Daejeon - September 30 - First Full Day

On one hand, I regret the globalization and Americanization of the world.  On the other hand, I am very glad to have Starbucks coffee right next to our hotel.
After breakfast, a nice walk across twin arches bridge,

and through the park to meet Isabel for lunch.
 Some weird architecture here - this tower was built for the Daejeon Expo of 1993.  It creeped me out - not sure if was from the past or the future.

There is also an enormous "statue" of a golfer at the local course.

Loren by his right foot - told you he was big

Isabel had arranged for a friend to take us around for the afternoon, which was great.  Korea has a 97% literacy rate, and taxi drivers will read your note to get you where you want to go - still easier with someone who knows the city.  We went to the "bag store" to get new suitcases - both of our were on their last wheels ;-)
Store has a whole floor devoted to suitcases, and I had a great time comparing features, prices, and styles.  Then back to first floor to browse through very high quality knock off purses, backpacks, briefcases and shoes. Bought 2 new suitcases - much more stylish than anything I've seen in the US

Then Isabel's friend took to Yuseong Hot Springs - ok, this was truly great.  Part of Daejeon is above hot springs, and the city has built open air places to sit and soak your feet.  First you wash off, then sit on the wooden benches.  Posted water temperature was 41-43 Celcius (106-109 F).  You might not think hot water is refreshing - but it felt great. We soaked for about 45 minutes, then got some beers and went down to sit by the river. 


People were playing a form of golf, with croquet mallets.  Great people watching.  We've seen lots of people wearing bandanas or masks, as well as gloves.  Seems to be a way to prevent catching germs, or avoid spreading them.  Also Koreans all wear long pants and long sleeves, often with jackets.  It's not to stay warm - but for modesty.

Kelsy (Isabel's friend) has a boyfriend - Matthew- who has been living here for 5 years, and speaks fairly  fluent Korean.  He met us at the river, then we walked couple miles to the "ramen restaurant".  I had the same experience when I lived in Qatar - the expats used a generic term for shops and restaurants - and everyone knew what and where you meant.  Anyhow, Isabel and her friend Anna met us for some great ramen.   The "kids" suggested going out for karaoke, but after walking about 8 miles today, we were ready for bed.  Kissed Isabel good night and got in a cab.