Sunday, May 10, 2009

Relocated (Happy mother's day!)

So, BCM finally pulls through, and I move into the new apartment on the last day of April. The new place is modest in size; however, it's light years ahead in class compared to my old place. The nearest subway station, Hwarangdae, is right down the road, and it's only a 15 minute walk from there to Hwarang elementary. My third floor apartment boasts large windows, an air-conditioner (an absolute necessity for the hot, hot summer days to come), a quiet side-loading washing machine that doesn't bounce up and down like a thing possessed, a non-claustrophobic layout, a bathroom with a sink, mirror, and cabinet, lights that don't flicker, crack-free tilling, and a key-pad combination lock on the front door. BCM moved the old dresser, TV, and wooden cabinet into the place, but provided me with a smaller fridge, bed, and desk/dinning table, which I am thankful for. Also, the neighborhood is quieter, the sidewalks are broader, and there is far more greenery everywhere. Even the cats are less skittish and healthier looking. There are a few restaurants and couple of middle schools just down the block, which is a great improvement over an alley of brothels and shouting neighbors.




Notice the "Jordan Ave." sign stuck on the hallway frame. (thanks Oma- the kids at school cant get enough of those stickers you sent me)




Notice the location of the washing machine: right beneath the stove, where you would expect to find the oven in most western homes. Ha!



The view from my third floor window.









On the left is Hwarangdae station exit 3, partially obscured by the row of small trees. On the right is the escalator entrance to Kim's Mart the underground grocery store and food court, which boasts Korean-style Indian and Chinese dishes, in addition to the usual fare. Just beyond the frame, to the immediate right, is Pizza School, a popular joint where 8-slice pizzas sell for $5 - $9. Needless to say, I've succumbed on several occasions. Right next door are WOW (a little pork cutlet place), and Cafe Tiamo, with its impressive selection of coffees and gellato ice cream.

En route to Hwarang elementary. I'm thankful for shaded walkways.


Below is the road that cuts through the heart of Seoul Woman's University, just past the turnoff to Hwarang elementary:
It was a holiday weekend when I finished breaking in the new apartment, and the sun was doing its thing, so on Sunday I ambled about the carefully groomed (and surprisingly western looking) university grounds with Jeff, taking a few snapshots along the way:

2 comments:

Anonymous said...

hi~ Mong
i can write now.!!

the university is so beutiful~

Carla said...

Nice place! I'm jealous! Can't wait till i have my own place, though I have a feeling it won't be as good as yours. Hope you dont mind nocking down your standard of living a few notches when you come to visit ;)