I Know You Got Seoul

“Travel makes one modest. You see what a tiny place you occupy in the world.” — Gustav Flaubert

I was lucky enough to spend forty-eight hours in Seoul for a fashion shoot last week. Touching down into sub-zero temperatures, I found myself drinking the South Korean capital in like a thirsty gazelle at the watering hole. 

The following morning at the hotel gym, as the morning sun chased away the darkness, I glimpsed the first signs of falling snow. Rushing back to my room to shower and rug up, I disappeared onto the streets of Gangnam to capture the iconic scene.

I was instantly drawn to the tight-lipped locals who left me looking like a bum busking for pocket change. The Seoul brothers and sisters I laid my eyes on were immaculately dressed, top to toe in designer threads that made me wonder whether I was in a Korean adaptation of Mad Men. Dressed in knee-length down jackets and leather boots, they went about their business with a pep in their step, full of grace and humility. 

After a spot of breakfast, my photographer sister from another mister Kelly Geddes and I went to visit a Buddhist temple round the block. As we entered the ancient grounds, the falling snow intensified and caused me to capture content like a man-possessed.

Beaming like a couple of starved hyenas, my ecstasy was soon replaced by a profound peace as I gazed upon the visiting locals whose reverence and gratitude to their God humbled me inside. This moment was exceptional, a priceless gift and a welcome reminder to always step out of your comfort zone.

Every time I travel, it helps to remind me that a life well-lived has no time for formulas. It’s about surrendering to the unknown, trying that sparkling milky-white rice wine that reminds you of Mylanta and saying yes to an all you can eat Korean buffet filled with sights and smells that leave the ego hyperventilating.