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Koreas part 2 - sooo much different

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 South Korea Day 1: Arrival and Cultural Immersion The excitement was palpable as I touched down in South Korea, ready to embark on a five-day adventure filled with captivating sights, delectable cuisine, and enriching encounters. After settling into my hotel in Seoul, the vibrant capital city, I wasted no time and set out to immerse myself in the local culture. My first stop was Gyeongbokgung Palace, an awe-inspiring architectural marvel steeped in history. Walking through its majestic gates and admiring the intricate details of the palace buildings left me in awe of Korea's rich heritage. To satiate my growling stomach, I ventured into a nearby traditional Korean restaurant, enticed by the tantalizing aromas wafting from its doors. I savored a mouthwatering bowl of bibimbap, a delightful mix of rice, vegetables, and savory meat, accompanied by an array of flavorful side dishes known as banchan. The friendly staff ensured my dining experience was exceptional, eager to introduce me
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Koreas part 1 - sooo much different

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 North Korea Day 1: Arrival in North Korea and Exploring Pyongyang After months of anticipation, I finally set foot in North Korea, a land shrouded in mystery and intrigue. Upon arrival at Pyongyang International Airport, I was greeted by my tour guide, Mr. Kim, who would be my companion throughout this extraordinary journey. We embarked on a bus ride into the heart of Pyongyang, the capital city. Our first stop was the Mansudae Grand Monument, a symbol of the nation's leadership and the famous bronze statues of the country's leaders, Kim Il-sung and Kim Jong-il. It was a surreal experience to witness the locals paying their respects with utmost reverence. From there, we moved on to the sprawling Kim Il-sung Square, an impressive public plaza where mass gatherings and parades are held. For lunch, Mr. Kim took me to a local restaurant that offered traditional North Korean cuisine. I tried the iconic Pyongyang cold noodles, known as naengmyeon, which were refreshing and delightfu
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China - a lot of everything part 3

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 The south of China My 10-day trip to South China was one of the most amazing experiences of my life. From the vibrant cities to the beautiful countryside, delicious food, and friendly people, it was a journey that I will never forget. Here's a day-by-day account of my trip: Day 1: Arrival in Guangzhou  I arrived in Guangzhou, the capital city of Guangdong Province, after a long flight from the United States. After checking into my hotel, I went for a stroll around the city and tried some of the delicious Cantonese cuisine. The food was amazing and the people were friendly and welcoming. Day 2: Exploring Guangzhou  I spent the day exploring Guangzhou. I visited the Guangzhou Tower, one of the tallest buildings in the world, which offered stunning views of the city. I also visited the Chen Clan Ancestral Hall Museum, a traditional Chinese house that showcases the culture and history of the region. Day 3: Guangzhou to Shenzhen  On day three, I took a high-speed train to Shenzhen, a m
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China - a lot of everything part 2

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The north-east of China My 10-day trip to Northeast  China was one of the most memorable experiences of my life. From the stunning landscapes to the delicious food and friendly locals, it was a journey that I will cherish forever. Here's a day-by-day account of my trip: Day 1: Arrival in Shenyang  After a long flight from the United States, I arrived in Shenyang, the largest city in Northeast China. I checked into my hotel and went for a stroll around the city. I was amazed by the stunning architecture and the bustling atmosphere of the city. For dinner, I went to a local restaurant and tried some of the traditional dishes of the region. The food was delicious and the staff were very welcoming. Day 2: Sightseeing in Shenyang  I spent the day exploring the city of Shenyang. I visited the famous Mukden Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that was the former imperial palace of the Qing Dynasty. The palace was a stunning display of Chinese architecture and history. I also visited the
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China - a lot of everything part 1

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 The west of China China, the land of dragons, silk, and tea, is a country steeped in history and tradition. From the awe-inspiring Great Wall to the mystical pandas of Chengdu, China is a land of contrasts and excitement. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or a first-time adventurer, there's something for everyone in this beautiful country. In this blog post, we'll take a journey through the diverse landscapes and vibrant cultures of China, exploring the hidden gems and must-see sights that make this country so unique. Join me as we uncover the beauty and wonder of China, one step at a time. Western China Day 1: Arrival in Western China As soon as I stepped out of the airport, I knew that my week-long trip to Western China was going to be an adventure of a lifetime. The city was bustling with activity, and the streets were filled with bright colors and unique smells. After checking into my hotel, I set out to explore the city. I visited local markets, sampled the delicious
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Nomads of Mongolia: part 2

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  Nomads of Mongolia Mongolia Day 6: Khorgo Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuur National Park On the sixth day, I visited Khorgo Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuur National Park, which is known for its stunning volcanic landscape and the beautiful Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuur lake. I hiked to the top of the Khorgo Volcano and enjoyed panoramic views of the surrounding area. I also went horseback riding by the lake and had a picnic lunch. Day 7: Bayanzag On the seventh day, I visited Bayanzag, which is a unique landscape of red sandstone cliffs and rock formations. It is also known as the "Flaming Cliffs" because the cliffs appear to be on fire during sunset. I also visited a nearby museum to learn more about the dinosaur fossils that have been found. Day 8: Gobi Desert On the eighth day, I went on a desert safari in the Gobi Desert. I rode a camel and explored the sand dunes and vast expanse of the desert. I also visited a nomadic family and learned more about their way of life in the desert. For dinner, I ha
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Nomads of Mongolia: part 1

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 Nomads of Mongolia Mongolia Mongolia is a land of vast, sweeping landscapes and rich cultural traditions. From the rugged mountains to the rolling grasslands, this country is home to some of the most breathtaking natural beauty in the world. And with a unique culture that blends ancient customs with modern influences, Mongolia is a fascinating destination for travelers seeking adventure and enlightenment. Recently, I had the opportunity to embark on a 14-day trip to Mongolia, where I explored the country's diverse landscapes, sampled its delicious cuisine, and met some of its warm and welcoming people. From the bustling capital city of Ulaanbaatar to the remote reaches of the Gobi Desert, my journey through Mongolia was a journey of discovery and wonder. In this blog post, I'll take you through each day of my trip, sharing detailed descriptions of the sights I saw, the foods I ate, and the people I met. So sit back, relax, and join me on a virtual tour of this incredible count
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