When the tagline of this city is such one is left to wonder, what would we expect in only Jeju and from the flight above, looking down into this volcanic island while we’re about to land one notices a bunch of glistening long structures which we felt like a warehouse of sorts, but as the plane descends and one comes closer, one still don’t realise what those structures are. Only a drive through the roads of Jiju makes you realise that they were all farms covered with protective material of sheets, in order to grow the beautiful natural produce, that Jeju is known for. This beautiful volcanic island, which is extremely fertile, is known for oranges, green tea, and host of fresh produce along with the umpteen UNESCO sites. While there is a lot to see in Jeju, and the rest of the world as such, I made my pick and headed straight to the gorgeous, Innisfree House and the OSulluc tea Museum. While influencers have frequently described a trip to the Innisfree house in Jeju as an extremely therapeutic and calming event, I could not disagree at all.
The beauty of this island city is paramount it is fondly called the Hawaii of South Korea with nature, the main character of this land. I was introduced to the world of Korean skin care through my friend Kanika to Innisfree, it is one of the oldest brands or perhaps one of the first brands from Korea and is known for its formulations that are very mild and natural. Today, influencers are trending many other brands because their formulations are super gentle the results dramatic! Yet in their flagship store in this island, it is kept very subtle, simple and classy. The beautiful Interiors and the organic Cafe serving up scrumptious food is a total delight set in the green Tea Fields. The neighbouring O’Sulluc tea museum is just as popular if not more. The concept of drinking warm beverages such as herb teas in the culture is endearing also, because of the climate that they are subjected to. Less populated and serene, this location transports one back to the feel of Switzerland. The bill structure in this place is also keenly natural, inviting the outdoors inside and engaging one with the outdoors as frequently as possible through vistas, walkways or sheer transparent glass.
The Hallasan mountain, which is the tallest mountain of the country is located right at the epicentre of this island. While trackers can take very parts to reach the top, some easy and some really hard it’s a day program sites are marvelous and the effort totally worth it to the South of the Island and all along the coast are beautiful beaches, best enjoyed in great weather! Waterfalls make their way through the different parts of this island. A great public transportation system connects all parts of this island and a ride along the fringes of the coast is truly scenic. Interesting cafes are found in different parts of the island and stepping into one such Cafe I was stunned by the attention to detail the owner exhibited and how every table had fresh flowers styled serving up, exquisite food, and a lesson in presence.
The cherry blossom trees blooming all across the region, add to the delight of the volcanic landscape. On just another afternoon, the outdoor gym in parks are dotted by putting Landscape for Golf layering the leisure activities available. Not being densely populated is one of the most charming parts of this island city. The Koreans are very proud of it and so is anyone who steps on this island. The views are stunning and the field is exquisite, but most importantly, the air we breathe is so clean and nutty. The most important part of any trip to Jijo is not the distance from Seoul but it is, in fact the weather if the weather is not conducive flights to this island can be cancelled for weeks at a time though there are multiple flights to it in a day. A clear Sunny day is the best way this island is explored by foot by local transport or by the Taxis. Uber work like a dream here, even without knowing the language allows you to seamlessly transport yourself from one place to another without using the power of speech. Another truly wonderful thing is the volcanic Spa the applies heat to the body.
While nature take stage here, the Landscape is truly inspiring. Watching the birds fly, hearing them chop amongst the rust of leaves and the blowing of the wind. The vibe of Moana and hence Hawaii is not far behind. No wonder it is called the Hawaii of South Korea. As one gains a sight of the South Pole, as there is no break between the island of Jeju, all the way to the South Pole, the endless blue of the Pacifis Ocean is keenly felt. More than 1000 miles to the east of it is Hawaii. The positive ions of found in nature and the quality of earth is scientific enhance, visiting places where nature is pure and concentrated allows the human mind to truly relax.
Vedasri Siddamsetty 