reality is different. Next time you see so called "influencer"  giving you advice like "you won't survive if you don't speak Korean" or "if you vegetarian or Muslim, you will starve", ignore it and believe yourself. Korea is one of the most advanced and beautiful countries I have ever seen. Trust yourself and you will be part of it. Respect is the word and key.

 More to follow.