Whether you're looking for a perfect quiet easy going place to teach or a warm semi-exotic place to visit when you're teaching in Korea, Jeju is a world unto it's own in South Korea. Known all over Korea as "honeymoon island", Jeju offers more than just a romantic getaway. Jim Saunders of Jeju Life tells us that "Jeju offers a better, healthier quality of life than that of the mainland."
An Introduction to Jeju Island - by Jim Saunders - www.JejuLife.com
Jeju Island, situated off the south coast of the peninsular serves up a Korean microcosm on its small volcanic shores. From city lights to rural retreats and tourist mecca, Korea's 'Hawaii' it is. Hawaii it isn't. Jeju can offer a better, healthier, quality of life than that of the mainland.
The two main population centers on the island, Jeju City and Seogwipo, are two very different places. While Jeju City feels very much like any other mainland city, Seogwipo, on the south side, is that little bit different. With a surrounding countryside and a closer proximity to Jungmun resort you’ll definitely feel more of the semi tropical climate here.
In Jeju City you'll find yourself visiting three different areas. There's Sin Jeju, the newest development, which is popular with international tourists and wealthier Jeju residents. Facilities and amenities are at your fingertips. Then City Hall is a place popular for eating, drinking and meeting. Finally, Jungangro and Chilsungro, are older, more established streets full of the retail stores for both ends of your budget. Of course there is a sprinkling of foreigner run businesses, which you'll find comforting during a stay.
Jeju is also a day-trippers delight with a great many things to see and do all within a relatively close travelling distance. With the tourist infrastructure at your disposal all year round there’s no need to visit these places during peak season. Pick and choose your date to visit with almost no one else. While there are no trains, the island’s bus systems is extensive and runs frequently. However your own transport is advised to reach more isolated places in the interior.
Some scenic highlights include Jungmun beach and resort, which evoke images of Hawaii for good reason. On the north side Hamdeok’s strip of white sand and turquoise blue ocean is a big draw.
Another big draw is Seongsan Ilchubong, a striking tuft-cone volcano on the western tip of the island. And the Manjangul lava tube system, a kilometre walk into the subterranean depths of the islands history. Both are UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Jeju's centrepiece (and third UNESCO site) is Korea's tallest mountain, Mount Hallasan, at 1950 meters. Different in every season and with four different trails to attempt, it’s a hikers paradise. Perhaps try in winter when there are a few feet of snow on the ground at higher altitudes.
For those looking to get even more remote, smaller islands lie off the coast to explore. The most accessible include Udo, Gapado and Marado islands. For a little more of an adventure, explore the extreme edges of Korea at Chujado, only an hour ferry ride away.
Jeju itself has some isolated spots that will take your breath truly away. But this is still Korea. And despite some flaws, the island is a better place to live and work: it’s the improved quality of life.
Jeju International Airport is serviced by all major cities on the mainland and has a number of international destinations too: Japan, China and Taiwan. Ferry services run between Busan, Mokpo and Incheon.
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“I recently returned from my first year in Korea. I spent it in Jeonju where the foreign community is very close and open to all new people. Footprints made the journey so easy, especially their step-by-step guide to getting all paper work done properly the first time! I was placed with/chose a decent school where the teachers and students were great. I occasionally had troubles, but it was not Footprints fault, but a cultural difference and I had to learn to change my thinking to better negotiate my needs. No journey is a walk in the park, but Footprints made the difficult and stressful parts more bearable. I am glad I went with them, and if or when I go back, I would like to be represented by Footprints!”
