National Arboretum / Dongyi (국립수목원 / 동이식당)

As I was replying to an email today, I was reminded of one of my nicest time in Korea. The visit to the National Arboretum, a little tea time and that dinner in a wooden restaurant that followed.

If you are wondering the meaning of 'Arboretum', so did I when I first heard about it. It is strictly, a collection of trees. But now more commonly, a botanical gardens with research facilities.

According to Christy's husband, the Arboretum is only open to 5000 visitors a day. As such, reservation is a must, especially on the weekends. We visited on a Friday and there were only pockets of visitors. Plenty of space and tranquility for all.

Life in full bloom at the National Arboretum

Thirsty? Help yourself, but do check that it's safe to drink first!

Quietly famous Dongyi restaurant

(Click on link to view a korean blog on the restaurant)

Again, according to Christy's husband, this restaurant started out as a small little place and it was so good and expanded to it's current size. It's got a lovely earthy decor and just superbly good handmade food. It's located just outside the Arboretum, right in the midst of lush greenery.

Dinner was in the cool of the evening with the best food and company one could have asked for.

Life is filling up with memories like these.