Exploring Nonsan: A Perfect Workation Destination
It has been quite some time since taking a trip with just a laptop has become my routine.
This time, I chose Nonsan, located in South Chungcheong Province, in search of a true workspace that inspires productivity, unlike the forced concentration at a café.
With a Chungnam Tour Pass in hand, I can freely explore major tourist attractions in Nonsan without worrying about transportation costs or entrance fees.
Having traveled abroad to write, I now visit Tajeongho Lake, which is just a 10-minute drive from downtown Nonsan.
Tajeongho, officially known as Tajeong Reservoir, was once an agricultural reservoir that nourished the Nonsan plains for many years but began transforming into a tourist destination in the 2000s.
With the installation of a suspension bridge crossing the lake and a musical fountain that shoots water columns into the air, the area has become increasingly popular.
On a clear day, standing on the observation deck, the suspension bridge, fountain, and surrounding hills create a picturesque scene.
In the early morning, when mist rises from the water, some might find it hard to believe that this place was once a 'water reservoir' for rice paddies.
The base for workation in Nonsan is the Mulbit Complex Cultural Center.
Nearby, I noticed a low, sturdy white brick building next to the lake. This is the Mulbit Complex Cultural Center.
With its impressive terrace overlooking the water and an observation railing on the roof, this facility was developed by Nonsan City to serve as a tourism hub for Tajeongho.
Inside, there are spaces for both local residents and visitors, including a café, exhibition area, and a reading and relaxation area with a view of the lake, making it an ideal work environment for workation travelers.
Holding a Chungnam Tour Pass allows access to some facilities at a discount or for free, creating a natural routine of working here in the mornings and strolling around in the afternoons.
Another charm of workation is the accommodation. Near Tajeongho, a glamping camp nestled among pine forests is in operation.
This camp, featuring dome tents and cabana-style tents lined up on a grassy area under dense tree cover, is more than just a camping site.
The glamping area includes cozy bedding and simple furniture inside a canvas tent on a wooden deck.
While the romance of camping and the comfort of accommodation are appealing, a meal at a nearby restaurant also forms part of the travel experience.
The side dishes served were simple yet honest, featuring well-fermented napa cabbage kimchi, seasoned green peppers, and various dishes accompanied by minced garlic and onions.
The spicy stew bubbling in a stone pot tasted even better while overlooking the lake. Known for its strawberries and Ganggyo fermented fish, Nonsan's table offered a unique depth of fermentation.
Walking down from the Mulbit Complex Cultural Center towards the lake leads to a scenic path along the water.
Locks hung on the black iron railings overlook the calm surface of the lake.
In the middle of the lake, the water intake tower stands quietly, with the silhouette of Nonsan city appearing hazily beyond it.
After finishing morning work during the workation, taking a 20-minute walk along this path is a pleasant option.
The Chungnam Tour Pass proves to be more useful than expected during the workation in Nonsan.
With benefits for using tourist facilities around Tajeongho, transportation discounts while moving around Nonsan, and entrance perks for nearby attractions like Ganggyo Fermented Fish Street and Gwancheongsa Temple, the costs for a day or two can be quickly recouped.
Particularly, the most efficient route was to take the KTX or express bus from Daejeon or Seoul to Nonsan and then use the pass for transportation between the city and Tajeongho.
Nonsan, South Chungcheong Province, is a quiet yet sufficiently charming place. If anyone is considering their next workation destination, I recommend opening a laptop while sitting by Tajeongho Lake.
Experiencing Tajeongho as a travel destination and staying outdoors as accommodation while working in an open space can be a delightful experience.
Source :https://blog.naver.com/sinmunman/224293986332
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