TRAVELLIVE MAGAZINE Travellive 03-2016 | Page 115

Seoul is also a good place to check out at this time of year with cherry festivals near Seokchon Lake and in Yeouido Park. I Marathon in cherry blossom season n Gyeongju, the authorities and locals celebrate the cherry blossom season in their own way, with a marathon. Gyenongju Cherry Marathon was first held in 1991. This year, the race will celebrate their 25th year. The Cherry Marathon 2016 will take place on April 9th with about 12,000 people participating in the race. Runners can choose from the full (42km), half (21km), 10 km, and 5 km courses. The course starts at the Gyeongju World Culture Expo Park and passes through various parts of the city beneath the shade of cherry trees. Those who love running can register for the Gyenongju Cherry Marathon on at https:// cherrymarathon.com:48271/etc/?vmode=05 until mid-March. The participation fee for the full or half marathons and the 10km is 30,000 won. The 5k health course is 20,000 won. Running through a shower of flower petals with faint scent of cherry that the warm spring winds carry to your nose promises be among the most unforgettable experiences of your life. Notable Korean cultural and historic festivals this spring: Spring in Korea attracts visitors with not only with its natural beauty but also by the cultural value which is represented in many of the festive activities. An array of festivals taking place in early spring contribute to preserve and promote Korean history and cultural heritage for travelers. Immerse yourself this festive season in some of the exciting activities offered. Join the Namhansanseong World Heritage Experience to try on traditional royal attire, enjoy a tea ceremony, make books and paper fans, enjoy a Nongak performance, and attend a concert at one of the Royal palaces including Jagyeongjeon, Sugyeongjeon, and Gyeongbok Palaces during the months of May, June, September and October this year or go to the Lotus Lantern Festival in May where you can learn about Buddhism. Moreover, if you're interested in exploring the culture and history of Korean kings, then save the date for the royal festivals in Seoul and Jongmyo. The grey days of winter have gone along with the biting cold. Spring is the time for renewal. Come to Korea, get ready for the new year ahead and let the magnificent landscape and festivals refill your soul. Further information: ü Korea Tourism Organization also has its own forecasts for cherry blossom season, you can check it on www.english. visitkorea.or.kr ü For detailed information about festivals, please visit https://visitkorea. org.vn/ Imagine for a moment that we’re wandering under the cherry trees and a gentle breeze carrying the sweet floral fragrance causes a shower of cherry blossoms to fall upon us. TRAVELLIVE 115