August 22, 2006
Around the World & Home Again
Tom Chun, "International Man of Leisure," has just sent in his final round-the-world-tour report. Read his impressions of Korea and Japan below. Once he settles in maybe we can convince him to post his photos at Travel With a Disability
Dear Friends,
I can't believe it! I finally made it home and around the world with my brother Paul, the mule. At times, he was a stubborn donkey and at times a diligent horse. I'm surprised we didn't throw each other off the plane, train, or other mode of transportation when we both had a chance. LOL! Nevertheless, I'm glad I had the chance to share this journey with him.
In Seoul, South Korea, I skip the bar hopping (and paying for it the next day) of my youthful previous visit, but rather I stick to the safer touristy excursions. It is one of the cleaner, more organized, and advanced cities of Asia that I have been to. I was very impressed how much it changed and in a positive direction. The underground subway is fairly accessible. And lucky it is, because this city is vast and hilly in terms of area. We visit the well-preserved Geongbokgung Palace in the north, tour the traditional Folk Village outside of town, peruse art at the Seoul National Museum, and wander around the shopping districts looking for good food. If you like spicy food and Korean BBQ, you won't be disappointed.
From Korea, we fly to Tokyo, Japan where I had to take a second look at this magnificent metropolis. It seems like everything is organized for efficiency. I even noticed that the "Close the door" button worked in most elevators. The rail/subway system is complex, yet manageable. It is accessible with a little help from the attendants. They even found 4 station attendants to lift me up 20 or so steps. One night, we make it to a baseball game. The noise is deafening as the crowd yells out scripted cheers. Bring your earplugs! The city is super clean as the Japanese have a lot of respect for their environment. There's so many great districts to visit. I'll name a few with the first word that comes off the top of my head: Akihabara (electronics), Shibuya (shopping), Harajuku (hip), Asakusa (touristy), Shinjuku (busy), Ginza (posh), Roppongi Hills (trendy), etc., etc. The food is diverse, creative, and delicious! Tokyo is one of the few places in the world where I think I would enjoy living for a while.
I want to thank you all for sharing my journey. May all your dreams come true and all your travels be spectacular!!!!
Photos posted at: http://photos.yahoo.com/tompchun under "ATWorld 6"
Ciao,
Tom
"International Man of Leisure"