Ski Resorts in South Korea : Gyeonggi-do

Konjiam Ski Resort
Official website

Konjiam Resort is easily accessible from Seoul Metropolitan Area

• 40 minutes away from Gangnam, Seoul. 
• largest ski trail in the Seoul Metropolitan Area, 
• a condominium with 476 rooms, a spa, and wine cave. 
• Operating the nation’s first slope membership system and its online reservation system. 
• Overcome overcrowded ski slope problem by enforcing Korea’s first maximum occupancy rule - up to 7,000 guests.
• Free shuttle bus is available

Contact: (031) 8026-5000

Magic Show at Konjiam Ski Resort

Directions :
Paid Shuttle Bus :

From exit 1 at Gangbyeon Station take bus number 1113-1, from exit 6 at Jamsil Station take number 500-1, OR From exit 3 of Gangnam Station take bus number 500-2. Get off at Gonjiam Terminal
After that, take a taxi to Konjiam Resort (ride 10~15 mins, about 8,000 to 10,000 won).
Gangbyeon and Gangnam station is in Line 2, Green.
Total travel time for one way ~ 2 hours

Free Shuttle Bus :
From Gangnam - For more information Or Reservation 02-739-0011
07:10 at Apgujeong Station (Exit No.6 / in front of the public parking lot)
07:30 at Gangnam Station (Exit No.3 / 200m away to mutual savings bank)

From Gangdong - For more information Or Reservation 031-798-5588

07:10 / 11:10 / 19:35 / 16:50 / 23:10 at Samseong Station (Exit No.1 / ‘NH’ Bank) 

07:20 / 11:20 / 19:45 / 17:00 / 23:20 at Jamsil Olympic Stadium Station (Exit No.1)

From Jung-gu - For more information Or Reservation 02-739-0011

07:00 Sinchon Station (Exit No.5 / in front of ‘Woori’Bank)
07:15 Gwanghwamun (in front of Sejong Center)
07:20 City Hall Station (Exit No.3 / away to the City Council Hall)
07:25 Itaewon (across the street ‘Crown’ Hotel)

For more information on free shuttle bus: Bus

Bears Town
Official website

Snowboarding lesson in Bear's Town

Bears Town Resort is located an hour away from Seoul

• The only resort in the Seoul-Pocheon-Hwacheon line. 
• The road to the resort rarely suffers from traffic during the winter season, unlike those in Gangwon Province, and its favorable location earned it the nickname, “Ski Resort for the Public.” 
• Members who sign up on the website can purchase their lift tickets at the 40% discounted price. 
• Free lift tickets are offered for every purchase of five tickets. 
• Overnight ski program on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. 
• The ski slopes open at 4:00 AM. 
• The ski slopes of this large-scale leisure resort have been officially approved by the International Ski Federation. 
• Bears Town Resort is a great destination for beginners
• Comprehensive rental system allows you to rent all the equipment you need. 
• More experienced skiers will enjoy the FIS approved 88 Challenger Slope. 
• It also offers snow sledding slopes which is ideal for family with small children.
• Getting to Bears Town Resort from Seoul couldn’t be easier, as the resort provides a free shuttle bus (reservations required). 

Contact: (031) 540-5000

Direction: 
Paid Shuttle Bus 

1-Take Bus No. 707 in front of Cheongnyangni train Station, and get off at Gwangneungnae. Change to bus No.7.5.1001 and get off at Bears Town Ski Resort. 


2-Take bus No. 1001 at Gangbyeon station(subway line 2) and get off at Bears Town Ski Resort. 


3-Take bus at Inchon, Su-won, An-san express bus terminal and get off at Naecheon. Change to bus No.5,7,33,1001 and get off at Bears Town Ski Resort. 
Only from Monday to Thursday

Free Shuttle Bus
For more information Or Reservation Seoul Geumsung Tour ( 02-741-2202 )

Jongno Area
0800 / 1600 / 1920 - Euljiro ipgu Station Exit 3, Korea Herald School Front
0805 / 1620 / 1925 - Jonggak Station Exit 4 Bosingak Front

Jamsil Area
0820 / 1620 / 1900 - Sports complex Station Exit 2 Front
0825 / 1625 / 1905 - Jamsil Station Lottemart, Lotteworld Front

Gangnam Area
1840 - Gangnam Station Exit 1 BusStation Front
0800 / 1610 - Gangnam Station Exit 3 Hanabank BusStation Front
1850 - Seolleung Station Shangjeri Building Front BusStation

Sinchon Area
0800 - City hall Station Deoksugung Deahanmun Front
0805 - Chungjeongno Station Exit 2

Jisan Forest Resort
Official website

Night Skiing and Snowboarding at Jisan

Located in Icheon, Gyeonggi-do Province, Jisan Forest Resort is close to Seoul and is especially suited for those looking for a one-day ski getaway.

• There is an escalator for children and beginners. The new 6-person lift is equipped with heated seats for a warm, comfortable ride. 
• Jisan Resort is popular among office workers who want to enjoy one-day ski trips during the weekdays since it is adjacent to Seoul. 
• Operates a special parking lot that can accommodate over 200 cars for women. 
• Operates diverse discount programs for people on their birthdays, freshmen, campus couples, young adults, gentlemen, and career women.
• Provide free shuttle bus

Near to Icheon World Ceramic Center. Read my post here when I visited the Ceramic Center with Mi Hyeon.

Contact: (031) 638-8460

Directions:
1.Bus runs every 20 minutes from Dong Seoul Bus Terminal to Icheon coach bus terminal. Then take Bus No. 12 from Icheon and get off at Jisan Resort.(40 min )
2.Take City Coach Bus No.9800 at Gangnam Station(exit No.3) or Yangjae Station(Yangjae bus station).
(between 9:00~13:00 every hour/ 15:00/16:00/17:30/19:00/20:00)

Free Shuttle Bus
Make reservation at the homepage but only if you have Korean friend to assist.
However, you can directly call to reserve a seat at 031-644-1390~2

Yangji Pine Resort

Official website

Yangji Pine Resort’s highest-grade ski run is the Challenger Course, where the yearly ‘National Alpine Ski Competition’ takes place.

• Skiers can enjoy skiing day and night by using the free shuttles. 
• This resort introduced the nation’s first mileage program, and 1.5% of the sales amount is accumulated as mileage. Mileages of over 5,000 points may be used like cash at the resort. 
• Yangji Pine Resort also operates various discount programs, including 30% discounts on lift fees and 50% discounts on rental fees for volunteers and blood donors. 
• The discount programs also target local residents, people on their birthdays, students, freshmen, soldiers, and couples visiting the resort on Valentine’s Day.
• Many enjoyable programs for skiers and snowboarders, such as training courses, a snowboarding competition, and a snow-boarding show presented by pro riders.

Near to Everland and Yongin Korean Folk Village. Read my post on my visit to Yongin Korean Folk Village here.

Contact: (031) 338-2001

Directions:
Paid shuttle bus:

1.From Seoul Nambu Terminal, take an express bus and get off at Yongin or Yangji (first 06:15 / last 20:10 / 20 min interval). Take a free shuttle bus there.
2.In front of Yongin Bus Terminal, take bus No. 10 or direct bus to Yangji (20 min ride). Then take a taxi to the ski resort (10 min ride).

Free Shuttle bus:
From Gangnam
0710 Chosun Hotel frontdoor
0750 / 1100 Apgujeong station exit 6
0810 / 1120 / 1600(only weekends) / 1820(only weekdays) Gangnam station exit 3
0820 / 1130 / 1620(only weekends) / 1830(only weekdays) Yangjae station exit 7

From Jamsil
0800 Samseong station exit 1
0820 Jamsil station, Lotte Mart

From Sinchon
0740 Sinchon station exit 5
0800 City Hall station exit 2

Click here for more information on free shuttle bus from Seoul
Click here for more information on free shuttle bus from Yongin

Free Skiing trend in Korea

Source: Gyeonggi do Tourism, KNTO and Youtube

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How to register for Korean TOPIK Exam

I have been asked by an avid Korean language learner who happened to visit my blog on how I registered for the recent Korean Language TOPIK exam. Here's the step. However this may be applicable ONLY for Malaysians.

FYI, Korean TOPIK exam is held twice a year; April and September. Registration should be done 2 months ahead. For April, you should register in February and for September exam you should register in July. It's better for you to check either of the sites below for accurate registration dates.

Go to Cafe Naver UKM

OR

Blog Naver UKM.

All notification will be put up on both websites as above.
The exam will be done in Pusat Pengajian Bahasa dan Linguistik, UKM - Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi, Selangor. Please bring 2 IC photos and RM80 for registration fee.

How to go :

From the North and South highway take Bangi exit. After that you will see the roundabout, take 12 o'clock exit. Then go straight and you will see another roundabout, take 3 o'clock exit. Go straight and you will find the entrance to UKM. Register yourself at the guard post and the security guard will guide you to Pusat Pengajian Bahasa & Linguistik.

Address: Pusat Pengajian Bahasa & Linguistik, FSSK, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, UKM, Bangi 43600, Selangor Darul Ehsan. Malaysia

Person in charged:

Ryu Seung Wan 03-8921-6556
Mrs. Haslina 03-8921-6476
Please call during office hours : 9am to 5pm.

Check my post on Korean TOPIK Exam to download past year's paper.

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Culture Shock in Korea

By Luke Martin (www.ROKetship.com)

Initially I was not even bothered by these because I adapt myself well with different culture, but when I was in Korea long enough I realized that this need to be addressed because we are different! ^^

1. Korean eat spicy food - I was a bit surprised to know that Korean eat spicy food at first. Knowing that their neighbour, the Japanese dislike spicy stuff and their food are somewhat bland. However, I fell in love with Korean delicacies the moment I tried Kimchi. Thank goodness that it was spicy. I can't live without spicy food.
2. Korean like to be fairer and fairer - When the white prefer to look tanned, the Korean prefer to be fairer and fairer. Just look at their makeup products, they have a lot of whitening cremes and emulsions. Aren't they already fair?
3. Mini skirt in winter - When I walked along the Myeongdong streets with Tut and Hanim; we were dumbfounded when we found girls donning high heels wearing really short and skimpy mini skirt on WINTER!! Isn't that crazy? Anyway..they have their boyfriends to hug them, not a big problem ehehe.
4. Shower only before sleep - Maybe this was influenced by the weather. It's not their norm to shower many times in a day like in the humid and warm Malaysia. As my Korean friend explained, before they sleep they must clean themselves. The next day, they just wake up and make up..heheh. 
5. Eat dogs and larvae - Hmmm..my experience? I stayed with a friend in Yeoju, they offered me meat. I told them that I don't eat meat in Korea. They said I was missing out because the meat they ate was special? How special? The meat could give them extra energy. It was DOG's meat and I had no reaction. I couldn't express myself. Not a single word coming out from my mouth. I pity the doggie you see. How can they do that to a cute and playful doggie? Another one is sundae, but was not surprised on this one because Sarawakian also eat this slimy, whitish larvae. But the one in Korea was so stinky but I still gathered my courage to try it. It tasted like smoky wood. Ack!
6. Change towel everyday - When Mi Hyeon visited my hometown, she was given a huge towel to use for about a week. The look on her face at that moment was unreadable. I asked her why? She said she needs to change towel everyday. In Santisuk, I did that because the towel was small about the size for wiping your sweat (like the towel in Jjimjilbang, if you watch Korean drama). Furthermore, they always wash the towel in boiling water. Talk about being hygiene!!
7. Unreadable weather - The weather was crazy. Don't ever forget to bring your jumper if you are in spring or autumn. Nearing the end of autumn, just bring your winter jacket. You will not regret it. The harsh wind in autumn changes the weather into winter-like weather.
8. Wear socks all the time - Korean house use floor-warming method to warm the whole house during winter. During spring the floor is still warm but weather was not so. Due to that, I decided not to wear the socks resulting to continous stares from the ahjummas visiting Santisuk. Aigoo..I felt naked for a while; without socks I mean. ^^ 
9. Elders eat first - Wait! Hold your chopsticks! If the elderly or the eldest in the family doesn't start eating, chances are you can't eat yours too. Not yet. Korean adheres much to Confucius teaching. Confucianism is a Chinese ethical and philosophical system developed from the teachings of the Chinese philosopher Confucius (Kǒng Fūzǐ, or K'ung-fu-tzu, lit. "Master Kong", 551–478 BC). It is a complex system of moral, social, political, philosophical, and quasi-religious thought that has had tremendous influence on the culture and history of East Asia. It might be considered a state religion of some East Asian countries, because of governmental promotion of Confucian philosophies.Source: Wikipedia
10. Don't say bye when they end phones conversation - This baffled me a lot when I called my Korean friends and I thought I was still in the conversation but they thought otherwise. Normally, they will end it with 'Ye' or 'Ne'

Why culture shock existed?

• People's perception of what is right and what is wrong
• Differences of belief, culture, lifestyle and language
• Geographically different, skin color

How to prevent culture shock?

• Learn, unlearn and relearn about other cultures 
• Find as much information as possible ahead before you go
• Learn the language
• Mix with Natives
• Immerse Korean lifestyle and culture into daily life
• Open mind and good attitude

Check out this interesting read about culture shock in Korea here.

What about you? Any culture shock experience when you travelled overseas? Share with me! ^^

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Ski Resorts in South Korea : Gangwondo

My favourite season will always be autumn but winter is no better. Most Malaysians dream of going to Korea because of Hallyu wave, thanks to Bae Yong Jun from Winter Sonata 겨울 연가 and to experience different season, of course. ^^

As my friend Yani once told me; "I want to see snow in Christmas!". She had it lucky because surprisingly it snowed on Christmas 2009. White Christmas!! She was amazed and imitated Choi Ji Woo in Winter Sonata, opening her palm waiting for the first snow.

If you want to experience winter in Korea, I bet that it won't be perfect without skiing or snowboarding at any one of these famous resorts. There are two famous provinces to visit during winter in South Korea:  Gangwon-do and Gyeonggi-do. Most of the ski resorts are located here.

For now, this post will explain about Ski resorts in Gangwon-do only. Another post will cover Gyeonggi-do's.

Yongpyong Ski Resort

This is one of the filming locations for Winter Sonata. Yu-jin's company, Polaris, and Min-hyeong's (Kang Jun Sang) company sign a contract to work on the same design project at the Dragon Valley Ski Resort. The resort offers a tour for Winter Sonata fan. You can check the details here.

Click the link below for:
Official site
Rental price
Lift price
Lesson price
Resort guide map
Accommodation Reservation : Hotel

How to go:
By Shuttle Bus
Daewon Express Bus(=Purple ski bus),Tel. 82-2-575-7710, 82-2-2201-7710 (ENGLISH)
0900 - at Lotte Mart, Gate#4 of Jamsil Station (Subway Line 2)
1300 -  Gate#2 of Sports Complexs Station(Subway Line 2) - Sunday Only

One Way ￦ 15,000(Adult) / ￦ 12,000(Child)
Round Trip ￦ 28,000(Adult) / ￦ 22,000(Child)

By Public Express Bus from Seoul
Take a bus from Gangbyeon Station (Line 2) to Hwenggye
Donghae Express Bus - Eastern Seoul Terminal (02-458-4854~7) http://ti21.co.kr/
One way        ￦ 15,000(Adult)

From Hwenggye Bus Terminal, take free shuttle bus to Yongpyong Resort (12 times a day / 10 min ride)
* 4:40am, 5:40am, 6:30am, 7:30am, 8:10am, 10:30am, 12:00am, 2:00pm, 4:20pm, 5:30pm, 11:30pm

Phoenix Ski Resort 

The resort offers a total of seventeen slopes, four of which are approved by the FIS (International Ski Federation), and has superb snow quality. Particularly popular is the ‘Panorama Slope’, which is an impressive 2.2km long and has an average width of 46meters. Eight ski lifts, state-of-the-art gondolas, and six conveyer belts transport visitors around the park quickly and efficiently.

Click the link below for:
Official site
Accommodation : Youth Hostel , Condo, Hotel

How to go:
Express, Public Bus
Dong Seoul - Jangpyeong 6:20AM-6:55PM (departs every 30min)

Nearby Tourism Attractions
Odaesan (Woljeongsa Temple) - I visited this temple when I Wwoofed in Santisuk, Jinbu. Check out my post here.

Gangwon Folk Museum, Jeongdongjin Beach, Gyeongpodae Beach, etc.

Tips: 

1- I recommend renting a motel/guesthouse near Yongpyong area. You could rent a 50,000 won motel per night and accommodate 5 to 6 people inside. Depends on your comfortability level. For me, it's all about enjoying snowboarding/skiing that matters most. Sleep comes second. ^^ 

2- There are lots of ski/snowboard rental shops around Yongpyong area and they offer cheaper rental rate than the resort.

3- Normally the ski/snowboard rental shops offer free shuttle van to the resort if you rent equipments with them. Just ask the counter for the free lift. 

4- Don't forget to bring a few chocolate bars with you. When you slide down the slopes you will be hungry in no time especially in cold weather.

5- If you have a Korean friend, they could get the lift/admission and rental price cheaper using their Korean credit cards up to 40-50% off. 

Adhoc Budget : A group tour budget (5-6 people) 

*assuming that you don't need ski/snowboard lesson ~50,000 won

Bus Seoul (Return) to Yeongpyong - 24,000 won

A night stay in motel/guesthouse - 20,000 won

Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner - 30,000 won

Rental (Day + Night) - 35,000 won

Lift (whole day) - 90,000 won

Estimated Total : ~199,000 won per person

Buy snowboarding equipments from Gmarket.
AsiaNews about Snowboarding in Korea
Check out reviews from snowboarders who had visited the resorts: Andrewaka22

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Yongin Folk Village

I went to Yongin Folk Village during Chuseok 2009. Chi Won's parents dropped me off in front of the Yongin's Folk Village's gate before they drove off to meet their relatives during Chuseok. I wished Chi Won could come along but she had to work!! Being a doctor is just too hard..bla bla bla.

This place is huge. You may need at least 3-4 hours to appreciate it. One of the reasons is because the performances are done as scheduled and if you miss any one of them, then they won't have a repeat. I was lucky because I could see people making Korean rice cake - songpyeon traditionally and at the same time filled my stomach! I could still remember the taste till now. Makes me wanna run to any Korean restaurant now and ask them to make me one.*salivating*

The entrance to Yongin's Folk Village.

Souvenir shops

Drying peppers

The peppers taste sweeter than other peppers I had tasted before.

Recently I tried using Babas pepper powder to make kimchi but

the taste was weird. I should get the pepper powder from Korean

Supermarket in Ampang instead.

고추 = gochu  = pepper 

고추 가루  = gochu garu = pepper powder

A totem pole that is supposed to ward off evil spirits. Normally

it comes in pairs - a male and a female totem pole.

Write down your wish/es on a paper and tie it on the rope.

Wanted! Anyone saw this man?

Is that what it says? Hardly understood the hanja. ㅋㅋㅋ

ㅋㅋㅋ =  hehehe..

Roof from rice straw. Some of the houses used that back then.

An upgraded one, using wood.

Dutiful son monument...hmm. What about daughter?

Yut game

Dried vegetables for winter.

Kids trying their hands on songpyeon.

The ahjumma was cleaning the rice and cook it traditionally.

Gdragon look alike toddler.  ㅋㅋㅋ

The sign of early autumn.

Making thread.

Samulnori performance.

Wow! I wish I have a video camera at that moment.

Another interesting performance. The audience couldn't stop

laughing when the grandfather talked. I wonder what he told

them. Hmmm...

A shop selling Korean traditional paper. 

The man was making a piece of paper.

The lady used Korean traditional paper to complete the doll.

Lee Jun Ki's The Man and The King's filming location. 

Daejanggeum (Jewel of the Palace)'s filming location.

Filming Location: Daejanggeum (Jewel of the palace) , The Man and the King


Open: From 0900 to 1830, time may change between seasons.

Admission: 
12,000 won / inclusive of Museum is 15,000 won / full package is 18,000 won
Full Package: Includes fees for Admission, Korean Traditional Haunted House, Folk Village & World Folklore Village, Facilities in the Family Park

How to Go:
1- From Exit No. 6 of Gangnam Subway Station (Seoul Subway Line No. 2) or Exit No. 7 or Yangjae Subway Station (Seoul Subway Line No. 7), take City Express Bus No. 1560 or 5000-1 and get off at Korean Folk Village (30-40 minute ride).


2- At Jamsil Subway Station (Subway Line No. 2) take City Express Bus No. 1116. (one hour and 10-20 minute ride)

Official Website: Korean Folk Village

Information Source: KNTO

Why not equip yourself with Korean survival phrases before you go? It has helped me a lot and it should be the same for you too. ^^ Get Lonely Planet Korean Survival Phrases book to accompany you in Korea.

 

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Witches Rock Canopy Tour : Great Adventure for Adventure Lovers

Regularly, millions of travelers worlwide traditionally return to vacations spots they have visited before because people often stay in their comfort zone. However, there are individuals who want to have a taste of adventure that brings them to exotic locations. The best location for such people then is located in Guancaste, Costa Rica – Witches Rock Canopy tour. It’s an exciting adventure tour that lands you to the tropical dry forest yet eco friendly country in the Caribbean. Well, don't be misled by the name of the place, there aren’t any witches – just pure adrenaline rush from ziplines.

For beginners, Witches Rock Canopy Tour is not your run-of –the mill tour that involves taking pictures of lovely scenery and walking from one sight to another. It is a physically challenging tour that has awesome backdrop of waterfall, ocean, picture pretty sunsets plus rich biodeversity. While the location is actually a tropical dry forest , the sights are worthwhile since this country is one of the greenest country on this planet. However, there are some important points to consider before going to Witches rock canopy tour.

Basically, wear comfortable clothing since temperatures of the tropical dry forest of Witches Rock canopy tour can be quite high. It is also advisable to bring insect repellant since it’s a tropical forest with bugs and other insects. Women should avoid wearing flip flops or slippers that may fall off during the zipline activity. It would be practical for women to wear shorts or trousers. Kids must be at least 8 years old and some tours require a height of no less than 5 feet.


Witches Rock canopy tour is safe as cables are made from high-grade steel so one can conveniently tackle the numerous zip lines. The tour includes 24 platforms, 11 cables, 3 suspension bridges and 3 climbing threes. In case a participant feels that he has experienced too much, there are 5 exit routes that ends the tour immediately. However, it only takes one and a half tour to finish the whole tour. The tour organizers needs you to sign a waiver and ask you about your health condition. In case you satisfy basic requirements, then the next step is a safety orientation so you can learn more. In no time, you’ll be zipping and crossing the rainforest canopy effortlessly.

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Nature's Best - Rainforest Canopy Tour

Millions of tourists around the world book trips to usual destinations since they felt safe and experienced quality service in such places. Nevertheless, there are some tours like the rainforest canopy tour that can bring a different twist to one’s vacation. For one, it means booking a trip to an exotic destination in west Carribean – Antigua. In fact, Antigua is part of the country of Antigua and Barbuda where the rich and famous own a vacation home for its pristine beaches and mild tropical climate. Most of all, this is themost suitable location of the rainforest canopy tour that holds a lot of excitement to the participants.

The rainforest canopy tour in Antigua is composed of 21-element experience which begins with a walk from the Old Pump house. The tour is very stimulating since one has to walk through an old suspension bridge that which is so Indiana Jones. It’s disorienting at first since the suspension bridge hangs on a deep gorge. However, this is just the beginning since there are still many challenges awaiting ahead. The packaged activities of the rainforest canopy tour are 9 zip lines that ends in the “Leap of Faith”. This Leap of Faith is actually a controlled 36 foot vertical descent safely supervised by the rangers.

The rainforest canopy tour is impressive as one goes through 5 zip lines no less than 200 feet long that spans the gorge. Imagine being placed as high as 200 to 300 feet over the rainforest and viewing the sprawling canopy of trees! But this is not yet final since the 5th zip called “Screamer” is a dare for the brave since it spans 328 feet long. Nevertheless, this zip line brings you to the bar and café where you can eat to your heart’s delight after the tiring activities. No wonder this segment of the tour is called Stairway to Heaven since it’s the best stop after all the action. It would also be a good timing to go for some souvenir shopping and taking photos. There are also two pretty tree-houses hidden in the forest where one can view breath-taking scenery.

However, there are few requirements that must be met when you join the rainforest canopy tour. It is suggested that women wear shorts or trousers and must at least be 5 feet in height. Surely, one must be healthy and no history of heart problems. If you meet the requirements, then there’s no stopping you from joining the rainforest canopy tour.

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Treetop Canopy Tours: Great Adventure and Endless Fun

Nowadays, there are a lot of tour packages available in the market that travellers who need to have a break can select . However, most of the usual tour packages are sightseeing tours that have limited physical activities for the participants since they often just visit sights and go shopping. Typically, such packaged tours just involves sightseeing so most of the time people walk around to take pictures. A better alternative would be treetop canopy tours that would provide family members excitement and adventure. Moreover, such treetop canopy tours are also regarded as a work-out since it's physically challenging.

Treetop canopy tours are one of a kind experience as you get to savor the breathtaking view from the tree tops using zip lines and skybridges. One famous treetop canopy tours is located in New River in the northern part of West Virginia, United States. This canopy tour promotes its place as one of the best locations to truly experience canopy tour since it’s suitably located in New River Gorge that makes you takeoff in a zipline as high as 200 feet above the ground. The exhilarating view of White Mountains and rivers is an unforgettable experience that one would always cherish. The natural surroundings is suited for nature-lovers since the forest was carefully preserved for this purpose.The treetop canopy tours in New River Gorge contains world class facilities such as restaurants. It just takes half a day to complete the 10 ziplines, 5 sky bridges, 1 rappel, and 3 short hikes. The 200 year old Hemlock and Hardwoods Forest is enough to mesmerize you with nature's beauty. Also, guides are all certified from training which makes every adventure safe and fulfilling. Moreover, your family can visit anytime of the year since there’s no such thing as off-season for treetop canopy tours. For weary and hungry travelers, there are three restaurants in the area that serves tasty dishes. A practical way to enjoy this vacation is to enlist in any of the treetop canopy tours packages that takes care of everything – meals, accommodation and treetop tours.

It's time to pack your gears and join treetop canopy tours.

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Let's Do The Congo Trail Canopy Tour For An Unforgettable Experience

Do you need to see more spots than the usual vacation places like beaches, resorts, parks or log cabins? Then pack up your bags and book a flight to one exotic destination- Costa Rica. Costa Rica, why? Mainly because the Congo trail canopy tour is a fantastic get away that immerse a weary urban dweller into a different experience. The Congo trail canopy can be enjoyed only in Artola, province of Guanacaste, Costa Rica. Heading alone to Costa Rica alone is rewarding since it’s one of the greenest country in the planet with rich biodiversity.

Millions of people who have gone through the congo trail canopy tour admires the beauty of the place despite that the fact that the place maybe dry. When this happens, the temperatures can be high so make sure you bring very comfortable clothing that’s suited for zip lines and rapelling. It is helpful to understand that the Congo trail canopy tour is mostly zip line activity above the forest on high altitude. Visitors have to take a 45 minute-trip from Playa Conchal or Playa Flamingo. It’s a bumpy ride on an SUV but it’s worth the effort as soon as you get to hang upside down on a zip line. It’s like being Spiderman which you have to shell extra $50 for the add-on experience.

The Congo trail canopy tour is not only exciting but safe as well since the cables are top grade. A short orientation on safety rules and proper handling of equipment is necessary so participants even children as young as 8 years old can be safe. Even older people can meet the physical requirements of the Congo trail canopy tour since the staff are very supportive and encouraging. Just remember that the location is not on a tropical rainforest but on a dry forest. So pack up cool shirts, comfy shoes and insect repellants too.

What makes the Congo trail canopy tour different from other tours? Well, there are monkeys on the trees that always follow you in your zip line adventures. Although it seems scary to cross 11 tree lines, even individuals who dislike heights can finish the trail. Indeed, aside from a t-shirt, you’ll bring home wonderful memories after this congo trail canopy tour experience.

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It's Safe and Fun to Join Canopy Tour Mexico

The common lot of packaged tours typically bring people to popular destinations for sightseeing where majority of the activity involves taking pictures and shopping for souvenirs. This makes the tour quite ordinary and somehow boring especially for individuals who want excitement, fun and adventure. The best choice then would be booking a ticket to Puerto Vallarta for a canopy tour in Mexico. But before you contact your local travel agent, list down the vital stuff to carry such as insect repellant, comfortable clothing, wet-proof footwear, sunglasses and a digital camera of course. Surely, it would be an awesome idea to post in Facebook your pictures showing you zip lining across rivers and canopy of trees during your canopy tour Mexico. It would also be preferable if you make yourself physically fit by jogging a few weeks before the trip. The canopy tour Mexico is a real challenge to your physical fitness as you walk along the jungle.

Puerto Vallarta, the canopy tour Mexico is hidden in a virgin forest- Sierra Madre Mountains. It takes a 45 minute bumpy ride from Puerto Vallarta town to reach location of the treetop canopy. The canopy tour Mexico is mix of an eco-tour that promotes awareness about the natural environment and at the same time an adrenaline rush activity that’s sure to wake you up. One of the challenge is to climb up the Crazy Ladder and descending down by rapelling. This is the perfect chance for you to act like Tarzan and swing from tree to tree using the very safe cables and harness that complies with ACCT standards. The ACCT standards is a well respected accreditation for trade organizations in the canopy/zip line business. Understanding this feature would make a participant less anxious and increase confidence especially when using the zip lines for the first time. This is vital since you would be whooshing from one platform to another that’s 90 feet above the forest floor. Indeed, very few adrenaline pumping activity like skydiving or bungee jumping can match the thrill. Likewise, even the travel guides have received 200 hours of training since safety is the utmost concern of the canopy tour Mexico.

Feel a need to do something different? Canopy tour Mexico fits that rush perfectly.

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Canopy Tours Jamaica: Key to Fun and Pleasure

Jamaica is a country popularly known because of Jamaican music legend, Bob Marley As one of the roots of reggae music, Jamaica is filled with people who are brought up in an environment of self-expression, passion and a desire for the simple life. Jamaica is also fanous for its tourist spots and rainforests. There are only few people who consider Jamaica as a great country hosting one of the best eco-friendly adventures. There is a large and preserved terrain of natural landscapes, crystal clear waters, beautiful forests, white sand beaches and fantastic sceneries that anyone can enjoy. One of the increasingly popular adventures to tourists are the canopy tours in Jamaica.

A canopy tour is a dynamic zip line activity that use a harness attached to a steel cable and propelled easily by gravity from one strategically placed platform to another. The canopy tours in Jamaica can be nornally accomplished in 2-hours that allows you to have a birds-eye view of the amazing scenery and natural landscapes. Ideal for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts, canopy tours in Jamaica is an incredible and thrilling experience and you can glide through the rainforest and witness the beauty of the Jamaican wildlife. As one of the premier eco-tourism attractions, canopy tours in Jamaica have friendly tour guides who will ensure your safety, show you the great sights and educate you on interesting facts about the rainforest, ecosystem and unique plant and bird life of the country.

A lot of tourists are attracted by this new adventure which is very different from the usual activities offered in vacation packages. Canopy tours in Jamaica combines fun, adventure and learning in one great experience. It also attracts researchers who want to explore Jamaica and photographers who can capture on their camera lovely and breath-taking sceneries.

In Jamaica, a vacation is an unforgettable experience. You can may put into your travel plans a lot of horseback riding, swimming, biking, fishing, bird watching, and beach hopping. But never skip the opportunity for a one of a kind vacation. Canopy tours in Jamaica promise to bring you an unforgettable experience.

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Arena Paraiso Canopy Tour: Unique Tour for Thrill Seekers

Many canopy tours are located in different countries. With most of the land covered in rainforests, Costa Rica alone, already offers several canopy tours that will give eager tourists a taste of the environment in its natural beauty. A well-known tourist attraction in Costa Rica is the Arenal Paraiso canopy tour. Situated at the Canyon of the Arenal River, the Arenal Paraiso canopy tour comes with a view of wonderful landscapes and lush rainforests. This tour could be one of the most unforgettable experience in your life.

Unlike tours that start with long hikes, the Arenal Paraiso canopy tour begins with a short walk that will lead you to first of the 12 platforms. This is where canopy guides will brief you with important instructions and completely inspect all equipment. All harnesses and equipment are of top grade to ensure your safety. At the last platform, a shuttle will be waiting with snacks and will safely return you to the start.

Using steel cables and harnesses, a canopy tour is actually being suspended in air and whooshed to one platform to another. With 11 cables more than 350 meters long, 80 meters in height and a total of 12 platforms, Arenal Paraiso canopy tour can bring you to the best spots that will give you a great panoramic bird�s-eye view of two magical waterfalls and a vast terrain of tropical rainforest.

The Arenal Paraiso canopy tour provides an extraordinary way for tourists to explore the unique ecosystem of the Costa Rica rainforests without being intrusive to the environment. It is very important to maintain and protect the natural habitat so this canopy tour paves way for people to bask in nature without harming the environment.

Many people are now searching for more ways to enjoy a vacation beyond the usual swimming, sight-seeing, biking, hiking, snorkeling and diving activities. The Arenal Paraiso canopy tour provides a new and unique adventure. The exhilarating rush of gliding, as if you're flying, makes this one of the most memorable experience in a person's life. The Arenal Paraiso canopy tour is open to tourists from ages 8 to 70. For families and group of friends, this is great way to enjoy and collect experiences that will truly be unforgettable.

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Happy Chuseok 2010!

To all my Korean friends,

I want to wish Happy Chuseok!! Wishing you and your family for health, happiness, prosperity and wealth through out the year till the next Chuseok. Enjoy your holiday and drive safely!

즐거운 추석 보내세요!

love,
Zarina

Check my post here to know how I celebrated Chuseok 2009~arghh..I miss my songpyeon. Nyumm...nyummm..

P/S: Chuseok (Korean: 추석), originally known as Hangawi (한가위) (from archaic Korean for "great middle"), is a major harvest festival and a three-day holiday in Korea celebrated on the 15th day of the 8th month of the lunar calendar. Like many other harvest festivals, it is held around the Autumn Equinox. As a celebration of the good harvest, Koreans visit their ancestral hometowns and share a feast of Korean traditional food such as songpyeon.
Source: Wikipedia

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