Cool Korean Stuff

1. Kimchee for breakfast.
2. Waiter call buttons on the tables at restaurants and bars.
3. Wash and dry toilets.



4. Clean and bright subways.


5. Being known as "Miss Kim."

Korean Street Food

I'm not entirely sure, but I think she's making kimchee.


Veggies are predominantly pickled and spicy.


Or fried ... I enjoyed tempura chili peppers.


This woman prepared the most incredible fish and seafood on a propane grill on the street. Yum!


My colleague, Tim, chowed down on clams.

Busan

Busan, formerly Pusan, is home to about 3.6 million people and is the largest port city in South Korea.


My hotel is right on Haeundae Beach, so I walked along the boardwalk yesterday.


I stumbled on a giant commercial fish market.



It was one of the many times I couldn't decipher the signs.


But when they're pulled from the tank and flopping around in the baskets, even I know they're fresh.

Jean and Family

When I arrived in Seoul about 4 p.m., I immediately connected with a large contingent of Jean's friends and family who are finishing up a visit with her. She took us out for a old-fashined noodle dinner. I was too hungry to take any photos before we ate. Let's just say I ate some pork. And I am still alive :)


Jean


Trina, Jean's NYC friend who now lives in SF.


Jean's niece, Kira.


The photo fails to reflect the sheer insanity the street - Times Square on steroids.

More HSBG

One of the acts I was most interested in seeing last weekend was James McMurtry. He's an incredible songwriter and his live performance did not disappoint. He's the son of novelist Larry McMurtry and his storytelling ability proves it.


One act that was an unexpected delight was Nathaniel Rateliff. I don't know how best to characterize his music, but I suggest you check him out. It's definitely unique.

Steve Earle and Family

While Allison Moorer and her sister Shelby Lynne performed on the Porch Stage at Hardly Strictly Bluegrass yesterday ...


... Allison's husband, Steve Earle, and their son John Henry hang out in the audience.

(My personal highlight of the two-day music festival.)

California Wine Merchant

I ventured out into the Marina (egads!) to check out the California Wine Merchant. It doesn't sound like it, but this hole-in-the-wall is a lovely little wine bar. Most enjoyable.