A Week in October: Daily Life, Food, and Fun!
Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do, Republic of Korea
경주 보문호수
October has kicked off with a whirlwind of celebrations, delicious food, and quality time with family. From receiving a surprise gift of fresh abalone to enjoying a bustling Chuseok holiday in Gyeongju, it’s been a week of nourishing both the body and the soul. Whether it was strolling through the historic streets of Hwangnidan-gil or engaging in a marathon 4-hour session of Go-Stop with the in-laws, every moment has been filled with laughter and warmth.
Highlights of the week included a long-awaited trip to Bomun Lake (보문호수), a successful mission to find the best local dongtaetang, and even a personalized "cat-nail" art appointment featuring my beloved Sero. Join me as I look back at the first happiest week of October, leading up to an exciting trip to Fukuoka!
Abalone Sashimi and Starlit Strolls
The week started on a high note with a gift of live, giant abalone. There’s nothing like the crunch of fresh abalone sashimi to make you feel truly pampered! To balance out the indulgence, my husband and I took advantage of the cool evening air for a long walk around Bomun Lake. Wearing my new workout clothes made the leisurely stroll even more enjoyable, providing the perfect "healing" time before the holiday rush.
A Quick Trip to the Vet and New Cafe Discoveries
Our cat, Sero, had a bit of a scare with some digestive issues, but a quick trip to the animal hospital confirmed he’s just a picky eater who needs more water. Once he was safely back home, we tried to visit a "hot" new cafe that just opened in Gyeongju. However, the one-hour wait for a drink sent us straight to Starbucks for a familiar favorite: the blueberry bagel with cream cheese. Sometimes, simplicity is best!
Chuseok Traditions: Hanwoo, Japchae, and Family Cards
Holiday celebrations were in full swing by the weekend. We feasted on premium Hanwoo beef from my husband’s company and a massive portion of "rope-braidable" japchae made by my mom. The true highlight of the family gathering was a 4-hour marathon of Go-Stop at my in-laws' house—time flew by as we played without even realizing how late it had gotten. It's these simple traditions that make the holidays truly feel like home.
Dining Out: Samseon Baekjjamppong and Eggplant Dumplings
No holiday is complete without at least one elaborate meal out. We opted for Samseon Baekjjamppong (white seafood noodles) and some surprisingly delicious eggplant dumplings. For dessert, a stop at Gyeongju Tak for a flat white was the perfect pick-me-up. Despite the heavy traffic in Gyeongju, the vibrant atmosphere of the city during Chuseok was infectious.
A Rainy Farewell to Gyeongju Before Japan
As the holiday wound down, we snuck out for a late-night rainy walk through Hwangnidan-gil. We also made a sentimental trip to Pohang to visit a French-countryside-themed cafe and enjoy my "soul food," Yangdeok Jorim (braised mackerel). With Fukuoka on the horizon, it was the perfect end to a busy, happy week. Goodbye to the happiest week of October!
Would you like me to find the best-rated sushi spots in Fukuoka for your upcoming trip, or should I look up the current weekday operating hours for the new Gyeongju cafes you missed?
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