Of the Korean cities I have lived in, it is the only city where I felt as if I was locally famous. Since my name is Thomas, my students made a pun on my name by calling me Tomato. Every time I went downtown, children whom I didn't even know called me by my nickname.

I can vouch for Tema Motel. The service is courteous and the bedrooms and bathrooms are spacious.

Veterinary Services

When I was taking care of a friend's rabbit, I had trouble finding rabbit pellets. I finally found what I needed at Hongju Sujokgwan (홍주 수족관).

When I had to leave for a short trip, they took care of the rabbit for me.

• Temples

Sudeoksa temple, located about a 15 minute cab ride west of town, is my favorite temple in Korea. It is situated above a somewhat touristy little town on a scenic mountainside. It has a beautiful main temple complex with hiking trails that snake up the mountain to another park like area further up the mountain. To get there, catch a bus at the stop around the corner from Hongju supermarket. Alternatively, a taxi ride will cost you about $10, but is faster and more comfortable than the long and often overcrowded bus ride. There are dozens of great restaurants in the town below the temple, as well as some interesting tourist gifts.

If I had one wish to make for the city of Hongseong, it would be for a good centrally located park. The downtown library has trees and park benches in front, but no restrooms except inside the library.

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