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gardens

    Jeju Island columnar joints
    South Korea

    Stunning Volcanic Landscapes & Gardens of Jeju Island

    by Trudy Wendelin, L.Ac February 1, 2025
    written by Trudy Wendelin, L.Ac

    Exploring Jeju Island’s top attractions shows you why it’s called “Honeymoon Island.” This subtropical island feels like a romantic sanctuary on the Korean Strait. Formed by volcanic eruptions 2 million years ago, this terrain sculpted into a wild, volcanic landscape of basalt and lava. Moreover, it’s balanced by colorful flowers and gardens, amidst the rocky shores and extinct volcanoes throughout the island. Here, I explored many sites, for instance, waterfalls, gardens, a Buddhist temple and the intriguing basalt landscapes along the coast.

    First, when we left Jeju City on the 1-hour bus ride to the southern part of the island, it was a dreary, cold and rainy day. However, as we drove further south, everything got sunnier and warmer. It ended up being a good plan, as the sun came out for the rest of our day, while it rained all day in Jeju City.

    Yeomiji Botanical Gardens

    Yeomiji Botanic Garden
    Atrium of Yeomiji Gardens

    Our first stop was at the island’s largest botanical garden, Yeomiji, with both lavish indoor and outdoor gardens. Inside, I walked into a vast, colorful atrium. Overall, it displays more than 2000 rare tropical and subtropical plants. Also, I climbed to the observation platform at 38 meters high to see the Hallasan Mountains.

    IMG_3611
    Korean Gardens
    IMG_3618
    French Gardens

    I enjoyed most of my time outside strolling through the different cultural gardens. These segments cultivated into unique sanctuaries, according to the cultural design. For example, I explored Korean, Japanese, Italian and French gardens. This is the first botanical garden where I was able to explore different ethnic gardens all in one complex. Overall, it was inspiring to compare the elegance and beauty of this natural landscape artistry, according to different nationalities. Other gardens that I did not have time to explore are the following: Herb, Bog, Flower, Aquatic, Cactus, Jungle, and Tropical Fruits.

    Cheoinjeyon Falls
    Jeju Island’s Top Attractions

    cheonjaeyeon falls

    Near the botanical garden, we walked down into a ravine to see the enchanting Cheoinjeyon Falls. An evergreen forest surrounds the falls, covering 2 sides of a valley. Furthermore, this habitat thrives with the whisk fern, considered the most precious plant in the province. Also, there are diverse species of climbing plants. The beautiful 3-tiered falls is the setting for the local legend about the fairies.

    As the story goes, they descend from heaven to bathe here at night. Then, we go to the vast Seonimgyo Bridge, an arch bridge over Cheonjeyeon Falls. Its design depicts 7 nymphs on both sides, according to the tale of Cheonjeyeon at 128 meters in length and 78 metres high.

    Columnar Joints
    Daepo Jusangjeolli Cliff

    IMG_3656

    Next, the mysterious coastal land formations called Columnar Joints of Daepo Jusangjeolli Cliff are the highlight of the day! This phenomenon shapes lava into hexagonal formed columnar joints from the contraction of molten lava while cooling. Moreover, these formed on Jeju Island’s southern coast about 140,000-250,000 years ago, stretching for almost 2 km.

    The view is magnificent along the walkway that takes you out into the middle of the majestic maelstrom of Mother Nature. Mysteriously the jet black steep columnar joints, brace as a unique type of sea cliff against the tumultuous, turquoise waters crashing into the basalt walls. It’s exhilarating to be there, amidst the unique display of volcanic landscapes. Also, the fresh air and water ions cleanse my mind and body of stress. Loved every moment of being here for rejuvenation!!

    Yakchunsa Temple

    Yakchunsa Temple
    IMG_3732

    Lastly, we went to the modern Buddhist temple called Yakchunsa Temple built by a Buddhist monk in 1981. While it is famous for housing 80,000 Buddha statues in glass, for me the highlight was its landscape. At the temple’s entrance are a set of stone statues called Dol Hareubangs. They greet, as an island symbol of Gods, offering protection against demons and promoting fertility.

    IMG_3717

    I walk through the entrance under a kaleidoscope of paper lanterns. I ditch the tour group and just wander outside in the beautiful gardens. South Korean temples are renowned for their stunning landscapes and I got to explore this at 2 other Korean temples. In March, the bright, botanical bliss surrounds Yakchunsa Temple.

    For example, I saw tangerine orchards (the island’s trademark), golden canola fields, pink cherry blossoms, and roses among lush green foliage. Lastly, I meander through their gardens take in the aromatic journey through nature’s palette for an absolutely exquisite ending to my day in South Jeju Island.

    Overall, Jeju Island’s Top Attractions

    Making our 1-hour journey back, the skies slowly became grayer with cloud coverage. Upon arrival in Jeju City, we discover that it has rained most of the day. Here, I learned a valuable lesson about the different micro-climates on this small island. Overall, this stunning island of volcanic landscapes and gardens offers unique natural beauty for a life-changing experience.


    Read More!
    Magnificent Buddhist Temples near Busan at Haedong Yonggungsa & Beomeosa
    Beautiful Spirited Garden & Glass Castle Theme Park Tours at Jeju Island

    February 1, 2025 0 comments
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  • South Korea

    Beautiful Spirited Garden & Glass Castle Theme Park Tours at Jeju Island, South Korea

    by Trudy Wendelin, L.Ac January 5, 2025
    by Trudy Wendelin, L.Ac January 5, 2025

    Jeju is often called, “Honeymoon Island” as many newlyweds spend their romantic getaway here. On the Korean Strait, Jeju Island was formed by volcanic eruptions 2 million years ago. This terrain became …

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Hello, Hola, Namaste, Ni hao, Ciao and Bonjour! My name is Trudy and I have been traveling like everyday is my last, over the last 10 years. I've visited 105 countries and still counting! As an Acupuncturist and traveler, I love sharing my experiences and tips on travel and wellness. Feel free to join below my community for coupons and latest travel guides.

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On the Vracar plateau, the Church of Saint Sava is On the Vracar plateau, the Church of Saint Sava is the largest Orthodox church in the Balkans and second largest in the world. Saint Sava is the founder of the Serbian Orthodox church. The church’s construction lasted from 1935 to 1989. It became delayed by WW II and the Yugoslavian communism, that didn’t allow for building churches. 

Shaped like a Greek Cross, the facade consists of white marble and granite in a Neo-Byzantine style. Its dome is one of the largest in the world. The mosaics are spectacular, with the central mosaic in the dome depicting the Ascension of Jesus.

To learn more about Belgrade, check out my blog:
https://truewindhealingtravel.com/belgrade-serbia-top-attractions-in-2-days/

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Just 15 minutes from Mostar is the Blagaj Dervish Just 15 minutes from Mostar is the Blagaj Dervish Monastery. It sits at the source of the Buna River which flows out of a cave beneath a canyon wall. The beautiful tekke (lodge) displays Ottoman Sufi architecture from the 15th century. 

The white building reflects on the turquoise river. Inside you’ll find a small mosque, guest rooms and mausoleums. Dervishes of the Sufi orders stayed here for spiritual retreats over the centuries. Today, it is open for tourist of all faiths to learn about this sacred site and the Sufi tradition. 

We explored the riverside and view of Blagaj from across the river. Also, with our shoes off, we enjoyed an indoor tour of the monastery. 

To learn more about Mostar, check out my blog:
https://truewindhealingtravel.com/mostar-tour-highlights/

#blagaj #dervish #monastery #mostar #bosniaandherzegovina #balkans #instatravelling #i̇nstatravel #easterneurope #europetravel #bosnia #traveladdict #retreat #wanderlust #solotraveling
Mostar is a gorgeous gem of the Balkans. Its uniqu Mostar is a gorgeous gem of the Balkans. Its unique blend of cultural diversity, riveting history and natural beauty offers an inspiring escape. I traveled solo in Mostar for 2 days, exploring the Old Town along with day trips. Mostar's main attraction is the bridge jumping tradition.

The iconic Stari Most is the symbol of Mostar and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built in Balkan Islamic architecture in the 16th century, its height is 24 m (78 ft 9 in). The bridge connects the two sides of the city divided by the Neretva River. During the Balkan War, the bridge was destroyed. However, it became rebuilt in 2004 with the stones from the original bridge. The bridge is steep and slippery with crowds often on it. So, wear good shoes and be aware when taking in its incredible views of the city and river.

The main attraction in Mostar is watching the tradition of locals jumping off the Stari Most into the river. This began in 1664 as a rite-of-passage for 16-year-old boys. Today, young men from the Mostar Diving Club take the plunge. Leading up to the plunge, assistants gather donations from the crowds.

To learn more, check out my blog:
https://truewindhealingtravel.com/mostar-tour-highlights/

#mostar #mostarbridge #mostarbridgejump #mostarbosnia #bosniaandherzegovina #balkans #bridgejump #bridgejumping #instatravelling #instatravel #europetravels #easterneurope #wanderlusting #wanderlust #travelgirl #solotravel #travelblog #travelblogger #solotravel
After 3 days in Sarajevo, I wholeheartedly get why After 3 days in Sarajevo, I wholeheartedly get why National Geographic named it Top Destination for 2025. Here, east meets west with a fascinating blend of Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian influences. However, wounds from the 90’s Bosnian War are still healing. Afterall, Sarajevo suffered the longest siege (almost 4 years) in modern warfare by the Bosnian Serbs. Thankfully, its citizens’ resilience prevailed otherwise.

To learn more, check out my blog:
https://truewindhealingtravel.com/sarajevo-travel-destination-highlights/

Photos:
Abandoned Olympic Bobsleigh Track
Sarajevo '84 Winter Olympics
Tunnel of Hope during Sarajevo Siege
Sarajevo Rose Memorial (Where more than 3 people died in Siege)
Eternal Flame Monument - Honoring WW II victims
Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque
Sacred Heart Cathedral
Old Bazaar

#sarajevo #sarajevobosnia #bosnia #bosniaandherzegovina🇧🇦 #bosniatravel #europetravels #balkans #europedestinations #solotraveler #solofemaletravel #wanderlusting #wanderlust #travelbloggers #nationalgeographictopdestination2025 #nationalgeographic #instatravel #europehistory
The Plitvice Lakes National Park is located in cen The Plitvice Lakes National Park is located in central Croatia’s mountainous karst area. It’s the largest national park in the country and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park is world-famous for its 16 turquoise, tufa lakes connected by 90 cascades and waterfalls. A confluence of many rivers and subterranean karst rivers created these lakes. 

Check out my blog/video:
https://truewindhealingtravel.com/plitvice-lakes-planning-tips/

#waterfallsofinstagram #croatiatravel #croatia #waterfalls #waterfall #adventuretravel #wanderlust #europetravels #cascade #travelingram #naturelovers #naturegrams #traveladdict #solofemaletravel #solotraveler
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