While you’re abroad, try to explore cities beyond your university’s location. You can gain a deeper understanding of a country by experiencing its different regions, rather than just staying in one place. My university is in Seoul, South Korea, but I made a point to visit Busan, a coastal city near Japan. I took a weekend trip there after midterms, and I can confidently say I’ve fallen in love with Busan. It offers many of the same amenities as Seoul but with a more relaxed vibe and amazing food.
Busan is famous for its beautiful beaches, and I was lucky enough to score a great deal on a place right by Haeundae Beach, one of the most famous spots in the city. While I was there, I also visited Gamcheon Cultural Village, a vibrant neighborhood known for its colorful buildings. To my surprise, there was a local music festival happening when I arrived. It was a fantastic opportunity to immerse myself in the local culture. I recommend attending local festivals wherever you’re studying—it’s a great way to connect with the people and experience the culture firsthand.
During the festival, I sampled salted bread, a well-known pastry. I also enjoyed several music performances. I learned that Gamcheon Cultural Village was originally built by refugees from the Taegeukdo during the Korean War, which gave me a deeper appreciation for the area’s history and significance.
If you have the chance to visit other parts of the country, definitely take it. You’ll discover a lot more than you would by staying in just one city!