Seoul - Cruising the Han River & Checking Palace (3)

The biting, whipping wind meant we only ventured out to the deck sparodically and a few seconds each time since it was winter. The sights of the city idled by as the ferry glided on. A big chunk of the passengers were shutter-happy Japanese visitors.

Is it possible to brag that you have seen Seoul without setting foot on the hallowed soil of its ancient palaces? We didn’t think so. Thus, off we went to Gyeongbok-gong. It was like stepping into a Korean period drama – the sandy paths, spartan interiors edged with luxurious draperies and cushions, crafted low wood tables etc… The grounds were vast and seem to have no boundaries. It offered glimpses of the rich, colourful history the metropolis possesses despite it being one of the most cosmopolitan, tech-savvy hubs in the world.
By Lydia Soh - Kozine Magazine, Feb-Mar 09

Seoul - Shop & dance ‘til you drop (2)

Seoul is stocked-to-the-hilt when it comes to shopping. Departmental stores goods are terribly pricey. But I managed to snag some pretty good buys on discount. Ssamziegil at Insadong is the place to visit if you’re searching for quirky knickknacks. The one-way walk-up mall (you have to keep winding around to the final storey before taking the stairs down) is stashed with small shops hawking anything from stylish recycled stationery to teddy bear-themed accessories to hand-painted shoes. I came away with a purple leather mirror and printed recycled shopping bags. I later spotted the exact same bags in a Korean fashion magazine and was shamelessly smug about it for a few hours.

But Myeongdong tops the of my list for shopping haunts. I love browsing the fashion streets as much as the Lotte Department Store and Lotte Young Plaza. The only setback that everything on the racks was winter wear. But the gorgeous togs proved too tempting – I ended up lugging home five coats in different colours and designs. And the fashion streets offered such a mind-boggling variety that I never got tired of strolling up and down the bumpy path, prancing in and out rows of shops one after the other. The most value-for-money items? Accessories!!! Earrings, chains, handphone straps, hair ties are very reasonably-priced and there are dozens to take your pick from. Nestled along the retail maze are also several popular brand boutiques like Gap, Uniqlo, American Apparel and edgy, multi-label stores like Aland.

If I had to recommend one place to eat, shop and club (in that order), it would definitely be Hongdae. Restaurants and cafes are a dime a dozen there with tiny, cosy shops lining the pavement. Food and merchandise is slightly cheaper as it is a university area. R&B tunes pounded out from underground pubs and clubs. My companions and I had no inkling which club to head to, but we decided to put our money on the one with the longest queue.

Hongdae boasts a famous music and clubbing scene and I found out why. It was one of the best clubbing experiences I have ever had. The music was a mixture of live rap performances and slick R&B ditties guaranteed to keep revellers on their feet. It definitely kept mine moving for a few hours straight. Plus, for some strange reason everyone seemed to be sober and was genuinely intending on just dancing the night away. No inebriated people stumbling about or sleazy action on the dance floor. My guess is that Koreans possess a high tolerance to alcohol in addition to a good sense of fun.

by Lydia Soh, Kozine Magazine Feb-Mar 2009

Softshell crab

Here is another recipe for Nana's favorite food offered by Phil when they were dining out. Thai and Japanese restaurants usually serve this deep fry soft shell crab.

I would only emphasize the soft shell crab part and ignore the salsa sauce (lazy mode: ON)

Bahan / Ingredients

• 250 g kepiting soka (250 g soft shell crab)
• 1 sdt garam (1 tsp salt)
• 1/2 sdt merica bubuk (1/2 tsp pepper powder)
• 3 butir telur ayam, kocok lepas (3 eggs, beaten well)
• 100 g tepung roti kasar (100 g bread crumble)
• Minyak untuk menggoreng (Cooking oil to deep fry)

Cara membuat / Directions

1. Cuci kepiting hingga bersih. Keringkan dengan lap atau tisu. Wash the crabs till they are clean. Wipe with cloth or tissue.
2. Lumuri kepiting dengan garam dan merica. Diamkan 10 menit. Sisihkan. Season it with salt and pepper for 10 minutes. Set aside.
3. Celup kepiting ke dalam telur, gulingkan ke tepung roti. Dip it in the egg, roll it on the bread crumble.
4. Goreng dalam minyak yang banyak hingga matang dan garing. Deep fry till it is crispy and well cooked.

Source: Femina Magazine No. 17 / 2009

Hanbok Dolls

There is this website that sells dolls with your face (mini me). I think this is cute. I am thinking of ordering one of myself :P

Another hanbok for the girl, I think this is a solider girl?

The Seoul Way (1)

Seoul and The City I Annyeong Haseyo
By Lydia Soh, Kozine Magazine Feb-Mar 2009

Stepping out of Incheon International Airport to wait for the airport limousine, I was greeted by chilly, frigid air (It was about 5°C).

My airport limousine bus ride from Incheon International Airport to downtown Seoul took less than an hour. My friends, who flew in a week later, were stuck in the bus for over two hours because of the notorious traffic.

The way of life there is typically one of a city– busy pavements from dawn till dusk. Day will see its inhabitants rushing from place to place with hurried strides. But when night falls, the rhythm settles down considerably. They mill around leisurely at the happening districts, often ducking into cafés for a steaming cuppa or camping in front of street stalls munching snacks. Seoul has a homegrown coffee chain, A Twosome Place.

The subway is your best friend in terms of getting around – forget driving if you’re aren’t a Seoulite. Vehicles inch forward at a snail’s pace and there seem to be no rules when it comes to U-turns. The 10 lines are comprehensive enough for you to find an appropriate station for all your destinations. Distances between line transfers are equivalent to long morning walks, and the rush hour human crush…indescribable. Canned sardines doesn’t come close by half.

A useful tip for travellers – bring along a little plastic bag to throw your personal rubbish (empty bottles, used tissue, food wrappers etc…) when you are out and about. Finding a trash can is like striking gold. The metropolis is extremely environmentally conscious - there are allocated bins for all the various kinds of litter even if you do finally unearth one. Plastic, glass, alumunium containers and food waste are all disposed of individually. Anything else is considered ‘common waste’ and there are specific dumping bins for those too.

Seoul's High Five

1) 1000 won waffles at Euljiro-ilga station
The apple jam with vanilla cream one is the best I ever tasted.

2) Smoothie King
Silky smooth fruit blends.

3) Banila Co cosmetics
Korean’s version of M.A.C with its glam-chic packaging.

4) Aland at Myeongdong
A four-storey boutique boasting cult brands, a flea market, quirky accessories and other funky collectibles.

5) Kyobo at Gangnam
Someone kindly introduced me to this cool mega-bookstore.

By Lydia Soh - Kozine Magazine Feb-Mar 2009

Resensi Romansa Singapura

Paska juga memposting resensi Romansa Singapura di Wisata Buku . Thanks, Paska!

Judul : Schoolaholic Princess 2; Romansa Singapura
Pengarang : Yunisa KD
Penerbit : Sheila
Tahun : 2008
Genre : Teenlit
Tebal : 182 Halaman
ISBN : 978-979-29-0322-5

Masih ingat dengan Nana Sutedja alias Putri Nana yang menjadi bintang sekolah di Sekolah Bintang Emas? Pada bagian akhir fiksi Schoolaholic Princess 1 diceritakan jika Putri Nana masuk dalam semifinal pemilihan covergirl karena aksi teman-temannya.

Ternyata Putri Nana mengikuti pemilihan covergirl itu dan harus terbang ke Singapura untuk mengikuti karantina. Masa-masa karantina di Singapura menjadi masa yang tak terlupakan bagi Putri Nana. Pada Schoolaholic Princess 2; Romansa Singapura kisah cinta Putri Nana dengan pangeran impian dimulai.

Nana Sutedja, tetaplah Putri Nana sang Bintang Kelas. Kecerdasan yang dimilikinya mengantar dia melanjutkan SMA di Singapura. Singapura menjadi tempat yang sempurna buat Putri Nana. Masa depan sekolahnya ada di Singapura. Masa depan cintanya juga ada di Singapura.

Tanpa sengaja Putri Nana berkenalan dengan seorang pangeran yang mirip dengan Ryu Akira, tokoh komik pujaannya. Pangeran ini mengisi hati Nana. Singapura menjadi saksi kisah cinta Putri Nana dan pangeran impiannya. Siapakah pangeran impian itu? Lalu bagaimana dengan sahabat-sahabatnya di SMP yang menunggu jawaban cinta dari Putri Nana? Lengkapi jawabannya dalam kisah ke-2 kali ini di Romansa Singapura! (Paska)

Japchae (Korean fried noodle)

Recipe from Food Network

Ingredients
1/2 pound Asian vermicelli noodles
2 tbs sesame oil
1 onion, julienned
1 carrot, julienned
1 red bell pepper, julienned
3 scallions, cut into 1-inch lengths
1/2 cup dried wood ear mushrooms
2 cloves minced garlic
1 tsp sugar
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
1/2 pound spinach, stems discarded
1 tbs soy sauce
1 tbs toasted sesame seeds

Directions

-In a bowl, soak the vermicelli in hot water for 15 minutes.

-Drain the noodles, drop into a pot of boiling water for 30 seconds, and then rinse in cold water. Cut the noodles with kitchen shears.

-Heat a large pan. Add 2 tablespoons sesame oil.

-Add the onion, carrot, red bell pepper, scallions, mushrooms, garlic, sugar, salt and pepper. Let cook for a few minutes, stirring, until the vegetables are cooked but still a little crisp.

-Transfer the vegetables to a bowl. To the pan add 1 more tablespoon sesame oil. Add the noodles, spinach, salt and pepper. Let cook for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring.

-Add to the vegetables with 1 tablespoon soy sauce and 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds and combine.

-Transfer to a platter. Serve hot or at room temperature.

----------------------

Konon Li Jun Kie memasak ini ketika datang di Jakarta untuk anak-anak yang kurang mampu... Lee Jun Kie cooked this when he was in Jakarta for the unfortunate children...

BAHAN
2 sdm minyak untuk menumis
4 siung bawang putih, cincang halus
2 buah cabai rawit merah, buang bijinya, iris serong tipis
150 g wortel, kupas, potong bentuk korek api
4 buah jamur kuping segar, rendam air dingin, iris tipis
100 g bayam jepang
5 buah jamur shitake segar, iris tipis
4 batang daun bawang, ambil bagian hijau, iris tipis
200 g zucchini, potong bentuk korek api
300 g dangmyeoun, rendam air panas selama 5 menit, tiriskan
3 sdm kecap manis
3 sdm minyak wijen
1 sdt gula pasir
1 1/2 sdt garam

Pelengkap:
2 butir telur ayam, dadar, iris tipis
1 sdt wijen putih

CARA MEMBUAT

• Panaskan minyak, tumis bawang putih hingga harum, tambahkan cabai, aduk rata hingga layu
• Masukkan wortel, tumis hingga agak layu. Masukkan jamur2an, bayam, daun bawang, zucchini. Aduk rata hingga layu.
• Kecilkan api, masukkan dangmyeon, kecap, minyak wijen, gula, garam. Aduk rata, angkat.
• Tambahkan telur dadar dan wijen, sajikan.

12 Scenic Wonders of Ulsan (last two): Man-made sceneries

The night view of the Ulsan Industrial Complex from Mt. Muryong

When darkness falls, make your way to the top of Mt. Muryong and peer down at the Ulsan Industrial Complex. Sparkling like a cluster of gemstones, it symbolises the dynamic energy of Ulsan as the industrial capital of Korea.

무룡산에서 본 울산공단야경
무룡산에서 관망하는 울산공단 야경은 마치 보석을 뿌려 놓은것과 같이 아름다우며 울산이 한국의 산업수도로서 긍지를 느낄 수 있는 역동성과 상징성이 있다.



Ulsan Sports Complex
The Ulsan Munsu Football Stadium, which has been praised as a jewel of world football, is surrounded by Mt. Munsu, Mt. Namsan, a glittering lake and thick forests. Many locals and tourists flock here in search of a good time.

울산 체육공원
세계 축구계의 보석이라고 찬사를 받았던 문수축구경기장은 주변의 문수산, 남암산, 호수 등 자 연경관과 어우러져 마치 한폭의 비경을 연출하며 시민과 관광객이 많이 찾는 명소이다.

Source: Kozine Magazine, May 2009

12 Scenic Wonders of Ulsan (10) Paraeso Waterfall

This is what I call as paradiso waterfall!!! Lucky Ulsan residents!

Paraeso Waterfall

This 15-metre grand spectacle cascading into a pond coupled with the mysterious shadow of the mountain reflected in the water, will take your breath away. The deep valley of baenaegol and its primeval forest is truly a sight to behold. Legend has it that at the centre of this pond, which 100-metre wide in circumference, is so deep that even a skein of silk thread would never reach the bottom.

파래소 폭포 :
15m 높이에서 떨어지는 폭포수와, 이로인한 하얀 물보라와 산 그림자는 보는 이의 탄성을 자아내며 배내골 깊은 계곡과 원시림이 어우러진 절경이다. 소의 둘레가 100m나 되며 소의 중심에는 명주실 한 타래를 풀어도 바닥에 닿지 않는다는 전설이 있다. 간월산과 신불산에서 발원한물이 서쪽 배내골로 내려와 이룬 폭포가 파래소 폭포이다. 물이 차갑고 수심이 매우 깊어 가뭄에 도 마르지 않는 것이 특색이다.
Source: Kozine Magazine, May 2009

12 Scenic Wonders of Ulsan (9): Jakgwaecheon

Beautiful Ulsan, cont'd

Jakgwaecheon

Can you imagine studying under such beautiful scenery???? This is a haven for every student!!!

Clear water flows here throughout the year. This is also an important historical site - it was where Poeun Jeong Mongju, a respected scholar of the Koryeo Dynasty used to do his reading. In addition, it is also where an independence movement against the Japanese rule began in the Eonyang.

작괘천
수백평이나 되는 바위가 오랜 세월의 물살에 깍여 움푹움푹 파인 형상이 마치 술잔을걸어둔것과 같다고 하여 작괘천이라 하며, 사시사철 맑은 물이 흐릅니다. 고려 충신 포은 정몽주의 글 읽던 자리와 언양지방 3.1운동의 중심지로서 역사성을 간직하고 있는 명소이다. 해발 1,083m의간월산에서 흘러 등억리를 지나면서 작천정 앞을 흐르는 시내를 작괘천(酌掛川)이라 하는데 물이 맑고 풍경이 뛰어나서 일찍 언양 지방의 위안처가 되어 왔으며, 작괘천이란 내의 이름을 약해서 작천(酌川)이라고도 한다.

Source: Kozine Magazine, May 2009

12 Scenic Wonders of Ulsan (8): Seonbawi & Simnidaebat

Cont'd, Ulsan, the south eastern beautiful city...

The enthralling rocks of Seonbawi (Standing Rock) located at the upper steam of Taehwa River, and Baekryongdam pond create a wondrous picture. Taehwa River’s beautiful Simnidaebat (Bamboo Groove), which runs from Seonbawi, serves as an oxygen tank for the city as well as a slathering place for migratory birds.

태화강 선바위와 십리대밭 : Seonbawi and Simnidaebat of Taehwa River
태화강 상류에 위치한 선바위는 기암절벽과 백룡담이 어우러진 한 폭의 그림이며, 선바위를 시작점으로 자생하고 있는 태화강 십리대밭은 도심의 산소창고이자 철새들의 도래지로서 아름다운 풍광을 연출한다. 태화강의 상류(범서읍 입암리)에는 백룡이 자리잡고 살았다고 하는 백룡담(白龍潭)의 푸른 물 가운데 깎아 세운 듯한 기암괴석 선바위(立岩)가 있다. 선바위의 총 높이는 33.2m, 수면위 둘레 46.3m, 최정상 폭 2.9m에 이른다.

Source: Kozine Magazine, May 2009

12 Scenic Wonders of Ulsan (7): Sunrise at Ganjeolgot

Sunrise and sunset. Two most romantic moments given by nature daily. Ganjeolgot's sunrise is special because of her geographical position.

As explained by Kozine Magazine (May 2009):
The earliest sunrise in the entire northeast Asian continent can be seen each day at Ganjeolgot. Thousands of tourists gather here every New Year’s Day to welcome the New Year. This is also a wonderful place to enjoy glorious horizons and breathtaking views of the East Sea.

간절곶 일출
새천년 새해아침 동북아시아에서 해가 가장 먼저 뜨는 곳으로 매년 새해 해맞이 행사가 열리는곳이다. 한반도의 동남쪽에 위치한 간절곶은 주위에 울창한 송림,기암괴석 뿐 아니라 여름이면울산에서 가장 많은 인파가 모여드는 진하해수욕장이 바로옆에 있으며, 서생포왜성과 나사봉수대와 온양옹기마을 등의 관광명소가 즐비하다.

The Miracle Boys ada di Toko Mahal!

Pada suatu hari adik saya bertanya, kenapa semua toko namanya toko murah, gak ada yang namanya toko mahal. Sim salabim, kemarin malam saya nemu ada yang namanya Toko Mahal dan jual Schoolaholic Princess, walau cuma buku 1 The Miracle Boys.

Lucu ini namanya toko mahal

12 Scenic Wonders of Ulsan (6): Bangudae

Ulsan, the beautiful south eastern city... cont'd
Source: Kozine Magazine, May 2009

‘Bangudae’ got its moniker because of its turtle-like shape. Filled with mountains, valleys and rugged rock formations, the place prides itself on its scenic beauty and illustrious history. Here, you can also find magnificent boulder petroglyphs.

반구대
산세와 계곡, 기암괴석이 어우러진 절경으로 마치 거북 한마리가 넙죽 엎드린 형상을 하고 있어반구대 라고 하며, 선사시대 유적인 국보 제285호 반구대 암각화가 있어 오랜 역사와 아름다운경치를 자랑한다. 언양읍 대곡리에는 경승지인 반구대가 있는데 연고산의 한 자락이 뻗어내려와 이곳에 와서 우뚝 멎으면서 기암괴석으로 절정을 이루고 있으며, 마치 거북이 넙죽 엎드린 형상이므로 반구대(盤龜臺)라 한다.

12 Scenic Wonders of Ulsan (5): Black Peble Beach

Ulsan is a south eastern city that I have not visited... However, this magazine presented a very beautiful review of what to see in Ulsan.

Source: Kozine Magazine, May 2009Black Pebble Beach at Gangdong and Jujeon Seashore

The black pebble beach along the glistening East Sea is a riveting sight with its rolling white waves. A hotspot for young couples and families

강동 주전해안 자갈밭
주전에서 강동으로 이어지는 해안가는 울산이 가진 관광자원중 하나이다. 주전해변에는 동해의 푸른바다 일출광경과 더불어서 깨끗한 몽돌 자갈이 해변에 늘어져 있다. 강동,주전 해변의 특징 은 이 몽돌자갈이다. 해변에 늘어져 있는 새알같이 둥글고 작은 몽돌은 타해수욕장의 작은모래 와 달라 일반관광객들에게 새로운 느낌으로 다가오며 몽돌의 크기는 규칙적으로 분포되어 있어서 맨발로 밟으면 지압역할도 함께해서 산책로로 각광을 받고 있다.

12 Scenic Wonders of Ulsan (4): Eoksae Plain

Ulsan is a south eastern city that I have not visited... However, this magazine presented a very beautiful review of what to see in Ulsan.

Source: Kozine Magazine, May 2009

Eoksae Plain at Mt. Sinbul

Mt. Sinbul is the second tallest mountain (1,159m) in Ulsan. Along with Sajapyeng, its vast plain is famous for eoksae (reed)that can be found in the Yeongnam Alps. The mountain is also one of the ‘100 Most Beautiful Mountains in Korea’ as selected by the Korea Forest Service.

신불산 억새평원
신불산은 울산의 산 중 두 번째로 높은 산(해발1,209m)으로서, 광활한 면적의 억새평원은 사
자평과 함께 영남알프스의 대표적 억새군락지로서 매우 아름다우며 산림청이 선정한 한국의
100대 명산 중 하나이다.

12 Scenic Wonders of Ulsan (3): Naewonam Valley

We shall continue... Ulsan, the beautiful south eastern city in Korea...

From: Kozine Magazine, May 2009

Naewonam Valley of Mt. Daeun

In the deep valley of Mt. Daeun, there are picturesque ponds and waterfalls alongside majestic stone structures. Relax, lounge around and take in the beautiful surroundings. It also houses Naewonam, a temple famed for being built on the most auspicious site of Yeongnam region.

대운산 내원암 계곡
깊고 청량한 계곡 속의 수려한 연못과 폭포, 한번 누워보고 싶은 반석들을 품고 있는 비경이다.
영남 제일의 명당이라고 알려져 있는 내원암이 있다. 대운산 계곡은 계곡 주위의 펼쳐져 있는 벼
랑이 험준하면서도 아름다워 소금강이라고도 불린다.

Review Romansa Singapura

Ternyata baru-baru ini ada yang bikin resensi Romansa Singapura

Book Review : Schoolaholic Princess 2: Romansa Singapura
15 Agustus 2009

Judul Buku : Schoolaholic Princess 2: Romansa Singapura ~ Penulis : Yunisa KD ~ Penerbit : Sheila (Penerbit Andi) ~ Tahun terbit : Oktober, 2008 ~ Jenis : Teenlith ~ Tebal : 182 halaman ~ ISBN : 978-979-29-0322-5

____________________________________________

Masih ingat dengan Nana Sutedja alias Putri Nana yang menjadi bintang sekolah di Sekolah Bintang Emas? Pada bagian akhir fiksi Schoolaholic Princess 1 diceritakan jika Putri Nana masuk dalam semifinal pemilihan covergirl karena aksi teman-temannya.

Ternyata Putri Nana mengikuti pemilihan covergirl itu dan harus terbang ke Singapura untuk mengikuti karantina. Masa-masa karantina di Singapura menjadi masa yang tak terlupakan bagi Putri Nana. Pada Schoolaholic Princess 2: Romansa Singapura kisah cinta Putri Nana dengan pangeran impian dimulai.

Nana Sutedja, tetaplah Putri Nana sang Bintang Kelas. Kecerdasan yang dimilikinya mengantar dia melanjutkan SMA di Singapura. Singapura menjadi tempat yang sempurna buat Putri Nana. Masa depan sekolahnya ada di Singapura. Masa depan cintanya juga ada di Singapura.

Tanpa sengaja Putri Nana berkenalan dengan seorang pangeran yang mirip dengan Ryu Akira, tokoh komik pujaannya. Pangeran ini mengisi hati Nana. Singapura menjadi saksi kisah cinta Putri Nana dan pangeran impiannya. Siapakah pangeran impian itu? Lalu bagaimana dengan sahabat-sahabatnya di SMP yang menunggu jawaban cinta dari Putri Nana? Baca saja kisahnya dalam Schoolaholic Princess 2: Romansa Singapura!

Ditulis dalam Book Review, Resensi Buku | Bertanda Book Review, buku, cinta, Inspirasi, Keluarga, Kisah, Membaca, Motivasi, Novel, Penerbit Andi, persahabatan, remaja, Resensi, Teenlith |

Resensi The Miracle Boys (2)

Paska telah memposting resensinya di Wisata Buku. Thanks, Paska!

Judul : Schoolaholic Princess 1; The Miracle Boys
Penulis : Yunisa KD
Penerbit : Sheila
Tahun : 2008
Genre : Teenlit
Tebal : 182 Halaman
ISBN : 978-979-29-0321-8

Siswi SMP, bintang sekolah, cantik, cerdas, pintar, langganan ikut lomba mewakili sekolah saat SMP, mudah bergaul, bukan kutu buku, tapi kadang agak sedikit jail, itulah serentetan karakter Nana Sutedja. Nana adalah tokoh utama dalam fiksi ini.

Nana bersama dua orang temanya yang kembar, Yosef dan Deni, sering sekali mewakili sekolah untuk mengikuti berbagai lomba atau olimpiade. Tidak tanggung-tanggung, mereka selalu mendapat kedudukan teratas dalam setiap lomba.

Kecerdasan Nana, membuatnya memiliki banyak teman dan tidak sedikit yang akhirnya jatuh cinta pada Nana.

Nana memang pintar tapi kejailannya membuat beberapa guru kurang suka pada Nana. Nana mempunyai kebiasaan mengganti nama-nama guru, misalnya Bu Kinarsih menjadi Bu Kiki, Pak Mujimin menjadi Pak Jimmy, dan sebagainya.

Ada yang unik dalam penokohan fiksi ini. Yunisa KD menggunakan penokohan dan latar karakter ala kerajaan. Tokoh Nana misalnya, dipanggil Putri Nana, tokoh Yosef dipanggil pangeran Yosef, Pak Jimmy dipanggil Raja Jimmy. Sedangkan untuk setting setiap kelasnya menggunakan istilah istana, misalnya untuk kelas 1B disebut istana 1B.

Dengan penokohan dan setting ala kerajaan, fiksi ini menjadi lebih berbeda dengan fiksi lainnya. Banyak juga kejutan-kejutan para tokoh untuk tokoh utama yang menjadikan kisah semakin menarik. Kejutan yang paling menghebohkan adalah ketika teman-teman Putri Nana, mengikutsertakannya dalam pemilihan covergirl, dan ternyata Putri Nana masuk dalam semifinal. Apa yang terjadi dengan Putri Nana selanjutnya? Apakah dia ikut serta dalam semifinal covergirl itu, atau malah menolaknya? Jawabannya bisa disimak di dalam fiksi ini. (Paska)

Resensi The Miracle Boys (1)

Nah, The Miracle Boys juga diresensi oleh orang yang sama di blognya dan dimasukkan ke wisata buku

Book Review: Schoolaholic Princess 1: The Miracle Boys

14 Agustus 2009

Judul Buku : Schoolaholic Princess 1: The Miracle Boys ~ Penulis : Yunisa KD ~ Penerbit : Sheila (Penerbit Andi) ~ Tahun terbit : Oktober, 2008 ~ Jenis : Teenlith ~ Tebal : 182 halaman ~ ISBN : 978-979-29-0321-8

______________________________________

Siswi SMP, bintang sekolah, cantik, cerdas, pintar, langganan ikut lomba mewakili sekolah saat SMP, mudah bergaul, bukan kutu buku, tapi kadang agak sedikit jail, itu karakter Nana Sutedja. Nana adalah tokoh utama dalam fiksi ini.

Nana bersama dua orang temanya yang kembar, Yosef dan Deni, sering sekali mewakili sekolah untuk mengikuti berbagai lomba atau olimpiade. Tidak tanggung-tanggung, mereka selalu mendapat kedudukan teratas dalam setiap lomba.

Kecerdasan Nana, membuatnya memiliki banyak teman dan tidak sedikit yang akhirnya jatuh cinta pada Nana.

Nana memang pintar tapi kejailannya membuat beberapa guru kurang suka pada Nana. Nana mempunyai kebiasaan mengganti nama-nama guru, misalnya Bu Kinarsih menjadi Bu Kiki, Pak Mujimin menjadi Pak Jimmy, dan sebagainya.

Ada yang unik dalam penokohan fiksi ini. Yunisa KD menggunakan penokohan dan setting ala kerajaan. Tokoh Nana misalnya, dipanggil Putri Nana, tokoh Yosef dipanggil pangeran Yosef, Pak Jimmy dipanggil Raja Jimmy. Sedangkan untuk setting-nya menggunakan istilah setting istana, misalnya untuk kelas 1B disebut istana 1B.

Dengan penokohan dan setting ala kerajaan, fiksi ini menjadi lebih berbeda dengan fiksi lainnya. Banyak juga kejutan-kejutan para tokoh untuk tokoh utama yang menjadikan kisah semakin menarik. Kejutan yang paling menghebohkan adalah ketika teman-teman Putri Nana, mengikutsertakannya dalam pemilihan covergirl, dan ternyata Putri Nana masuk dalam semifinal. Apa yang terjadi dengan Putri Nana? Apakah dia ikut serta dalam semifinal covergirl itu? Atau dia menolaknya? Temukan jawabannya dalam fiksi ini.

Baca juga di wisata-buku

Ditulis dalam Book Review, Resensi Buku | Bertanda Inspirasi, Teenlith, Resensi, buku, cinta, Kisah, Menulis, Cerita, Novel, Penerbit Andi, Book Review |

12 Scenic Wonders of Ulsan (2): Daewangam Songnim

Ulsan is a south eastern city that I have not visited... However, this magazine presented a very beautiful review of what to see in Ulsan.
Source: Kozine Magazine, May 2009

Daewangam Songnim

Legend says that Queen Munmu of the Silla became a ‘Guardian Dragon’ of the country after she died and was submerged under the water. With fascinating rock formations, a forest of some 15,000 pine trees, and a vast view of the East Sea, this area is considered the second most magnificent spot on the east coast after Haegeum River.

대왕암 송림
신라 문무대왕비가 죽어서 호국룡이 되어 이 바다에 잠겼다는 전설을 간직한 곳으로 기암괴석과
1만5천여 그루의 아름드리 송림, 동해의 탁트인 푸른 바다 동해안에서 해금강 다음으로 아름답
다는 절경이다. 정문에서 똑바로 들어가면 벚꽃길이 이어지고 등대아래 펼쳐진 기암괴석은 해금
강을 한쪽으로 옮겨다 놓은 듯 그 경관이 절경이다.

Udah 2nd print lho

Although in most website, including in Penerbit Andi's website, it's not updated yet... Schoolaholic Princess 1-2 udah cetak kedua sejak Maret... Yang Schoolaholic Princess 3, gak tau udah apa belum hehe ^_^ Maklum Yunisa April ke California sebulan kan, jadi lupa nulis ini. Terus pas Juni dibawain adik itu buktinya, baru akhir Juli sempet ngecek dengan mata kepala sendiri di halaman copyright, emang udah cetakan ke-2 LOL.

------

And iseng2, di friendster, banyak juga yang demen sama Schoolaholic Princess ini, dari no 1, 2, 3 (sampe ada yang nulis 1-100) HAHAHA. Terus di multiply ada yang minta sambungan after Nana-PK married...

12 Scenic Wonders of Ulsan (1): Mt Gaji

Ulsan is a south eastern city that I have not visited... However, this magazine presented a very beautiful review of what to see in Ulsan. I will post it one place per day starting today.

Source: Kozine Magazine, May 2009

Four seasons of Mt Gaji

As the tallest mountain in Ulsan (1,240m) and the point where the Taehwa River originates, there is always something new to admire and explore at Mt. Gaji all year round. Standing at the peak, one can see the first sunrise of each day. It was named as one of the ‘100 Most Beautiful Mountains in Korea’ by the Korea Forest Service. Seongnamsa Temple, a training temple for Buddhist nuns, is located here.

가지산 사계
울산광역시 울주군 상북면에 위치하며, 낙동강과 동해를 나누면서 남하하는 “낙동정맥”에서 3번째로 높은 산인 가지산(1,241m)은 영남의 알프스라 불리우는 울산의 산중 최고봉이다. 울 산의 산중 최고봉(1,241m)인 가지산의 주변의 많은 1천m급 산들이 가지산 주위에 펼쳐져 있 어, 특히나 가을이면 주변경관과 어우러져 장관을 이룬다.

Dialogue: Form of Expression

How is the taste?
맛이 어때요?
(Ma-si Eot-dae-yo?)

It’s good. (It’s tasty)
좋아요. (맛있어요)
(Jo-ah-yo. (Ma-sshi-seo-yo))

How are you feeling today?
오늘 기분이 어때요?
(O-neul gi-bu-ni eot-dae-yo?)

Not bad (so so)
그저 그래요
(Geu-jeoh Geu-rae-yo.)

How is your health?
요즘 건강이 어때요?
(Yo-jeum Geon-gang-yi eot-daeyo?)

Not really good.
별로 예요
(Byeol-ro Yeh-yo)

How is your life in Singapore (Korea)?
싱가폴(한국) 생활이 어때요?
(Singapore (Han-gook) saeng-hwari eot-dae-yo?)

It’s interesting.
재미있어요.
(Je-mi isso-yo)

How is the weather in Korea?
한국 날씨는 어때요?
(Han-gook nal-ssi neun eot-daeyo?)

It’s bad.
나빠요. (Na-bba-yo)

It’s raining.
비가와요. (Bi-ga wa-yo)

Source: Kozine Magazine, August 2009

Dialogue: Asking bus / subway

Which bus are you taking?
몇 번 버스를 타세요?
myeot beon Bus-reul ta-seh yo?

I am going to take bus 77.
77번을 타요.
chil-sip-chil-beon-eul ta-yo.

Do you know how to go to Dongdaemun night market?
동대문 시장에 어떻게 가요?
Dong-dae-mun si-jang-yeh eoh ddeo-keh ga-yo?

You can go there by taking subway line no 4.
지하철 4호선을 타세요.
ji-ha-cheol sa-ho-seon-eul ta-seh-yo.

Source: Kozine Magazine, April 2009

Busan - Insider's Insight

My first encounter of Busan was in my geography project in High School. I remember that Busan is an industrial city, 2nd largest city after Seoul. I did not visit Busan on my Korea trip 2007, but someday... who knows? :D

Soaking up Busan
An insider’s view
By Jade Han (Kozine Magazine, Aug 2009)

Famous for the 2002 Asian Games and its annual film festival, the second capital of Korea is steadily attracting more buzz as the government continues in its campaign to lure tourists and gain exposure. It is also the city I lived for 11 years before coming to Singapore. I would like to walk you through my hometown… Busan.
한국 제 2의 수도 부산. 부산은 2002년 아시안게임과 부산국제영 화제로 유명한 도시이다. 부산은 정부에서 많은 관광객들을 끌어들이므로 점점 국제적인 도시가 되어가고 있다. 또한 내가 싱가폴로오기전에 11년을 살아왔던 도시이기도하다. 나의 고장 부산을 소개하고자 한다.

Create the best memento of Busan
Strictly in the below order:

1. Sun-bathe at the beach in the day
2. Indulge in some sashimi for dinner
3. Play with fireworks at night.

Fast Facts
Population: About 3.6 million
Weather: Temperate with four seasons. Highest temperature is around 32°C in the summer and goes down to an average of 3.8°C during winter.
How to get there: Flights from Incheon to Gimhae (Busan) are available and take about an hour. From Seoul, you can choose to hop on a bus (five to six hours) or jump on the KTX train that will get you to your destination in less than three hours

Down under in Seo Myon
What comes to mind when you think of Busan? Hae Woon Dae? The generosity and warm friendliness of its people? Cha Gal Chi Market? Sashimi? Based on my experience residing in Busan, shopping tops the list. If there is Dongdaemun and Myeongdong in Seoul, there is Seo Myon basement shops and Nampodong in Busan. It only takes about two days to tour the best shopping enclaves here. Once you step off the subway in Seo Myon, you will see the link to Lotte department store and the endless rows of basement shops.

The current Korean male and female fashion trends are displayed in all its glory along this one-kilometre long retail haven – something that never fails to fascinate me each and every time. Why do I love shopping in Busan, you ask? The reason is the cost. You can shop until more than two hands are needed to hold your stash, sip cold, fresh fruit juice, have lunch and dinner at the food streets of Seo Myon with just 50,000 won in your pocket (approximately SGD$50). Try to beat that.

서면 지하상가
부산하면 떠오르는 것이 무엇이 있을까? 해운대? 후한 인심? 자갈치시장? 회?? 부산에 서 11년을 살아 본 경험을 바탕으로 하면, 내가 추천해주고 싶은 것은 쇼핑이다. 그외 에도 많은 것들이 내 기억속에서 몸부림치지만, 한 페이지에 다 쓰기엔 너무나도 모자 르다. 그래서 결정한것은 쇼핑! 서울에 동대문과 명동이 있다면, 부산에는 서면 지하상 가와 남포동이 있다. 딱 이틀이면 부산 쇼핑 명소들을 모두 구경할 수 있다. 서면 지하철 역에서 내리면 바로 그곳에 롯데백화점과 서면 지하상가로 이어지는 곳이다. 부산에 오 래 산 나도 서면 지하상가에 들어설 때마다 이곳이 천국이다 하며 눈이 휘둥그래져 쇼핑 을 시작한다. 고작 1km 남짓하는 지하상가에 남녀 패션 불문하고 한국의 현재 트렌드 를 고스란히 볼 수있다. 내가 부산쇼핑을 사랑하는 진짜 이유는 바로 가격이다. 오만원 만 있으면 양손 가득 쇼핑을 하고도 서면 먹자골목에서 시원한 생과일 쥬스 한 잔에 점 심 저녁까지 다 먹을수 있을정도다

Discovering Nampodong
Nampodong reminds me of Shinjuku in Japan and is somewhere that evokes much childhood memories. It is home to a plethora of vintage and designer boutiques, and many tourists and Koreans gather here to stroll and browse the streets.

Alternatively, you can make a stop at Cha Gal Chi market, which hawks all the seafood you can imagine. Or head to Yong Du San Park if you are feeling shutter-happy. A must-go in my opinion? The B&C bakery. True, Korea is awash with bakeries like Paris Baguette and Crown Bakery, but the B&C bakery is exclusive to Nampodong. Don’t even think of missing the celebrated B&C dessert, Pat Bing Soo (Korean-style ice kachang).


남포동
일본의 신주쿠 거리를 연상케하는 남포동. 많은 관광객들과 한국사람들이 모여 쇼핑 을 하는 곳이다. 그곳엔 빈티지 멀티샵과 보세샵들이 한 곳에 모여있다. 관광객들에게는 쇼핑 장소로도 좋은 장소겠지만 오만가지의 생선들을 팔고있는 자갈치 시장에 사진몇 장 찍을 수 있는 용두산 공원 또한 가볼만한 장소로 추천하고싶다. 내가 꼭 가는 장소 중 하나, B&C 베이커리. 파리 바게뜨나 크라운 베이커리는 전국에 다 있는 곳이지만 B&C는 부산 남포동에만 있는 곳이다. 베이비 부머세대와 같이 성장해온 B&C 베이커리. 그곳에 가면 왠지 어렸을 때의 추억이 떠오른

Kwang Ann Lee beach
Hae Woon Dae may be the poster for Korean summer recollections, but for those who value tranquility like me, Kwang Ann Lee beach is the place. Dwindle your time away in leisure by taking in the night view of Kwang Ann bridge and visiting sashimi restaurants around the Kwang Ann coast.
광안리
여름하면 부산 해운대! 하지만 혼자 있는 것을 좋아하는 나에게는 해운대 해수욕장보다 는 사람이 적은 광안리 해수욕장에서 시간을 보내는 것 또한 추천하고 싶은 부산 코스이 다. 특히 밤에 볼 수 있는 광안대교의 정경. 해변가를 둘러싸고 있는 횟집들. 낮에는 광안리 해수욕장에서 일광욕을, 저녁에는 횟집에 가서 회 한 접시에 해변가로 나와 폭죽놀이를 하는 것도 좋은 추억이 될 것 같다.

Sashimi restaurants

Diary of daily life in Korean

This is a simple diary... a mundane life... :P

I wake up at 6 am every day
매일 오전 6시에 일어나요.
mae-il o-jeon yeo-seot-si-eh yi-rona-yo.

I have breakfast at 7 am
7시에 아침을 먹어요.
yil-gop-si-eh a-chim-eul meokeoh-yo

I leave my place and go to work at 8 am
8시에 집에서 나와서 회사에 가요.
yeo-deol-si-eh jip-eh-seoh na-waseoh hoi-sa-eh ga-yo

I usually have lunch with my colleagues around 12.
12시쯤에 동료하고 점심을 먹어요.
yol-du-si-zheum-eh dong-ryo-ha-go jeom-sim-eul mok-eoh-yo

I end work at 6 pm
오후 6시에 일이 끝나요.
o-hu yeo-seot-si-eh yi-ri ggeutna-yo.

I am coming back home to have dinner with my family
집에 돌아와서 가족하고 함께 저녁을 먹어요.
ji-beh do-ra-wa-seoh ga-jok-ha-go ham-ggeh jeo-nyeok-eul mok-e

Kozine Magazine, May 2009

Lettuce dishes (for balancing pork)

My impression on my first tour to Korea is.... PORK is their stapple! I think it must be quite difficult for a Moslem to live there :P Thank God that I am an omnivore, I eat everything!

Korean has a healthy way to eat pork dishes, i.e. by wrapping it in lettuce!
This is the only dish I ate more during my Korea trip in 2007 ... Black pork (Indonesian: celeng, just like in Asterix-Obelix) in Jeju Island is the most delicious cuisine on the tour.

Here is a posting of all pork dishes, with different type of cooking (steamed, BBQ, with kimchi, with rice cake)... Wang Jokbal, Bo ssam, Ssam bap...

wang jok bal = pork with bean sauce

Steamed pork with kimchi (bo ssam)

3-step guide to eat Bo Ssam:
1) Take a leaf of fresh lettuce and put a slice of pork on it.
2) Next, garnish it with the kimchi.
3) Wrap it all up and pop it in your mouth at one go

ssam bap (with rice cake and kimchi)

Ssam Bab - meat (beef, pork or chicken) served with lettuce and rice balls (white or mixed grain).

Jal mogo yo! (Happy eating!)

Dialogue: 취미 (Hobby)

Minsu, what do you like to do?
민수씨는 무엇을 좋아하세요?
Min-su Ssi-neun Mu-eo-sul Jo-a-haseh-yo?

I like to watch a movie.
저는 영화 보기를 좋아해요.
Jeo-neun Yeong-Hwa Bo-gi-reul Jo-a-hae-yo.

Jane, what is your hobby?
제인 씨는 무슨 취미가 있어요?
Jane Ssi-neun Mu-seun Chui-mi-ga Yit-seoh-yo?

I like listening to music and reading a book.
제 취미는 음악 듣기와 책 읽기예요.
Jeh Chui-mi-neun Eum-ahk Deut-giwa Chaek Yil-gi-yeh-yo.

What sports do you like to play?
무슨 운동을 좋아하세요?
Mu-seun Wun-dong-eul Jo-a-haseh-yo?

I like to play tennis.
테니스(골프) 치기를 좋아해요.
Tennis(Golf) Chi-gi-reul Jo-a-hae-yo.

Source: Kozine Magazine, March 2009

Korean rickshaw

Another my article in old KoKi, Thursday 28 June 2007, previously KoKi was under Kompas newspaper. Translation is in italics.

KoKi Edisi Kamis, 28 Juni 2007

OK deh, ini oleh-oleh saya pas di Korea plesir-plesir sama sohib awal Mei lalu. Edisi pertama di Nami Island. Edisi selanjutnya kalau saya gak males ya...

OK, this is my sharing when I travel to Korea with my best friend in early May. First edition in Nami Island. Next edition - only when I am not lazy...

Ini gambar becak roda 4 ala Korea (turis menggenjot sendiri) -- sayang gak sempat foto pas ada bapak Korea menggenjot penumpang istri dan anak.
This is a 4-wheel rickshaw Korean style (tourist becomes the cyclist himself) -- to bad, I did not take a picture when there was a Korean man cycling the rickshaw with his wife and children.
http://community.kompas.com/index.php?fuseaction=home.detail&id=34460&section=92

Ordering drinks in a cafe

Waiter: Welcome!
어서 오세요!
(Eo-soh O-seh-yo)

Jane: Sujung, what would you like to drink?
수정 씨, 뭘 마시고 싶어요?
(Su-jung-ssi, Muol Ma-si-go Sipeoh-yo?)

Sujung: I’ll be having green tea. What about you, Jane?
저는 녹차를 마시고 싶어요. 제인 씨는요?
(Jeo-neun Nok-cha-reul Ma-si-go Si-peoh-yo. Jane ssi-neun yo?)

Jane: I want to have a cup of Café-latte.
저는 카페라떼를 마시겠어요
(Jeo-neun Café-Latte-reul Ma-sigeh-seoh-yo.)

Sujung: Would you like a slice of cake?
케이크 드실래요?
(Cake deu-sil-le-yo?)

Jane: Umm, ok, I will have a slice of cheese cake.
어, 그럼 치즈케이크 한 조각 먹을께요.
(uh, geu-rum cheez cake han jogak meo-geul-ggae-yo).

Sujung: Excuse me! Can I have one cup of green tea and a cup of café-latte?
실례합니다! 녹차하고 카페라떼주세요.
(Shil-reh ham-ni-da! Nok-cha-ha-go Café-Latte-ju-seh-yo.)

Jane: Can you please give us two glasses of water as well?
물도 두잔 주세요.
(Mul-do doo-jan ju-seh-yo.)

Waiter: Certainly. Please wait for a while.
네, 알겠습니다. 잠시만 기다리세요.
(Neh, Al-geh-seum-ni-da. Jahm-siman gi-da-ri-seh-yo.)

Waiter: Excuse me, here you are. Enjoy.
실례합니다. 여기 있습니다. 맛있게 드세요.
(Shil-reh ham-ni-da. Yeo-ki isseumni-da. Ma-shi-kke deu-se-yo.)

Source: Kozine Magazine, July 2009
Photo: Cheesecake Factory, personal collection from San Francisco, April 2009

Dialogue: Shopping 2

Ms, how much is this bag?
아주머니, 이 가방 얼마예요?
ju-mo-ni, yi ga-bang eol-ma-yeh-yo?

It’s 25000 won
이만 오천 원이에요.
yi-man o-cheon won-yi-yeh-yo.

I have no cash right now. Can I use a credit card?
지금 현금이 없어요. 카드도 돼요?
ji-geum hyun-geum-yi eop-seoh-yo.CARD-doh doaeh-yo?

Of course, you can use your credit card.
그럼요, 카드도 돼요.
Geu-rum-yo, CARD-doh doaeh-yo.

Source: Kozine Magazine, April 2009

Dialogue: Shopping 1

What do you want to do?
뭐하고 싶어요?
Mo ha-go shi-poh-yo?

I want to go shopping.
쇼핑하고 싶어요.
Sho-ping ha-go shi-poh-yo

What about tomorrow?
내일은 어때요?
Nae-il-eun uh-ttae-yo?

Okay, that’s great.
네, 좋아요.
Nae, jo-ah-yo.

What time shall we meet?
몇시에 만날까요?
Meot-shi-eh man-nal-kka-yo?

Let’s meet at 5pm.
다섯시에 만나요.
da-suh-sshi eh man-na-yo.

Do you have money?
돈 있어요?
Don ee-suh-yo?

I don’t have money.
돈 없어요.
Don op-suh-yo.

Source: Kozine Magazine, June 2009