Since I chose Gurye as my first solo travel destination, I was actually quite worried.
I had to get around on foot without a car, and the first hurdle was getting from the terminal to the house, but I was so grateful that the host readily offered to pick me up late at night.
They carried my luggage to the entrance of the accommodation...
The moment I opened the door, I felt a warm atmosphere and neat furnishings.
Even the low sound of the TV made it feel less like a new home and more like visiting my youngest aunt's house.
The next day, after waiting in line at Mokwol Bakery, which was a 5-minute walk away,
I felt so happy walking along the Siocheon stream, admiring the murals and watching the flock of ducks swimming leisurely.
The following morning, while strolling around the neighborhood, I visited the Boseok Sauna and Izakaya Gumi that I had bookmarked; the pretty cotton gauze items at Deureureuk that I stopped by by chance; and Ubong, a restaurant recommended by a young man from Gurye who kindly guided me right to the front.
It was so great that everything was within walking distance.
Oh, and the Yanggun Duck Wings were also incredibly delicious, as they readily served me a half portion. The nearby Bubu Restaurant and Dong-a Restaurant are also delicious.
I visited Mokwol Bakery twice; make sure to go right when the bread is coming out of the oven. The sesame bread has become the food of my life.
The market days are on the 3rd and 8th, which are wonderful, so be sure to stop by, and don't forget to try the rice gelato at Binggurye nearby.
The walking path along Seosicheon Stream in front of the house, which I strolled with a friend who came to visit, and the bamboo forest path along the La Plata River were also wonderful.
Ssangsanjae, the only place I went by taxi, was a photo zone at every turn. It was a special experience in my life, where I felt like a Gurye citizen rather than a traveler during my stay. I want to tell myself that I am proud of myself for having the courage to travel alone.
I think all of this is thanks to the warmth of the house and the host's consideration.
Oh, and I heard that the view from the nearby swimming pool—where you can see Mt. Jirisan—is so good that people come all the way from Seoul just to swim. I want to come back to this house in Gurye again sometime in the summer.
This is a rambling post, but for those who are hesitant about traveling to Gurye alone or are hesitant about choosing this accommodation... I hope this was of at least a little help to you.
I'll be back next summer.
My love, Gurye. Until then, goodbye.
Thank you.