Happy Suwon

Yesterday we went to Suwon! "Happy a harmonious city" as the tourism signs repetitively informed us. We went to see the Hwaseong Fortress, a rather large complex in the heart of the city. Most all of the original fortress wall is still there, and the entire city used to be enclosed within the walls. There's also a palace at the foot of Mt. Paldalsan, which we enjoyed exploring before heading on the tour around the fortress walls via a dragon-shaped trolley, which took us through the city on a path around about half of the remaining wall.

The fortress and palace were built in the 18th century, and today are one of Korea's 5 UNESCO World Heritage sights. We'll have to go back, as there wasn't nearly enough time to take in everything. Good thing it's so damn cheap: seeing the wall is free, as it just runs through the city, and the palace is only 15oo won. The trolley ride was an extra 1500 won, meaning that with the train ride there and back from Suwon, and the bus to the fortress area, the whole day minus dinner was just over 5ooo won! With dinner and a McDonald's Ice Cream cone (oh so traditional), it was around 9000 won each. Crazy!!!

We were joined by our friends, Tom and Jess, and some American friends of theirs named Doug and Annie. All in all, it was a good day, and a nice change from sitting inside watching Six Feet Under (although that's how we spent this afternoon).

Only 13 days until Paradise! Here are some pictures. Enjoy!