What a weekend, I don’t think this city sleeps, there is just so much to do. Sightseeing, shopping, skiing, you name it Seoul has it. We thought we would make the most of our free time this weekend, so Saturday started fairly early meeting at Gyeongbokgung Palace (pictures below).

What a place, although a lot has been rebuilt, everything is immaculate, the throne halls, the gardens and even the smaller out buildings. Built in 1395, this has served as the main palace for Joseon Dynasty – it was hot and busy, but spectacular! We then refuelled and cooled down in the national museum just around the corner. This houses a lot of the palaces artefacts and treasures, another interesting viewing.

We then moved onto Cheonggyechon River area of the city, which was once one of the city’s poorest areas. The river has now been cleaned and revamped, and the surrounding markets are a hive of activity. Thriving with small local businesses and stalls, the markets offered some great sight and some interesting food too. We sat like locals in the street, sharing traditional Korean pancakes and drinks.

We then hurried to meet Mr Choi (Simon’s host teacher) as he had booked us in at the indoor ski slope. We hired all the gear, booted up and enjoyed 2 hours on the slopes. Well I never thought I would be skiing on this trip! The escape from the heat and humidity was pleasant, but the skiing was a real treat, thanks Mr Choi.

Sunday was slightly quieter, we met in downtown Gangnam first of all. A real business part of the city with some breathtaking skyscrapers! We visited another local monks temple which provided a soothing contrast to all of the modern architecture. We browsed the 4km underground shopping mall before meeting later that evening for a Korean baseball game. Doosan Bears v Samsung Lions, I have never been to or watched a lot of baseball, but this was not what i was expecting. The stadium was by no means full, but for £6 the entertainment value could not be faulted. Family’s take picnics and ice boxes in, music is poured out of the speakers providing a booming atmosphere for the fans to sign and dance too. All of this whilst there is huge sporting derby taking place. Amazing.