Hidden Gems of the MET.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art of New York is one of the world's greatest art collections. Better known as the MET, this gallery is a point of pride for locals and a must-see attraction for visitors to the city. Art lovers flock here to admire more than 2 million works of art, from ancient Egyptian artifacts to the latest in avant-garde artistic installations. And this incredible collection has made the MET one of the world's most visited art museums.

Photo credit: Carl Newton.

The MET is home to masterpieces by some of the biggest names in art history, including Turner, Caravaggio, Degas, Manet, Renoir, and Picasso. And often, it's tempting to go straight to the best-known paintings and sculptures, especially when you're pressed for time.

But if you have a little more time to spare, we recommend avoiding the crowds that make a beeline from one famous painting to another. The MET also contains some lesser-known gems that are most definitely worth visiting. Drop off your bags at a luggage storage near the MET and check out some of these treasures. Not only will you get to avoid the crowds, but you'll also get bragging rights that you've seen parts of this extensive museum that most people never get to.

Temple of Dendur

When planning a trip to New York, you don't normally expect to find too many Egyptian temples. But that's exactly what you will find at the MET. This is a real Egyptian temple that was ordered to be built by the Roman Emperor Augustus back in 15 BCE. Moved piece by piece from Egypt when the construction of the Aswan High Dam began in 1960, the Egyptian government gifted the temple to the United States and reassembled it in the MET. That makes it one of the most significant ancient Egyptian ruins in the Western Hemisphere and a place any budding Egyptologists have to see for themselves.

Human-headed Winged Bull

In the culture of ancient Assyria, which occupied the territory known in the modern era as Iraq, lamassus were powerful mythical creatures that protected the empire from its enemies, both mortal and spiritual. Given that the Assyrian Empire collapsed in the seventh century BC, not many images of lamassus remain. But you will find some fairly spectacular examples in the MET, including a human-headed winged bull that once served as the guardian at the entrance to an Assyrian palace.

Photo credit: Thomas Eidsvold.

Thomas Cole's View from Mount Holyoke

This 1836 painting is considered one of the masterpieces of American landscape art. It is also considered the first major work of US artist Thomas Cole and was inspired by his own visit to Mount Holyoke in Massachusetts. Although it takes up a relatively small space on the MET's wall, it is often cited as an example of how American landscape painting developed during the 19th century.

Hearing Sphinx

This sculpture commemorates a legend that dates back to ancient Greece concerning a woman named Rhea who was so moved by hearing Apollo play his lyre that she created a sphinx with ears large enough to capture all the music. The sculpture captures this moment perfectly, with one ear cocked toward Apollo, and it has been described as "one of the most moving works in Western art." Seeing this piece at the MET is sure to captivate your own senses.

A Bedroom from Pompeii

The Roman city of Pompeii is rightly famous for being one of the most fascinating archaeological ruins in the world. Buried by a volcanic eruption in 79 A.D., the city was preserved under tons of ash for centuries until excavations began in the 18th century. The excavation of Pompeii is still ongoing, but the city forms one of the most stunning relics of the Roman world left on earth.

If you can’t make the journey all the way to southern Italy to see Pompeii for yourself, the next best thing might be to visit the MET. The museum is home to a reconstructed bedroom complete with authentic frescoes from the ruins themselves that were shipped to New York in the 20th century. It's amazing to see a room where people lived and slept so long ago, and it's one of the highlights of the museum's Roman collection.

Photo credit: Jouwen Wang.

Velazquez's Juan de Pareja

One of the greatest painters ever to emerge from Spain, Diego Velazquez, was commissioned by King Philip IV to paint a portrait of his slave, Juan de Pareja. It is one of the most remarkable works in the entire MET gallery, and it's hard not to be moved when viewing this painting. Not only does it evoke powerful feelings about the cruelty of slavery, but it also captures something truly special about one particular person – Juan de Pareja himself – who managed to rise above his circumstances to become a respected court painter in Madrid.

Bedroom from the Sagredo Palace

The MET houses one of the largest collections of ancient art and artifacts in the world, and it's easy to get lost in these galleries for hours. But hidden among them is a genuine gem – a bedroom from the Sagredo Palace in Venice dating back to the 18th century. The room is filled with furniture, paintings, and frescoes that you can imagine were once used by an important religious or political figure of their time. It's an exquisite work of art that deserves our appreciation, no matter how many centuries ago it was created.

Persian Prayer Niche

The highlight of the MET's highly praised Islamic collection, this prayer niche was created by an artist working in the court of the Persian ruler, Shah Tahmasp. The intricate detail and vibrant colors of this work show why it has been described as one of the most beautiful examples of Islamic decorative art ever made. Seeing this piece at the MET is sure to inspire awe and admiration in even the most seasoned art connoisseur.

Pablo Picasso's portrait of Gertrude Stein

This portrait of the iconic writer and art patron Gertrude Stein is, unsurprisingly, one of the most popular works at the museum. Painted by Pablo Picasso in 1906 when he was just 24 years old, it's a stunning representation of his style at that time. It also serves as an important reminder of how much influence Stein had on Picasso's work and on the entire development of modern art in general.

Photo credit: Rachel McDermott.

Met Roof Garden Cafe and Martini Bar

Finally, no visit to the MET would be complete without checking out its iconic rooftop garden café. This is a great place to get away from the hustle and bustle of the museum galleries and enjoy some delicious food with amazing views of Central Park. But if you are looking for something a bit more exciting, then the Martini Bar on the roof should definitely be on your list. Here you can relax with a cocktail while admiring breathtaking views of New York City from one of the most stunning spots in town.

Conclusion

This selection of hidden gems makes it clear that The Metropolitan Museum of Art has something special in store for everyone who visits it; whether it’s an ancient sculpture, a bedroom from Pompeii, or even a rooftop bar with a view, the MET is sure to provide a unique and unforgettable experience. So plan your visit today and discover these hidden gems for yourself!

Rex Education enhances learning resources in Philippine history and social sciences.

Rex Education hosted a memorandum signing with the Philippine Social Science Council (PSSC), the Philippine National Historical Society (PNHS), and the Philippine Historical Association (PHA) on September 6, 2022 to seal a fellowship program centered on Philippine history.

The main goal of the program is to develop a compendium on Philippine history that could serve as a reference material for writing and publishing future history-centered textbooks. A careful selection of fellows who are knowledgeable about specific periods in Philippine history would be conducted to ensure the accuracy and credibility of the compendium.

In line with REX’s pledge of providing relevant and timeless learning solutions, the program would ideally improve the content of learning materials in history and social studies.

“This fellowship program brings together the academe, civil society, and private sector toward the common goal of serving Filipino learners,” Don Timothy Buhain, Chief Executive Officer of Rex Education, said in his welcome remarks. “REX believes that looking back at where we all came from is important in enabling our learners, teachers, and communities.”

For every Filipino learner

PSSC stands as the project’s implementing agency alongside REX. PHA and PNHS, two local and professional historical associations, will collaborate with REX and PSSC to oversee the compendium’s development.

“This wonderful, novel project will benefit all learners. History is not only for the young; it is for learners of all ages,” PSSC Chairperson Dr. Excelsa Tongson shared.

Signatories of the memorandum pose for a photo.
From L-R: Miss Jeanne Marie F. Tordesillas,
Chief Marketing Officer of Rex Education; 
Dr. Excelsa C. Tongson,
Chairperson of Philippine Social Sciences Council;
Don Timothy I. Buhain, Chief Executive Officer of Rex Education;
Professor Emeritus Dr. Ma. Luisa T. Camagay,
Representative from the Philippine Historical Associaton;
Dr. Marcelino M. Macapinlac, Jr.,
Representative from the Philippine National Historical Society. 

Dr. Bernardita Churchill, president of PNHS and president emeritus of the PSA and MSA, also highlighted the importance of corroborating history in a country as diverse as the Philippines. “The plan is to enhance the study and teaching of Filipino culture, and create an inclusive history that will present the multiethnic history of the Filipino. A serious study of our history and culture would settle doubts and questions about our identity as a nation.”

A worthwhile endeavor for the future of education

REX’s goal for the program is to provide authoritative reference materials in the writing and publishing of history textbooks.

Dr. Marcelino Macapinlac Jr., a representative from PNHS and a professor for over three decades, believes that the references that will be produced by the fellowship will further capacitate authors and those in the academe as they enlighten learners about Philippine history.

The development of well-researched historical resources invites not only educators but also the youth to reflect on our national history and culture. Dr. Ma. Luisa Camagay, president of the PHA and professor emeritus, Department of History, UP Diliman, and Dr. Macapinlac noted that the current generation of learners has become more discerning of the sources they consume.

“I find that those who finish the K to 12 program are better prepared and more engaged [in the study of history],” said Dr. Macapinlac. He noted that the last national elections highlighted how his students are now more passionate and engaged, but the bigger challenge lies in maintaining that passion in the long run.

“I hope Filipinos will not consider history just as a classroom or University course, but it should be a lifetime interest—whether Philippine, Southeast Asian, or world history,” Dr. Camagay concluded.

To keep up with news about the program, be sure to follow Rex Education’s Facebook page.

Best day trips from Victoria Station.

Victoria Station is the gateway to London for millions of visitors every year. With its rail connection to Gatwick International Airport, the station receives close to 75 million passengers each and every year. Opened in 1860, it has been a vital part of the British capital transportation infrastructure ever since.

Photo credit: Lottie Griffiths on Unsplash.

Victoria Station has great connections to London's public transportation infrastructure, including the London Underground. But it's also a major rail station serving numerous cities throughout the UK, especially in the south of England. Plus, with Victoria Coach Station right across the street, it's possible to reach almost anywhere in the UK from this well-used station.

Drop off your bags at a Victoria station luggage storage, and you'll be able to pick from an astonishing range of destinations such as Bordeaux city break in France. The truth is, whatever you like to do on vacation, chances are good you can do it from here.

Photo credit: Peter Mason on Unsplash.

Dover

The first stop on our list of day trips from Victoria Station is the port city of Dover. It's just over an hour away by train, making it a perfect option for those who want to get out of London for the day without having to travel too far.

As the closest point to continental Europe, Dover has been a strategic location since Roman times. Today, it's best known as a gateway to the continent, with regular ferry service across the English Channel to Calais, France.

But there's more to Dover than just its ferries. The city is home to an impressive castle that was once used as a garrison by the famous Duke of Wellington. The castle grounds offer stunning views of the white cliffs for which Dover is famous.

There's also a lovely historic district with cobbled streets and quaint shops. Or you can simply enjoy a pleasant walk along the seafront promenade. Dover is surrounded by some of the most stunning natural scenery in England, and a walk along the white chalk cliffs is an experience you won't soon forget. That makes this a great trip for nature lovers and hikers as well as those with an interest in history or people who just want a day by the sea.

Canterbury

If you're looking for a day trip from Victoria Station with a bit more of a historic bend, then Canterbury is the perfect destination. Just over an hour away by train, this city was once the capital of England and is home to one of the oldest and most famous cathedrals in the world. The Canterbury Cathedral was founded in 597 AD and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the UK. It's also a World Heritage Site, and its Gothic architecture is truly stunning.

But there's more to Canterbury than just its cathedral. The city is steeped in history, with Roman ruins, medieval buildings, and picturesque cobbled streets. There's also a lively university town atmosphere, with plenty of cafes, shops, and things to do.

Whether you're interested in history or architecture, or simply want to explore a beautiful and charming English city, Canterbury is well worth a visit.

Photo credit: Orry Verducci on Unsplash.

Brighton

If you're looking for a day trip with a bit of everything, then Brighton is the perfect destination. Just over an hour from Victoria Station by train, this seaside resort town has something for everyone.

Brighton is best known for its lively seaside atmosphere. The beachfront promenade is lined with hotels, restaurants, cafes, and shops, and there's always something going on. The town also has a large pier with rides and games as well as an aquarium.

The city also has a thriving arts scene, with numerous galleries, museums, and theaters. There's also a lively nightlife scene, with plenty of bars and clubs to keep you entertained into the wee hours.

Whether you're looking to relax by the sea, enjoy some culture, or party the night away, Brighton is the perfect day trip destination from Victoria Station.

Epsom Downs

Fancy day at the races? Then head to Epsom Downs, one of the most popular horse racing venues in the UK. It's just a short train ride from Victoria Station, and there are races almost every day from April to October.

Epsom Downs is best known for the Derby, which is held here every June and is one of the most prestigious horse races in the world. But there are also races throughout the year, including the Oaks (held in May), the Fillies' Mile (September), and many more. Even if you're not interested in horse racing, Epsom Downs is worth a visit for its stunning views. The Downs offer panoramic views of London, and on a clear day, you can see all the way to Windsor Castle.

Photo credit: Richard Brooker-Protheroe on Unsplash.

Portsmouth

Portsmouth is a historic city with a strong maritime heritage. It's home to the famous Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, which is the largest of its kind in the world. The Dockyard is home to several historic ships, including HMS Victory (the ship that Lord Nelson commanded at the Battle of Trafalgar) and HMS Warrior (the world's first iron-hulled warship).

The Dockyard is just one of the many historic attractions in Portsmouth. The city is also home to numerous museums, art galleries, and theaters. And if you're a fan of shopping, then you'll find plenty of shops to keep you busy.

Portsmouth is also a great place for foodies, with lots of restaurants, cafes, and pubs to choose from. And, of course, no visit to Portsmouth would be complete without a trip to the seaside.

Whether you're interested in history, shopping, or simply want to enjoy a day by the sea, Portsmouth is well worth a visit.

Eastbourne

Eastbourne is a popular seaside resort town located on the south coast of England. It's just over an hour from Victoria Station by train, and it's the perfect place to enjoy a day by the sea.

The town’s charming seafront is fun to walk around and the beach views are lovely. Make sure to check out the 1930’s era bandstand. The town is also home to several museums, including the Towner Art Gallery that showcases modern British pieces. Don’t miss a trip to the Redoubt Fortress nearby. Built during the Napoleonic Wars, this military-themes gallery, museum, and theater has something for everyone.

Conclusion

So there you have it – six of the best day trips from Victoria Station. Whether you're interested in history, the arts, or just want to relax by the sea, there's sure to be something for you. Bon voyage!

Educational Trips for Kids - Parents Welcome.

Many families opt for vacations with an educational element, which has become a popular option in recent years. Choosing a vacation that everyone in your family will enjoy can be difficult, depending on your children’s interests and ages. Find out what inspires your child and use that as a starting point to plan the perfect educational trip. Let your children have a say in where they go. The fact that you asked them to participate will boost their confidence. Planning a trip is a great family bonding activity. 

Sky Castle, 2018.

It’s Science

• The MIT Museum in Cambridge, Massachusetts will spark little curious minds. Journey through the history of artificial intelligence and the research that brought it to life—Marvel at kinetic sculptures and high-tech robots. Take part in an interactive science workshop with topics such as building better bridges taught by students from the institute.

• Children’s Museum of Houston encourages the next generations to protect the virtual universe with math and critical-thinking skills. Specifically, the CyberChase exhibit, where children learn to write code to solve boggling puzzles. 

Photo credit: Wide Open Pets

By Land or By Sea

• Consider a Farm Stay Vacation. Learn what it’s like to care for a working farm like Verdant View Farms in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Each morning begins with a family-style farm breakfast at 7:30 am, then kids will join a farmhand to learn how to milk goats, feed chickens, and claves. Workshops like Artisan Cheesemaking are held every afternoon.

• Kids Sea Camp is about family dive adventures. There is a never-ending number of things to learn both above and below the sea. Kids unplug from the digital world and reconnect to an outdoor world full of life. The La Pacifica Hilton Club Resort in Mexico provides accommodations close to the excursions. And no, you don’t have to own a Hilton timeshare to stay. In fact, learn how to cancel a Hilton Grand Vacations timeshare and save money for even more experiences! 

Photo credit: Baseball Hall of Fame.

Every Kid is Different 

Even within a family, often children have their own, seemingly opposite, personalities. Be sure to consider each child’s interests and plan something for each one.

• National Museum of Computing is in Bletchley Park, United Kingdom, which is home to the famous WWII codebreakers like Alan Turing. This museum offers a virtual tour that takes visitors through the history of computers.

• National Baseball Hall of Fame is a museum in Cooperstown, New York, which has thousands of baseball related artifacts- bonus, they are all three-dimensional. Additionally, you can register for a free live virtual field trip to hear stories of baseball’s past along with video and photos.

Giant totem at the Museum of the Cherokee Indian.

Cultural Immersion

• The Museum of the Cherokee in Cherokee, North Carolina tells the history of the Cherokee tribe. Learn about the Trail of Tears. Children can sign up for a cultural workshop to learn how to speak Tsalagi Gawonihisdi, the Cherokee people’s language.

Unto These Hills is an incredible dance show performed by a Cherokee dance group where some of the performers are descendants from the ones removed. You can get tickets online at Mountainside Theatre.

• Colorado Indigenous Roots Immersion Experience in Weston, Colorado offers an authentic living history immersion experience. Deepen your understanding of traditional Native American culture. Stay a while! Book a three-day program where you’ll experience the daily life of the Native American culture. Accommodations are at Tipi Village to provide a more authentic experience.

#MetKids.

Virtual Field Trips

There will be times you can’t get away for an epic vacation, but that doesn’t’ mean we stop. We have fun learning. Check out these interactive websites of real places to explore.

• The Metropolitan Museum of Art presents a virtual experience #MetKids. Little ones will explore a colorful, illustrated map to find treasures in the museum’s collection.

• Stellarium Web is an interactive website where kids can explore the entire galaxy. Watch live sunrises and solar flares. You can even find out what is going on right in your own part of the world by adding your location.

• The National Museum of Natural History’s virtual experiences at the Smithsonian are self-guided, room-by-room tours of permanent, current, and past exhibits. Make sure to visit skeleton hall on the second floor.

Ways To Improve Your Child’s Education: Wrapping Up 

Finding the right ways to improve your child’s education can be an overwhelming experience. You’ll not only make sure they’re appropriate for your child but that they actually help. Whether it’s sending them on Educational Trips for Schools, teaching organizational skills, or making sure they’re prepared to learn, all of these efforts can make a big difference in their educational development. 

Thankfully, there are more of these than you might be aware of. Teaching them organizational skills, making sure they’re ready to learn when they get to school, and even going on an educational trip can all be effective for this. While they’ll take a bit of effort, your child’s education is more than worth it.

 

Visiting the Northeast.

There are so many places to visit in the United States, but one area that stands out is the Northeast. It’s full of so much history and lots of things to do. Since it holds almost a quarter of the nation’s population, there are many jobs, activities, and entertainment throughout each state. Here are a few popular ones you should visit the next time you are in this part of the country.

Independence Hall in Pennysylvania.

Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania has a great deal of the nation’s history. There are many historical sights to see and visit throughout the state. Philadelphia is home to many of the countries founding buildings and artifacts, such as the Liberty Bell. Valley Forge and Gettysburg our key cities in some of the nation’s greatest wars. The landscapes throughout the state are also beautiful. The Appalachian Mountains go right through the center it, and one of the Great Lakes borders the northern part of the state.

Sunset in New Jersey.

New Jersey
New Jersey is popular for its shoreline. Many of its coastal cities are known for their summer resorts and fun things to do at the beach. Several industrial parks are located in the northern part while the south is made up of countryside with several things to experience outdoors. This state has great fishing and crabbing in the bays by the ocean, and the Camden aquarium is a popular activity to do which is just south of Trenton. Amusement parks like Six Flags also give visitors quite a thrill.

Freedom Trail in Boston, MA.

Massachusetts
Massachusetts is primarily known for its history. Events like the Battle of Bunker Hill, The Boston Tea party, and other Revolutionary War occurrences can be remembered and seen throughout the state. The oldest commissioned US naval boat is docked there. Its sporting events are some of the best in the country. The Boston Marathon is one of the most popular ones. For those who love football, purchasing a New England Patriots travel package is a must.

The landmark we all know - The Statue of Liberty.

New York
New York is more commonly known for its large city New York City, rather than its rural areas. Times Square and Broadway are some of the most popular places to visit there. The shopping and entertainment offered throughout this city are some of the best in the world. If you are not a fan of the city, upstate has much to offer those who enjoy the outdoors. Lake Ontario has some of the best fishing in the country and hunting for whitetail and bears is also very popular. Hiking is also a common activity found up there.

The northeast has so much to offer, it’s almost impossible not to find something to do. Consider making a couple of stops next time you’re traveling through it.

Seoul Searching | Royal Tombs of Joseon Dynasty (Seolleung and Jeongneung).

Like most travelers, one of my travel goals is to visit as many UNESCO World Heritage sites as possible. I've been to two locations here in the Philippines - the Baroque Churches and Vigan City, and two in South Korea - Changdeokgung Palace and Jongmyo Shrine.

On our last Seoul Searching trip, I was able to tick another one off my list after having visited the Royal Tombs of the Joseon Dynasty.

The Royal Tombs of the Joseon Dynasty
- another UNESCO World Heritage Site off the bucket list!

A collection of 40 tombs scattered over 18 locations across South Korea, the Royal Tombs are magnificent and perfectly preserved graves entombed with kings and queens, as well as monarchs that were posthumously granted the title of king or queen, of the Joseon Dynasty. These tombs were built over five centuries ago - from 1408 to 1966 - and were designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2009.

More of the Royal Tombs after the jump!

Seoul Searching | 7 Must-See Spring Festivals in Korea.

Traveling to Korea but couldn't make it in time for the cherry blossom festivals? Don't fret! Springtime in Korea isn't just about cherry blossoms. In fact, the country hosts a cornucopia of festivals all throughout the months of April and May - some celebrating the (other) flowers in bloom, while others celebrating culture, arts, and even food.

Here is a guide to some of the best festivals that will make your spring trip to Korea even more memorable. If you're visiting the country during these times, do seek them out and enjoy the spirit of rebirth, renewal, and rejuvenation, which is exactly what spring is all about.

Goryeosan Mountain Azalea Festival (April 13 - 21, 2019)

Goryeosan Mountain Azalea Festival.

Goryeosan Mountain in Incheon earned the monicker 'pink mountain' because in the spring, it transforms into a stunning beauty carpeted with vivid pink and magenta azaleas. This mountain is one of the most popular destinations outside of Seoul, attracting more than 400,000 visitors each year.

During the Azalea Festival, several walking/hiking courses are offered to visitors, all between 1 to 2 hours long. You'll walk through a myriad of pink and purple flowers to reach the peak of the mountain, and get to enjoy the breathtaking scenery of the West Sea and a glimpse of the North Korean coastline.

To get to Goryeosan, take the subway to Sinchon on Line 2 and leave exit 4. Go straight for about 260m to arrive at the bus stop in front of Arteon. Take bus 3000 for about 2 hours to Ganghwa bus terminal. From the bus terminal take bus 1,23,25,27,30,32 or 35 and get off at Dolmen Square. Follow all the hikers to Goryeosan

Taean International Tulip Festival (April 14 - May 12, 2019)

Colorful tulips at the Taean International Tulip Festival.

Hailed as one of the top five tulip festivals in the world, the Taean International Tulip Festival showcases over 1.5 million tulips from over 300 different species, as well as beautiful displays of spring blooms such as lilies, pansies, daffodils, lupine, and canola.

This festival is recognized by the World Tulip Summit Society and takes place at the Korea Flower Park a 30-acre flower theme park where you can walk among gorgeous spring flowers and enjoy the beautiful glow of the Taean sunset.

To get there, head to Dong Seoul Bus Terminal and take an intercity bus to Taean. From Taean Intercity Bus Terminal, take a village bus bound for Gomseom and get off at Morenon Bus Stop.

Royal Culture Festival (April 27 - May 5, 2019)

Gyeongbokgung Palace at night.

One of my favorite cultural festivals in Seoul, the Royal Culture Festival is the perfect opportunity for tourists to learn more about Korea's royal palaces and delve deeper into Korean culture. During the festival, Gyeongbokgung Palace, Changdeokgung Palace, Changgyeonggung Palace, Deoksugung Palace, and Jongmyo Shrine are open to the public for free, and host an array of cultural programs, performances, exhibitions, and experience zones. Some of these palaces will be open until night time, though the special evening admissions come with a small fee.

Promotional poster for the 2019 Royal Culture Festival.

This year's Royal Culture Festival promises to be a very exciting one as it aims to present Korea's rich history and culture through state-of-the-art technology. A special augmented reality (AR) game will be available at Changdeokgung Palace during the nine-day event, while Gyeongbokgung Palace will host a performance chronicling the Gyeonghoeru pavilion’s construction process using 3D technology. And for the first time since the festival's inception, Gyeonghuigung Palace will join in the revelry and will host traditional dance performances using robots.

Locations and how to get there: 
Gyeongbokgung Palace - Gyeongbokgung Station (Seoul Subway Line 3) 
Changdeokgung Palace - Take Bus 100, 102, 104, 90S tour bus or 91S tour bus.
Changgyeonggung Palace - Take Bus 100, 102, 104, 90S tour bus or 91S tour bus.
Deoksugung Palace - City Hall Station (Seoul Subway Line 1 or 2)
Jongmyo Shrine - Jongno 3(sam)-ga Station (Seoul Subway Line 1, 3 or 5).


Lotus Lantern Festival (May 3-5, 2019)

Lanterns in Jogyesa Temple.

A prelude to Buddha's birthday, the Lotus Lantern Festival (Yeong Deung Hoe) is one of the most celebrated events in Korea. It's also one of the oldest festivals, with a history spanning over 1200 years. Originally an event with Buddhist significance, this occasion has now become a cultural festival celebrated by everyone in Korea.

Traditional lanterns in various colors, shapes, and sizes are hung all over downtown Seoul, and both Bongeunsa and Jogyesa temples host various cultural performances for locals and tourists to enjoy.

Photo credit: Korea.net.

The highlight of this festival is the Lantern Parade, where thousands of lanterns illuminate the metropolis and create an illusion of stars streaming through the milky way. In the previous years, more than 300,000 Koreans and 50,000 foreigners have participated in this event, and is said to be the biggest of its kind in the world.

To get to Bongeunsa Temple, take Samseong Station (Line 2) Exit 6. Walk straight for approximately 600m, and turn left. Walk straight for approx. 150m to arrive at Bongeunsa Temple 
To get to Jogyesa Temple, take Jonggak Station (Line 1) Exit 2. Walk straight for about 200m to arrive at Jogyesa Temple.


Boseong Green Tea Festival (May 2-6, 2019).

The picturesque hillside of Boseong.

Boseong, an idyllic town in South Jeollanam-do, is said to be the birthplace of the commercial tea industry in Korea. It accounts for 91% of the total green tea production in the country, and is home to the nation's oldest tea plantation.

In the spring, these seemingly endless fields of green welcome visitors from all over the country to the Boseong Green Tea Festival, a celebration of the town's booming green tea industry and rich cultural heritage. Various programs and workshops are scheduled during this five-day event, but the hands-on activities such as picking tea leaves, making tea, and preparing green tea snacks are the real crowd favorites.

How to get to Boseong:
From Seoul Express Bus Terminal, take an intercity bus to Boseong (보성) or to Gwangju (광주). From the Boseong Bus Terminal, take a Boseong-Gunhak (보성-군학) route bus to Daehan Dawon (대한다원). From Gwangju U-Square Bus Terminal, take an intercity bus to Boseong (보성).


Hangang Seoraeseom Canola Festival (May 11-16, 2019)

A sea of yellow at Seoraeseom Island.

The canola flower, also known as yuchae, is one of the spring flowers that represent Jeju. But that doesn't mean these dainty yellow blooms can only be found there. Sure, Jeju Island is home to the longest-running canola festival in the Korea, but you don't need to go that far just to see the canolas.

At Seoraeseom Island, a small (artificial) island located between Dongjakdaegyo Bridge and Banpodaegyo Bridge, you'll find canola flowers blooming in full glory by mid-May. The Hangang Seoraeseom Canola Festival is held around this time, and gives visitors the opportunity to capture beautiful memories of spring. During the festival, visitors can enjoy many photo zones, culture and art performances, and hands-on activities all over the island.

To get there, take Gubanpo Station (Seoul Subway Line 9), Exit 2. Go 370m towards the Olympic-daero Highway. Follow the street signs for Hangang Park to arrive at Banpo Seoraeseom Island.

Seoul Grand Park Rose Festival (May 25 - June 9, 2019)

Roses in full bloom.

Seoul boasts of not one, but two Rose Festivals in the spring - the Seoul Rose Festival held in Jungnang-gu, and the Seoul Grand Park Rose Festival held in Gwacheon. I have attended both festivals during my previous trips to Korea, and although they're both fun, lively, and lovely, I prefer the latter in terms of diversity of species, available facilities, and the size of the area.

The Seoul Grand Park Rose Festival usually kicks off in the last week of May until the first week of June, and is held at the botanic garden of the Seoul Grand Park. Visitors will marvel at the beauty and splendor of more than ten million roses sprawled across the 10-acre garden. Workshops, concerts, and cultural events are some of the highlights of this annual event, and these activities are all free of charge.

At least year's Seoul Grand Park Rose Festival.

To get to the Seoul Grand Park, take exit 2 of the Seoul Grand Park Station (Line 4).

Ready to experience the beauty of spring? Which festivals are included in your itinerary?

Seoul Searching | Seodaemun Prison History Museum.

Today couldn't have been a more perfect time to write about Seodaemun Prison History Museum, and what we saw and experienced during our visit. Because on this day, exactly one hundred years ago, the March 1st Movement (Samiljeol) took place.

One of the earliest public demonstrations of Korean resistance during the Japanese occupation, Samiljeol was initiated by thirty-three core activists who came together at the Taehwa-gwan Restaurant in Seoul and announced the Korean Declaration of Independence.

They then took it to the streets where they were joined by many others, marching and shouting "Manse!" which means "long live Korea". As more and more people joined the procession, the Japanese officials panicked and asked the military forces to intervene. Many of the Korean protesters were arrested, but many more were killed. Apprehended activists were brought to Seodaemun Prison, where they were locked up, tortured, or worse - executed.

The entrance to Seodaemun Prison History Museum.
Ticket prices: 1500 Korean won for adults, 500 Korean won for kids.

Forcibly built during the Japanese occupation, construction of the prison began in 1907 and was completed the year after. The prison was opened on October 21, 1908, under the name of Gyeongsong Gamok. This name eventually went through a few more changes until 1923, when it finally became the name that we know today - Seodaemun Prison.

The Administration Building, used mainly for interrogations.
This now serves as the exhibition hall of Seodaemun Prison History Museum.

Uncovering the horrors of Seodaemun Prison... more secrets revealed after the jump!

Seoul Searching | What To Do in Seoul During Seollal.

Happy Lunar New Year!
Today marks the first day of the Seollal holiday in South Korea - a three-day event to celebrate the Lunar New Year. The Seollal holiday starts on the day before the Lunar New Year, and ends on the day after it. This year, the actual day of Seollal falls on a Tuesday, February 5; and with the weekend before it, Koreans get an extra two days to enjoy the Lunar New Year festivities.

One of the most important holidays in Korea, Seollal not only marks the passage into a new year, but also gives families the time and opportunity to bond, pay respect to their ancestors, and enjoy a bountiful meal. Majority of the business establishments in Korea are closed during this time (it's a national holiday, after all), but tourist attractions and destinations remain open to the public, hosting various events and cultural activities.

If you're in Korea for the Seollal holiday, here's a list of things to do and places to visit to make the most out of your Lunar New Year trip:

Join a Temple Stay Program.
In a Temple Stay Program, participants can experience Korean culture and immerse oneself in daily monastic life. To celebrate Seollal, various temples across the country will host special temple stays and offer Seollal-related activities such as playing traditional Korean games, commemorative rites for ancestors, and New Year's bow to the Buddha after the Buddhist service.

Bongeunsa Temple in Gangnam and Jogyesa Temple in Jongno are some of the temples in Seoul that host Temple Stay Programs.

Customary visit to Bongeunsa Temple whenever we're in Seoul.

Visit a Hanok/Folk Village.

A great way to learn more about Korean culture and experience how Koreans traditionally celebrate Seollal is by visiting a folk village or a hanok village.

The Korean Folk Village in Yongin welcomes the Lunar New Year with traditional activities such as jisinbalgi (praying for abundance through music), daljiptaeugi (sheaf burning/traditional campfire), eating tteokguk (sliced rice cake soup), and fortune-telling. Kids can also experience fun activities such as making kites, playing with tops, and even ice sledding when they visit the Korean Folk Village during this time of the year.

Meanwhile, the Namsangol Hanok Village is all set for the Year of the Pig, with a 6-meter inflatable pig standing tall (more like sitting, actually) in the cultural plaza. Musical performances, cultural plays, traditional games, and food festivals are all part of Namsangol Hanok Village's Seollal celebration.

Photo credit: Namsangol Hanok Village Facebook page

Explore the Grand Palaces of Seoul.

If you're a fan of Korean dramas, no trip to South Korea would be complete without visiting any (or all) of the royal palaces in Seoul. There are five of them in total - Gyeongbokgung, Changdeokgung, Changgyeonggung, Deoksugung, and Gyeonghuigung, and all of them are located in central Seoul. 

Exploring the palaces is a great way to get to know the metropolis, learn about Korean history, and appreciate historical architecture. During the Seollal holiday, admission to the royal palaces will be free of charge. Visitors will also have the chance to participate in traditional rituals such as tea ceremonies, bowing before elders, and receiving saebaetdon (New Year's gift). Traditional games such as yutnori (traditional board game) jegichagi (hacky sack), and tuho (darts) are also included in this year's Seollal activities.

From L-R: Unhyeongung Palace, Changdeokgung Palace, Gyeongbokgung Palace, Deoksugung Palace.

Visit a museum.

Seoul is home to a plethora of museums and galleries, which feature everything from South Korea's rich and eventful history to its present status, at the helm of innovation and technology. Some of the note-worthy, must-visit museums are the National Museum of Korea, the Seoul Museum of History, the National Folk Museum of Korea, and the War Memorial of Korea. 

The National Museum of Korea in Yongsan is currently hosting a special exhibition to commemorate the 1100th founding anniversary of Goryeo, the kingdom established by King Taejo. On display are paintings, celadons, sculptures, and craftworks dating back to as early as 918.

National Museum of Korea.

Also located in Yongsan is the War Memorial of Korea, a museum/national monument dedicated to Koreans and non-Koreans who sacrificed their lives during the Korean War. The museum houses more than 30,000 artifacts displayed in the indoor exhibition hall and at the outdoor exhibition area. Admission is free, and the War Memorial will be open throughout the Seollal holiday.

War Memorial of Korea.

On the other hand, the National Folk Museum of Korea will be hosting the 'Seol Grand Festival' for the Year of the Pig. The festival will kick-off on the day after Seollal with special musical performances, fortune-telling sessions, and traditional games. Arts and craft activities, food sampling, and fun activities for the kids are also included in the program. If you're born in the Year of the Pig, you'll even have a chance to receive a bokjumeoni (fortune pouch) as a New Year's gift.

Seoul Museum of History.

If calligraphy is your thing, head over to the Seoul Museum of History in Jongno for a special calligraphy event. Participants will have the opportunity to learn some calligraphy basics and write postcards as souvenirs or gifts for loved ones. Kids will also be treated to an afternoon of fun and games as they learn about Seollal traditions. 

One of the displays at the Seoul Museum of History.

Have fun at amusement parks. 

South Korea also has an impressive selection of theme parks, with Everland, Lotte World, and Seoul Land topping the list. All three theme parks are open all-year-round, and they offer special promos in celebration of the New Year.

Lotte World, for instance, has a special discount exclusive for foreigners. By simply presenting their passport or ARC (alien registration card), foreigners can get as much as 50% discount on passes to Lotte World.

Lotte World Adventure.

Aside from amusement parks, tourist attractions such as the COEX Aquarium, N Seoul Tower, and Seoullo 7017 will be open during the Seollal holiday period.

Sae-hae bok mani badeuseyo! 

May you receive many blessings this year, and hope you enjoy your Seollal holiday in South Korea!

Seoul Searching | Gwacheon National Science Museum.

I had originally planned on finishing all of my Spring/Summer 2018 travel posts while we are on a school break. Unfortunately, things didn't go as scheduled. Yue and I caught the flu as soon as his school break began, and we spent a good part of last week cooped up at home, coughing, sneezing, and running a fever. Thankfully, we were both feeling better by Christmas Eve, and now I'm trying to catch up on my backlog before the year ends.

And with that, I'm squeezing in one last Seoul Searching post for 2018 - our trip to the Gwacheon National Science Museum, which is actually a continuation of our Seoul Grand Park Rose Festival experience. The museum is located adjacent to the Seoul Grand Park, and we were able to visit both places in one afternoon.

Making our way to the Gwacheon National Science Museum.

More of our science adventure after the jump!

Seoul Searching | Namsangol Hanok Village.

Somewhere along my decade-long obsession with Korean dramas, I have developed a penchant for the hanok - the traditional Korean house. An embodiment of Korea's rich and flourishing culture, the hanok is fascinating from an architectural standpoint and gives a homey, nostalgic vibe to onlookers and passers-by. Deeply enamored by this tangible cultural heritage, I make it a point to visit Bukchon whenever I'm in Seoul. It's a residential area within the vicinity of the four grand palaces where you can find a large concentration of hanoks, all well-maintained and beautifully preserved.

On the north side of Namsan Mountain, in the central district of Jung-gu, lies another village with opulent hanoks restored to mint condition. The place is called 'Namsangol Hanok Village', and we had the chance to tour the area last spring.

Welcome to Namsangol Hanok Village!

The village features five traditional Korean houses from the Joseon Dynasty recovered from different parts of the city. The structures were then relocated to the foot of Namsan Mountain to recreate an old hanok village. In 1998, the Namsangol Hanok Village was opened to the public and has since become a popular tourist destination.

Virtual tour of Namsangol Hanok Village after the jump!

Seoul Searching | Seoul Museum of History.

My family and I are such huge museum fans. We love museums so much that we make it a point to visit one or two in the places that we travel to. In Korea alone, we've been to a dozen different museums - but that's just a small fraction of the total number of museums and galleries in this culture rich country. (Korea has over 500 museums throughout the nation.)

Last spring, we had the chance to visit yet another museum in the capital - the Seoul Museum of History, located in the bustling Jongno district.

Seoul Museum of History.

Opened to the public in 2002, the Seoul Museum of History was established to provide visitors an in-depth knowledge of the city of Seoul through interesting and meaningful exhibitions. The main exhibition hall, located on the third floor, charts the history of Seoul since the Joseon dynasty.

Seoul during the Joseon era, a diorama.

More of Seoul Museum of History after the jump!