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Incheon, South Korea according to a first-time visitor
Traveling solo was never part of my bucket list. In fact, the idea scares me. I enjoy staying in my safe zone with the people I trust and know.
So when I got an invite to attend the 3rd Incheon Youth Media Conference in Incheon, South Korea, I felt more terrified than excited.
The convention gathered young journalists around the world to discuss the important role of the media amid the unprecedented talks between South and North Korea.
But it turned out to be more than that. Because it aimed to promote cultural cross-fertilization and mutual exchange of information among participants, the trip turned out to be a feast for the eyes, stomach, mind, and soul.
Needless to say: good thing I joined.
First impressions
The moment I set foot in Incheon International Airport (which has been named the best airport worldwide by Airports Council International for 12 consecutive years), I knew I was in for a huge visual feast.
From first-class architecture to highly-modernized equipment located in almost every nook and cranny, the Incheon airport showed me how airports could be.
And the moment I stepped outside, the roads, landmarks, and edifices around the area spoke volumes about the city’s undoubted success.
Located some 36 kilometers away from South Korea's capital, Songdo is dubbed a “smart city” built from a scratch on a reclaimed land along Incheon's waterfront.
Perhaps going on a boat tour in Songdo Central Park is the best way view this smart city. Participants from 15 countries got a closer look at the city’s topnotch architecture.
The seaside park is a favorite landmark in the Songdo district that attracts locals and foreign tourists day in, day out.
From a passive experience of simply observing the city and enjoying its views, we turned into active participants of Korean culture and life, starting at the Gyeong WonJae Ambassador Hotel, we were made to experience true and traditional Korean living.
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But perhaps there's no better way to understand the culture of a place than the food.
In Hanyang Korean Restaurant, we indulged in authentic Korean dishes like Bulgogi and Kimchi stew. I was never a fan of Kimchi so it came as a surprise to me that I actually liked what they offered!
A testament to Korean's big beer culture is the annual Songdo Beer Festival, which aims to become one of the world's best beer festivals, similar to Germany's Oktoberfest.
A number of budding K-Pop bands performed and while that was exciting, I enjoyed the beer and the snacks more.
Fried chicken chops, shrimps, and pork went perfected with a slew of beer options from different parts of the globe. It was a perfect way to cap off the day.
Learning about Korea
The conference was held from August 29 - 31, and for three days, we discussed 'The role of the media facing the reconciliation chapter,' pointing to the unprecedented development of the talks between North and South Korea.
Aside from the insights, personal narratives and opinions shared by the speakers, what I love about this event is the educational tour we embarked on, to better understand the subject.
They took us to Ganghwa Peace Observatory Deck, where tourists can catch a glimpse of how life is like in North Korea.
In that moment, I felt like North Korea was within my grasp!
Incheon’s best asset
Incheon has topnotch architecture. Its food is also unforgettable. But I think the city’s rapid and unstoppable success doesn’t lie in any of these tangible offerings alone.
It's in the people.
The genuine care and warm hospitality of South Koreans made it easy for first-time travelers like me to enjoy my three-day stay in Incheon.
I experienced and witnessed so much beauty in a span of three days — breathtaking places and sumptuous food. But more than anything, I’m thankful to its people for making me feel home. — LA, GMA News
