South Korea… Finally! I have wanted to go to South Korea for sometime now. I have heard some incredible feedback from fellow travelers about this country, and I have to say, it lives up to its reputation.
How to get from the Airport to your hotel?? No problem! There is a train from Gimpo International Airport to Seoul Station from there you can transfer to any line to get to your hotel.
Day 1: The first day I got in around 7:30 at night so I quickly put my bags down and headed to Myeong-dong. This place is full of life at night and is as equally exciting during the day. I stayed in this area and I recommend staying near it. Myeong-dong is filled with tons of food stalls, skincare stores, and entertainment. I dare you to walk out of there without a skincare mask purchase.
Day 2: It is palace day. Rent yourself a traditional Korean outfit from any shops around the palace for the day. Then head to Gyeongbokgung. This beautiful palace has gardens, history, and plenty of spacious areas to take pictures and walk around. It is like stepping back in time. From there head to Changdeokgung palace. There are free tours of this palace in English. I highly recommend taking the tour it was really helpful and informative. After you have had your fill of the palaces take a stroll in Hanok village and make your way to Insadong street. This is a great area to pick up some cute souvenirs. At night take the cable car, or if you haven’t had enough walking for the day hike, to Seoul tower in Namsan Park.
Day 3: Full day DMZ/JSA tour. I booked mine through TripAdvisor. Yes it is pricey however it is a must do when in South Korea. The DMZ zone separates South and North Korea. You will get an in depth history of the two countries difficult relationship, and the JSA will take you in the UN zone where you actually get a chance to encounter North Korea. You will even have the opportunity to go into one of the four tunnels N. Korea made to attack Seoul. That’s all I’m saying about that because I think it’s better to experience this for yourself. It is a must do! At night hike the Namsan Fortress wall, you can start the trail at Dongdaemun.
Day 4: If you love to walk then you will just love this little trail they created on either side of the Cheonggycecheon stream that runs through Seoul. Start your day off strolling the Cheonggycecheon Stream. You will see many of the local people hanging out here. They enjoy some relaxation by dipping their feet into the cool water. The stream will lead you to Kwang Jang Market. Stroll the market and try out some local dishes. Be careful of the rice cakes in the red sauce, it’s spicy!!!! Also take a walk around Dongdaemun market. There is a great clothing shopping area. When you are ready get yourself over to Gwanghwamun square. This area has lots of little artsy stalls, as well as a monumental King Sejong-ro standing tall in front of the Gwanghwamun palace. From there, if you still have the energy, hike Inwangsan!
Day 5: The worst part of visiting Korea in the summer is the crazy heat. The best part of visiting Korea in the summer is the MUD FESTIVAL! July 21-31 the annual mud festival is held in a town called Boreyong, 2 hours south of Seoul. This city is full of natural mud, and they celebrate it with this wild and crazy festival. There was even a K-Pop concert and fireworks in the evening !!!! I would have to say my favorite part of this day was the dancing at the close of the festival, at one point a ton of local people as well as tourists ran to a pool full of mud to dance to Gangnam style. Ok yes I’m guilty, I joined.
Day 6: Bukahansan national park. Grab the 143 train from Gireum station ( Line 4). You can get off and walk around Gireum for a bit if you like or just transfer to the bus. The park is the last stop on the bus. The park is free. You will find tours to the park but don’t waste your money. Just get there by bus for 1 USD and wander the trails on your own. Make sure to pack some food. At night head to Itaewon. This area is filled with Expats and a variety of Western food restaurant choices. If you had your fill of Korean food try the Turkish food in this area, it is delicious !
Things that I didn’t have time for but recommend
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Seoul is home to a raccoon cafe. Hangout with some crazy raccoons while you sip tea.
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Trickeye museum Seoul
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War memorial museum Korea
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