Nicknamed the “Hawaii of Korea”, Jeju is popular thanks to its tranquil lush vegetation, crystal clear waters, and stunning white sand beaches. Jeju is a volcanic island located 53 miles off the tip of the Korean Peninsula. The name “Jeju” refers to the island (Jeju-do) was formed by an outpouring of lava about 2 million years ago, and 90% of its surface is covered by basalt.
Our first stop on our excursion was the Seongeup Folk Village, located at the foot of Mt. Halla. This village contains precious cultural relics that have been handed down from generation to generation including residential houses, Confucian shrines and schools, ancient government offices, fortress ruins and stone monuments. Several zelkova and nettle trees, hundreds of years old, stand at the center of the village, preserving the dignified atmosphere of a bygone era.
Our second stop was at (Sunrise Peak) Seongsan Ilchulbong that rose from the sea in a volcanic eruption more than 100,000 years ago. Located on the eastern end of Jeju Island, the peak features a huge crater at its top. The crater is about 2,000 feet in diameter and 300 feet deep. Down below the volcano is a beach that is home to the Haenyeo – incredible women divers of Jeju Island. Many of these women are in their 80’s, they dive to collect seaweed, shellfish and other seafood in a unique way. They use only a knife while holding their breath. We were very interested in seeing this area, and the women who dive. I had just finished the historical fiction novel, “The Island of Sea Women” by Lisa See, and loved the book and was very interested in this aspect of Jeju. If you like to read, put this one on your list.
We have had so many fun get togethers with the 80 day voyagers. Today’s was really fun with everyone enjoying a breakfast together on the forward deck with mimosas, coffee, fruit, waffles and smoothies. The invitation seemed IDEAL for robe guy…he no showed to this event. Good Grief! I mentioned to John, our cruise director, that perhaps he should do a wellness check on him…but, at the sail away he came dressed in regular clothing and I asked how on earth he had missed the bathrobe event and he said he overslept! 🙂
