D MJ Binkley's Guestbook

Korean Memories
Ah, so wonderful to read this blog! Not only does it bring back amazing memories for me from my own trip to Seoul a few years ago, it is also wonderful to see you both in your element and travelling again! The Business Class trip looks amazing, and a great birthday treat. So glad you got to see Suwon, which was on my own list but due to lack of time, I couldn't quite make it. And the Yoido Church! I'm so touched that you also went there and thought of me ☺️ I'm glad to read that you were able to still do part of the DMZ trip, even though the JSA wasn't available. There is so much to learn and take in at this very unusual part of the world. A wonderful read! 😁

On US soldier and on travelling in business class
The US soldier who last year crossed the border to North Korea at the DMZ was released after negotiations by staff from the Swedish Embassy. The US doesn't have diplomatic relations with North Korea. Instead all connections on embassy level between USA and North Korea goes through the Swedish embassy. I actually get to travel business class every now and then when economy class is overbooked. I took me years to understand why they so often pick me to get upgraded instead of someone else. I believe that it's because of my name. My given name is Åke. The first letter, Å, doesn't exist in the English alphabet. It is automatically transcribed into a double A. So on airline bookings I get the name "Aake Dahlloef". The passenger lists are probably in alphabetical order by given name, making me mostly the first name on the list. When they upgrade passengers they probably go from the top and work themselves down. I have travelled business class maybe 10 times and never paid anything extra for it. I know Dave, life isn't fair. /Ake

Time has been good to South Korea
So, almost 30 years ago, I traveled for business to South Korea on multiple occasions. As you two know, I love the cultures in that region of the world. I must say I am happy to read your impressions of how clean and progressive you found things. That was not the case when I was there. They were still struggling to get to what you find there today. The pride of the people was so obvious and hard not to admire because general living conditions were still on the mend. I look forward to the food blog to come next. P.S. - Lisa's oil painting arrived yesterday. Lot's of good memories attached to that beautiful oil. :)

Its always nice to go back and reread a blog from your fellow travelers. Compare notes! Thank you for inspiring me to visit Jordan.