#Hanbok rental South Korea

[sammelantoursandtravels]

Experience the Wonders of South Korea with Sammelan Tour & Travels

South Korea is a captivating blend of rich history and modern innovation, offering travelers an array of unforgettable experiences. If you're ready to explore this vibrant country, look no further than Sammelan Tour & Travels for customized South Korea travel packages tailored to your interests. From dynamic city life to serene countryside, your adventure awaits!

Why Choose Sammelan Tour & Travels?

At Sammelan Tour & Travels, we understand that each traveler's journey is unique. Our South Korea vacation deals are designed to provide exceptional value, allowing you to experience the best of Korea without overspending. Whether you’re interested in a short trip or a deep cultural dive, our flexible packages ensure an unforgettable experience.

Top Destinations to Discover in South Korea

1. Seoul: The Heart of the Nation

Seoul, the energetic capital, is a must-visit destination. This city is a fascinating mix of ancient traditions and cutting-edge technology. Don’t miss Gyeongbokgung Palace, where you can witness the stunning changing of the guard. For an authentic local experience, visit Myeongdong, renowned for its street food and eclectic shops.

2. Busan: Coastal Charm

For those who love the sea, Busan is the perfect escape. This coastal city is home to picturesque beaches like Haeundae and cultural landmarks such as Beomeosa Temple. Participate in our South Korea cultural tours to delve into Busan’s rich history while enjoying its delicious seafood.

3. Gyeongju: A Journey Through History

Known as the “museum without walls,” Gyeongju is steeped in history. Explore UNESCO World Heritage sites like Bulguksa Temple and Seokguram Grotto, where ancient artistry comes to life. With our expert South Korea tour guides, you’ll uncover the fascinating stories behind these historic sites.

4. Jeju Island: A Natural Haven

Jeju Island is famous for its stunning natural beauty, including lush landscapes, waterfalls, and volcanic features. Hike to the summit of Hallasan, the highest mountain in South Korea, and savor the island’s unique culinary offerings, including fresh seafood and local specialties.

The Benefits of Having a Local Guide

Exploring a new country can be daunting, but our skilled South Korea tour guides enhance your experience with their local insights. They provide valuable context on customs, history, and dining recommendations, ensuring you make the most of your journey. Their expertise will help you connect deeply with South Korean culture.

Cultural Experiences You Won't Want to Miss

1. Experience Traditional Hanbok

Engage with South Korean culture by wearing a Hanbok, the traditional dress. Many historic sites offer rental services, letting you immerse yourself in local tradition while capturing beautiful memories.

2. Explore K-Pop and Culinary Delights

No visit to South Korea is complete without indulging in its famous cuisine. Join our food tours to taste beloved dishes like Bibimbap and Korean BBQ. K-Pop fans should also explore entertainment companies or catch a live performance for an unforgettable experience.

3. Join Vibrant Local Festivals

Time your visit to coincide with one of South Korea’s lively festivals, such as the Cherry Blossom Festival in spring or the Busan International Film Festival in the fall. These events provide an excellent opportunity to connect with the local community and immerse yourself in the culture.

Discovering the Best Travel Deals

Sammelan Tour & Travels is committed to helping you find the best South Korea vacation deals. Our all-inclusive packages cover everything from flights and accommodations to guided tours and cultural experiences, making travel planning simple and enjoyable. Plus, our flexible itineraries allow for personalized exploration.

Conclusion

South Korea offers a unique blend of adventure, culture, and lasting memories. With Sammelan Tour & Travels, you’ll discover the best places to visit in South Korea while engaging meaningfully with its rich culture

Start planning your South Korean adventure today! Browse our exclusive travel packages and let us help you create unforgettable experiences. For inquiries and bookings, visit our website or reach out to us directly. Your remarkable journey in South Korea is just a step away!

[holidayspackagesglh]

South Korea Trip Packages 2023: Plan Your Perfect Journey

Are you ready for an unforgettable adventure? South Korea, a land of ancient traditions and modern marvels, awaits your exploration in 2023. Whether you're a history buff, a K-pop enthusiast, a foodie, or simply seeking a unique cultural experience, South Korea has something to offer everyone. In this comprehensive guide, we will dive into the enticing world of South Korea trip packages for 2023. From the bustling streets of Seoul to the serene beauty of Jeju Island, we'll explore the top destinations and the best ways to plan your perfect journey.

Seoul Delights - Your Gateway to South Korea

The journey begins in the vibrant heart of South Korea, Seoul. This bustling metropolis seamlessly blends tradition and modernity. Explore historic palaces like Gyeongbokgung, where you can witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony, a symbol of South Korea's rich cultural heritage. Stroll through the bustling streets of Insadong to discover traditional crafts and savor mouthwatering Korean street food. With a range of South Korea trip packages, you can customize your Seoul experience to include visits to iconic landmarks like Namsan Tower, Lotte World, and Bukchon Hanok Village.

Unveiling Cultural Treasures

One of the most captivating aspects of South Korea is its culture. Dive headfirst into the world of Korean traditions by joining cultural experiences like hanbok (traditional clothing) rentals and tea ceremonies. South Korea trip packages often include these immersive experiences, giving you the chance to connect with the local way of life. Don't forget to catch a mesmerizing performance of Nanta or a traditional musical at Jeongdong Theater. These packages ensure you don't miss out on these cultural gems.

Satisfy Your Taste Buds

Korean cuisine is celebrated worldwide for its bold flavors and diverse dishes. With South Korea trip packages, you'll have the opportunity to savor culinary delights that range from sizzling barbecue to delectable street food. Taste the iconic bulgogi, bibimbap, and kimchi, or venture into more exotic dishes like live octopus (sannakji). Seoul's Myeongdong district and Gwangjang Market offer foodies a haven of flavors. South Korea trip packages often include food tours, allowing you to savor the best of Korean cuisine.

Natural Wonders in South Korea

Beyond its bustling cities, South Korea boasts breathtaking natural beauty. Jeju Island, often called the "Hawaii of Asia," is a paradise of volcanic landscapes, lush greenery, and pristine beaches. Opt for South Korea trip packages that include a visit to this island gem. Hike up Hallasan, South Korea's highest peak, or explore the surreal lava tubes at Manjanggul Cave. The tranquil serenity of Jeju is a stark contrast to the bustling city life and a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.

Experiencing South Korea's Seasons

South Korea is a country that transforms with the seasons. Each season offers a unique charm, from cherry blossoms in spring to vibrant autumn foliage. South Korea trip packages often cater to specific seasons, allowing you to witness the country's natural beauty at its peak. Experience the breathtaking cherry blossom festivals in Seoul or wander through the colorful forests of Naejangsan National Park in autumn. The choice is yours, and these packages ensure you make the most of the season you choose to visit.

South Korea Trip Packages 2023 - Making Your Dream Journey a Reality

Planning a trip to South Korea in 2023 is an exciting prospect, and with the right South Korea trip package, it can be a seamless and unforgettable experience. These packages typically offer a range of inclusions, from accommodation and transportation to guided tours and cultural experiences. They are designed to cater to various interests and budgets, ensuring that you can tailor your trip to your preferences.

Whether you're a solo traveler, a couple seeking a romantic getaway, a family with children, or a group of friends, there's a South Korea trip package for you. Most packages allow customization, so you can add or remove activities based on your interests.

In conclusion, South Korea trip packages for 2023 are your ticket to a remarkable adventure. From the dynamic streets of Seoul to the tranquility of Jeju Island, from cultural experiences to culinary delights, and from spring blossoms to autumn hues, South Korea has something special in store for every traveler. So, why wait? Start planning your South Korea journey today and make 2023 a year to remember. Don't miss the opportunity to explore this incredible destination with the convenience and value offered by South Korea trip packages. Your Korean adventure awaits!

Must Read: Discover America: Exclusive Tour Packages for Indian Travelers

[ohkristyng]

[somanykdramas]

TALE OF THE NINE-TAILED

GENRES: Romance, Drama, Fantasy

SUMMARY: When you wait 600+ years for your first love to reincarnate and somehow she's even more awesome than before.

THIS SHOW HAS EVERYTHING: Mint chocolate chip ice cream, adorable veterinarians, underworld administration, iced Americanos, bold brooches, cave bondage, knife chasms, 1000 year grudges, favor paybacks, hanbok rentals, and Lee Dong Wook's hair.

HOT TAKE: I will not deny anyone the allure of Lee Dong-Wook because I am right there with you, but if he wasn’t around and this was just a series about Jo Bo-Ah’s character looking for folklore oddities around South Korea, I wouldn’t complain in the least.

[v11vica]

🍁Photo title: ”Autumn in Seoul”. Date taken: September 2019🍁

For context, this was most likely my OC Cynthia’s last “official” photo before she passed away and was resurrected into Project Aceso. On the day the photo was taken, she probably stopped by a hanbok rental shop with a few of her friends.

I also wanted to draw Cynthia in a hanbok bc I feel like it reflects an important part of her identity. While she isn’t ethnically Korean, she lived a significant portion of her life in South Korea (from age 4 until death at age 18), so she feels a very strong connection to South Korea and considers it her home. Cynthia is a third culture kid, which is a person that lives outside of their parents’ culture during their formative years. If anyone has any questions regarding Cynthia, lmk! I plan to introduce her properly via a comic soon, so stay tuned 🌟

[kchatjjigae]

Another big day in Kdramaland! We’re counting down the last hours of Leila’s stay in Korea with a march through the city. We get all classy and cultural with tours of a few palaces, one we meant to and one on accident, get our Coffee Prince on while we chase away some hanger, then activate our idol hunting skills as we cross the river back into Gangnam on a hunt for JYP. The offices, not the man. All this before we hit the critical point of our day: Korean Pizza. 

So, so, so many pictures ahead. 

Unlike the leaving of Alix, we knew right from the start of planning the trip that Leila wasn’t going to be with us the entire time the three of us planned on staying. Leila knows precisely at what length journeys stop being fun for her and plans accordingly. It was part of the reason we chose to hit Busan first over Seoul as it would be easier for her to get back to her plane. I’m not certain I’m the person who can leave when I know that other people are still there, having fun without me, but I do admire her for her strength to say “Naw, Bishes, I’m done.” Especially now knowing that she was doing these last few days on a sprained toe. 

As I mentioned in the last post, this day was going to be a Leila and I date, where we toured the palaces, possibly the Hannok Village, and any other old thing we wanted to see that SaraG and Alix had already seen before. It’s not that they don’t appreciate them, but as they’d seen them before, they thought they’d fill their time with new experiences instead. We were all, you do you boos, we’re gonna get our saeguk on. 

Now with the change in our numbers, SaraG has decided to join us! 

With a quick consult to the Naver Maps, we head back towards the palaces, thankfully, at the palaces subway stop. Throughout the station, as we headed above ground, I saw adverts for their palaces museum, which said it had some of the clothing and regalia in residence. Unfortunately, I didn’t make it there, and it’s probably one of my biggest niggling regrets. I’m sure if I’d just said, hey, I really want to go here, the ladies would have been fine with it, but at the time it didn’t seem important enough to make a fuss. That’s okay, it will give me something to go to next time! 

You know, when I go visit the whole giant palace WE ACCIDENTALLY MISSED. 

So we popped above ground and SaraG decided she wanted to hit up the coffee shop next to the palaces where she’d catch up on life now that she has a phone back and wait for us to do our thing.

As we approached Gyeongbokgung Palace, the main royal palace during the Joseon Dynasty, built 1395, the sun was bright and warmer than when we’d been there previously. So the hanboks were aplenty. Here I should probably mention, surrounding these historical areas are hanbok rental shops, where you go in and get dressed in period clothing, rented by the hour.  If you do, not only do you have a fantastic experience, but your entry to the inner palace is free. As we wandered the grounds, this totally makes sense! Watching the people walk around in hanboks really adds to the atmosphere, helps you picture what it would have been like during the Joseon dynasty. Just with less slavery and more selfies.

There was a hot minute where Leila and I had talked about doing this, but as things had changed in the dynamic and, frankly, I wasn’t up for another ahjumma belly pat-down, we decided to pass. Maybe next time. 

On our way in, we spotted a photoshoot going down to what we imagined is an up and coming girl group. You could tell between shots they were freezing in their outfits, their puffy coats tossed to the side, but they took it like troopers. I wonder how those shots turned out.

The outer courtyard was just as beautiful as before, but this time it was even more exciting as we got to go in! Well, after we purchased our very cheap tickets. I did have a moment of GAH when at the self-automated booth, my credit card was declined. There is nothing quite like that moment of panic when that happens. 

Side note. When you’re in Korea, or, I guess, anyplace overseas, use your credit card, not your bank card. I actually went into my bank to talk about this with them about how best to pay for things. I ordered some won beforehand but had planned on just using my bank card while I was there. My bank said that there are actually more fees attached if you do it that way, however, there are no extra fees if you use your credit card. So that’s what I did. I just got cash a couple of times using my bank card, but primarily used the card, just transferring my savings right over to it once I got home.

We ended up having to go through the person manned line where, after hesitatingly giving my card over with crossed fingers, I had no problems getting our tickets.

As it was early, the place wasn’t hugely packed, so we wandered around the buildings on our own, deciding to forgo a guided tour. BIG MISTAKE! Oh sure, we got along fine, had no troubles, but when we saw the cute little school-aged tour guides working on their English skills to other tourists? We were beyond jealous! (We also missed Steve.)

How epic is this?

You’d think by now the experience would be old. The same architecture, the same colors, the same carvings that we’d seen in Busan. But, there’s just something being around all that history, something that has survived, in one form or another, for all these years that’s just fascinating to me. You picture all the things that went on. How was this even created? Built? How did they choose these colors? The toppers at the corners of buildings I couldn’t’ stop looking at.

I also couldn’t stop talking in the formal saeguk accent, which I’m sure was annoying, but I couldn’t stop. 

Check out this throne.

Now picture your favorite Kdrama saeguk hero perched upon it. Do you have a favorite? Share, please! 

Not sure what this is, but it has flowers and faces on the knees. Who does that? It had to be something important. Unless it was just some arts and craft gift to some king of old and he stuck it there because his niece painted it and he’s a good uncle who simply made up some vital reasoning for it to be there. Who’s going to argue? He’s a king!

See how much fun I am to travel with? That’s the sort of brilliance I come up with.

We wandered the endless maze of rooms, of separate buildings, trying to make sure we got through everything we wanted to see. Seriously though? I could probably spend hours there just going through every nook and cranny. Taking each tour, finding out precisely what that thing with the face knees was. 

Seriously, look at this ceiling!

Watching the young girls work industriously on their selfies, again I was reminded that a good selfie is hard work. You want to be all judgy, but they were having so much fun trying different, unique poses, giggling with their friends, all dressed up prettily in hanboks, and it just looked like fun. Plus, they are going to have some great photos later!

And the girls weren’t the only ones in on the game.

As I was saying in the previous post, the fact that this exists in the middle of ultra technologically advanced Seoul is pretty amazing. Seeing all of this history while on the edges you see high rises and electronic billboards, is the perfect blend of the past and the future. Which, in a nutshell, is the ideal description of South Korea itself.

Some areas were busier than others, a few school trips, but everyone was friendly and pretty respectful.

There was another lake in the middle of the grounds.

We were working our way towards a large pagoda in the background as we didn’t really have a map to go along. It’s like when I lived in New York City — just keep the Empire State Building in sight, and you’ll always know where you are. We tried to get to the pagoda but couldn’t seem to find our way, eventually giving up and turning back instead checking out the lake as it was on our way back and people were getting hungry. 

As hanger is a very real thing, we decided to be along our way, to meet up with SaraG, but not before a quick stop off at the bathroom (yes, I have now peed in every single royal palace. Its a thing.) and the gift shop, before heading back to the front. 

But not before one more selfie and one more…weird experience.

We stood in front of my camera… side note: Fun Stephanie Fact of the post? I have very long arms. While it’s a bitch to make sure shirts fit, on the upside? I’m brilliant with group selfies. It’s where I really carry my weight on trips, also why you see my smiling mug front and center on every group shot. I’m not an attention whore, just monkey-like.

So we’re standing there with my camera, and this guy comes up to us and asks if we’d like him to take our picture. Delighted, we said yes and handed him my phone. Posing, we smile in front of the first building where he begins to take photo after photo, crouching into the ground, bending himself in half, moving the camera around, like we’re shooting some sort of album cover. We’re just standing there, smiling, feeling more and more hilariously awkward as he slowly inches forward to us. Should we be moving? Should we be practicing our posing? Are we now disappointing Tyra Banks with our lack of Smizing? Is this guy going to steal my phone?

Finally, he hands me back my phone and with a smile and a bow, simply walks away as we shout thank yous out to him. 

What a weird-fun experience.  

From there, we met up with SaraG, and we decided to wander the neighborhood looking for food and the Changdeokgung Palace, which is known for being the one with the Secret Garden. However, finding food wasn’t as easy as we anticipated and we walked and walked, circling the edges of Gyeongbokgung. We were turning into a more residentially neighborhood and were despairing we’d never find food. Then we found a cute little coffee shop on the corner of an intersection, said good enough and tramped in. There was, in fact, bistro-style food, so we sat there, basking in the sunlight, recharging those batteries, taking a moment just to hang and chat. It was lovely.

Side note. Sitting at a ShareTea drinking bubble tea writing this. It’s post-move, I’m exhausted from a solid week of non-stop, my house is in disarray, so while this post will be late, it’s for a good reason and taking the time to write it is actually giving me a much-needed rest. What makes me think of this is my previous statement: It was lovely, which comes straight from what I hear from the song playing over the shops loudspeakers. 

But now back to it because it really is driving me crazy my house is such a mess. 

Where were we? Ah, a random neighborhood in Seoul. Batteries charged enough to move, we got to our feet and continued onto where we thought the second palace was. Spoiler alert? It was not where we thought it was. We may have done a little shopping in some boutiques as we passed, nothing serious, just some meandering. Looking up, we realized we were right outside the Hannok village, which was straight uphill, up a butt-ton of stairs. Leila noped it and while I was initially disappointed, it was pointed out we had actually been there a few days ago when Alix marched us through on the Kpop shop lookout. We consulted Naver maps again and realized we’d actually walked out of the palace in completely the wrong direction. Feet being what they were, we couldn’t face walking all the way back and then onto the palace. Luckily we were right by a bus stop which appeared to be able to take us right to where we wanted to go and was even more luckily enough to be placed right next to a Churro shop.

Churro in hand, or, more realistically, churro in mouth, we boarded the bus on our way to the next palace.

We passed Gyeongbokgung, which, great news, meant we were at least headed in the correct direction, we passed Gwanghwamun Plaza with its giant statues of Sejong and Admiral Yi Sun-sin . I looked longingly out the window at them. I hadn’t realized we were so close! Visions of Faith popped into my mind, and I itched to explore. Naver announced our stop was upon us, and we piled out of the bus, realizing, uhoh, we should have probably recognized that there were more palaces in the area than just the main two and I probably should have been more specific when I looked at it in the map.

Whatevs. It was a palace, and we were there! So we paid the fee and piled in. It was fun to explore with the three of us. Deoksugung palace was actually a later palace, used for ceremonies and visits of state when the actual people lived in a more modern building. It was interesting to see the two together. New meets old. We continued our long-held tradition of going to the bathroom on royal grounds before we heard it, the drums in the distance. Turns out we were at the wrong palace at the right time, the ceremonial changing of the guards. We watched the procession march by us, the bright colors of their regalia, the bouncing feathers of their hats. 

View this post on Instagram

Changing of the guard at the Deoksugung palace. From old to new, now headed to Gangnam. #deoksugung #palace #guard #travel #seoul #southkorea

A post shared by Stephanie (@kchatjjigae) on Mar 16, 2019 at 10:27pm PDT

We headed back towards the front gates, following them along, where they waited for the actual ceremony to begin. It was fun to see these people, not at attention, just hanging out, bored. A reminder they are real people, not fixtures of the past.

Once we had our fill of palaces for the day, it was time to begin the real task, heading over the river to try and hunt ourselves down some idols, it was time to go visit the JYP offices. After a wrong start, or a wrong stop, hopping off a stop too soon, we were ready for it, prepared to see the legendary building where the likes of 2PM, Got7, Stray Kids came from. Though not yet. Turns out, he’s cleverly not anywhere near the subway stop, so we hoofed it there, stopping for more, much-needed caffeine. On the way there we passed the location of the Seoul Olympic Games which we saw the empty buildings from our position on the street. Sure, we didn’t actually go to them, but we saw the buildings, so I get to count that on the list of places I’ve been on this trip. 

Don’t agree? Go ahead, fight me. 

Finally, we were there! 

It’s an office. Dude. Get yourself a gift shop. Something. Other fans were milling about. We’d buy stuff. Mr. and Mrs. McFeeley are huge Stray Kids fans, I would have gotten something for them, and the ladies would have encouraged me, despite my DON’T LET ME BUY ANYTHING MORE. But I’d simply be able to get around that by saying, “I said I wasn’t allowed to buy anything else for RYAN. This would be for Sean. Totally different person”. But, since they didn’t have a gift shop, the point was moot. Across the street was a coffee shop, and you could see, the way people were positioned, a lot of them were just waiting for someone to come in or out so they could take a photo, be it for dispatch or just a fan site. Not wanting to be one of those people, we simply circled the block, and when we passed a snazzily dressed and perfectly coifed man, we crafted stories about who he was and what he did for the company.

Good times. 

Realizing we weren’t going to get to have the idol meet-cute we’d desperately dreamed of, we decided it was time to move on, back across the river. 

Oh! I think it was here, but if not, it’s the perfect time to talk about it. Remember the whole thing that was happening while we were there, with Seungri and his band of ugh? All about secret cams and chats and douchebaggery? Well, it’s no lie to say that this is rampant across the country. Did you hear about the member of staff who put a camera in one of the girl’s rooms on a variety show? Or there was a sting that happened at a hotel where people were recording women? It happens all of the time. While we were on the subway, we were separated, which happened when we wanted to snag an actual seat. This particular time, it was Leila and me on one side and SaraG on the other. Next to her was a man on his phone, who we joked looked just like a police detective from a drama. See? I just had to say that, and you know EXACTLY what he looked like. Turns out? 

Not so police-y. 

We got off the train, laughingly told SaraG our ideas, and she was like, “Ummmmm…yeah, he was watching pervy hidden video footage.” Apparently, there are Instagrams out there dedicated to this shit, and this guy is just, sitting on the subway, casual as can be, watching it. Ew. 

Shaking it off, we decided first on our list was to cross something off Miss Leila’s list, stopping off at the mall by our subway station and picking her up a foundation she’d seen online, but had yet to see it anywhere in Seoul except for this mall. And I was on a mission too! Find the Flying Tiger, a Copenhagen store, take a picture and show it to my friend Thea who is a big fan of their New York store. It was a huge shocker to see that they were in Korea!

We wandered around the food court, looking for something to eat, but it was pricy and not what we were looking for  (we’ve been spoiled eating beautiful and delicious food for under 10000 won.). Despite how tired we were, we decided we wanted to skip the food court, instead planned to hit Hongdae in order to find something better. Added plus? This would get Leila her last night in Hongdae with some buskers. Where did we end up? Korean Pizza! After seeing some Eat Your Kimchi posts on the weirdness that could be Korean Pizza back in the day, I’ve always wanted to try it. There was a Mr. Pizza in LA that every time I went to KCon I’d say, this was the time I was going to go there, but as one of our group was a vegan, it always managed to be pushed to the side. (We felt bad enough dragging her to Korean BBQ.) In Haeundae, our apartment was right above a Pizza School where we would pass by and look at the poster proclaiming all of their weirdo pizza flavors and planned on hitting up that one, but we just never had the chance. Tonight was the night!

I wish I’d taken pictures of the menu to tell you exactly what we had eaten, but I can tell you, one of them had mashed sweet potatoes, and the other one had galbi. Both were actually pretty yummy. We’d chosen this particular restaurant in the din of all the others as  1) was something we could all get behind with all of the other choices, and 2) was an upper floor establishment, overlooking all of the buskers. Dinner and a show!

As we ate, Leila and I investigated one last thing stop on our phones, the Han river. We knew it was close, had crossed it several times via subway, but had yet to go and find it in person. Had yet to find out which pairing of us were going to officially breakup on its shores as Korean dramas tell us is the norm. It was a must on all of our lists, and we couldn’t believe we hadn’t been there yet. It was a little difficult for us to pinpoint the best place to go to as you couldn’t really put Han River into the map, sure we’d find a shore but what else would we find when we got there? We found a park that seemed promising, but, honestly, at that time of day, after all, we’ve done, and now knowing about Leila’s poor toe, we decided to pass. 

But don’t worry Han River fans. There are still two of us who have days left and hours to fill….

With this, we close out another chapter of our trip. Another day passed. Another person packing up to go home. Which leaves SaraG and I. All by ourselves for three days. Will we make it? Will our friendship survive? Or is it going to be the relationship that crashes by the shores of the Han? Stay tuned to find out! 

    KOREAN ADVENTURE DAY ONE: AIR PLANES, TIME TRAVELS, AND MULTIPLE SARAG(S)

Korean Adventure Day Two: Sadly, No Zombies

KOREAN ADVENTURE DAY THREE: THE SOLO JOB

KOREAN ADVENTURE DAY FOUR: BY THE POWER OF STEVE!

KOREAN ADVENTURE DAY FIVE: STAIRS, AND MEERKATS, AND POLICE…OH MY!

KOREAN ADVENTURE DAY SIX: EMERGENCYS, BELLY RUBS, AND TIPSI TEXTS

KOREAN ADVENTURE DAY SEVEN: THAT WEIRD SHAPED ARTY BUILDING IN GANGNAM

KOREAN ADVENTURES DAY EIGHT: KPOP TAKES A VACATION

KOREAN ADVENTURES DAY NINE: WE LOVE A MAN WHO LOVES A MARKET

KOREAN ADVENTURE DAY TEN: STEPHANIE DOESN’T DO NAKED

Korean Adventure Day Eleven: Let’s Get Saeguky Another big day in Kdramaland! We're counting down the last hours of Leila's stay in Korea with a march through the city.

[ziseviolet]

I'm curious if you know any places that does hanfu renting/dressing up for a day like kimono shops in Japan and hanbok shops in South Korea? I know hanfu isn't as popular to the west as the other two but how hard is it to find these shops if I don't speak the language?

Hi, thanks for the question! (Image Via)

There are photography studios that provide hanfu for customers to wear for the purpose of taking photos, but I don’t know of any places that let customers rent hanfu and go out on their own for the day. 

I think the reason for this is that the modern hanfu industry/market is relatively new, and therefore the “one-day rental” business model hasn’t taken hold yet. It’s only a matter of time, though - the hanfu market is growing each year, with an increasing number of hanfu being sold and people buying/wanting to wear hanfu. Once there is sufficient supply and demand to make the business model profitable (I predict within the next 5 years), I’m certain the hanfu rental industry is going to take off in China, as it did in Japan and Korea.  

In the meantime, if you want to dress up in hanfu for a day, your current options are to: 1) buy hanfu, 2) borrow hanfu from an acquaintance, or 3) schedule an appointment with a photo studio that does hanfu photoshoots.

Hanfu photography is another industry that’s seeing a boom thanks to the increasing interest in hanfu. There are quite a few photo studios that can provide you with hanfu, accessories, hair & makeup styling, and props for a personalized photoshoot, in the location of your choosing. Just look through my blog for examples of these photoshoots ^^. However, it’ll be hard to use their services if you don’t speak Chinese, since most of them make appointments through Chinese social media (and as far as I know, do not have English-speaking staff).

With that said, here are three examples of well-known hanfu photographers, all with different styles, who take appointments (click name for link to blog, where you can see more of their work):

1) 临溪摄影/Linsea Photo:

2) 当小时/Dang Xiaoshi:

3) 知竹zZ:

For more names, please look through my photo posts, which will typically contain a link back to the photographer’s blog.

Finally, a disclaimer that this is all based on my own knowledge - if anyone knows of a place that does authentic hanfu rentals, please do share ^^

Hope this helps! 

[stacylaughs]

Bye, Korea

I taught English in Busan, Korea for a year, ending June 2011. I remember the dread I felt flying to Portland then. I left Portland again and returned to Korea February 2013. I felt like I was home. Since then, I’ve quit teaching and I’ve been working remotely for almost four years. When I flew back to Portland in August 2017, without any intention of coming back to South Korea, butterflies (different from before) filled my stomach.

I love Korea and it’s been a great experience living there. I love learning more about where I come from and improving on the language. I also know in my heart that I’m American and that I want to create my home in the U.S.

For the last month in Korea, I walked around as if in a trance. I can’t believe how much time has passed and how much life has changed. I miss singing along with my appliances (i.e. rice cooker and washing machine) and waking up with tinfoil in my bed because I fell asleep eating kimbap. 

I feel nostalgic for a time, as well as places, which is an overwhelming feeling. It’s scary to think of returning to Korea, and think of the last time I left, as if no time had passed at all. Time goes fast, life is short, and the impermanence of things is hitting me harder than it ever has.

I did SO much in Korea, met amazing people, ate all the things, and had amazing experiences. But, still, I know I can’t do everything I wanted to do or do things again. There are so many places to go in this world, but maybe I’ll be back. Because I obsessively make lists, here’s a list of places I wanted to experience but didn’t make the time for:

Andong Traditional Folk Village - Rural Korea is a sharp contrast from the fast-paced neon and concrete cityscapes. I never went to the mask festival at the end of September and beginning of October each year. Apparently this is the town for some awesome chicken, as well.

Anyang Art Park (안양예술공원) - This a cool park in Anyang City that's free and a photo dream. You can get off at Anyang Station (Line 1) and take bus number 2 to the park. It's a very large place and it might be a bit confusing, but so many photo worthy spots. Definitely wear walking shoes and bring water in this heat! 

Beopgi basin - Nestled in the mountains just 45 minutes north of Busan. Renting a car and visiting Hongryong Falls (홍룡폭포) would be a great way to spend a day.

Beopjusa temple stay - Literally “Mountain Removed from Worldliness,” Songnisan is where the 7th-century Buddhist Beopjusa temple is still located. It has the largest buddha in Korea. 

Bukchon Village - I’ve been here before but really wanted to visit this picturesque neighborhood again. It’s flanked by two palaces —Gyeongbok Palace to the west and Changdeok Palace to the east— this village has the largest cluster of privately owned traditional Korean wooden homes or hanok in Seoul. The easiest way to get to Bukchon in Seoul is to go out Anguk Station (subway line 3) Exit 3.

Cheongdo - I probably couldn’t stomach the bull fights but I always wanted to see the Wine Tunnel (와인 터널).

I really wanted to go to Chuncheon/Gapyeong again just to eat the Dak Galbi (닭갈비). I could eat dalkkalbi every day, and it really is the best where it was invented. The two best places are “Tong Na Mu Jip” and “1.5.″

I’ve been to Geoje several times, but, yeah, I want to go again. I’d love to hike up Mt. Daegumsan, take a short boat ride to Oedo Island, and ride the zipline at Deokpo Beach.

I visited my friend Anne in Suwon when she was teaching a camp there, but I didn’t have the time to explore the Hwaseong Fortress (수원 화성) or Toilet Museum.

Jeonju - I’d like to try the bibimbap and visit the Hanok Village (전주 한옥마을). 

Jirisan - What a shame that I never made it to the top of this mountain. I’ll always cherish the lovely trips I’ve had out there and only wish I could have spent more time there.

Kimchi Museum - I walked by this place so many times in Insadong but never went. Where else in the world will you be able to go to a museum solely dedicated to the Korean staple, kimchi? Kimchi, or seasoned fermented vegetables, is at the heart of Korean culture and its food and is usually eaten with every meal. There are 187 different documented types, ranging from kimchi of different ripeness levels to water kimchi, cucumber kimchi, and radish kimchi varieties. In addition, it is not uncommon for Korean households to have refrigerators solely dedicated for the storage of kimchi. At the museum, you can taste 7-8 different types of kimchi, view bacteria found in kimchi under a microscope, and even learn how to make kimchi in the education room. 

Oh, to see Kyeongju again. Korea used to be divided into three major kingdoms (Silla, Baekje, and Goguryeo) until the Silla kingdom conquered the other kingdoms and made Gyeongju the capital. Gyeongju remained the capital of this region for approximately 1000 years, leading to the creation of a number of archaeological treasures that are well worth your time.

On several visits to Seoul, I missed out visiting a Hanbok Cafe in Insadong or the Princess Diary Cafe outside Exit 3 of the Ehwa Women’s University subway station. These dress cafes give you the opportunity to wear a Korean traditional dress or wedding dress at rental prices of 15,000₩ ~ 40,000₩ an hour. 

The Robo Life Museum in Pohang does require a reservation but looks pretty awesome. Some are miniature robots programmed to be Psy back up dancers, some are robotic fish that swim, and some are robotic seals designed for therapy. 

Seonyudo sits off the west coast of the peninsula, 90 minutes from Gunsan by boat.

Seoraksan again. It was so lovely in the fall --but I see endless beauty in every season.

Seoul Fortress Trail, the Naksan section covers an enjoyable scenic route from Hansung University Station and the Hyehwa Gate traveling south alongside Naksan Park and Ihwa Mural Village until you arrive in the crowded, neon streets of Dongdaemun with the landmark Dongdaemun Gate at the foot of the pathway. The route itself doesn’t take too long to cover with sunset a recommended time to visit so as to enjoy the spectacular views across the city at their finest. Accessible from Hansung University Station, Seoul Subway Line 4 Exit 4.

Seoul Palaces - There are a lot of them (e.g. Gyeonghui Palace. Deoksugung, Changdeokgung, Changgyeonggung, Gyeongbokgung) and many are near each other. I always planned to see them all but ultimately got a distracted or bored. 

Seoul Forest - This park was opened in 2005 and features absolute beauty. It’s a bit of a trip from downtown Seoul, but I’ve heard it has five connected parks and it’s possible to see deer Located outside Seoul Forest Station (Subway Bundang Line) Exit 3. 

Ujeon Beach in “Slow City”

Controversy aside, I wanna see Ulleungdo + Dokdo.

Uponeup (우포늪) is the largest and oldest wetland area in Korea, a protected area that dates back to times when dinosaurs ruled the world. A favouite with Korean photographers due to the unspoiled setting and views that the wetlands offer up, it sounds like a romantic weekend.

Yeosu is a port city on South Korea’s East China Sea coast. I haven’t researched what to do there but I’ve always wanted to visit.

I don’t know much about the city of Yulpo but when my friend Allison went, she couldn’t wait to share: “I just spent three days there and visited the big tea plantation ten minutes away (TWICE!). It's a tiny farm village next to an empty beach. And there is a green tea spa on the beach. It was heaven.”

Alright, Korea, maybe next time.

[v4vita]

Another UB reunion with Bu @hartonoheny (Batch 2019), Bu Lastri (Batch 2022) and Angelina (Batch 2022) at Changdeokgung Palace with more hanbok experiences, including falling down many times plus a tight petticoat underneath This time I should practice what I have learned from my first visit to Gyeongbokgung Palace - lucky we got to see the changing guards at the main gate at 10 am Only the hanbok rental in this second palace is a bit more expensive ₩10,000/hr We ended the 20,000+ step walk with huge-late lunch: samgye-tang: chicken ginseng soup and fried chikin 😋 #wheninkorea #vitainseoul #changdeokgung #hanbok #asiaplacement #uajyinkorea #koreanpalace #ubfellows #unitedboard (at Changdeokgung Palace South Korea) https://www.instagram.com/p/ClI4IjPLUrnMoCQQmYPrI0G-gZkO6wtMPszbt80/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[lunarpondering]

korean culture lesson: hanbok

If you’ve watched any piece of Korean media, chance is you’ve seen a form of hanbok before. In this lesson, we will learn about hanbok, both traditional and modern.

Hanbok ( 한복 ) is the traditional Korean dress, usually worn at festivals, formal ceremonies, and various celebrations. Here’s a short video about different kinds of hanbok. 

A woman’s hanbok usually consists out of a full-length skirt ( 치마 ) and a blouse ( 저고리 ). A man’s hanbok also has a  저고리, but has a set of loose pants ( 바지 ). Tradition hanbok usually have bright colours and patterns, while hanbok reserved for royalty had specific symbols (usually animals). 

Recently, some designers have created a more modern style of hanbok that can be worn every day, without feeling like you’re wearing a costume, for example,  Hwang Yi-seul’s line:

When traveling to South Korea, especially Seoul, tourists can rent hanbok to wear for a few hours. Usually, they can then get free entry to some of the palaces in the area. Most Koreans do not see this as cultural appropriation, as they enjoy seeing foreigners take an interest in their culture. 

Sources: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hanbok ; https://iamaileen.com/hanbok-rental-how-to-rent-korean-clothing-day-seoul-south-korea/ ; http://kore.am/korean-designer-modernizes-hanbok-into-casual-outfits/

[heyshanii-blog]

I’ve been the type of person who always plans ahead of time where they’ll celebrate their birthday. After travelling to VISA free countries, I thought why not celebrate it in a OECD country.

OECD (the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development) is an international organization which countries who are considered members of it, stimulate economic progress and world trade.

Ranked as the 11th largest economy in the world, South Korea has drawn the world’s attention for being a popular tourist destination, notably among us Filipinos. Hence comes the question if we need a VISA. YES, we do! Don’t fret though cause South Korea’s VISA is not only easy but also FREE.

© wanderingpeople.wordpress.com

© wanderingpeople.wordpress.com

TRAVELLING TO SEOUL FROM INCHEON INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

Almost all of the international flights land at Incheon International Airport Terminal 1, including Cebu Pacific and there are several ways to get to downtown Seoul.

BY AIRPORT RAILROAD EXPRESS (AREX Express Train): The fastest way to get to downtown Seoul (Seoul Station) in exactly 43 minutes, without any station stops. A one-way ticket costs KRW 9000 for adults and KRW 7000 for children. Save even more on the adult fare if you purchase beforehand in Klook (KRW 6400). Be advised though that the train only runs from 5:23 AM until 10:48 PM.

BY AIRPORT RAILROAD EXPRESS (AREX All Stop Train): The second fastest way to get to downtown Seoul (Seoul Station) in approximately 58 minutes, with 13 subway station stops. A one-way ticket costs KRW 4150 with a T-Money Card. Take note that the train only runs from 5:25 AM until 11:39 PM.

BY BUSES: Take it only if you’re arriving during off hours as its way more expensive and takes longer than the subway. You can inquire at the Airport Information Desk on the 1st floor for the late-night airport buses to Seoul Station which costs KRW 9000.

BY TAXI: Most convenient yet the most expensive as it will roughly cost you KRW 60 000 – 80 000. The drop charge is KRW 3600 and the distance charge is KRW 120.

HOW TO GET AROUND

Seoul’s subway system is pretty efficient that you won’t need any other form of transportation. Most subway fare costs KRW 1250 for short distance trips. It can be a bit confusing but look around for these signs.

Take note where your nearest entrance is from and to where you are going.

Look out for these head signs as it tells you which way to go depending on the line number.

It tells you the line number’s transfer lines, last stop and which station is it headed next.

Watch out for the arrow sign which tells what’s the next subway station.

The only time we used a different mode of transportation was when we got on a bus on our way to N Seoul Tower, and when I rode a taxi back to the hostel as I was out after 11 PM when the buses and subways’ operating hours end.

Heads up though, Seoul requires heaps of walking so make sure to wear your comfiest shoes.

MONEY SAVING TIPS

©️wanderingpeople.wordpress.com

©️wanderingpeople.wordpress.com

WHAT TO DO IN KOREA

1.) Relive the Joseon Period in a Hanbok and get lost in a maze of traditional houses at Bukchon Hanok Village

Hanbok is the traditional Korean dress worn by both men and women during festivals and celebrations. There are plenty of hanbok rental shops near the Village or the Palace, but you can rent in advance through Klook for KRW 15 000 for 4 hours.

Bukchon Hanok Village will take you back in time as it is a maze of narrow alleyways and traditional Korean houses called hanoks. Regardless of being a tourist destination, please be respectful as it is still a neighborhood.

©wanderingpeople.wordpress.com

©wanderingpeople.wordpress.com

©wanderingpeople.wordpress.com

Subway Station: Anguk Station (Line 3), Exit 1 or 2

2.) Watch the Changing of the Guards at Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung Palace

Seoul has five Joseon royal palaces, but these two are the ones you shouldn’t miss. Gyeongbokgung the main palace where the changing of guards happen at 10 AM has an entrance fee of KRW 3000 and closed on Tuesdays, while Changdeokgung, a UNESCO Heritage Site and home to Huwon, or the “Secret Garden” has an entrance fee of KRW 5000 and closed on Mondays.

Our feet were tired enough to explore both. However, if you plan on visiting all the palaces, get a discounted entrance ticket with the Integrated Palace Ticket for KRW 10 000. For those wearing a hanbok, you are free to enter the palaces.

©wanderingpeople.wordpress.com

©wanderingpeople.wordpress.com

©wanderingpeople.wordpress.com

Subway Station: Gyeongbokgung Station (Line 3), Exit 5 or Anguk Station (Line 3) Exit 1

3.) See North Korea on the DMZ and JSA Tour

Demilitarized Zone refers to the 4 km wide buffer zone dividing the North and South Korea. Within the DMZ is the Joint Security Area where the North and South Korean soldiers stand face to face, regarding it as “the most dangerous place in Korea.”

©wanderingpeople.wordpress.com

©wanderingpeople.wordpress.com

©wanderingpeople.wordpress.com

©wanderingpeople.wordpress.com

©wanderingpeople.wordpress.com

©wanderingpeople.wordpress.com

You can book through Klook the DMZ Tour (Imjingak Park, Freedom Bridge, the 3rd Infiltration Tunnel, the DMZ Exhibition Hall and Dora Observatory) for KRW 50 000, JSA Panmunjom Tour (Freedom House, Conference Room, Bridge of No Return and the Ax Murder Incident area) for KRW 86 100, or DMZ and JSA combined tour for KRW 130 000.

Please follow proper dress code: – Jeans are allowed as long as not faded, ripped, or torn in any way. – No shorts or skirts. – No shirts or tops without sleeves or exposing the midriff. – No sandals, flip-flops, or open-toed shoes. – No athletic, military, or oversized clothing.

4.) Spend the day being a kid at heart in Everland Resort

Everland is South Korea’s biggest theme park, made up of five themed zones— Global Fair, Zootopia, European Adventure, Magic Land, and American Adventure.

The most popular attractions at Everland are T Express, one of the world’s fastest wooden rollercoasters, and Panda World, which is home to a pair of giant pandas gifted to South Korea by Chinese president Xi Jinping as a sign of friendship.

©️wanderingpeople.wordpress.com

©️wanderingpeople.wordpress.com

©️wanderingpeople.wordpress.com

©️wanderingpeople.wordpress.com

©️wanderingpeople.wordpress.com

©️wanderingpeople.wordpress.com

The park, which dresses up to match the season, is big enough to make you hungry and thirsty, but you can get food and drinks at a reasonable price ranging from KRW 4000 — KRW 20 000 at their restaurants and snack bars.

We were lucky enough to catch both parades at 3:30 PM and 8:30 PM, however, we opted to skip the fireworks display at 9:30 PM because of the subway’s operating hours.

A one-day pass to Everland costs KRW 54 000 for adults, but you can get them for KRW 35 000 if you purchase them in advance through Klook.

Check out this blog post for a handful of details about Everland.

How to Get There: Gangnam Station (Line 2) → Joengja Station (Sinbundang Line) → Giheung Station (Bundang Line) then transfer to Jeondae Everland Station (Yongin Everline Line) → Take the free shuttle bus to Everland

5.) Visit Nami Island, Gangchon Rail Park, Petite France and Garden of the Morning Calm

Having no idea how Koreans celebrate Chuseok, we went off to Gapyeong in the hopes for the autumn foliage on my birthday. Thinking it will be an easy trip as it has been a favorite day trip, we started at 11 AM and got confused on how to get there as you can either take the subway or ITX. The traffic was severe too due to the holiday that we ended up exploring Nami Island only. Nevertheless, we made the most out of our day, and I will surely come back the next time I’m in the country. For now, you can head off to Travel Intern’s blog for more details on how to DIY the trip.

If you’re going to all four attractions in Gapyeong, it’s best that you avail the Gapyeong City Tour Bus, an unlimited bus ride within a day for KRW 6000. You can purchase the ticket from the bus captain and show it at every pickup point.

NAMI ISLAND

Nami Island, a tiny half-moon shaped island, is a must-visit for anyone travelling to South Korea and you can explore it in less than a day. Aside from being storybook beautiful, it is officially known as the Naminara Republic, a micronation with passport and flag. Before you can board a ferry onto the island, you’ll need to purchase an “entry visa” which costs KRW 10 000 for Koreans, but just KRW 8000 for foreigners.

©️wanderingpeople.wordpress.com

©️wanderingpeople.wordpress.com

©️wanderingpeople.wordpress.com

6.) Lock your love and get the best view of the city on top of N Seoul Tower

Not only does N Seoul Tower give you sweeping aerial views of Seoul, but it’s where you can “lock your love” for all eternity as well.

You can get to the tower by either riding the shuttle bus for KRW 1250 or take the cable car for KRW 9500 for adults and KRW 6500 for kids roundtrip while one-way costs KRW 7000 for adults and KRW 4000 for kids.

The entrance to the Observatory is an additional KRW 10,000 for adults and KRW 8,000 for kids, but you can get them for KRW 6,400 and KRW 5,400 respectively if you purchase them in advance through Klook. The Observatory gives you a 360° panoramic view of the entire city, best during sunset or at night.

©️wanderingpeople.wordpress.com

©️wanderingpeople.wordpress.com

How To Get There:

— by Cable Car: Myeongdong Station, Exit 4 → walk straight towards the Hoehyeon Intersection to the right of Pacific Hotel → turn left towards Namsan Park/Tunnel which is up to the hill → take the Namsan Oreumi (slanted elevator), located at the entrance of Namsan Tunnel #3, connected to Namsan Cable Car

— by Shuttle Bus: Chungmuro Station, Exit 2 → go straight to the bus stop and ride Namsan Sunhwan Shuttle Bus No. 02 or 05

7.) Rejuvenate and relax in a jjimjilbang

A jjimjilbang is a gender-segregated public bathhouse in Korea where locals come to unwind, hang out and engage in a whole host of health and beauty rituals that go far beyond a quick soak.

I saw loads of this in Korean drama scenes and wanted to try it myself. Fortunately, a foreign friend happens to plan on staying overnight at one. Among all the bathhouse in Seoul, we went for the Siloam Spa near Seoul Station. On our way there, we passed by Seoullo 7017 or “SkyGarden“, which marks the transformation of an overpass highway to a pedestrian oasis in the middle of Seoul where you can get tourist information, rest, and have a light meal or snacks.

I paid KRW 12 000 for nighttime use and given a locker key to store my shoes. After doing so, I handed my locker key to the front desk, in exchange for a towel, a pair of pyjamas and a different locker key with a number on it where I stored my stuff which you can wear on your wrist.

What you need to know if you’re going to the gender-segregated baths, you need to go naked, bringing only a small towel and toiletries. Fear not! Koreans consider this normal in jjimjilbang. Before bathing, wash first and if you’re going to the saunas, change into the pyjamas.

You can get a scrub for an extra KRW 15 000 – KRW 20 000. Lastly cap off a good sweat with a cold sweet sikhye, a traditional fermented rice drink, or steamed sauna eggs called maekbanseok gyeran.

How to Get There: Seoul Station, Exit 3 and cross the streets then take the stair up to the Seoullo 7017

8.) Shop and eat till you drop

Seoul is a shopaholic’s paradise. There is so much to buy here, from accessories, clothes, foods, cosmetics and even socks may it be in the shops, streets or the subway.

©️wanderingpeople.wordpress.com

MYEONGDONG

Home to high-end brand stores and Korean cosmetics, the best time to come here is around dinner when the street stalls open so you can feast on street food while shopping.

©️wanderingpeople.wordpress.com

Subway Station: Myeongdong (Line 4), Exit 7

HONGDAE

Hongdae, the abbreviation of Hongik Daehakgyo, gives you an energetic hippie vibe as it’s home to one of the top fine arts colleges in South Korea, Hongik University. Aside from the artsy nooks and trendy clothes and accessories hanged for sale, it comes alive at night with the street performances and nightclubs blasting their stereos on. We party hard here on my birthday going home at 5 in the morning.

Subway Station: Hongik University (Line 2), Exit 8 or 9

EWHA WOMAN’S UNIVERSITY FASHION STREET

The streets around the university is a shopping haven for women. Before hitting the shops, take a few minutes to check out Korea’s largest underground campus, Ewha Campus Complex.

©️wanderingpeople.wordpress.com

This fashion street shopping unmistakably targets students at Ewha, so expect the shopping to be trendy and at the best bargain.

Subway Station: Ewha Woman’s University (Line 2), Exit

9.) Eat a live octopus in traditional market

If there’s one thing I wasn’t expecting on this trip, it’s eating a san-nakji or live octopus. Gomawo Sam!

Bought live before being chopped up and served raw on a plate, the tentacles continue to wriggle about for a long time despite being detached from the octopus’ body which contains ganglia. Drizzled with sesame seeds and served with a soy-wasabi dipping sauce, it was better than I had imagined. Just make sure to chew it well as there are reports of a few deaths by choking from the tentacles latching on to people’s throats.

We went to Namdaemun Market initially, but they close earlier due to Chuseok, Korean’s Thanksgiving Day. Luckily, we found a stall that still sells some octopus at Gwangjang Market. Expect to spend around KRW 10 000 per octopus with preparation.

10. Cafe hopping

Seoul has no lack of aesthetically-pleasing, eclectic and Instagram worthy cafés that you can spend a week just doing café hopping. We didn’t have much time to do it, but I’ll surely update the list the next time I’m in Seoul.

STYLENANDA PINK POOL CAFE This gorgeous pastel pool-themed café has got to be one of the Instagrammable places you should mark on your bucket list.

©️wanderingpeople.wordpress.com

©️wanderingpeople.wordpress.com

©️wanderingpeople.wordpress.com

Subway Station: Myeongdong Station, Exit 6

LINE FRIENDS CAFE AND STORE

I didn’t have the chance to go to LINE Friends Cafe and Store in Itaewon, which is a 3-storey high building with a concept cafe at the top level. However as I passed by Ewha’s Fashion Street, I surprisingly found one of their flagship stores.

©️wanderingpeople.wordpress.com

Subway Station: Itaewon Station, Exit 3

SAMPLE ITINERARY & BUDGET

A week isn’t enough to experience everything in Seoul but here’s a sample itinerary of the must-dos.

Like what I said in How Do You Travel, travelling doesn’t need to be expensive. What you need is thoughtful planning and sorting out the fixed and variable costs through budgeting.

Reserving and paying in advance makes the budgeting smoother too, still, do it only after you get your VISA approval. We booked our accommodation and most of our activities in Seoul a week after we got ours. Leaving us with the transportation, meals and extras (souvenirs, party expense) to plan out.

© wanderingpeople.wordpress.com

© wanderingpeople.wordpress.com

TOTAL

PHP 10 000 to spend before the trip and PHP 10 000 to spend in Korea with the meals and transportation expense. Have in mind that this estimate doesn’t include souvenir or shopping. If I spend more on that day, then I’d cut back in fickle expenses– it’s as simple as that.

A Week in Seoul, South Korea for PHP 20 000 I've been the type of person who always plans ahead of time where they'll celebrate their birthday.

[maiden-in-black-x-plain-doll]

How To Hire A Hanbok At Korea

A conventional dress, the vibrant hanbok, is really actually a common sight in the roads of Korea with visitors wandering through the historical areas of the city and renting a hanbok. Leasing a hanbok is an wonderful means to embrace Korean culture and also make some memories in Korea. Obtaining spent a day researching the town in vibrant hanboks we have come up with our manual about leasing a Korean Hanbok: it includes our recommendations and ideas about renting a hanbok with all the very best regions to visit and take photos whilst wearing a hanbok.

What's a Hanbok?

Even a Hanbok is traditional apparel and refers to the outfits. Hanboks are colourful and typically consist of the fitted jacket and a skirt for girls and trousers for men. That the hanbok was worn nevertheless today it is earmarked for special occasions including holiday and weddings. Traffic and koreans will be invited to groom at the outfit.

Renting a Hanbok is just among the most popular and exciting what! The town roads are filled of Koreans and vacationers seeing its own palaces and areas. Putting on a Korean Hanbok is a more special way to experience Korea tradition and culture when visiting Korea.

Leasing a Hanbok

We were worried that wearing a hanbok for a tourist wouldbe considered ethnic or offensive appropriation. This isn't deemed to be the case in South Korea, in which they enjoyed visiting tourists wearing traditional clothing.

Korea can be a metropolis and deciding on where you can live could be exceedingly confusing. So to get the most out of your energy we urge staying as fundamental as feasible. The Places Which Are better to base are Myeong-dong, Namdaemun and Insa-dong

Developed by Marriott Korea Namdaemun -- at which we chose to remain during our period in Korea and also this hotel didn't disappoint. The Marriott Korea Namdaemun is situated right beside the lively Namdaemun marketplace and has been just a short stroll to the majority of the city landscapes. The lounge has views around Korea as well as the chambers are a true luxury. Did we mention that the breakfast is outstanding!

Hotel28 myeong-dong -- situated for discovering the town and perfectly Located in the center of Myeondong, Hotel 28 is really a budget decision that is amazing. The lodge is near the metro and also a quick stroll from a number of terrific restaurants and sights.

Aloft Korea myeong-dong -- The Aloft Korea is just a terrific price, contemporary resort with huge bedrooms, a fitness plus business center. Plus the breakfast buffet is amazing with Korean and Western foods.

Orakai Insa-dong Suites -- this is a wonderful option at Insa-dong for anybody looking for an apartment style hotel. With excellent breakfast buffet, laundry and also fantastic location the Orakai Suites really certainly are a ideal foundation for researching Korea.

Leasing a Hanbok

There are a lot of Hanbok shops dotted round the city. It really is important to take note that the quality and assortment of the hanboks fluctuate between stores. We put in a great deal of time investigating the hanbok rentals at Korea Once we're keen to rent an good caliber and more brilliant hanbok.

Renting a Hanbok in Korea suggestion

We recommend reserving a korean wedding in advance as it is an incredibly popular exercise in Korea. Booking beforehand ensures availability and no waiting in long lines at the shop. Advance reservations are inclined to be quite greatly discounted thus reserving in advance is also a good way to save dollars.

[hum-bee]

How You Can Hire A Hanbok At Korea

The colourful hanbok, a conventional apparel that is 1,600-year-old, is really a familiar sight in the roads of Korea with people wandering through the city areas and leasing a hanbok. Leasing a hanbok can be an equally magnificent way make some memories in Korea and to embrace Korean culture. Getting spent each day exploring the town in colourful hanboks we have put together our guide on leasing a Hanbok: it includes our recommendations and tips on leasing a hanbok together with the very best regions to go to and take photos whilst wearing a hanbok.

What's a Hanbok?

A Hanbok is a Korean standard dress and identifies to this garments. Hanboks are brightly colored and on average consist of a coat and a skirt for women and trousers for men. At years past the hanbok was worn out each day nevertheless today it is earmarked for particular situations like festival and weddings. Koreans and visitors are encouraged to dress at the celebratory outfit.

Leasing a Hanbok is just one of the most popular and fun things to accomplish in Korea! The town roads are filled of Koreans and tourists visiting its temples and historical areas dressed up in hanboks. Sporting a modern hanbok is a more special method to adventure Korea culture and tradition while seeing Korea.

Renting a Hanbok

We were involved that wearing a hanbok as a tourist wouldbe viewed offensive or ethnic appropriation. This is not regarded as true in South Korea, in which they liked seeing tourists wearing traditional clothing.

Korea is just a enormous metropolis and picking out where to stay can be exceedingly confusing. So to get the most out of your time we urge keeping as central as feasible. The Places Which Are better to base are Myeong-dong Namdaemun and Insadong

Courtyard by Marriott Korea Namdaemun and this hotel did not disappoint. The Marriott Korea Namdaemun is found together with the energetic Namdaemun market place and has been really just a short walk to the majority of town landscapes. The lounge has magnificent views around Korea and the chambers are an actual luxurious. Were we mention that the breakfast is incredible!

Hotel28 myeong-dong -- located for discovering the town and properly Situated in the center of Myeondong, lodge 28 can be really a budget choice that is wonderful. The resort is close to the subway and a quick walk from sights and terrific restaurants.

Aloft Korea Myeongdong -- The Aloft Korea is 24hour small business centre , contemporary lodge with huge rooms, a health spa and actually a great value. In addition to the breakfast buffet is excellent with Western and Korean food items.

Orakai Insadong Suites -- this is a wonderful option at Insa Dong for anyone. With onsite laundry, breakfast buffet that is fantastic and also terrific place the Orakai Suites really are a perfect base for investigating Korea.

Renting a Hanbok

There are plenty of Hanbok rental shops dotted round the metropolis. It is important to bear in mind that the high quality and variety of the hanboks range between merchants. As we were more excited to lease an high hanbok we invested a lot of time researching the hanbok rentals at Korea.

Leasing a Hanbok at Korea suggestion

We propose booking a wedding in advance because it's an amazingly popular activity in Korea. Booking beforehand means no waiting in very long lines in the shop and ensured accessibility. Advance reservations are inclined to become quite seriously disregarded for several activities in Korea so reserving in advance is additionally a fantastic approach to avoid spending funds.

[booksbooksmusic]

How To Hire A Hanbok At Korea

The hanbok, also a conventional Korean apparel that is 1,600-year-old, is actually a typical sight on the streets of Korea with many visitors wandering through the historic locations of the city and renting a hanbok. Leasing a hanbok is an equally great way to adopt Korean culture and make some memories in Korea. Getting spent each day exploring the town in colourful hanboks we've put together our manual about leasing a hanbok male: additionally includes our recommendations and suggestions about renting a hanbok with all the most useful regions to see and take photos while wearing a hanbok.

What's a Hanbok?

Even a Hanbok refers to the clothes and is conventional dress. Hanboks consist of a coat and a wide skirt for females and pants for guys and are brightly colored. The hanbok was worn daily nevertheless today it is earmarked for special occasions such as festival and weddings. Koreans and visitors are encouraged to groom at the outfit.

Renting a Hanbok is among the most widely used and enjoyable things! The town streets are filled of Koreans and vacationers seeing its palaces and historical areas. Sporting a Hanbok can be a special method to adventure Korea culture and tradition when visiting Korea.

Leasing a Hanbok

We were anxious that sporting a hanbok for a tourist wouldbe considered offensive or ethnic appropriation. This isn't deemed to be true in South Korea, where they appreciated visiting tourists wearing traditional clothing.

Korea can be really actually just a metropolis and picking out where you can stay may be very puzzling. So to make the most of your time we urge keeping as essential as you possibly can. The areas Which Are very best to safeguard are Myeong-dong Namdaemun and Insa-dong

Developed by Marriott Korea Namdaemun and this hotel didn't disappoint. Even the Marriott Korea Namdaemun is found right beside the Namdaemun market place that was lively and is just a quick stroll to most of the city landscapes. The lounge has magnificent views across Korea as well as the chambers are an actual luxurious. Can we say that the breakfast is extraordinary!

Hotel28 Myeongdong -- Located within the core of Myeondong, Hotel 28 can be just really a budget decision that is remarkable and perfectly positioned for exploring the metropolis. The hotel is near the subway and also a short stroll from many terrific restaurants and sights.

Aloft Korea myeong-dong -- The Aloft Korea can be 24hour small business center resort with spacious bedrooms, a fitness plus just a huge price. Plus the breakfast is amazing with Korean and Western meals.

Orakai Insadong Suites -- this is a significant option at Insadong for anyone. With excellent breakfast buffet, on-site laundry and also fabulous place the Orakai Suites are a perfect base for researching Korea.

Leasing a Hanbok in Korea

There are. It's vital to bear in mind the quality and range of these hanboks vary between retailers. We put in a lot of time looking into the hanbok rentals in Korea Even as we're more excited to hire an high colorful and quality hanbok.

Leasing a Hanbok at Korea tip

We suggest booking a korean wedding beforehand as it is an unbelievably popular activity in Korea. Booking ahead of time ensures no waiting in lines at the shop and ensured availability. Advance bookings tend to become quite heavily disregarded for several tasks in Korea so reserving in advance is a great way to save cash.

[sesshomarou]

hey i saw u said u lived in south korea for a year (this is not the same anon from where u commented it) but how was it living in another country? like how's the whole process of moving there and getting a place?

for me i stayed in a goshiwon (고시원) which is a fairly small room in a dorm like building but some rooms have private bathrooms. the one i was in had a communal bathroom and kitchen which i didn’t mind, it was only 280,000 won a month, which is about $260 USD, but they can range from $200-$600. renting a studio apartment is much more expensive since security deposits (also known as key money) usually go from $5,000-$10,000, with the rent being anywhere from $500-$900 a month. since i was a student i only needed a small place so naturally i stayed at the cheaper goshiwon. there’s a website called goshipages where you can look up some options if you want to do that and contact the landlords through email (what i did), as for other apartments there’s many rental agencies that speak english, korean, and chinese you can message on kakaotalk!

as for living there, some tips i have and things i noticed: at the minimum, know how to read korean, that way you can read road signs and subway stops. knowing basic phrases like yes, no, thank you, i want this, can really help even if you aren’t fluent. get t-money card at a convenience store, you can either put money on it there or use the machines in the subway station, which have an english option. there’s no real need to drive because the public transport is so good, some taxis will even take the cards (but i don’t trust the taxis unless i’m with a korean person from personal experiences). download kakaomaps or naver if you know korean, google maps is extremely outdated and doesn’t work! you will also need to file for an Alien Registration Card if you stay there for longer than 90 days, there’s tutorials on how to do that online. WATCH OUT FOR SCOOTERS THEY DONT OBEY MAN OR GOD they will drive up on the sidewalk and zoom past you with no concern for your life. the streets are super uneven so watch out when you walk, ive seen people who were born there fall HARD. move out of the way of older people, don’t talk too loud or on the phone on the bus or subway, give up your seat for older or pregnant people, hold on while on the bus you will fly across the aisle bc they also don’t obey traffic laws, be respectful and know you’re not in your own country and generally do research on how to act~

now the fun stuff- clothes are sooo much cheaper and cuter; the fast fashion places like Hongdae are really good for finding clothes, but beware if you’re larger, they may not have your size. the food is all delicious and extremely cheap, you can live off of $8 a day if you really need to! if you’re in a program or working be outgoing! don’t just stick around other foreigners, it can be awkward making friends with locals but it’s very rewarding, i have tons of people to see when i move back! Myeongdong is more like outlets but there’s cafes and street food and is worth a day trip to walk around and see all the shops! the Dongdaemun Design Plaza is like an architectural and art museum where they have seoul fashion week twice a year, it’s also where those LED white roses are that you see all over instagram and tumblr! it was one of my favorite places and the exhibits always rotate! the Banpo Bridge park and Yeoido park are by the Han river and are very popular for a reason, the river keeps you cool in the summer, the bridge lights up and does a water show, and during the spring there’s a cherry blossom festival! last my absolute favorite place is Insadong, the area built around Gyeongbukgung, the palace and original city capital. there’s tons of traditional korean souvenirs, you can rent hanbok to wear, go to the palace and the hanok village, and go to a traditional tea house! the architecture and nature there is so gorgeous!

moving there is just like moving anywhere, it’s stressful, airports suck, immigration can take forever, and carrying three bags of luggage up four flights of stairs was painful. but i wouldn’t change a thing about my year there, there were times when i really wanted to leave and see my family, i missed my cat, i missed american snacks, but i made a lot of friends and tried new things out of my comfort zone, it helped me adjust. i’d wanted to go since i was 14, and over the time i was there i finally found a place where my heart is happy and i feel like i belong. i stopped taking my depression medication and i had so many fun experiences. it will be different for everyone and not every person ends up liking it or staying, but i promise living there is worth it if you’re willing to adapt, be respectful, and try!

[havekiddoswilltravel]

Jet lag is real folks. It’s 3:33 am at home and I’m wide awake. Ugh. I’m all about turning a negative into a positive and decided to share more of our Hanbok pictures. I dragged my @fujifilmx_us mirrorless camera to Seoul for days like this. I’m usually an IPhone X picture taker, but just love the depth that my mirrorless camera captures that are impossible to achieve with the iPhone camera. Renting Hanboks prior to visiting the Gyeongbokgung Palace for the changing of the guards which happens daily except Tuesdays at 10 am and 2 pm. The beautiful Gyeongbokgung Palace, meaning “the greatly blessed palace”, is the oldest Grand Palace built during the Joseon Dynasty and a must visit when in Seoul. The term ‘hanbok’ literally means “Korean clothing” and refers to the traditional clothing for both men and women worn during the Joseon period that was typically worn as semi-formal or formal wear during traditional festivals and celebrations. Women’s hanbok typically consists of a jeogori (blouse shirt or jacket) and chima (wrap-around puffy skirt); whereas men’s hanbok also comprises of a jeogori but paired with loose-fitting baji (trousers) instead. The process of renting and selecting our patters took all of 15 minutes. The women at the rental shop have the process down to a science, I had two women pinning me while 2 others pinned my daughter and another my husband. We arrived at 9:15 am and still had to wait for the changing of the guards. We rented for 2 hours and that was plenty of time for our needs. It was also hot and muggy in July, so we didn’t want to spend the entire day in our Hanbok. Pro tip: you get free entry into the palaces if you’re wearing a Hanbok. #seoul #seoulhanbok #seoultravel #seoulsouthkorea #photography #travelphotography #travel #explore #exploresoul #koreanhistory (at 서울 경복궁- Gyeongbokgung Palace, Seoul South Korea 景福宮) https://www.instagram.com/p/B0Sq0y-B2w9/?igshid=ln6o9xcldn2p