Toto We're Not in Thailand Anymore

It has been a week since my arrival in Korea. I am not sure I was prepared for how different it is than anywhere else I have lived. The travel portion went smoothly and I was immediately thrown into working the next day. This proved to be welcome as my apartment contains only a mat on the floor, no internet, cable, or TV for that matter. After 3 days at school I got the next 6 days off for Korean Thanksgiving. Luckily I do know a few people in the city and made a friend from school who has been really good to me. A description of this place is still not something I can put into words at this point. I can say however, that I am a lot more overwhelmed by Seoul than I expected. Over 10.5 million people! Its nuts. The level of modernization was so quick it seems that society as a whole hasn't quite caught up. The juxtaposition of uber modern meets traditional is interesting. Again I don't really know how to articulate this any further. The cost of living seems to be on par with America and they looove their tech gadgets. I went to get a phone and ended up with a used Galaxy, it's really a  nice phone. The people in the shop all lined up at the counter to help me and we made lots of hand gestures. As soon as they discovered my new tablet it was promptly taken for a game of Angry Birds Space. A sales guy brought me a mango soda. They were delightful although no English was exchanged. At school my hair has been the major topic. The kids keep asking me why my hair is light and my eyes are blue. They are so curious. Some of them smell me. The last day before break a few teachers asked if they could touch it and likened it to "Barbie Doll Hair." Funny thing is I have been to multiple countries where its noticed, but not to this extent. It's a little much sometimes as I am not big on being the center of attention but I understand the natural curiosity that comes with foreigners who look so different. People stare at me constantly, but I will take it over being called "Falang" all the time.  So far I have gotten to know my home area of Ilsan, had a few subway excursions, and seen the inside of lots of bars. It's amazing how even a well traveled westerner can still be completely overwhelmed by a new place. I am missing the comforts of having a home, and this vagabond lifestyle makes them fleeting. The locals are perfectly kind but I have noticed they do not smile the same as Thais or Oregonians. So far if I ask for help from a stranger, I shall receive, but the overall demeanor is more subdued. It's not good or bad, it just is. I appreciate the directness but still feel I have a lot to learn. As this first week comes to a close I am very aware of how whelmed I am, not over or under, but just so. I am longing for the familiarity of Thailand and home but excited to continue on this new journey.