There's No Place Like Home
What can I say about life in Korea? The country itself is certainly off the beaten path. If you're a foreigner here there's a 99% chance you're an English Teacher. There are not really any backpackers here and for good reason. Korea is not much of a vacation spot for those that live outside the country. As of now I can't say I know anything about Korea other than the city I live in.
I now call Daegu home along with more than 3 million other people. Considering I'm not much of a city person I've found life here to be quite favorable. The city is surrounded by mountains and is very spread out with wide roads and sidewalks. I've found it to be surprisingly clean compared to San Jose but then again, what city isn't. I live on the outskirts of Daegu in an area called Siji, which is less than 20 minutes from downtown by subway.
Siji is a great environment and a perfect place for me since it's located right next to the mountians. A variety of hiking trails are about a 10 minute walk from my front door. Hiking is hugely popular amongst Koreans and on the weekends the trails are packed with people.
The main square in Siji is surrounded by restaurants, cafes, PC and billiard rooms. There are several basketball goals set up for the kids to play, which is visible in the background. Little stands such as the one in front are spread out across the square selling everything from food to clothing.