Getting around Seogwipo, our base in Jeju
Our nearly two hour bus ride from Jeju airport to our base in Seogwipo showed us how big the island is, where a lot of the attractions are also spread out. Getting around by public transport such as buses is not really convenient. So we had to take Uber and taxis during our three night stay and it was good but with convenience comes the higher costs. Another way is to hire a driver for the whole day and follow a well-planned itinerary. Or, hire a car and navigate yourself which is not so simple with the large distances.
Up close with the henyos: When life gives you tangerines
Seeing the senior ‘henyos’ (female freedivers) up close and in action selling their catch of abalones and shellfish was a highlight for me. Especially so, after seeing Netflix’s ‘When life gives you tangerines’ 
where part of the story revolves around the tough lives of the ‘henyos’. Watching them perform a cute dance while all geared up in their worn out wetsuits and snorkles, was a treat. I would say its a must-see when hiking Seongsang Ilchilbon aka Sunrise Peak. They also have a rustic eatery by the sea where they serve and cook their fresh catch for the day such as abalone porridge.
where part of the story revolves around the tough lives of the ‘henyos’. Watching them perform a cute dance while all geared up in their worn out wetsuits and snorkles, was a treat. I would say its a must-see when hiking Seongsang Ilchilbon aka Sunrise Peak. They also have a rustic eatery by the sea where they serve and cook their fresh catch for the day such as abalone porridge.
Soothing nature trips
The Healing Forests as well as the Halla Mountain were both pristine nature trips. The saunter around the dense forests of cypress and cedar trees was calming, almost therapeutic after a hectic day.
While Hallasan National Park aka Halla mountain makes for a worthwhile hiking activity especially in crisp and dry weather with a choice of many scenic trails to suit various abilities and distances. A lot of the paths are manicured with wooden steps and rails. The summit at 1950 metres makes it the highest peak in all of South Korea.
And then there’s the famous ‘hallabongs’ or tangerines that seem to grace every market stall and street corners. They are actually quite nice and sweet- they also make them as ice cream.
There are also waterfalls, beaches, kayaking rivers and tea farms. There are heaps of museums from modern art to teddy bear. Jeju island has a lot to offer, it depends on what suits your fancy.
