A Day of Rest and Relaxation

Monday, July 11, 2011

We were able to sleep in a little later this morning after a great night sleep! I think we were all exhausted after our Daegu ventures and a deliciously filling supper last night. We met our tour guide, A.J., and headed off to explore the southern tip of Jeju island. She entertained us with historical facts and cultural traditions of the Jeju people. Namely, the women of Jeju are very strong and independent people who have been the bread winners and primary workers of the family for many generations. Up until the 1970's the women carried the heavy clay jars from the stream, farmed the land, dove for sea creature and did all of the cleaning and cooking. The men, on the other hand, were rather pampered and did little work around the house. A.J. proudly said that Jeju Island is famous for providing 3 natural resources: Wind, Rock, and Strong Women. Obviously, our predominatly female group loved this infromation!!

We were especially interested to learn about the women divers that have been a very important part of this culture for hundreds of years. These ladies (most of them in their 70's and 80's) began diving at a very early age. They dive to about 50 or 60 feet in the water, holding their breath up to 5 minutes, in search of sea creatures to sell at local markets. Though this is a dying art in today's society, we were able to see some of these remarkable ladies as they returned from their morning dive.

Our first stop we trecked through the lush forests to Cheonjeyeon Falls where we enjoyed. lush forests, refreshing spring water and a beautiful view of the waterfalls. Some of us even ventured onto the rocks for a little "rock hopping" above the falls. The cool water felt wonderful after that long climb up the mountain!!

Next, we rode through a seaside village and took an hour long cruise around Jeju Island. Jeju and its surrounding islands were created by volcanic erruptions about five million years ago. The rock formations and lush vegetation throughout the islands are absolutely breathtaking!

Finally, we visited the Seokburjak Museum which features a variety of bonsai plants in various plants pots and rock formations throughout a scenic garden setting. How many of you knew that bonsai means "trees that grow in pots?" I always thought that it meant "crooked little pine tree." It was unbelievable to see the different type of plants that were used. They were gorgeous! We concluded our excursion at a local restaurant then returned to the hotel for a free afternoon!! Everyone enjoyed lounging by the pool, doing a little shopping and relaxing (something we haven't been able to do much!!)

We have a big day tomorrow!! Off to Shanghi!