Spent two days in Gyeongju (경주시), which I quickly fell in love with. The weather forecast predicted rain, but it was perfectly sunny both days.

Spent the first day trying to find Gyeongju World —which was an epic fail because I decided to get off the bus too early. Yet, was pleasantly surprised by wandering the area, which consisted of a cute duck pedal boat ride, carefully avoiding children on motorized vehicles, and eating corn dogs dipped in sugar.

Recommended by Kathryn and Tyler, we stayed at the Show Love Motel, which is the best place ever. Free popcorn downstairs, a plentiful selection of (Korean and English) movies, funny animations on the wall (including President Obama!), mirror art, and a jet tub made it a relaxing place to stay.

The bread (경주빵) was fantastic. Gyeongju bread is very rich, as the outside is made mostly with eggs and wheat flour,  and the inside red bean filling is almost 70% of the tasty pastry. I ate three and I think I’m set for the next 365 days.

Since Gyeongju is known as the museum without walls, I took a tour of some great sites. I can be a nerd for these things, but I sincerely thought all the relics were very beautiful. I saw Cheomseongdae (첨성대), Dabotap (다보탑), Bulguksa (불국사), Seokguram (석굴암), Anapji (안압지), and a few other things I can’t recall. I recommend going on a tour through the Gyeongju Tourist Center. It is near the bus terminal. Just buy your ticket a day prior. It is not English friendly, but it is very convenient for seeing all the major sights and the lunch buffet is delicious.

I can’t remember a better weekend in Korea. What a great way to start wrapping things up!