Ambassador of the Fields: Life in Jeju #1

The Changing of Seasons

What's it like to live in Jeju Island, South Korea?

When many people think about moving to a new place, they usually focus on a city within their home country that either has a lot of job opportunities, cheaper costs of living, or personal appeal.
However, after I graduated university, I went with a bigger move: a change of countries.

Though the US and South Korea are very different countries, I have found a very happy life here in Jeju. ^_^


First and foremost, Jeju has a very strong and prominent vibe.
It's a very laid-back place, though it is filled with hardworking people.
The people here love their island and want others to love it too.
They want visitors to appreciate it's natural beauty, it's agricultural efforts, and it's welcoming natives.
It does not take long to fall in love with Jeju.

The island itself is absolutely gorgeous, with beautiful sites everywhere you go.

Just walking along the beach, you can see the beauty of Jeju:
the ocean, the sky, the land.
All incredibly gorgeous, yet so easyily passed over in favor of Seoul or Busan.
Jeju is equally a popular tourist spot and hidden gem.

One reason many people underestimate Jeju is because it's an island, so they expect it to only be "worth their while" if they visit in the summer. 

But Jeju is beautiful all year round!


I first arrived in Jeju during June 2016 - the tail-end of spring and start of summer.
The summertime weather here is gorgeous:
sunny all day, hot and breezy, and luscious flora all around.


Even in the middle of the countryside, you can see breathtaking sunsets.
Summer is perfect for staying out late and enjoying a barbecue and drinks with friends.


While you will have to watch out for the mosquitoes, summer really is a great time to visit.
However, there is so much more to see in the other seasons!

Let's move on to autumn!


If you love the outdoors, autumn is the best time to come to Jeju.
The leaves all change colors and the temperature is hot in the afternoon and cool in the evening.
A perfect balance for anyone wanting to go for a hike!


The views from Halla Mountain are absolutely stunning in the fall.
And the milder morning temperatures make for a perfect start to the day.
You can watch they sky change colors as the sun slowly rises and as you make your way up top.


Perhaps most easily forgotten - but of great enjoyment - are evening bonfires.
The cool but still warm evening weather of autumn is perfect for a bonfire with friends.
You can sit around listening to music, sharing some good food and drinks, and enjoy life.
And it's a great way to enjoy the outdoors before the chill of winter arrives.

And yes, winter on the island is cold (but fun)!


What's the best part about winter in Jeju?
IT'S TANGERINE SEASON!!!
If you want to enjoy the pride and joy of Jeju, you MUST try the tangerines.
The harvest season runs from November to January, so it's a great reason for a winter visit!
They can be seen all over the island during the winter and make for a great family outing.


There's snow too!
Everyone in Jeju loves to play with the snow. Hahah.
It may not be a lot to someone like me (from the Midwestern US).
But it snows plenty for everyone here. Just enough to have some fun. :P


There are also plenty of indoor activities to enjoy if it's too chilly.
One program we enjoy at our GJC camp is candlemaking.
It's easy, fun, and decorative - a great way to spend a winter afternoon.

But now we are all anticipating the arrival of spring!


Spring is just right around the corner now in Jeju!
It's the middle of March which means only a week or so before warm days and outdoor games.
The flowers are all starting to bloom and the sun is staying out later.


Everyone is taking advantage of the warm weather and is busy out in the fields.
Lots of farm work to be done, but it's a lot of fun! 
Who wants to come and join us? :D


If working isn't your thing, no worries - we like to relax too.
It's all about that island lifestyle and those mellow vibes.
A nap in the hammock? Perfect way to spend a day off.

So come and join us! Whether for a vacation or working holiday, we're happy to welcome you to Jeju!

Check us out on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter:
"Global Jeju Culture Co-op" "Korea Working Holiday" "Global Village Jeju"
@global_jccoop @jeju.farmers.brother @workinghollday

Come and enjoy the island life with us!
~Welcome to Jeju~


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