SEEING SNOW FOR THE FIRST TIME: A Tropical Boy's First Snow Experience in Seoul

"To see something for the very first time is to see something in its purest form."

Living in a tropical country like the Philippines (which has only the wet and dry seasons), I have always dreamed of seeing snow. I guess all my kababayans (fellow citizens) are longing for this kind of experience as well. Fortunately, visiting South Korea for an educational trip last December 2014 was a dream come true as I witnessed snow for the first time in Seoul.

As we prepare for sleep after a long day of touring around Seoul, one of my friend's suddenly screamed her heart out -- not because she saw something scary, but because she saw snow falling from the sky! It was her who first noticed that it's snowing outside for real. ALL of us hurriedly wore our winter jackets and went outside since it's our first time to experience an actual snowfall.

Me and Rupert (right) enjoying the snow! It was our first time seeing and playing with snow. Of course, we made sure to take selfies as souvenirs. Haha.

I watched the snow float in the air like feathers, fall on my bonnet, and melt on my jacket in an instant. I can still remember the joy it had given us -- everyone was at their happiest. It seemed as though seeing snow for the very first time had brought out the child within all of us. Everything that happened in that moment was surreal. It was one of those magical and memorable moments of my life that I'll remember forever.

I could have created a snow angel but it was freezing that night.

This is Aper who personally approached me to take a picture of him. Look how proud and happy he is!

The snowfall was not that strong but it was enough to cover the cars and the streets.

What are the odds of snowfall on our last night in Seoul? Anyhow, we're truly lucky to experience it.

Taking a groupie is a must before ending certain activities. Hehe.

Here's me proudly showing off the snow on my head. Why Nico, why? LOL

---

MY FIRST SKIING EXPERIENCE. One of the highlights of our educational tour in Seoul is skiing at Yongpyong Ski Resort! This was the activity we have chosen for our "free day" -- no technical activities involved, only pure fun. We're quite unsure though if the snow there were real or just man-made as there was no snowfall. Although there was no snowfall, we had a thrilling and intense skiing experience.

That feeling you get from stepping out of your comfort zone and learning something new.

I was wrapped up in puffy gear that made it somehow hard to walk, then there were these equipment attached to my feet too -- which made me look like I actually know how to ski.

My ski competitors, Danie and Ceara, being competitive AF. Watch out for our competition below.

We can't believe that after just a few trials, we were able to ski down on certain areas with ease. Full of fresh confidence, me and my friends decided to ski down a very steep area. We had an agreement that whoever falls down first will buy us desserts. At first, we were skiing down the slope just fine but then... Boom. We failed to know how to stop or control our speed, fully starfish'd onto the snow, and unable to figure out how to get back up. It did hurt a little but it was truly hilarious to fall down with your friends at the same time. We could've made a huge snowball as we roll down the slope! LOL

Sometimes, you just have to chill and appreciate the view (after falling a couple of times).

---

KISSING SNOW GOODBYE. On our last day in Seoul, we spent our remaining time preparing for our flight since we will be departing at noon. On our way to the airport, we were greeted by scenic views of snow-covered buildings, streets, and cars. It was lovely and the best way to say goodbye to South Korea.

There was a hint of snow on the floor which made the floor very slippery.

Everywhere we looked was covered in powdery white snow.

My friend needed to go to the toilet so we had a quick stop and took some final photos with the snow.

STARING AT THE SNOW... JUST ONE LAST TIME. 😞

---

That feeling of bliss when you experience something for the very first time can't be matched -- but it doesn't stop there. It is the likelihood of what could come from your newfound experience -- new memories, new outlooks, new goals -- that can truly change your life.

---

Have a great day!