Chuseok (Chew-sock) Holiday

I truly believe that a brief, 4-day pause from a hectic work schedule is a tremendous necessity for all. From my observation, Koreans rarely slow down the work train, but when they do, it's for a crucial reason. The most substantial Korean holiday I've observed thus far is called Chuseok. Though I'm not well-versed in this history of this celebration, the gist is to get together with family, pay tribute to one's ancestors, and have a feast. This holiday is similar to Thanksgiving Day in the U.S. This Saturday, Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday were "off days" for many people and businesses, and my school was no exception to this rule. (Actually, I think one of our Korean-English teachers had to work on the "off Tuesday," but everyone else had the opportunity to remain blissfully duty-free). 

For an actual Chuseok meal, Pepper and I were invited to a friend's house. This thoughtful and well-timed invitation was much appreciated. Otherwise, we might have meandered aimlessly, having no Korean ancestors to discuss and no place to go since a significant number of businesses and restaurants were closed. Other adventures that took place during this break included a gorgeous coastal hike, a trip to a Korean spa, and a particularly lovely beach walk. More pictures and descriptions are to come. For now, enjoy these tasty treats.

A fun, airy, Italian-inspired restaurant called "Man in a Kitchen Garden" boasts yummy dishes such as these. Every so often, it's good to get a break from Korean food.

A Japanese restaurant located near our apartment. Bacon-wrapped quail eggs? You simply MUST try.

Check this out, guys. A sweet, cream cheese pumpkin pizza. Such an awesome thing to try, especially since fall is in its infancy.

Though this restaurant has many yummy options on its menu, they are iffy when it comes to to-go boxes. The waiter seemed to believe that taking creamy pasta home was "unhealthy," but as you may know, creamy pasta dishes are HEAVY, and cannot always be consumed in one sitting. We had to politely insist upon this round take-home bowl.

Dinner with the boss and fellow co-workers. 

A traditional table of food, dedicated to a Korean family's ancestors. Compliments of my friend Jin's in-laws.

Urban beauty. This is located in the Haeundae district of Busan, just a few feet away from a subway exit. An abandoned train station was looks much prettier when orange flowers are scattered about in such a whimsical, carefree manner!

My co-worker and friend, Jin, and her husband.

Just playing a little darts on the holiday break.