If you're able to spend a few extra days in South Korea, consider visiting Cheju Island. You'll enjoy black volcanic stones, the wind, and women divers called 'haenyo.'

Cheju Island, often called the "Hawaii of Korea," is located 150 kilometres southwest of the Korean peninsula. Because warm currents flow near the island, expect a mild climate throughout the year. It's a favorite destination for honeymooners. And golfers!!

Aside from the varied scenery -- Mt. Halla volcano, the beaches, waterfalls, hiking trails, fields of barley -- you can catch a glimpse of an extraordinary cultural treasure: the female divers, called haenyo.

During Korea's Yi dynasty (1392-1910), a Dutch ship was wrecked on the island's coast. Subsequently, its crew was detained for 13 years. One of the seamen, Hamel, published a record of their experiences upon his return to Europe, describing the 'haenyo' as mermaids.

You can see women divers everywhere from spring to fall. Ask the locals the most populated spots and exact time you can watch them bob in and out of the water. Originally, these hardy women collected foodstuffs for the family and to sell in the village. Today most of the harvest, especially sea-urchins, is exported to Japan or sold to tourists.

Unfortunately, the tradition is dying out as younger women head to the cities. There were 23,000 haenyo in 1930, and less than 10,000 today; most are middle-aged. But they're very friendly and cooperate with avid photographers and tourists.

For more information, visit: The Cheju Information Network.

(Article originally published by www.expatspouse.com)