We were there at ten in the morning, a little cold but the weather improved and it got warmer with the walking that we had to do. We were supposed to be there for another reason but it turned out that the event got canceled. We ended up making the most of what we paid for the entrance fee (1000/pax, not that much since we have recently registered as local residents ^^,) Regular fee is 4000 for adults, I think. Hubby had to present our ID's.
We took the outdoors first since I didn't like the air when I first got in the main building. It smelled a bit too strong at first. We saw traditional houses, graves, epitaphs and statues (most of them as spirit guards of sort). There was also another building which has an art exhibit that has just opened and will run for the next three months (Old and New, April 23- July 27).
The main building has three levels of spacious showrooms. If you are like me who likes to take the time in reading and taking in everything in a museum, it would take more than two hours just to cover the main building. We had no idea how the place looks like beforehand so we just took each level as it is. It starts with a first Birthday scene, wedding, death, parts of the house, hairstyles, shoes, accessories etc. on the first floor. Second floor was about agriculture, weaving, fishing, etc. By the time I found the third floor, it was already an overload for me. There were old coins, a wall of masks and whatnots. Since it was already lunch time and we were getting hungry, (not to mention that my son has already lost interest) I ended up skipping the most of the last floor.
I didn't see any elevator facility in the building. We had to take the staircase except between second to third which has a slope in between. There were also a small resto which at that time served 12,000 W meal which we did not take. We packed our boiled and planned on eating somewhere else.
Another note. After buying the ticket at the ticket booth, there should be an ajussi to take the other part of the ticket. He wasn't there when we got in the morning. You should have your other part of ticket with you just in case he asks if you happen to step out and need to get in again.
Basically, scenery is quite simple but the indoor museum is educational. Limit the time for the kids with short attention span though.
The whole place will involve a lot of walking, walking and more walking as most traditional museums would, so bring at least some water. We spotted a vending machine outdoor that has cold drinks but no hot coffee or something hot drink. This can be good on warmer days.
Sunday, April 27, 2014
IDs and more IDs (Library Post #1)
Three months after arrival and three ID cards now. The first one, of course, was the alien card. I got another one when I joined the multi-cultural center. And finally, the default one in every place I get to, the library card. My family are just crazy about books and libraries.
It was pretty easy how to get the library card: present the alien card, fill up the form, and have the librarian take a digital photo with the tiny camera and smile as you think of how many books you can access through this card. Happy Day!
I was able to get the card right away and even borrow the maximum 5 books that I could. Even checking out a book was a breeze. Oops! Not just one book, but more than that coz one doesn't have to write or register the books one by one. They just pile the books up and put them on a flat surface of the machine and voila! All the books are already checked out under your card. This was an improvement from seven years ago when I had to have the books bar-code-read on the machine one by one.
So where can I use this fancy library card? This card can also be used in other FIVE libraries in town. That is just awesome! I will have to find those other libraries in the future. ;)
So what is it like in the Children's Library? One thing that I can say for now is that it has quite a collection of various English children's books more than what I have seen in a general town library a few years back. This is really a children's library!
I will post more about the place after our next visit and maybe ask the librarian if its okay to take photos inside.
I will also find my way around the Korean children's books that I can possibly use to learn Korean. One of my goal is to be able to read and understand a Korean book soon. It will not be easy but resources, resources and will power!
It was pretty easy how to get the library card: present the alien card, fill up the form, and have the librarian take a digital photo with the tiny camera and smile as you think of how many books you can access through this card. Happy Day!
I was able to get the card right away and even borrow the maximum 5 books that I could. Even checking out a book was a breeze. Oops! Not just one book, but more than that coz one doesn't have to write or register the books one by one. They just pile the books up and put them on a flat surface of the machine and voila! All the books are already checked out under your card. This was an improvement from seven years ago when I had to have the books bar-code-read on the machine one by one.
So where can I use this fancy library card? This card can also be used in other FIVE libraries in town. That is just awesome! I will have to find those other libraries in the future. ;)
So what is it like in the Children's Library? One thing that I can say for now is that it has quite a collection of various English children's books more than what I have seen in a general town library a few years back. This is really a children's library!
I will post more about the place after our next visit and maybe ask the librarian if its okay to take photos inside.
I will also find my way around the Korean children's books that I can possibly use to learn Korean. One of my goal is to be able to read and understand a Korean book soon. It will not be easy but resources, resources and will power!
posted from Bloggeroid
Thursday, April 24, 2014
Off to Old School Setting
http://librivox.bookdesign.biz/book/1782
Drifting off to the land of long ago when things are still simple...
Drifting off to the land of long ago when things are still simple...
posted from Bloggeroid
Monday, April 21, 2014
Still on the Subway...
The last entry was about the random art lesson. But this one is going to be mostly about the things I see on the subway ride. Or should I say, the people I see in the subway.
Some things can be funny, some things can be moving, some things make me think and reflect. (I do seem to do the last two quite often.)
We often see people selling different things on the subway ride. I remember the typical towel, drink, gum, socks, cleaning rugs or special magic brush, and even a 1000W rice cake. They usually get on the last couch and moving from one couch to another. They say their spiel upon entering the couch, move along the seats to get their possible customers to buy and exit at the other end. Sometimes, I would like to buy stuff just for them to earn something from that couch but I don't have that much money usually. Hahaha. Luckily, there would be at least one who buys from them. As I look at the buyer, I am glad to see that they are actually happy to buy whatever goods they were even though I don't think they were actually that good.
One was a magic brush/scrubber which one lady bought. It can remove dust from a carpet pretty well based from the seller's demo. I really thought nobody will actually but that. But one lady did. She looked so happy that she got the chance to buy that even telling another lady beside her what she will use it for. I could tell that other people around her was also watching her. Maybe some of them were thinking, "I should have bought one too." "You can actually buy one like that online also." "There goes an impulse buyer." " I just hope she will not regret her purchase." and other lines go on...
There were also some who are not really selling anything. There was a preacher who sang some familiar tune at one point before starting his spiel, and another one, blind man I think, who played his harmonica. I heard that harmonica before I caught a glimpse of the man. P, who seldom see anyone playing a harmonica, dug through his pocket and handed over his change. It was a just a small amount from the little boy but I wonder what exactly moved him to do that.
Still on a note about another blind man navigating the subway, we also another one last time. This one is a bona fide passenger. He was wearing an light neon green shirt as he moved to another couch with the help of his walking stick. He even slightly bumped into a lady before he exited our couch because of the sudden lurch of the train. Yet, he managed to get to his target exit door.
P also saw this man and I asked him how does he think did the blind man managed to get around. The kid had no idea. I had to tell him that blind people usually are good in remembering numbers and they keep count of the steps most of the time.
This simply amazes me that a blind man can safely navigate the subway all by himself. The subway system has special amenities for the blind. Not only are the elevators have the braille, but also the sign for the rest rooms.
It goes without saying that this is indeed a better place for special people like him.
On a lighter note, there was also another interesting situation I saw last night. It was an early evening ride that we took. There were no seats available right away so we had to stand at first when we got into the subway. I saw a young couple who seem to be sharing a secret joke. As I look around, I noticed a middle-aged woman sitting beside the couple. She was sleeping deeply, swaying her head with every move of the train, but still sleeping. She even had her bent forward and sidewards, almost leaning on the unfortunate person sitting next to her at some point. But she never stirred. She did manage to open her eyes for a few seconds in between but she still fell back to sleep again. It was almost hilarious to watch her.
When the couple stood up to prepare to get off, P grabbed the seat and tried to drag me beside him to sit next to the sleeping woman. I opted not to. I don' think I can handle a swinging head beside me. I got another seat across, then another man took the seat between P and the lady. It was an interesting sight to fill my already-tired-eyes and mind.
It was pretty entertaining but I also wonder what if she really sleeps like that all the time. Or may she was just very tired from work. I wonder what kind of job does she do that made her very tired and sleepy. I wonder if she'll get off at the right station. Most people had already left and the subway has finally reached its last station. We all had to get off but she was still sleeping. I just had to let P to wake her up and inform her that it's the last stop. I hope it was indeed her destination station.
I really learned the hard not fall asleep while traveling or waiting for the next ride. I almost missed a flight once because I fell asleep. Good thing that my father called my phone at the same minute that the airline staff was paging me, for the third time at that! Plus I don't want to be caught drooling while sleeping in a public place. Hahaha..
Some things can be funny, some things can be moving, some things make me think and reflect. (I do seem to do the last two quite often.)
We often see people selling different things on the subway ride. I remember the typical towel, drink, gum, socks, cleaning rugs or special magic brush, and even a 1000W rice cake. They usually get on the last couch and moving from one couch to another. They say their spiel upon entering the couch, move along the seats to get their possible customers to buy and exit at the other end. Sometimes, I would like to buy stuff just for them to earn something from that couch but I don't have that much money usually. Hahaha. Luckily, there would be at least one who buys from them. As I look at the buyer, I am glad to see that they are actually happy to buy whatever goods they were even though I don't think they were actually that good.
One was a magic brush/scrubber which one lady bought. It can remove dust from a carpet pretty well based from the seller's demo. I really thought nobody will actually but that. But one lady did. She looked so happy that she got the chance to buy that even telling another lady beside her what she will use it for. I could tell that other people around her was also watching her. Maybe some of them were thinking, "I should have bought one too." "You can actually buy one like that online also." "There goes an impulse buyer." " I just hope she will not regret her purchase." and other lines go on...
There were also some who are not really selling anything. There was a preacher who sang some familiar tune at one point before starting his spiel, and another one, blind man I think, who played his harmonica. I heard that harmonica before I caught a glimpse of the man. P, who seldom see anyone playing a harmonica, dug through his pocket and handed over his change. It was a just a small amount from the little boy but I wonder what exactly moved him to do that.
Still on a note about another blind man navigating the subway, we also another one last time. This one is a bona fide passenger. He was wearing an light neon green shirt as he moved to another couch with the help of his walking stick. He even slightly bumped into a lady before he exited our couch because of the sudden lurch of the train. Yet, he managed to get to his target exit door.
P also saw this man and I asked him how does he think did the blind man managed to get around. The kid had no idea. I had to tell him that blind people usually are good in remembering numbers and they keep count of the steps most of the time.
This simply amazes me that a blind man can safely navigate the subway all by himself. The subway system has special amenities for the blind. Not only are the elevators have the braille, but also the sign for the rest rooms.
It goes without saying that this is indeed a better place for special people like him.
On a lighter note, there was also another interesting situation I saw last night. It was an early evening ride that we took. There were no seats available right away so we had to stand at first when we got into the subway. I saw a young couple who seem to be sharing a secret joke. As I look around, I noticed a middle-aged woman sitting beside the couple. She was sleeping deeply, swaying her head with every move of the train, but still sleeping. She even had her bent forward and sidewards, almost leaning on the unfortunate person sitting next to her at some point. But she never stirred. She did manage to open her eyes for a few seconds in between but she still fell back to sleep again. It was almost hilarious to watch her.
When the couple stood up to prepare to get off, P grabbed the seat and tried to drag me beside him to sit next to the sleeping woman. I opted not to. I don' think I can handle a swinging head beside me. I got another seat across, then another man took the seat between P and the lady. It was an interesting sight to fill my already-tired-eyes and mind.
It was pretty entertaining but I also wonder what if she really sleeps like that all the time. Or may she was just very tired from work. I wonder what kind of job does she do that made her very tired and sleepy. I wonder if she'll get off at the right station. Most people had already left and the subway has finally reached its last station. We all had to get off but she was still sleeping. I just had to let P to wake her up and inform her that it's the last stop. I hope it was indeed her destination station.
I really learned the hard not fall asleep while traveling or waiting for the next ride. I almost missed a flight once because I fell asleep. Good thing that my father called my phone at the same minute that the airline staff was paging me, for the third time at that! Plus I don't want to be caught drooling while sleeping in a public place. Hahaha..
Weekend Affairs (Random Art Lesson in the Subway)
We learn things in different ways, in random circumstances, and in unexpected places. P has had a bit of art appreciation lesson on our subway ride going back home last night. There was an ajussi who happen to sit beside him and they started looking and talking about the PyongChang art magazine that he was holding. I sat across from them and watched P if he can actually understand what the old mas was talking about. The boy did seem to understand the most of it. He was able to reply and give his opinion a few times as well.
It made me reflect just how important it is to have an open mind as we journey through life. I am just glad that P has overcome his shyness long time ago. He is growing to be more receptive of new people and experiences. He is not the kind of kid who would shrink back if someone tries to be friendly with him. The thing is, there are still a few times that he is not very assertive in some situations where he should actually be. Nonetheless, he has finally learned not to be shy to ask questions specially in shops, offices etc.
He was even the one who initiated to write a comment at the T3 airport last time. I am not sure if I've written about that one yet. It was during our layover at the NAIA 3 when we were trying to charge our mobile phones only to find out that all the wall sockets available were flats. It so happen that our smartphone charger plugs has round ones. I know that there are already dual type of sockets available for years now and it just beats me why the T3, the latest terminal built, would still be using flat heads. We went to the information/assistance center, asked about it and P was the one who thought to write about it on the feedback paper. And he did fill it up himself!
This makes me think back when he used to be shy at asking questions to other people. I had to prod him a couple of times when he was a bit younger. I remember telling him "Why not ask it yourself? You want to find out about something, ask someone yourself. Just make sure you do so politely and say thank you. It won't hurt. " And so he tried, got positive results, and has learned to do so since then. Just like recently at the Korean supermarket, we were checking out the bread deciding what to get and he suddenly disappeared. I was surprised for a moment only to see him asking the salesclerk how much the bread he wanted to buy. No prodding needed now.
I am glad he has learned that already so with everything new around us now, he can figure out things for himself without his dear mommy around. If only he will figure out that he has to head out to school earlier. But that is another blog entry. :(
It made me reflect just how important it is to have an open mind as we journey through life. I am just glad that P has overcome his shyness long time ago. He is growing to be more receptive of new people and experiences. He is not the kind of kid who would shrink back if someone tries to be friendly with him. The thing is, there are still a few times that he is not very assertive in some situations where he should actually be. Nonetheless, he has finally learned not to be shy to ask questions specially in shops, offices etc.
He was even the one who initiated to write a comment at the T3 airport last time. I am not sure if I've written about that one yet. It was during our layover at the NAIA 3 when we were trying to charge our mobile phones only to find out that all the wall sockets available were flats. It so happen that our smartphone charger plugs has round ones. I know that there are already dual type of sockets available for years now and it just beats me why the T3, the latest terminal built, would still be using flat heads. We went to the information/assistance center, asked about it and P was the one who thought to write about it on the feedback paper. And he did fill it up himself!
This makes me think back when he used to be shy at asking questions to other people. I had to prod him a couple of times when he was a bit younger. I remember telling him "Why not ask it yourself? You want to find out about something, ask someone yourself. Just make sure you do so politely and say thank you. It won't hurt. " And so he tried, got positive results, and has learned to do so since then. Just like recently at the Korean supermarket, we were checking out the bread deciding what to get and he suddenly disappeared. I was surprised for a moment only to see him asking the salesclerk how much the bread he wanted to buy. No prodding needed now.
I am glad he has learned that already so with everything new around us now, he can figure out things for himself without his dear mommy around. If only he will figure out that he has to head out to school earlier. But that is another blog entry. :(
Monday, April 14, 2014
South Korean Expressway Pit Stop (Anseong Rest Area)
It was my first time to see the expressway outside the immediate area
of Seoul. We used to live just outside of Seoul and a short bus ride or
car ride will technically bring us there.
Since we are now living in another province, getting to Seoul is another adventure. There are plenty of ways to get there via the efficient public transport system. We got here via express bus when we first arrived. There is also a subway line in our area that I have yet to use to get to Seoul in the near future.
I'll be looking for a chance for that as the weather gets warmer.
We had the chance to travel to the Seoul area over the weekend via the expressway. It was still a bit cold for me since we left late in the afternoon already. Hubby had to follow the car navigational system since he was not really familiar with route. I also had to decipher the symbols there specially once we got into the expressway since we are all not familiar with everything yet.
I had to keep track of the exit signs and rest stops. I noticed that there were rest stops indicated well in advance in the "navi". We had to use them once for the rest room and another one on the way back for the fuel. The first time that we passed one, I was curious how it looked like. When hubby announced that he needed to stop in one of these, I just had to check it out even though I was not feeling well and even a bit cold.
The place has a convenience store, a number of restaurants and chains like even Dunkin Donuts and Baskin Robbins, spacious rest rooms and parking lot. There were specially designated parking spaces for trucks or bigger vehicles, and the regular private vehicles. There were special areas for specially-abled person, and pregnant ones as well (check out the pink sign on the ground).
The gas stations (at least two from what I've seen) is located right before one exits the area. One can take his time to rest in between driving through the fast-paced expressway.
We also happen to catch a short entertainment provided by some musicians dressed in what looked like Japanese costume. (Or maybe it was supposed to be Korean? I'm not sure.) I could have sat and enjoyed some food while watching them but we were in hurry and it was a bit cold for me.
I was just green with envy as I watch a group of Korean locals watching them while eating ice cream outdoors while I was still almost freezing mode. Wait 'til the weather gets warm. I'll get my vengeance of enjoying the sun while the Koreans hide their pretty white skins to avoid sunburn. (*evil grin)
posted from Bloggeroid
Since we are now living in another province, getting to Seoul is another adventure. There are plenty of ways to get there via the efficient public transport system. We got here via express bus when we first arrived. There is also a subway line in our area that I have yet to use to get to Seoul in the near future.
I'll be looking for a chance for that as the weather gets warmer.
We had the chance to travel to the Seoul area over the weekend via the expressway. It was still a bit cold for me since we left late in the afternoon already. Hubby had to follow the car navigational system since he was not really familiar with route. I also had to decipher the symbols there specially once we got into the expressway since we are all not familiar with everything yet.
I had to keep track of the exit signs and rest stops. I noticed that there were rest stops indicated well in advance in the "navi". We had to use them once for the rest room and another one on the way back for the fuel. The first time that we passed one, I was curious how it looked like. When hubby announced that he needed to stop in one of these, I just had to check it out even though I was not feeling well and even a bit cold.
 | |||
| Anseong Rest Stop |
The gas stations (at least two from what I've seen) is located right before one exits the area. One can take his time to rest in between driving through the fast-paced expressway.
We also happen to catch a short entertainment provided by some musicians dressed in what looked like Japanese costume. (Or maybe it was supposed to be Korean? I'm not sure.) I could have sat and enjoyed some food while watching them but we were in hurry and it was a bit cold for me.
I was just green with envy as I watch a group of Korean locals watching them while eating ice cream outdoors while I was still almost freezing mode. Wait 'til the weather gets warm. I'll get my vengeance of enjoying the sun while the Koreans hide their pretty white skins to avoid sunburn. (*evil grin)
posted from Bloggeroid
Thursday, April 10, 2014
Asan City Lotte Mart
Behind this building is where we got off from the airport bus when we first got here. We just waited at back part near the old terminal while waiting to meet my brother-in-law.
I have finally seen a bit of what is actually out front and inside. Below is the mall schedule and the building directory. This quite useful before heading out to such place specially when one is in a hurry. One thing I still have to find out is when do theses discount stores close on a monthly schedule. It can be Sundays or Wednesdays, twice a month. It depends on the location.
I did my own thing while waiting for hubby to park somewhere. I am not very fond of basement parking lots or multi-level ones that always makes me dizzy.
Took the two photos above after spying a NO CAMERA sign at the door. (Stubborn me. There were also signs for No Smoking, No Pets and I have yet to figure out the last one.
Floor Guide:
B2 - Daiso, Fresh Produce, Processed Food
B1 - Hi-Mart, Toy, Medical (beats me what this one actually is)
1st - Asan City Bus Terminal (Far back), C4U(a convenience store),
Krispy Kreme, some Coffee Shop etc.
2nd - Apparels (Kids, etc.)
3rd - Restaurants: Ashley, Rimini (Fancy Italian one), Parking Lot
4th - 7th - Parking Lot
8th - Asan City Terminal Wedding Hall
9th - Lotte Cinema
I have finally seen a bit of what is actually out front and inside. Below is the mall schedule and the building directory. This quite useful before heading out to such place specially when one is in a hurry. One thing I still have to find out is when do theses discount stores close on a monthly schedule. It can be Sundays or Wednesdays, twice a month. It depends on the location.
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| Store Hours: Lotte Mart 10:00-24:00, Hi Mart 10:00-21:00 |
I did my own thing while waiting for hubby to park somewhere. I am not very fond of basement parking lots or multi-level ones that always makes me dizzy.
Took the two photos above after spying a NO CAMERA sign at the door. (Stubborn me. There were also signs for No Smoking, No Pets and I have yet to figure out the last one.
Floor Guide:
B2 - Daiso, Fresh Produce, Processed Food
B1 - Hi-Mart, Toy, Medical (beats me what this one actually is)
1st - Asan City Bus Terminal (Far back), C4U(a convenience store),
Krispy Kreme, some Coffee Shop etc.
2nd - Apparels (Kids, etc.)
3rd - Restaurants: Ashley, Rimini (Fancy Italian one), Parking Lot
4th - 7th - Parking Lot
8th - Asan City Terminal Wedding Hall
9th - Lotte Cinema
posted from Blogger
11th Year Anniversary and a New Fridge (for the Next Decade?)
We are in our second brand new fridge in the eleven years of married life. We got our first fridge during our first year back in my home country.
We simply went to an appliance store, checked out what I liked, bought his brand of choice (LG) and had it delivered. We only used that one for a few months before we left for ROK. That fridge went through a lot of moving around until it we finally came back.
We were still able to use it for almost 7 years that we stayed in my hometown. The thing is it wasn't really in its top notch condition anymore. The water leaks whenever it is defrosted so I had to keep a close watch on the soda bottle that I put to catch and empty out when it's full or risk a flooding floor.
When we first move to ROK, we just bought a second-hand fridge and it was cool for the three years of our stay. I'm sure it would have gone for another decade had we stayed on.
On our second move back here now, I really don't know why my hubby opted to buy a brand new one, albeit on the still on the cheaper end of the spectrum. I would have been happy with a second-hand one, from a leading brand. But here it is now, sitting, I should say, standing 6 inches taller than me that it makes me feel inferior in height. I would have preferred a just about my height, you know. This one is bigger that our previous one here, and definitely waayy bigger than what we bought as a newly married couple. Hubby says it's because we have a growing kid to think about. He'll have to eat a lot more food as he grows, etc. Come to think of it, I can still fit him inside this big fridge.
Hubby bought this online after we went and saw it at an appliance store. It was wayyy cheaper than to buy there outright. We merely check it out there to get the actual size and overall look of what's in the market for us. I was really so intimidated by the sizes of the latest fridge in market nowadays. I mean, what can one possibly put in those refrigerator without forgetting what you actually put inside. I can get lost inside those gigantic fridges.
I am more worried about the over-sized fridge and its accompanying bill, really. What I can possibly do now is just make the most of this one. Go freezer-cooking way to save on the produce costs since we live in a temperate country now. That is what I have to check on this time.
Off to my next task now.
We simply went to an appliance store, checked out what I liked, bought his brand of choice (LG) and had it delivered. We only used that one for a few months before we left for ROK. That fridge went through a lot of moving around until it we finally came back.
We were still able to use it for almost 7 years that we stayed in my hometown. The thing is it wasn't really in its top notch condition anymore. The water leaks whenever it is defrosted so I had to keep a close watch on the soda bottle that I put to catch and empty out when it's full or risk a flooding floor.
When we first move to ROK, we just bought a second-hand fridge and it was cool for the three years of our stay. I'm sure it would have gone for another decade had we stayed on.
On our second move back here now, I really don't know why my hubby opted to buy a brand new one, albeit on the still on the cheaper end of the spectrum. I would have been happy with a second-hand one, from a leading brand. But here it is now, sitting, I should say, standing 6 inches taller than me that it makes me feel inferior in height. I would have preferred a just about my height, you know. This one is bigger that our previous one here, and definitely waayy bigger than what we bought as a newly married couple. Hubby says it's because we have a growing kid to think about. He'll have to eat a lot more food as he grows, etc. Come to think of it, I can still fit him inside this big fridge.
Hubby bought this online after we went and saw it at an appliance store. It was wayyy cheaper than to buy there outright. We merely check it out there to get the actual size and overall look of what's in the market for us. I was really so intimidated by the sizes of the latest fridge in market nowadays. I mean, what can one possibly put in those refrigerator without forgetting what you actually put inside. I can get lost inside those gigantic fridges.
I am more worried about the over-sized fridge and its accompanying bill, really. What I can possibly do now is just make the most of this one. Go freezer-cooking way to save on the produce costs since we live in a temperate country now. That is what I have to check on this time.
Off to my next task now.
Wednesday, April 9, 2014
Ssangyong Station, Line 1
I was headed to Emart Cheonan and the nearest station is Ssangyong Station, Line1. This the Nazareth University in Cheonan, Chungnam-do.
 |
| Pretty long staircase going up to the Uni. (view from the ground of sub station) |
 |
| This commercial building is just right outside the Ssangyong Station, university side. |
Another option is just walk a few meters out to the the road from the subway station exit and turn left. Emart is about two long blocks from there. I passed by Ehwha Hospital, another children hospital, a 7-11, and a Drive-thru McD0 almost across from it, near the SK gas station. There is also a Dunkin Donut at the intersection, opposite Emart. A McDo is also inside the Emart itself, in the small food court on the first level.
posted from Bloggeroid
Tuesday, April 8, 2014
"What clothes should I wear?"
A month of going to school now and relatively same weather lately but the has not yet taken the initiative to plan for his clothes in advance. We still have to thrust him the clothes he has to wear every morning and shove him out of the door late for school.
It gets worse now with him coming home late from his after school orchestra on ceratin days of the week. It is just getting too much of dependency that a retraining would be the best action now. I've tried to start it last week with onset of spring but there was some problems on the clothes available for him to rotate. And we were not able to solve that one over the weekend. Let's see how he will make it today.
The boy went out at almost 8:40 already. I hope he gets some spanking at school although I know that the teacher is decent enough not to actually do that. A stern warning might be what he needs now. If that won't work, I'll welcome a face-the-wall punishment for him.
It gets worse now with him coming home late from his after school orchestra on ceratin days of the week. It is just getting too much of dependency that a retraining would be the best action now. I've tried to start it last week with onset of spring but there was some problems on the clothes available for him to rotate. And we were not able to solve that one over the weekend. Let's see how he will make it today.
The boy went out at almost 8:40 already. I hope he gets some spanking at school although I know that the teacher is decent enough not to actually do that. A stern warning might be what he needs now. If that won't work, I'll welcome a face-the-wall punishment for him.
posted from Bloggeroid
Sunday, April 6, 2014
Fake Lake or whatever it is..
We went to this fake lake yesterday. Warning: This is almost a rant post.
I would have enjoyed the place on an another day with a different weather condition. It was quite cold when we went out yesterday and I wasn't really very much up to it. There was a slight sprinkle at one point before we actually head out, and I can hear the wind howling in the apartment. That means it is cold because of windchill factor. The car thermometer indicated 7 degrees outside. Not a very good time to go outdoors for me but I still went thinking that we will head to Emart afterwards to shop for my son's clothes. I was totally misinformed. And there are just three of us! Talk about miscommunication or what?
I had to endure the trip feeling very cold even with a cami, thin long-sleeved shirt, sweater, another jacket sweater and a ski jacket or whatever-you-call-it. Well, my top part was quite better compared to my bottom part which was clad in a pair of leggings and winter pants. The cold really gets to me and makes me feel very weak. If only they know how much the cold weakens me. I had to suck on my ginger just to keep my stomach from going crazy with my motion sickness. I manage to hold down everything and even finished a roll of tuna gimbap before heading home. It was not very fun though. I hit the sack and slept for hours when we got home.
Now for the very limited photos that I was able to take despite the cold, here they are.
The covered picnic area is where people can put up tents, cook stuff and hang out. It can suited on very hot, very cold, windy or rainy days such as yesterday. This is open from 10 am to 11 pm. I didn't see any cooking stuff though. I figured Koreans bring their own portable stoves (fueled with gas in cans).
There are rest rooms near the road, before hopping into the lakeside. There is some music blasting from the speakers installed in these. (Check out the speaker beside the window.)
This kid seems to be very happy to welcome anybody in these toilets. He sure looks like it is the Gyeongbok palace behind him. ^^,
It is small with only two bowls and one for the specially-abled person cubicle. There is also a very tiny wash stand on the left corner (not shown here). Relatively clean and smell-free. I have seen worst in my life.
Below is another single detached house with a wide driveway. The flowers are pretty and I would like to guess who owns this. It would be interesting to meet them and see what it looks like inside. It is not very usual to live in a house like this since most of the Korean population live in apartments. The land area is quite limited and to have a house and lot here is something, I think.
I would have enjoyed the place on an another day with a different weather condition. It was quite cold when we went out yesterday and I wasn't really very much up to it. There was a slight sprinkle at one point before we actually head out, and I can hear the wind howling in the apartment. That means it is cold because of windchill factor. The car thermometer indicated 7 degrees outside. Not a very good time to go outdoors for me but I still went thinking that we will head to Emart afterwards to shop for my son's clothes. I was totally misinformed. And there are just three of us! Talk about miscommunication or what?
I had to endure the trip feeling very cold even with a cami, thin long-sleeved shirt, sweater, another jacket sweater and a ski jacket or whatever-you-call-it. Well, my top part was quite better compared to my bottom part which was clad in a pair of leggings and winter pants. The cold really gets to me and makes me feel very weak. If only they know how much the cold weakens me. I had to suck on my ginger just to keep my stomach from going crazy with my motion sickness. I manage to hold down everything and even finished a roll of tuna gimbap before heading home. It was not very fun though. I hit the sack and slept for hours when we got home.
Now for the very limited photos that I was able to take despite the cold, here they are.
 |
| Bike Road |
 |
| Covered Picnic Area |
 |
| "Welcome" to the Rest Room Stop by the road |
This kid seems to be very happy to welcome anybody in these toilets. He sure looks like it is the Gyeongbok palace behind him. ^^,
 |
| A Peek Inside the Female Rest Room |
 |
| Drinking Water Fountain with 4 Tap |
 |
| A Resting Place by the Road/Lake |
 |
| The Boys in a traditional hut facing a Pond |
 |
| This structure is jutting out of the hill with no sign or whatever in front so we guess it's a private house. A cool one at that. Maybe a vacation house? |
Below is another single detached house with a wide driveway. The flowers are pretty and I would like to guess who owns this. It would be interesting to meet them and see what it looks like inside. It is not very usual to live in a house like this since most of the Korean population live in apartments. The land area is quite limited and to have a house and lot here is something, I think.
 |
| A House Near the Lake |
posted from Bloggeroid
No Poo.. and Still Counting
April Spring has just rolled in this week and I'm still in the no-poo zone.
I have been using the rice vinegar for a couple of weeks now and I feel that it is not getting the great results that I was hoping. My hair feels limp and flat every time after I have used the rice vinegar along with the baking soda. I used to have better and great results back when I was using the b. soda and white sugar cane vinegar before. It was also cool when I used the apple cider vinegar.
I am on wits end. I have to get myself another bottle of the acv. for my hair if I would still want to continue with my no-poo journey. Or my other option of securing myself an organic shampoo from home or order online from an international company like iherb. I've seen some of their products and it might be a good one to try. The thing is, I'll be back into trying out stuff again which I am not very much up to right now. I might have to go on with the acv or really look into getting those Human Heart Nature that I was using before I left home.
Oh..my birthday is coming up next month so maybe I'll just have it as a present for myself, eh? :D
*feeling hopeful for my hair
I have been using the rice vinegar for a couple of weeks now and I feel that it is not getting the great results that I was hoping. My hair feels limp and flat every time after I have used the rice vinegar along with the baking soda. I used to have better and great results back when I was using the b. soda and white sugar cane vinegar before. It was also cool when I used the apple cider vinegar.
I am on wits end. I have to get myself another bottle of the acv. for my hair if I would still want to continue with my no-poo journey. Or my other option of securing myself an organic shampoo from home or order online from an international company like iherb. I've seen some of their products and it might be a good one to try. The thing is, I'll be back into trying out stuff again which I am not very much up to right now. I might have to go on with the acv or really look into getting those Human Heart Nature that I was using before I left home.
Oh..my birthday is coming up next month so maybe I'll just have it as a present for myself, eh? :D
*feeling hopeful for my hair
Tuesday, April 1, 2014
74 and still working..
I just met one of the apartment ajussi's. He speaks English well, surprisingly. He said he used to be a president of the Eden Cruise travel agency. He is retired and is now 74. He is now in his after-retirement job working from 6-6 as apartment guard. Isn't it just cool? They are old but they they just don't stay home and rot or take care of grandchildren as most from my home country would if they were even lucky to live that age.
It was such a pleasant surprise as I try to practice my newly-acquired-Korean-phrase "Dua dereukayo?" (Can I help you?) only to find out that the ajussi speaks English well than any average Korean of his age, that is. He did help me remember the phrase though. I hope he can be a patient ajussi to practice my Korean language. I find it interesting to chat with old people sometimes and hear their stories. Mr. Lee.
It was such a pleasant surprise as I try to practice my newly-acquired-Korean-phrase "Dua dereukayo?" (Can I help you?) only to find out that the ajussi speaks English well than any average Korean of his age, that is. He did help me remember the phrase though. I hope he can be a patient ajussi to practice my Korean language. I find it interesting to chat with old people sometimes and hear their stories. Mr. Lee.
Friday, March 28, 2014
Changchi Gukso -- (our version)
Finally! (Why is it that I seem to have used this word more often nowadays, I wonder) We were able to taste this noodle dish after a while. It was bit pricey to make it back home but since we have moved here, the dishes that we liked are more accessible for us. This one of those on our list to make.
It has four basic parts: stock, noodles, sauce and the various toppings (carrots, blanched chinese cabbage, fried egg strips, kimchi, zuccini, mushroom, tofu and laver or seaweed) I mean the list of toppings one can possibly add can be crazy.
The stock can be simple but a bit daunting to make. The sauce is also easy to put together and cooking the noodles is the quickest. The trick is make enough toppings and stock the first time so you can enjoy eating it again on your next meal with less hassle and prep time.
A. stock/broth
about a dozen whole large anchovies
4-6 C of water
6x4 inches dashima
All boiled together in a large pot. Simmered in low fire afterwards until it smells like broth. ,
B. Sauce (this is one of the last to add when you eat but better make it ahead lest you forget later ;) )
3-4 T soy sauce
2-3 cloves garlic, minced
3 green onion leaves, minced
1 t sesame oil
sesame seeds
pepper flakes
(the measurement for the last two is really based on personal preference)
C. Toppings carrots, zuccini - julienned and lightly fried SEPARATELY (looks better as toppings later, ^^)
1 or 2 eggs - whisked, fried thinly and cut into strips afterward
tofu - cut into strips or small squares, fried
kimchi - slightly minced
mushroom and onion - can be fried together (if using dried mushroom, make sure it is well soaked in water, soft and well cooked)
laver or gim or dried seaweed - cut into strips using scissors or hands done on the LAST MINUTE BEFORE SERVING to keep it moisture free
1 big leaf of cabbage, cut into thin strips, blanched (the same boiling water can also be used for cooking the noodles as this saves heat, water and time)
sumyon Noodles (very thin noodles like angel's hair)
about 2 inches in dm as you hold then with your fingers (not every kitchen has a weighing scale, you know)
- cook in boiling water. Note that this thin noodles cook very quickly (3 minutes). When it starts to boil over, add a bit of cold water. Do this boil over-add water twice. Then noodles should be ready to drain.
- Drain the hot water and replace with cold water to rinse. Wash it like you are washing clothes to remove starch. Repeat twice or three times. Then drain the water out for the final time.
As you do the final draining, separate them into serving size. Pick out a handful and roll it around your 3 fingers to make ball of sorts (just like when one eats spaghetti rolled around the fork)
Putting it Together: Put a round of noodle in a bowl.
Add the toppings. Add the sauce. Then pour over the broth. Then add the gim/laver. Or how whatever sequence you choose. Hahaha...
That is the way we made our chanchi gukso.
Do not follow this very well since I cannot guarantee how yours will taste. This was written to refresh my own memory for later or to give someone a general idea how to make it. I repeat, there is no guarantee to a good tasting output. Please check other more reliable websites like Aeris Kitchen. LOL. ⊙•⊙
(even the name for the dish is not consistent.. Changchi, chanchi, or chamchi, go figure) :)
It has four basic parts: stock, noodles, sauce and the various toppings (carrots, blanched chinese cabbage, fried egg strips, kimchi, zuccini, mushroom, tofu and laver or seaweed) I mean the list of toppings one can possibly add can be crazy.
The stock can be simple but a bit daunting to make. The sauce is also easy to put together and cooking the noodles is the quickest. The trick is make enough toppings and stock the first time so you can enjoy eating it again on your next meal with less hassle and prep time.
A. stock/broth
about a dozen whole large anchovies
4-6 C of water
6x4 inches dashima
All boiled together in a large pot. Simmered in low fire afterwards until it smells like broth. ,
B. Sauce (this is one of the last to add when you eat but better make it ahead lest you forget later ;) )
3-4 T soy sauce
2-3 cloves garlic, minced
3 green onion leaves, minced
1 t sesame oil
sesame seeds
pepper flakes
(the measurement for the last two is really based on personal preference)
C. Toppings carrots, zuccini - julienned and lightly fried SEPARATELY (looks better as toppings later, ^^)
1 or 2 eggs - whisked, fried thinly and cut into strips afterward
tofu - cut into strips or small squares, fried
kimchi - slightly minced
mushroom and onion - can be fried together (if using dried mushroom, make sure it is well soaked in water, soft and well cooked)
laver or gim or dried seaweed - cut into strips using scissors or hands done on the LAST MINUTE BEFORE SERVING to keep it moisture free
1 big leaf of cabbage, cut into thin strips, blanched (the same boiling water can also be used for cooking the noodles as this saves heat, water and time)
sumyon Noodles (very thin noodles like angel's hair)
about 2 inches in dm as you hold then with your fingers (not every kitchen has a weighing scale, you know)
- cook in boiling water. Note that this thin noodles cook very quickly (3 minutes). When it starts to boil over, add a bit of cold water. Do this boil over-add water twice. Then noodles should be ready to drain.
- Drain the hot water and replace with cold water to rinse. Wash it like you are washing clothes to remove starch. Repeat twice or three times. Then drain the water out for the final time.
As you do the final draining, separate them into serving size. Pick out a handful and roll it around your 3 fingers to make ball of sorts (just like when one eats spaghetti rolled around the fork)
Putting it Together: Put a round of noodle in a bowl.
Add the toppings. Add the sauce. Then pour over the broth. Then add the gim/laver. Or how whatever sequence you choose. Hahaha...
That is the way we made our chanchi gukso.
Do not follow this very well since I cannot guarantee how yours will taste. This was written to refresh my own memory for later or to give someone a general idea how to make it. I repeat, there is no guarantee to a good tasting output. Please check other more reliable websites like Aeris Kitchen. LOL. ⊙•⊙
(even the name for the dish is not consistent.. Changchi, chanchi, or chamchi, go figure) :)
posted from Bloggeroid
(originally posted from a smartphone,
4/1/2014 -edited on pc)
I Like Going to Korean School
That was what I heard from my son telling his best friend last night as they talk for the first time in viber. "I wish there was no Saturdays and Sundays," he further added. And I was like 0.0 surprised and wondering out loud if that would he be saying the same thing after a year? :}
I am just glad that he likes school and still thinks that school is cool. He is usually positive about it in general even back in my home country. The only subjects that he didn' t like studying whenever I would remind him to are Fil and Social Studies, both taught in the local language.
But here, where almost everything is in Korean, is another matter. I'm hoping that he will get the hang of the language soon to be able to enjoy school more.
He was suddenly looking for someone to talk to last night and it prompted me to check out another line of technology, voice chatting. Luckily, his forever techie girl best friend has viber and is online. They were able to voice chat for quite a while.
I had to play my mommy role to let them quit and get to sleep. It was a bit hard to get him settled down to sleep since he cannot contain his excitement of being able to chat with his friends. I bet it's going to be more fun when he gets the chance with the DeJaguer brothers.
I hope to milk that interest into some fruitful one, specifically finally writing letters to his other friends. I have to prepare the paraphernalia for tonight.
I am just glad that he likes school and still thinks that school is cool. He is usually positive about it in general even back in my home country. The only subjects that he didn' t like studying whenever I would remind him to are Fil and Social Studies, both taught in the local language.
But here, where almost everything is in Korean, is another matter. I'm hoping that he will get the hang of the language soon to be able to enjoy school more.
He was suddenly looking for someone to talk to last night and it prompted me to check out another line of technology, voice chatting. Luckily, his forever techie girl best friend has viber and is online. They were able to voice chat for quite a while.
I had to play my mommy role to let them quit and get to sleep. It was a bit hard to get him settled down to sleep since he cannot contain his excitement of being able to chat with his friends. I bet it's going to be more fun when he gets the chance with the DeJaguer brothers.
I hope to milk that interest into some fruitful one, specifically finally writing letters to his other friends. I have to prepare the paraphernalia for tonight.
posted from Bloggeroid
Wednesday, March 26, 2014
Call Taxi in Korea
(This is not a review, nor will it give a specific information on call taxi here but just a random musing from a waygook in ROK.)
My husband has just stepped out to get some documents from the county office and he used a call taxi as usual. He was just about to put on his shoes before getting out when he made the phone call. Instead of seeing him off, I kept an eye out for the taxi to come by. There was none stationed nearby as far as my eye can see but I spotted one coming into the apartment complex just within two minutes. I had to tell my hubby to hurry out soon coz I already saw the taxi. Counting the duration of the elevator(our elevator's a bit slow) and his walking time to the entrance, I knew that the taxi would have to wait a while before my husband appears. I watched the taxi get into the parking lot, turn around to properly park in a little in front of the building since there were two other entrances. The taxi had to wait for a minute or so before my husband came out of the building and got in.
The call taxi is quite remarkably efficient, albeit slightly more expensive than bus. He should make the phone call after he has put on his shoes next time or while waiting for the elevator to time it more properly. Hopefully, by the time the taxi parks to wait for him outside, he would be there at almost the same time.
It reminded me last time he called using the home phone, I think. The taxi driver himself actually tried to call him to tell him he's already downstairs waiting. Unfortunately for him, I was the one who answered and had no idea what it was all about. The taxi driver had to repeat twice. Good thing it dawned into me that he mentioned "call taxi" somewhere that I was able to figure out what it was about.
It would be interesting if I'm the one who will use the call taxi service in English next time. But I am so not sure about that coz I really prefer the good old bus which is bigger and has enough room for me to stand to avoid getting dizzy. :D
Or better yet, I might consider trying out to learn to drive myself soon. I have recently learned another good reason for that. Aside from the general convenience and pros, some suggested that my carsickness would disappear if I am the one driving and now, someone also mentioned that I will also gain weight if I have a car. Aha!! That can be an interesting idea..I might have to agree on my hubby getting a car soon after all. ^-^
Tuesday, March 25, 2014
Frank Baum
http://librivox.bookdesign.biz/book/4131
Finished the 3rd book of the series of Aunt Jane...
Finished the 3rd book of the series of Aunt Jane...
posted from Bloggeroid
Saturday, March 22, 2014
No Poo in Korea -- 1st Month
One Month. That is about how long I have gone now without using shampoo to wash my hair because of the current circumstances. It was somehow forced on me but I welcome the chance actually. I've tried this one before but I just can't remember how long I lasted.
It is a bit easy to keep track now because I know that the little bottle of leftover shampoo I brought over during the trip is almost gone before arriving. I was only able to use it once of twice when we got here. After that, I tried using Dove which I happen to find in the bathroom but it just left my head very itchy. I wouldn't dare touch that one ever again! I almost forgot that I already tried that brand before and never got to finish the bottle at all.
I had already sworn off chemical-laden shampoo since late last year and I don't want to ever go back to that. This gives me only 3 choices: (1) I am sticking with Human Heart Nature Shampoo, which I have to find a way to order and ship here, (2.) find another organic line here, or (3) make do with the vinegar rinse. I have yet to figure out if the cost of getting it abroad would be wiser than finding a local one here. But everything here would be totally alien for me at this time so that leaves me with the last choice, vinegar and baking soda for now.
I've tried a small bottle of apple cider vinegar and it was so nice. I liked the smell and my hair felt better after the Dove Dandruff disaster. The thing is someone remarked that the ACV is expensive just to be used for the hair. Duh..(I bet that it is still way cheaper than buying those commercial shampoo advertised everywhere.)
So I tried the Rice Vinegar tonight. I am not sure if it is the vinegar factor or my hair is just more dirty than usual after I put off washing my hair for a few days (something like five days, I think) but it was very oily. I sprayed every part of my scalp with it this morning, wrapped a plastic bag on my head and topped it off with a towel (to cover the smell and absorb whatever liquid there is). This was my "head dress" for the whole day, something like ten hours.
My whole head was very oily when I tried to rinse it off. It seems that all the oil on my hair has come out. I had to figure out which one I should add more, the vinegar or the baking soda to decrease the oiliness. It took me a long time that I finally gave up for tonight. I'll have to check it out what to do next time. My experiment today seems to have gone awry. The verdict for the Rice Vinegar is on hold for now.
Until next...
It is a bit easy to keep track now because I know that the little bottle of leftover shampoo I brought over during the trip is almost gone before arriving. I was only able to use it once of twice when we got here. After that, I tried using Dove which I happen to find in the bathroom but it just left my head very itchy. I wouldn't dare touch that one ever again! I almost forgot that I already tried that brand before and never got to finish the bottle at all.
I had already sworn off chemical-laden shampoo since late last year and I don't want to ever go back to that. This gives me only 3 choices: (1) I am sticking with Human Heart Nature Shampoo, which I have to find a way to order and ship here, (2.) find another organic line here, or (3) make do with the vinegar rinse. I have yet to figure out if the cost of getting it abroad would be wiser than finding a local one here. But everything here would be totally alien for me at this time so that leaves me with the last choice, vinegar and baking soda for now.
I've tried a small bottle of apple cider vinegar and it was so nice. I liked the smell and my hair felt better after the Dove Dandruff disaster. The thing is someone remarked that the ACV is expensive just to be used for the hair. Duh..(I bet that it is still way cheaper than buying those commercial shampoo advertised everywhere.)
So I tried the Rice Vinegar tonight. I am not sure if it is the vinegar factor or my hair is just more dirty than usual after I put off washing my hair for a few days (something like five days, I think) but it was very oily. I sprayed every part of my scalp with it this morning, wrapped a plastic bag on my head and topped it off with a towel (to cover the smell and absorb whatever liquid there is). This was my "head dress" for the whole day, something like ten hours.
My whole head was very oily when I tried to rinse it off. It seems that all the oil on my hair has come out. I had to figure out which one I should add more, the vinegar or the baking soda to decrease the oiliness. It took me a long time that I finally gave up for tonight. I'll have to check it out what to do next time. My experiment today seems to have gone awry. The verdict for the Rice Vinegar is on hold for now.
Until next...
My Alien Card, Finally!!
I've never realized how important getting this alien card when I got it the first time years ago since I don't really remember needing it that soon at that time. I was basically at home, early into my pregnancy, without much immediate need for it.
This time, however, is different. I have my son that I have to think about, and getting some stuff for him as an immigrant Mom actually needs an alien card for me. My migrant existence here before was very reliant on my husband but with the changes in the immigration rules, I have now found myself needing a card sooner than before.
I now have the current F-6 Visa (Marriage Visa) compared to the previous one I got before which was F-2. This is not anchored to the Korean spouse as the F-2 before. Thus, it can actually be more liberating for the foreign spouse, I suppose.
Let me do a backtrack on our case since it is a bit different.
As I had mentioned, I previously have the F-2 visa more than 6 years ago when we left ROK and went back to PH. My re-entry permit, as well as my visa/card has long expired before we have decided to go back to ROK. That was the big problem for me as my hubby and son both have Korean passports. We had to figure out what visa would I need to enter Korea again.
The basic one should be the Spouse Visa but the requirements given to us when we inquired at the Korean Embassy in Ph over the phone is quite complicated and doesn't seem to apply to my case. It needed CFO certificate, among other things like a seminar on the culture and whatnot, which, based from what we've researched online, is generally for first timers or newly married couples. It was very tricky to get and, as expected, very bureaucratic way to get it done. We sure don't want that hassle plus it doesn't not apply to me very well anyway. So we opted for the Tour Visa. BUT take note that it is not allowed for first timers to go this way anymore. One cannot do Tour Visa as spouse, then convert to Marriage Visa after landing if it is the first time for the foreign spouse to enter. We actually had this slight fear of me getting deported (^^,) before we applied for the Marriage Visa here.
Luckily, the Korean immigration officer was very logical and deportation didn't came up at all once we explained our situation. We were given a list of documents we had to submit that would convert my Tour Visa (C-3) to the Marriage Visa F-6. Note that they asked for the NSO Marriage Certificate and we also showed the officer my old ACR card at that time that he was evaluating our case.
The List (mostly Korean documents except the last two)
- application form with passport photo (available online, or at the immigration office)
- Korean Resident Registration
- Korean Family Registry
- Korean Marriage Certificate
- Bank Certificate
- Housing Documents (certificate of ownership or rental contract)
- Letter of Reference (there's a form for this)
- copies of our passports (bio page)
- marriage contract (from NSO)
We were able to submit these a few days later since we had to prepare the other missing documents. The younger officer remembered us from our first visit since the more senior officer had to ask him to check out the Ph Marriage Certificate.
After checking all the documents we submitted were in order (he really scrutinized every paper), he finally had me register my fingerprints for the ACR card. I had to do the same thing at the airport immigration when we arrived. He even asked if I would prefer to keep my previous ACR number. I said yes, of course, since I think my previous number was pretty cool and easy to remember.
We were told that the ID will be ready in three weeks. We told him that we have already paid for the delivery and gave him the receipt. We just have to wait for the card to be delivered.
It took us roughly 140,000 for the visa fees (this includes my son's 2K-won entry and exit certificate needed for our shipped boxes), and 4000W for the delivery. The delivery fee is quite reasonable and convenient compared if we pick it up ourselves because of transportation fee (public) and effort/energy (excluding my all-time requirement, food ^^,). We were a bit surprised with the 6-figure visa fee but I think that it is better than me having to do everything back in my home country. (I remember that it was just around 30 to 60K won years before. Definitely less than 100K) We'll take this. (big sigh of relief :D )
Fast forward to eleven days..(a weekend included) I received my new ACR card finally! (Less than three weeks!) We were quite surprised with the speed. I just remembered now that I also got the Tourist Visa ahead of schedule. I guess they usually give the maximum expected time but actually does the quickest time. That is so far away from where I come from. I've been told a lot of times that it is the pali-pali culture of Koreans.
Wednesday, March 19, 2014
Cheonan-Asan Immigration Office
Located near Cheonan-Asan Subway Station (KTX station)
As an alien to this kimchiland, I have to get myself an Alien Certificate of Registration and of course, update my immigration papers. I checked online and found limited information on the location and how to go about it around my area. All of these searches was done in English, of course.
Here is the detailed trip.
Note:
The Immigration Office is located in a building behind YMall, left side if you're coming from the KTX station entrance. It is not immediately visible from that point though. You have to get to the intersection of Emart Traders (a warehouse-style Emart Store) and the big YMall building.
A. Getting there.
We took the subway from Onyang-Oncheon (why do these stations have to have double names, really) to Cheonan-Asan. Husband joked that they might have settled the fight over naming these thru co-naming and as it turns out, brother-in-law confirmed it was the case. It was just 10 minutes ride over two stations. We both checked out the two exits but it gave us no clue to what direction we should head to so we opted to follow the signs going to KTX entrance by going through the almost-isolated Wedding Convention Hall that connects the two stations.
Cross the street to get to the Ymall side. Turn left, heading to the intersection. Once you get to that corner, turn right and the building is visible from that point. On your right will be the 7-11.
Walk up the street and cross the street to get to that lone building. There are pedestrian lanes at each corner, don't worry.
The corner entrance is the IBK (it actually has a side door leading to the main lobby of the building.) Walk a bit further to find the main entrance with a revolving door that doesn't seem to work. Side ones work though. On the left is the Information counter with an old ajussi manning it and on the right are two elevators. Across from the main entrance is the door leading to the parking lot. The office in question is on the 4th Floor.
Upon stepping out of the lift, head to the left. Noo...not that left. That is the Men's Rest Room. Kidding. Just follow the sign in English.:P
In the Immigration Office:
1. Get the queue slip from the machine. There are three kinds: Visa/Permanent Residency, Sojourn, Registration.
3. In case you need an instant ID photo, there is also a machine for instant photo printing next to the cashier for a price of 7K won. One just needs to feed the machine some Korean paper bills.
As an alien to this kimchiland, I have to get myself an Alien Certificate of Registration and of course, update my immigration papers. I checked online and found limited information on the location and how to go about it around my area. All of these searches was done in English, of course.
Here is the detailed trip.
Note:
The Immigration Office is located in a building behind YMall, left side if you're coming from the KTX station entrance. It is not immediately visible from that point though. You have to get to the intersection of Emart Traders (a warehouse-style Emart Store) and the big YMall building.
A. Getting there.
We took the subway from Onyang-Oncheon (why do these stations have to have double names, really) to Cheonan-Asan. Husband joked that they might have settled the fight over naming these thru co-naming and as it turns out, brother-in-law confirmed it was the case. It was just 10 minutes ride over two stations. We both checked out the two exits but it gave us no clue to what direction we should head to so we opted to follow the signs going to KTX entrance by going through the almost-isolated Wedding Convention Hall that connects the two stations.
If you take that route, the exit on your right will be one leading to the view of YMall (that is the first landmark to find). Once out of the building, look around and find the big sign of YMall and HiMart. That is the target for now. Keep walking and go down the stairs or take the lift for specially-abled people (slower for able-bodied actually, so better hit the stairs.)
Cross the street to get to the Ymall side. Turn left, heading to the intersection. Once you get to that corner, turn right and the building is visible from that point. On your right will be the 7-11.
Walk up the street and cross the street to get to that lone building. There are pedestrian lanes at each corner, don't worry.
The corner entrance is the IBK (it actually has a side door leading to the main lobby of the building.) Walk a bit further to find the main entrance with a revolving door that doesn't seem to work. Side ones work though. On the left is the Information counter with an old ajussi manning it and on the right are two elevators. Across from the main entrance is the door leading to the parking lot. The office in question is on the 4th Floor.
Upon stepping out of the lift, head to the left. Noo...not that left. That is the Men's Rest Room. Kidding. Just follow the sign in English.:P
In the Immigration Office:
1. Get the queue slip from the machine. There are three kinds: Visa/Permanent Residency, Sojourn, Registration.
2. Find and fill up the form that you need. (I do hope you know what you need 'coz we didn't exactly know what was ours at that time.) The forms are available inside the small plastic drawers. There are designated places to fill those up complete with samples, pens, glues, and even eyeglasses.
3. In case you need an instant ID photo, there is also a machine for instant photo printing next to the cashier for a price of 7K won. One just needs to feed the machine some Korean paper bills.
4. The cashier takes care of the courier service and photocopying. ( 7000W for the delivery of ACR Card, photocopies 100W/page.
Other photos around the area taken from the Emart Traders building.
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| From the entrance of Emart Traders. Far most building on the left is the Immigration office building. |
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