Thursday evening
Today was our last full day to spend here on Jeju Island. I took 200+ photos, but uploading them will have to wait until I have PC access.
Wednesday update:
- Gyulimsung Cliffs – We saw these Wednesday when we arrived. These beautiful lava cliffs seem to rise out of the sea, and are truly beautiful.
- Mystery Backward Road – This odd little section of road has an optical illusion. Although the road seems to appear to go downward, when the bus driver put the bus in neutral, we drifted backward and up the hill. Completely random, completely odd.
- The island is referred to as the Special Independent Province of Korea, and seems to have an autonomy in various areas, one of them being education. We met with the Education Superintendent yesterday, and saw a presentation on Jeju Island’s plan to become a truly International City. Because it is centrally located in northeast Asia, the plan calls for the development of English as the official language, learning centers sponsored by an international circle of universities, and a growing economic community, brining conventions and festivals to the island. It seemed that this is a very ambitious program, but one which they are apparently purusing with great fervor.
- Hongik Children’s Home – This orphanage greeted us with their yodeling choir of about 18 singers, ages 5-10. Their costumes were adorable, and their sound was amazing (two parts, incredible intonation, astounding yodeling). I had to say I got a lump in my throat hearing these children. They have a very aggressive and successful adoption program, and they have been moving forward to re-direct adoptions here in Korea, rather than abroad.
Thursday:
- Hallim Park – This beautiful park highlighted the tropical nature of this island, and had several sections including a series of caves, a water garden, a bonsai garden, and a bird zoo. I saw cockatoos and other tropical birds, plus several other species, including white peacocks and ostriches. I must say that the ostriches were quite intimidating; I didn’t get too close!
- Mt. Sanbangsan rises straight up adjacent to the sea on the Youmeori coast. We climbed one-third of the way up (442 steps, yes I counted!) to a natural grotto, where a Buddha watches over a small shrine. The natural spring there is said to extend the lives of all who drink the water.
- The Hyatt here is beautiful. The grounds include an outdoor pool adjacent to the sea, a wedding chapel, and beautiful gardens which connect the various sections of the complex. It is one of several hotels along the southern coast of the island, making up a substantial resort area.
Tomorrow: Flight back to Buson, clinic rehearsal with Buson Boys’ Home Orchestra
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