Photos: Inner Mongolia: Where Mystery Meets Magic

charlietravelogues — Sat, 29 Jun 2013 06:34:00 GMT

Ever since I started traveling abroad, photojournalism in the form of nature photography has tickled my fancy. Biomes of all sorts, fascinating wildlife, and the indigenous people encountered in various parts of the world, all provide prime material to satisfy the enthusiasm of a "camera-happy" traveler. Buying a digital camera for the first time was the best investment I could have ever made because it enabled me to share my adventures, via the virtual world, with loved ones and friends from back home, all of whom have gotten a small taste of what life is like in the places I’ve sojourned as a former English instructor and current media student in Thailand. Pictorial storytelling is my way of being a catalyst for change, creativity and courage. If I was granted the opportunity to travel to Greenland to be professionally mentored by Mr. Jason Edwards, then my photographic expertise would improve immensely as I learn the intricacies of manipulating advanced equipment. Connecting with the environment, finding the best shooting angles, and absorbing the real world training of a National Geographic photojournalist makes for an enriching, unforgettable experience that I would deeply cherish. P.S. I would love to have my photography featured on postcards someday. Such a rattling and humbling trip, into what I deem "the courage zone," would bring me that much closer to realizing this dream.

Catching a Moment - Itaewon: A Cultural Smorgasbord

charlietravelogues — Fri, 19 Apr 2013 06:39:21 GMT

Every global megacity usually contains a distinct section where foreigners converge to do foreigner things. Seoul is no different with its own “foreigner-land” known as Itaewon (???). The eclectic mix of people, places and things found in this popular part of Seoul, Korea, a homogeneous country, makes for an exotic experience upon one’s initial visit to this busy section of the nation’s capital.

What makes Itaewon so special? Its diversity of races and cultures living and working together or shopping and playing together draws many people to the tourist attraction. African hair salons, international grocery markets, and Middle Eastern men handing out flyers to promote their business all collide into this bubble of constant activity. Metrosexual men obsessed with high fashion and lascivious women looking for a cheap thrill are spotted here. Little African American boys and Caucasian toddlers in strollers accompanied by their parents may have family located on the military base situated here. Homeless people seeking aid for their lot lay stretched out on the metro stairway ledge or sitting in Buddha position on the rectangular space of pavement descending into the subway station.

Weekend nightlife in Itaewon is comparable to New York City or Los Angeles. People of all shapes, ages, and colors stroll around flaunting their outlandish ensembles, some intoxicated and others sober, looking for pleasure in the place that best suits their taste. The Hispanic community and Latino music and dance aficionados frequent the small club Caliente where salsa and meringue dance heats up the atmosphere of the populated square room. Ten thousand Korean won ($7.00) guarantees entry into the discotheque and includes a complimentary drink. While those who love to sing and drink simultaneously may visit the well-known “noraebang” for Karaoke fun and games. These private singing rooms unique to the Far East make for memorable times with friends and loved ones. People of a wilder, more uninhibited nature may prefer the obstreperous vibe of the liberal bar or nightclub where lewd dancing, boisterous music, and enticing women coexist to the wee hours of the morning.

Whatever your style or preference, Itaewon is sure to have something for you. I believe that the people make Itaewon the distinctive place that it is. In homogeneous Korea, the country doesn’t seem so much so in this multicultural vicinity where an “alien” like me can easily blend in with my “alien” counterparts.

Travel Insight

Photos: Inner Mongolia: Where Mystery Meets Magic

Catching a Moment - Itaewon: A Cultural Smorgasbord