Wonders of the South.

Busan is a densely populated metropolis located in the Southern part of Korea. Even if you're not a cyberspace addict, I'm sure you've probably heard about this bustling city by now. Thanks to it's myriad of beautiful scenic spots, swanky tourist accommodations, ostentatiously-built shopping districts, and a jumping nightlife, Busan came to be known as the “Summer Capital” of the country.

Hewed to the image of an excursionist who refuses to miss out on all the fun, we decided to visit this city one weekend (propitiously timed to coincide with my birthday) and explore what everyone's been raving about. The journey to get there was anything but pleasant; spurred by long hours of driving (6 hours or so and that’s in a good day), passing through abysmal dizzying tunnels, and traffic so heavy it almost gave me an aneurysm.

One could always opt to ride a plane instead to considerably cut the traveling time, but the drive, as agonizing as it sounds, is one hell of an experience. When you finally set foot, get ready to be amused, bewildered, and dazzled to the core. Busan is a place like no other, the vibrant energy that surrounds the city is so abundant it’s contagious. This city has a lot to offer, all built to impress even the most flamboyant tourist craving for an action-packed adventure. But the thing that I love the most about it is the people. To put it simply, the cross section of people you encounter there is just so diverse, so unique and inspiring, you couldn’t help but be influenced.

Busan in a sprawling city that best represents everything that is fresh, carefree, and liberating. Amongst all the places there that I could feature, I've chosen three that visually narrate the essence of the city.

First is Taejongdae, a natural park auspiciously named after the 29th King of Silla Dynasty. High above the rocky beach and overlooking the deep iridescent horizon reflected by the sea, there lies the famous light house and observatory. On a good weather, the coast of Japan can be seen from it's viewing deck.








Next is Haedong Yonggungsa, a famous temple situated on the coast of the north-eastern portion of Busan. It's built in 1376, during Goryeo Dynasty. While most temples are built on mountains, this rare temple is built along the shore line, thus providing an awesome scenery of deep blue water and amazing rock formations jutting out into the sea. The sound of the waves and the chants of the monks evoke a very calming atmosphere.









And lastly, Haeundae Beach. During the hottest part of the summer, this beach turns into a virtual sea of bodies, packing every square foot of the fine sand. But with all the precarious mess and the earsplitting noises coming from the ungodly number of people (mostly intoxicated), I highly doubt one could drink a cup of coffee in peace. It makes a world of difference if you visit this place right after the summer vacation is over when you could better appreciate the fine sand, the clear blue sky, and the whole lively beach atmosphere.

Whenever the weather is bad, and visions of sunny beach and fine white sand occupy my thoughts, I immediately think about Busan. There's something about it that's so unforgettable. And to those who visited, it brings back an air of nostalgia, flooding you with wonderful memories that last a lifetime... I could only wish for a second visit.