If there’s one thing I could choose to do over and over again for the rest of my life, it would be to travel the world. Growing up, my mum always made sure we went on family holidays during the holiday season, turning our trips into a beloved tradition. Those experiences sparked a lifelong love for travel, and it quickly became more than just a hobby—it’s my passion. Every destination offers something new, and through my travels, I’ve been exposed to different languages and cultures, with English becoming my most valuable tool in connecting with the world.
One thing travel has taught me is that to truly appreciate a new place, you need to do your homework first. It’s more than just booking flights and packing bags—you have to dive into the culture, learn about the people, and understand the traditions of where you’re going. Among all the places I’ve explored, Seoul, South Korea holds a special place in my heart.
Before my winter trip there, I spent hours researching Korean culture, hoping to avoid any surprises and make the most of my visit. One of the first things I learned was that bowing is a gesture of respect in Korea. Armed with that knowledge, I felt a little more prepared to greet locals in a way they would appreciate.
But my research didn’t stop there. Myeongdong Street, a foodie’s paradise, caught my attention. I had read about its bustling street food scene, and sure enough, it didn’t disappoint. One bite of their seafood omelette, and I was hooked. And of course, I couldn’t miss out on visiting Gyeongbokgung Palace, a landmark that any K-drama fan would recognize. Majestic as it was, the palace’s vast grounds and the biting winter cold made it impossible to see everything. Still, the glimpse I caught was breathtaking.
Though my trip was short—just five days and four nights—it was unforgettable. All the preparation, the research, paid off in ways I hadn’t expected. It’s amazing how a bit of planning can turn a trip from good to extraordinary.
The truth is, travelling and learning about the world becomes much more enriching when you can rely on English to research, communicate, and build connections with people from all walks of life. I am proud to say that my love and passion for travel is never-ending, and English has been a gateway, opening up the world for me in ways I never imagined.
By: Ms. Nursabrina Batrisyia