4 or 5 days in Seoul

I will have 5 days in Seoul at the mid of December and need recommendations for the ';must sees';. I am interested in experiences that will give me a sense of culture, history and current trends. Also, any recommendations for accommodations? Travelling solo so want to play it relatively safe.

4 or 5 days in Seoul

Your budget is important! Shilla is best hotel in Seoul, but can be pricey! Mill Hilton is not enormously easy to get to. Ibis cheap and OK.

I always stay in Grand Intercontinental, but that%26#39;s for work reasons, and it%26#39;s in Gangam, not downtown.

President is splendidly central, and pretty good.

To see: Changdeok palace; Namsan folk village; Namsan tower (at night); DMZ; Suwon folk village (much bigger than Namsan, pm me if you want details)

Changing of the guard at Deokksu palace (in front of President). One of the temples: Bongeung temple by Samseong station is the best in my view, and does a temple experience on Thurs afternoons for foreigners.

And wander the streets of Myoengdong and Insa dong

Mave fun!

4 or 5 days in Seoul

I would recommend staying in Gangbook area (north of Han river). There are many tourist friendly hotels around Myeongdong areas. I don%26#39;t know your budget, but hotels in Korea is relatively inexpensive compared to London or New York. You can probably enjoy favorable exchange rate. I stayed at Best Western Premier Kkukdo hotel, which is between 2 subways stops and had very nicely designed room, but surrounding area weren%26#39;t that lively. It seems Myeongdong Ibis or Savoy are very popular according to many reviews on hotel review site of this forum. I definitely recommend Insa-dong (鈥isitkorea.or.kr/enu/SI/SI_EN_3_1_1_1.jsp鈥?/a>), Gyeongbokgung Palace (鈥isitkorea.or.kr/enu/SI/SI_EN_3_1_1_1.jsp鈥?/a>), Namsan Hanok Village (鈥isitkorea.or.kr/enu/SI/SI_EN_3_1_1_1.jsp鈥?/a>) Cheonggyecheon Stream (鈥isitkorea.or.kr/enu/SI/SI_EN_3_1_1_1.jsp鈥?/a>) and nearby Gwangjang marketm as per museums, Samsung Museum of Art Leeum (鈥isitkorea.or.kr/enu/SI/SI_EN_3_1_1_1.jsp鈥?/a>) is my favorite, but National Museum of Korea is equally nice (鈥isitkorea.or.kr/enu/SI/SI_EN_3_1_2_4.jsp鈥?/a>)

For shopping definitely head to Myeong-dong (鈥isitkorea.or.kr/enu/SH/SH_EN_7_4.jsp鈥?/a>), Dongdaemoon market (鈥isitkorea.or.kr/enu/SH/SH_EN_7_4.jsp鈥?/a>) and Itaewon (鈥isitkorea.or.kr/enu/SH/SH_EN_7_4.jsp鈥?/a>)

If I book it, should I pay deposit? If I pay deposit, how much should I pay?

Gyeongbokgung as there are furnishings in the palace halls. Changdeokgung has a great garden, but the halls are empty. Namsan folk Village has traditional performances on weekends and it%26#39;s FOC!

I stayed in Yim%26#39;s House opposite the changdeokgung and the owners are great people, speak english and it%26#39;s cheap too.

shop at Myeongdong to see the latest trends.

don%26#39;t understand about deposit; what are you booking? hotel? flights? tour?

for hotel, you normally leave credit card to guarantee rooom and there%26#39;s a cancellation policy. No deposit as such.

For flights you leave a deposit of say 拢100, and then pay balance 6 weeks before flying (if using a travel agent)

Hi UK London,

Can reccomend the Ibis Myeong Dong. It%26#39;s very good. Myeong Dong is a great place to eat especially in the evening. I am sure you will be quite safe there. We stayed in a Junior Suite at the Ibis last month 24 - 28 Nov. It%26#39;s very good. I think you%26#39;ll find that a single room will also be of a high standard.

Must see sights are;

1. The Korean Folk Village which is a 1 hour drive from Seoul. Best option is to take a guided tour. We took a full day tour which also included the Hwaseong Fortress.

2. Gyeongbokgung palace,Seoul.

3. The changing of the guard at Deok Su Gung Palace and then visit the palace itself.

4. Changgyeonggung - built 1418 by king Sejong. It is linked by a bridge over a highway to;

5. The Royal ancestral shrine of the Jodeon Dynasty.

Cheers.

you CAN take a tour to Suwon Folk village but it%26#39;s perfectly easy to do under your own steam for much less than a tour cost. Also more flexible to do it yourself, you stay as long as you wish, so you can see the juggler, the farmer%26#39;s dance, the wedding AND the tightrope. And have lunch in the market square.

Train to Suwon; outside station on the left is a traditional-looking Korean house (stands out as everything else is modern). Go in and buy your ticket- there%26#39;s a bus that runs from there which is included in the price.

On the way back either go for the bus (times are advertised) or outside the village gate there are taxis that take you to Suwon station for about 拢2.50.

We had a good time there, Thanks a lot

I had 5 days in Seoul, it was a wonderful trip there. Many thanks.

We got a wonderful trip in South Korea. Thank for your help.

8 hrs in Seoul

Hello!

I have stop over in Seoul in June 13th (Saturday) for about 12 hrs, from 4am to 4pm. So I%26#39;m calculating about 8hrs in Seoul to wander around.

any suggestions?

I%26#39;m hoping to visit these places in such a short time, is it possible? I%26#39;m not too familiar with distances and time between each other.

Gyeongbokgung Palace

Changdeokgung Palace

Seoul Tower (Mt. Namsan)

Thank you!!!!

8 hrs in Seoul

I would suggest only going to one of the palaces. But there is this really great thing called the Seoul City Bus Tour. It is around $8ish to get on the bus, and it takes you all over Seoul. You can get on and off at each stop, and stay as long as you want!!! THere is also english speaking headsets so as it drives through the city it tells where everything is. You can get on the bus at any of the stops, so I would suggest taking a cab or train to one of the Palaces and getting on there--- It is great because it takes you to all of the markets, palaces, to Namsan, and tons of other things. 8 hours will be plenty of time to get it all done, as well! I hope this helps!!!

8 hrs in Seoul

Agree with seouloving:

And Changdeok Palace is normally only for guided tours. I think English is at 11 am , but check on their website.

To my mind it is the better palace to visit, partly because of the tour.

Bear in mind you need to leave a good 90 mins before your check-in time, on the way back, esp if going by limo bus. Taxi is prety dear, and IMHO no quicker- and often less comfortable.

You could take the cable car up to Namsan, but don%26#39;t go unless it%26#39;s a clear day. O/wise take subway to Chungmuro and find Folk Village (foot of Namsan, but not by cable car) and wander round there.

Guide needed in Seoul from Incheon

We are looking for a guide to show us INCHEON and SEOUL for 1 day on Saturday 21/3/2009 when the Oceania cruise ship, the “Nautica” we are sailing on calls in at the port of your City.

We have from 08.00am to 8 pm on shore.

The ship does offer day tours but we like to meet a local guide to show us around and learn about your city.

We would like to be met at the ship and returned to the ship by the guide.

The guide will be with us for the day, guiding us to the important things to see.

Could you tell us what transport you offer, what things we would do and what the cost would be for the day?

Thank you,

Aussie Ken

Guide needed in Seoul from Incheon

Can you please let me know how you go as we are going on Nautica on 23rd March and will be in Seoul 25th. Found on net there are Seoul Bus tours run all day but you have to find transport up to Seoul from port. Brisbeth

Guide needed in Seoul from Incheon

Hi Brisbeth,

Not much luck but did get an offer from travelagencypark@yahoo.com who wanted $150 UD but not sure if this was per person.

AussieKen

makeup

Attractions in Busan

Hi!

...am thinking of going to Busan for 3 days and 2 nights... . Could anyone recommend on the places of attractions in Busan?? MAny thanks in advance!

Attractions in Busan

Hi pochacco,

try this link www.lifeinkorea.com/Travel2/Pusan.

If you do visit Pusan, go up the tower on Dragons Head Mountain.

Cheers.

Day and a half stop over, what actually happens???

On our return trip,(see previous post) we are stopping over in Seoul for a day and a half. I have read elsewhere, conflicting reports of awful journeys to and from the hotel, and rubbish accommodation on this stop over. Is this true?

Will I need to have vast sums of ';indigenous'; money aboout my person to cover any unforseen eventualities that may happen, and is there time to actually see anything during this episode? has anyone else experienced this with Asiana Airlines, apparently you can take hand luggage.regards

pablo.

Day and a half stop over, what actually happens???

Awful, it isn%26#39;t.

If you get taken into Seoul itself, which is likely, there are things to do and see, before you head back to the airport.

You will need what appears to be vast sums, since the normal bigest note is 10,000 Won (about UK拢5). Don%26#39;t change any cash here in UK- it%26#39;s a rip-off. Change at the airport in Incheon, or even your hotel.

Ask when you check in for your return flight about what to do at Incheon and ask for your baggage to be checked through. Then only take your hand baggage and make sure you have what you need in it.

The worst experience I had was a strike in Sydney delaying baggage loading, meaning we were 5 hours late into Incheon. Hence we went to Hotel June (near airport) as opposed to Royal Hotel in Seoul. An Ok though not brilliant experience. It snowed and we werre glad to get back to the airport.

In Seoul, if at Royal, go see Cheongye stream, visit a palace and have a meal out. Cost about 50,000Won for two max. Credit cards work if you%26#39;re chicken and try a western chain restaurant.

The hotel WILL feed you, but don%26#39;t expect great food.

Ibis Myeong Dong or Prince Hotel Seoul

Hi Friends

I will be visiting Seoul together with my husband and 12-years old son this Christmas. I have read lots of good reviews on Ibis Myeong Dong (Rated No. 1) and Prince Hotel Seoul (Rated No. 7). Comparing the 2 hotels, I would prefer to choose Ibis. Unfortunately, Hotel Ibis informed me that they do not have extra beds and I was recommended a Standard Twin Room. I need advice from those who have stayed at Ibis Myeong Dong as to whether the room will be very cramped for 3 of us. I do not think the Jr Suite helps because it only comes with a king-sized bed. On the other hand, Prince Hotel Seoul has the Blue Twin and Jr Suite; both of which come with 1 double bed and 1 single bed. Thanks in advance!

Jess

Changing money

Does anyone know where is the best place to change money (USD to KRW) around Seoul/Incheon? I%26#39;ve been told that money changes are aplenty there. But which types (i.e. banks, hotels, airport) would usually give the best rates? How many % difference from the real exchange rate can we normally expect?

Also, we will be changing some won in the airport to pay for our transportation to the city. How is the rate there?

Changing money

I think banks offer the best rate..

And there are lots of bank%26#39;s exchange booth at the arrival hall.

Between banks, it doesn%26#39;t differ a lot.

If you have any Korean friend, ask them to change for you.. Usually my bank offers me good rate, because I am a usual customer of the bank..

Korean Folk Village

Anyone here tried getting to the Korean Folk Village thru the free shiuttle bus in Suwon? How exactly do we get to the shuttle bus station from Suwon subway station? Any idea which exit number to take, and the directions to the shuttle bus station?

Korean Folk Village

Yes, it%26#39;s easy. Suwon is not a subway station but a main rail station, in fact.

There are two ';sides'; and you want to come out of the station on the side that is to the left if you%26#39;re standing facing AWAY from Seoul. Just remember the way the train came in.

You leave the station and look LEFT and you will see a quasi traditional building on the same side of the road as the station. (If you don%26#39;t see it, then go back under the station and look from that side as you must have got confused)

Go to this building and buy your ticket. The buses go at 10:30 and 11:30, I think. This may have changed.

On the way back, only 3 buses go and you may want to take a taxi instead. There are plenty there; get in and say ';Suwon yok'; which means Suwon station.

It%26#39;s a good 40 mins ride.

Korean Folk Village

There is Tourist Information Center appx 50m from exit 4 of Suwon station. Inside of the info center, there is ticket booth for the village. You can buy ticket to the village and get shuttle ticket, too.

Shuttle leaves at 10:30, 11:30, 12:30, 13:30, 14:30

(It takes 30 min/departure time from the website)

make sure you%26#39;re there for the wedding celebration, I think midday, and also for the Farmer%26#39;s Dance and not-very-tight rope display at 3 till 4.

You can eat in the market area- buy tickets from the little huts, each of which has it%26#39;s own specific set of dishes, then take your ticket to the relevant food outlet. The noodle in soup is good, as are the pancakes (jeon)which have fish, veg, allsorts in them.

asiana airline from LHR carry on luggage enquiry

OK, we are trying to find out if there are any restrictions with the carry on luggage with asiana, we are limited to what we can carry because we will have internal aussie flights later on our trip, which are internal and thier restictionas are worse than international.any help most appreciated.

pablo.

asiana airline from LHR carry on luggage enquiry

The issue is with security, not Asiana, who are very accomodating in my experience.

makeup

Living in Busan

My husband was offered a job teaching English in Busan for one year. Could anyone describe the culture shock?

Living in Busan

Busan is the 2nd largest city in Korea. And it is the biggest harbor city in Korea. Already there are so many English teachers live in there. When you get there first, your husband might feel some sort of culture shock. But I am sure that he might get used to it soon. I am not sure which part of Busan he gonna live, but the best places for foreigners are Haeundae area and Gwangalli area. I am not sure you already have check below website or not. Try below website and get more informations about Busan.

http://english.busan.go.kr/main/

Living in Busan

Thank You that was very helpful

We spent 2 weeks at Kwangyang - see our page

After googling restlessl and resultlessly, our group finally arrived in Gwangyang (Kwangyang). Check out our tips pages for accommodation, food and other tips....

We spent 2 weeks at Kwangyang - see our page

Hi,

Some pics and tips can be found on tripadvisor - the rest are on our travel page at travelpod.com/travel-blog/鈥pod.html

Booking Korea - Japan ferry from UK

Hi, I%26#39;m going to Korea in April and would like to go over to Japan for a week as part of the trip. At first I thought we would just buy tickets there for the ferry a week later, but looking at the JR Bettle website that looks a bit risky as there aren%26#39;t many tickets available last minute.

Does anyone have any tips for booking the ferry in advance from the UK? I%26#39;ve heard of a few agencies that look promising, Kangsan is one, or heard that you can ignore the info on the beetle website saying you need to be Japanese to book on there.

Any tips/ideas? Thanks

Booking Korea - Japan ferry from UK

I assume that you want to buy tickets from Busan/Fukuoka/Busan(round trip). Then you got to buy tickets through the Korean company. Here is the company which run Beetle and Kobee. Miraejet co.

The website is http://www.mirejet.com/.(Unfortunately there is no english page)

But you can send e-mail to them to check out how you can make reservations. E-mail address is master@miraejet.co.kr. Also there might be conjuntion ticket with jr pass, too.

Trip Diary/Reviews (seoul,sindo,sido)

I%26#39;m back from Korea and below(if you want to read it) is my travel diary which I wrote for each day of my holiday.

Korea weather was really awesome.....and I totally loved the average temperature of -7deg there... I did not find it very cold.. In fact, when I went over to Japan for a few days, it felt warm(5deg)...

So anyway.... I%26#39;m odviously not too happy that I%26#39;m back in SG... But I%26#39;ll go back to Korea for sure.

Regards,

Johnathan

You wrote on 07 January 2009 at 06:01

I%26#39;ve arrived in Korea yesterday (28.12.08) and went to Sido/Sindo to see Full House... Stayed there for a night and had yummy korean food for lunch and ramyon for dinner....

Woke up this morning (29.12.08) and snow fell from the sky.... Made my way to Seoul via a ferry and taxi(too lazy to wait for bus)... Still snowing!... Staying at Pop Green hotel for the night and moving tomorrow again.. Walked around Apujeong district the whole day taking in all Seoul has to offer. It%26#39;s 11.30pm in Korea now and I%26#39;m watching an %26#39;celebration show%26#39; on SBS.

Yesterday (30.12.08), played the waiting game for almost the whole day then went to Insadong for dinner... Met up with Eun Joo in the night and went for supper together..it was korean food including raw crabs. Got a nice gift!

Today (new year%26#39;s eve), did not do much... Walked around Sinsa district for abit. Went to watch Bolt and then went for coffee @ coffeesmith(really cool place).

The first day (01.01.09) of 2009 spent in Seoul! Went to Dongdaemun but almost all the shops were closed...so after lunch there, we proceeded to Lotte World! HOWEVER...... Most of the shops were closed too, apart from Lotte Mart and the amusement park(which was overcrowded).. Spent a few hours there and bought a Korean Monopoly set. Met up with Eun Joo for dinner and some shopping then proceeded to have nok chaa latte @ Coffeesmith!..

(02.01.09) Spent the afternoon shopping at Yongsan Station Mall/I%26#39;Park Mall...Bought a TBJ jacket and cds(lots of them!). Settled the return airtickets to Osaka then headed out to watch Jump(martial arts stage comedy). Today was not too cold(-4deg)..

(03.01.09) Watched another movie in the afternoon then walked around Sinsa Dong since we were feeling abit lazy. We met up with Terry and had dinner(bbq style) then coffee @ starbucks. Shopped a little around Agpujeong then back to hotel... Generally quite an uneventful day.

(04.01.09) Woke up late and rushed like mad to meet Eun Joo for service. Attended Yoido Full Gospel Church%26#39;s 11am service. Headed to Myeong-Dong for lunch and had Zza Zzjang Myeon + sweet n sour pork(both totally yummy!)...Went up Namsam to sightsee around the Seoul N Tower, beautiful views of Seoul!....Went back to Myeong-Dong for dinner and had BBQ style octopus...Went to chill at a donut place(suddenly forgot name) till around 10+pm then went back to hotel.

(05.01.09) Spent the day washing clothes and preparing for Japan... Had dinner at Lotteria(a local fastfood) and ordered Bulgoggi burger meal but tasted totally like Terriakki.

(06.01.09) WELCOME TO OSAKA, JAPAN ! Flew by Korean Air and had to wake up SUPER early to catch the flight.....After a 2 hour flight, arrived at Kansai International Airport.... Had the BEST SUSHI in the world for dinner in this really authentic Japanese sushi bar and walked around a little before heading back to the hotel.

(07.01.09) Visited Kyoto today and walked around the shrines and castle and it was gorgeous...Still not very cold... Had Wonton noodles and takopachi balls for lunch... headed back to Osaka and walked through Shinsaibashi-Suji...found a relatively ok priced Sushi restaurant and had dinner there... I kind of miss Seoul.

You wrote on 08 January 2009 at 04:58

(08.01.09) Today spent the day shopping around Osaka... and visited a aquarium(like underwater world).... Was supposed to visit Universal Studios but decided against it in the end. Visited Hard Rock Cafe Osaka too... Went back to the traditional sushi bar i visited on 06.01.09 and had a really wonderful meal again! haha...well... I%26#39;m leaving Osaka tomorrow and heading back to Seoul.

ou wrote on 09 January 2009 at 08:06

(09.01.09) Woke up slightly earlier than usual to spend the last hours in Osaka.. Shopped a little then headed for brunch at a cafe. Left Osaka around 6pm via Korean Air back to Seoul.

WELCOME BACK TO SEOUL, KOREA ! Feel really happy to be back in Korea and headed back to Young Dong Hotel at Sinsa Dong. Had a good dinner and ate extra amounts of kimchi.

You wrote on 10 January 2009 at 06:52

(10.01.09) Today was back to -7deg! Haha, I love the weather here.... Today went shopping n eating with Eun Joo then watched a movie. Had Bulgoggi for dinner and it was totally delicious although abit expensive... Bought a Korean-English Bible to study and Classiquai cds for my sister. Going to church again tomorrow!

You wrote on 11 January 2009 at 03:23

(11.01.09) About today. I DIDN%26#39;T GET TO GO TO CHURCH. Know why?? Cos I smartly decided to visit an english language church and took down the address and directions to get there... THEN... today as i was making my way to Ichon station, I realised that i lost the note i wrote on. CRAPpppppppppppppp............. So then I made some use of my time and proceeded to the World Cup Stadium to look-see. Turns out nothing much there except a mall built into the stadium. Went back to Sinsa Dong and to the hotel. Feeling abit sian cos of the church thing.. so staying in tonight.. ordered macs too. Going ice-skating tomorrow!

You wrote on 12 January 2009 at 07:33

(12.01.09) (add on to yesterday)---in the end i did go out. Went to Seoul station Eun Joo and her younger sister and walked the dog...the dog was too active and Eun Joo%26#39;s sister took the dog home.. We then proceeded to supper at Seoul Station%26#39;s Macs(no i didn%26#39;t eat again..just had tea).

Today.. Went ice-skating with Eun Joo. It%26#39;s my first time to skate and i felt that i had to do in here in Korea esp since it%26#39;s the lovely winter season. Fell down alot of times and bruised my butt and hands... even have blisters on my heel. It was quite fun la... but painful. In the end, can skate properly already so felt quite good haha. Too tired for dinner so just slumped at Krispy Kreme Doughnuts and drank Nok Chaa Latte.

You wrote on 13 January 2009 at 05:17

(13.01.09) Woke up still bruised and blistered... Went to visit the Korean War Memorial/Museum today.. Was quite bored.. Went to Itaewon and walked around... Saw the Hard Rock Cafe Seoul there but did not have what i wanted... Got back to the hotel early today since nothing much to do. Watched TV and read my korean bible and also the guide book to Korea. Will have an early night today.

You wrote on 15 January 2009 at 06:12

(14.01.09) Met Eun Joo at Itaewon then proceeded to COAX MALL to watch movie...bought tickets then went to a bookshop where we read books...had Nok Chaa Latte before the movie... The movie... SUCKED BIG TIME... haha total rubbish!!! Waste my money! hahaha...people.... DON%26#39;T WATCH ';BE KIND, REWIND';. Anyway after that, we went back as it was late.

(15.01.09) Went to Insadong earlier in the afternoon then met Eun Joo at Jongno 3(sam) Ga station... Wanted to visit Changdeokgung Palace but stupid, only with tour guide then can enter... So we walked in the cold all the way to the National Folk Museum of Korea instead. Spent a few hours there and then headed to BBQ Bacon dinner (awesome stuff!). Then it was Nok Chaa Latte again at Baskin Robbins near Namdaemun and Eun Joo had her manicure done at the nail shop... Just got back to the hotel...

You wrote on 17 January 2009 at 06:44

(16.01.09) Did practically nothing.... Bought alot of street food back and had a feast!!

(17.01.09) Went skiing with Eun Joo and dongseng Chris. Was more of a avalanche than a person skiing....TOTALLY AM NOT GOOD AT THIS. Almost broke my leg like twice and snow all over me. Chris was a good teacher but I%26#39;m a lousy student..haha. Anyway went for Toppokki for dinner and was still feeling bothered by the skiing experience. Going to church tomorrow.

(18.01.09) Attended Myungsung Presbyterian Church Department of English Worship Service with Eun Joo and Eun Yeong(eunjoo%26#39;s younger sister) today... Loved the service and it felt a little like LE too.. After that, we had lunch at a small cafe then headed to Family Mart where Eun Yeong had to work part-time.. Eun Joo and I hung around in the mart till we were sooooo bored.. In the end went to I-Park Mall and bought some CDs... then got dragged into a bookstore again. Eun Joo read books while i stoned.

You wrote on 19 January 2009 at 05:57

(19.01.09) Woke up and the sick feeling of the end drawing nearer and nearer hit me... aha. Anyway... I went out in the afternoon then dinner was alot of mandoo. Looking forward to thursday but not beyond that.. Sigh... Won%26#39;t know how to say goodbye. Such a lovely place!!!

You wrote on 20 January 2009 at 05:18

(20.01.09) Spent some time trying to convince my good friend Joseph to climb Namsan with me but in the end he was too lazy to go out... So i proceeded to climb Namsan by myself.. I purposely chose to climb around 4.30pm so that i can see the sunset when i reached the peak. Bought a Nok Chaa when i reached the peak and stood looking over the Han River and watched the beautiful sunset... After that, went to Myeong Dong and walked around for awhile then bought alot of doughnuts from Krispy Kreme Doughnuts and went back to hotel and had a feast.

You wrote on 21 January 2009 at 04:13

(21.01.09) Today i went to meet dongseng Chris. We went to Myeong Dong and had lunch there then walked all the way to Namdaemun. Next we went to Hongik Uni Station and walked around the shopping streets there... Then walked to Sinchon Station%26#39;s shopping area and around Ewha Women%26#39;s Uni area too. Basically alot of walking. But today%26#39;s not cold so it%26#39;s disappointing.. it%26#39;s now 5deg. Anyway tomorrow is going to be an interesting day.

You wrote on 22 January 2009 at 02:53

(22.01.09) Today... Eun Joo and i were supposed to go to Incheon with her renting a car and driving us there. So much for anticipating it.....Cos the stupid car rental rule states that she can%26#39;t rent the car as her 21st birthday has not passed yet. In the end....Went to Namdaemun and Seoul Station%26#39;s Lotte Mart to do shopping.. This time i did some serious shopping and realising that i do have alot of things to bring back to SG, i bought a new bag(big n cheap) to house the stuff.

You wrote on 24 January 2009 at 08:36

(23.01.09) I asked around and was told that i could get to the Prayer Mountain by taking the subway to Gupabal Station then changing to bus 31...BUT...i went all the way there and got no such bus service...so i proceeded to COEX MALL to visit the Aquarium...After that walked around a little then decided to go back to hotel. Met Eun Joo and we went to watch Red Cliff 2...That was pretty much the whole day..

(24.01.09) Spent the day in Apgujeong District then to Lotte World%26#39;s Lotte Mart which was overcrowded so went to Seoul Station%26#39;s Lotte Mart instead. After that, went to Myeong Dong then to Namdaemun and finally to Sinsa Dong to watch another movie and ended the day at Coffeesmith... Took some time to reflect on the trip and chatted over Nok Chaa Latte and headed back to hotel. This marks the end of my time in Seoul and Korea...

You wrote on 25 January 2009 at 01:29

(25.01.09) Last hours in Seoul spent rushing to pack and rushing to get to the airport on time.... Got a taxi but the retarded driver refused to drive faster... Anyway was not in a very good mood as it was time to go home... Snow still falling from the sky and it%26#39;s everywhere... Took a last look at Seoul and then Incheon and finally boarded the aircraft headed home.

WELCOME BACK TO SINGAPORE. Saw steffi(my dog) n family waiting for me and that%26#39;s the end of the long winter vacation for me.

Trip Diary/Reviews (seoul,sindo,sido)

Anyway I will give a few tips and personal reviews for those wanting to visit Korea.

-Winter in Korea can see temperatures dipping to -11deg or even colder with wind chill so dress properly.

-Yes it does snow in Seoul.

-Dress code in Seoul is fashionable and stylish so don%26#39;t wear that jacket that you bought years ago because it just does not work.

-if you are intending to buy CDs in Korea, it%26#39;s going to be quite difficult to find a CD store so BUY IT when you SEE IT. (can check out I-Park Mall%26#39;s Synnara Records Store or Lotte Mart at Seoul Station)

-Taxis are cheaper at boarding point(W1,900) than in SG but don%26#39;t forget you might travel further than in SG.

-Black-Coloured Taxis are more expensive at boarding point(W4,500) somewhat similar concept to SG%26#39;s WHITE ';limo'; cabs.

-Taxis have a midnight surcharge so expect to pay more when you take a cab at night.

-Bring your CREDIT/DEBIT CARD because the biggest value note in WON is W10,000 which means having to bring alot of notes around(will deform your wallet).

-VISA is the preferred card and is WIDELY recognised. Mastercard is NOT accepted at some places.

-Please remember your PASSWORD for your VISA/Mastercard card account in order to withdraw CASH when in need.

-VISA/Mastercard ATM withdrawals can only be done at certain banks. Standard Chartered Bank and Hana Bank accepts International Cards.

-Hana Bank ATMs might be located inside 7-elevens but the sign outside the 7-eleven will be in Hangul(korean writings).

-The subway gets you almost everywhere and should you want to head to another major city/town, you can head to Seoul Station and take the train.

-Should you want to visit Jeju Island from Seoul, it is cheaper to head directly to Gimpo International(it%26#39;s domestic lah) Airport and buy a budget airline flight from there.

-Convinence stores (eg 7-11 %26amp; Family Mart) are located almost everywhere.

-Renting a Car requires an International Driving License and rental rates for a common car (eg Hyundai Sonata) stands around W80,000 for 24hr.

During my time in Seoul, I stayed mostly at Young Dong Hotel in Sinsa Dong which is essentially part-of/in-between the Gangnam/Apgujeong area. The hotel is a basically a business hotel that has free internet access at the business centre and if you have a laptop, in your room. The hotel staff are relatively helpful and you can call the front desk to get them to order take-outs from eateries outside the hotel..

The rate I was given per night for a twin-sharing room is W80,000 which is reasonable considering the location and facilities of the hotel. Getting there is easy, take the subway to Sinsa station and exit 1, then walk straight about 150m and you%26#39;ll see the hotel.

Young Dong Hotel has everything you need around it. Exit the hotel, turn left and walk about 20m and you%26#39;ll have a Thai Restaurant, 50m a 24hr coffee/waffle joint, 80m Coffeebean, 100m Cinema and 150m Exit 1 of Sinsa Dong Subway Station... Opposite the hotel, you%26#39;ll see a 24hr Paris Baguette Cafe as well as a 24hr Korean Restaurant to the left of it.. Walk down the street to the right of Paris Baguette Cafe and you%26#39;ll see many shops and eataries/cafes lining both sides of the street and you should hang out at Coffeesmith.

The Gangnam/Apgujeong area is somewhere you can find all the branded/designer boutiques and showrooms of luxury cars such as Lamborghini and Ferrari... Apgujeong%26#39;s Rodeo street has many eateries/cafes that you can eat and hang out at...

If designer fashion is not really your thing, you can consider Myeong Dong.. and odviously since you%26#39;re going to Myeong Dong, you should take the time to visit Namsan(best to go reach the peak at 5 plus to see the sunset) as well. Exit 3 at Myeong Dong Station and you should see a big dark grey chinese restaurant on your left, walk that direction and at the Y junction, take the right route and walk straight up till you see the Namsan Cable Car Station on your right A 2-way ride on the cablecar costs around W16,000. After your sightseeing at Namsan, head back the same way you went up and go back down Exit 3 and go opposite to Myeong Dong streets..

If you still find Myeong Dong to be a little on the expensive side, you can head to Namdaemun market.. Take the Subway to Hoehyeon station and at Namdaemun, you should be able to find roadside stalls which you can bargain at but the products are of a lesser quality. Food is aplenty in and around Nambaemun so no worries should you get hungry.

I would not recommend you visit Itaewon as there isn%26#39;t much to see there unless you really have alot of time then you can drop by. Itaewon is where Hard Rock Cafe is located.

For shopping malls, I would recommend Yongsan Station/I-Park Mall... As the name suggests, getting there is again by subway to Yongsan Station. There is a nice cinema and Synnara Records store amongst many other fashion outlets there, definately worth a visit.

Another mall you can check out is the COEX MALL at Samseong station. The COEX MALL has many shops and also a nice cinema.. It is interlinked to Intercontinental Hotel and the main attraction of the mall is the COEX AQUARIUM.

A mega-mall(you can call it that) to visit is LOTTE WORLD. Inside, there are MANY shops and the Lotte Department Store as well as a Lotte Mart(hypermart) and the famous Lotte World Theme Park. It is located at Jamsil Station. I won%26#39;t recommend you shopping at the Lotte Mart at LOTTE WORLD though as it would be CRAZILY crowded. The theme park too is very crowded but only on weekends.

An alternative to Lotte World%26#39;s Lotte Mart is the Lotte Mart located at Seoul Station. It%26#39;s just as big and has less people than at Lotte World. Around Seoul Station too, there is a big department store(i din go in) and Yonsei University.

My korean friend recommended the area around Hongik University, Sinchon and Ewha Woman%26#39;s University Stations... of the 3, the Hongik University Station area is more for clubbing/pubbing, Sinchon Station area had nothing much and Ewha Woman%26#39;s University Station area has some shops and cafes but nothing spectacular so I%26#39;m not sure if you should visit unless you have extra time.

If you want to attend church, you can consider Yoido Full Gospel Church(the biggest church in the world but no english service) or Myung Sung Presbetarian Church(english service at 1+pm). For Yoido Full Gospel Church, take the subway to Yeouinaru Station and exit 1, and walk quite far before you will see the church. For Myung Sung Church, take the subway to Myeongil Station(but i forgot exit number) but you can ask around for directions since it%26#39;s a famous church too.

Trip Diary/Reviews (seoul,sindo,sido)

jonahmobile

Thank you for sharing your trip and your tips to wrote this detail report and very informative tips. Finally I can read a trip report on Seoul forum as it was hard to have one - or none at all. I enjoyed to read your report and actually extract some of your tips and saved for my trip next Oct.

HL

How many % do card companies usually add on when charging a different currency to the card? Around 3% right? Maybe cash is still the way to go... providing you find a money changer that gives you a good rate.

HongLam,

You%26#39;re welcome.. I too could not find personal reviews on Korea when I was searching.. So I thought it would be good to share since I spent quite a long time holidaying there. I hope you enjoy your trip come October! Korea is great!

ACChua,

I%26#39;m not sure if your bank would charge the same admin surcharge for overseas withdrawals as mine..Anyway cash is definately the way to go but if you%26#39;re intending to do shopping in Korea(things r not cheap), the stack of notes you%26#39;ll have to carry around would be quite big.. I%26#39;m not sure why the Korean government does not issue a note of a bigger value since W10,000 = USD 10(approx.). Having a credit/debit VISA card would help lighten the load and acts as a backup should a need arise..

By the way, I don%26#39;t remember seeing any money-changers around..The only ones being at the Incheon Airport(they accept most currencies)..The places other than the airport would be the banks which would only accept major currencies(eg USD, YEN %26amp; Euro) so it%26#39;s best to check it up before going.

Prepaid Sim cards?

I have a 3G phone from asia and was wondering if there are now any prepaid sim packs for sale for use on my phone while I am in Seoul?

Thanks a lot

Prepaid Sim cards?

In Korea, you can%26#39;t buy prepaid sim card. I don%26#39;t know about the tech words but I heard that Korean cell company has sim card lock system. So the best way to have your own phone number is renting a phone at the airport. Below is the most popular cell company website.

http://www.skroaming.com/en/

airport limousine

Hi

We will arrive in Seoul from Jeju,Gimpo airport.

Is there airport bus like in Incheon to hotels or we have to take taxis?

Thanks very much

airport limousine

There certainly are buses. Look at http://kallimousine.com/

and click ';English';

Or there are city limo buses; can%26#39;t find link to them tho!

airport limousine

Thank you

Will look into this link

I did look into the website above and they do not provide service to my hotel(Marriott Seoul)

I also look into Gimpo airport website and can not find anything! i think we can go by subway(Gangnam station or express bus terminal station?)but then with luggages(6 people) ,may be a taxi (2) is ok ?

Do you know about how much taxi from Gimpo airport to Marriott Seoul hotel?

Thanks very much

I think I%26#39;d take City Air Terminal bus to City Air Terminal. Then a taxi from there- it%26#39;s not far!

6000 Won per person to KCAT- about US$6.

www.kcat.co.kr- City Air terminal

Thanks Ethelman2

Will continue my research!

Here is the answer.

You take airport limousine bus no.6000 at Gimpo airport and get off at Express bus terminal.

Then you enter Shinsegye department store or Central city. The building is connected to JW.

www.airportlimousine.co.kr/route/routee01.htm

makeup

IBIS Myeondong

I am considering this hotel for my stay in April. Can anyone tell me if the airport bus stops at the hotel? This is a critical factor in my decision as I don%26#39;t want to carry my luggage around.

IBIS Myeondong

yes, I can tell you that it doesn%26#39;t.

Look at the latest reviews for it, and you%26#39;ll see comments on that issue.

IBIS Myeondong

For hotel around myeondong, you can try Sejong Hotel, the airport bus stops outside it.

ethelman2: If we have heavy bags, can we take a taxi from Lotte hotel to Ibis MD? We will stay in Ibis MD 3 nights after our France trip and on the way home so souvenirs from France surely will add up the weight of our bags.

^ Yes you can take a taxi from Lotte Hotel to Ibis Myeong dong. It will cost about W2000 for the short trip.

but beware, Korean cabs do not have much trunk space due ot LPG tank. Two types of cab: small one (cheaper but not so much room) bigger (black)- this last probably best.

May not speak English: Your nearest in Korean is ';eebisoo hoateroo car juice ae yo';

My attempt at transliterating Korean speech was wrong: sorry!

It should have started ';eebisoo hoateray';

Thank you ethelman2 for your great effoert to help, but after a long flight, I don%26#39;t think I can rememberthat sentence :).Thanks again for your help.

HL

Without it, you may have problems. It means ';take me to the Ibis hotel, please.'; Many taxis in the city centre will have English, esp the black ones. o/wise try asking for ';Free Interpretation';( look out for it on the windscreen, most offer it).

At worst say ';eebisoo hatel';.

Another better option would be limo bus to Seoul station that taxi from there. The drivers at the station tend, in my experience, to have better English skills, esp the mobum (bigger, black) taxis.

It%26#39;s not much further to drive and although the mobums have a slightly higher fare you get more miles for your initial payment. You MUST however pronounce the hotel as ';eebis'; or ';eebisoo';.

';Eyebis'; will not work.

I will be walking to the hotel from Lotte Hotel (where the KAL bus drops me off). If it is only 100 - 200 metres...it is not that far. Is it a straight road or do I have to climb any stairs? Which direction should I be heading when I drop off at Lotte?

Seoul in July

Hey - I will be going to Seoul in July.

Any recommendations of must do?

Seoul in July

I recommend you to go to Boryeong Mud Festival which is held in July. I think Boryeong is 2-3 hours from Seoul. Check thin web site : www.mudfestival.or.kr/lang/en/index.jsp

Seoul in July

Great! Thanks so much.

I have been getting feedback that July is rainy and hot. Weather wise, may not be the best time..

Does it rain everyday in July? or just periodic rains?

Thanks!

I checked the site of Korea Meteorological Administration.

Days of rain in July

2008 : about 18 days

2007 : about 15 days

You can refer below site..

1st column : average temp

2nd : high temp

3rd : low temp

4th : average cloud

5th : rain fall

http://www.kma.go.kr/sfc/sfc_02_02.jsp

Hi there.

If you are interested in night tours or visiting the suburbs of Seoul, i can arrange for that. my yahoo.com mail is the same as my id. my rough rates are about the same price of a local inexpensive cab fare (not the expensive delux cabs). I can provide good english guide too. I also do airport pickup and drop off for 50bucks (US).

If you want to rent a private car for the whole day, i can also arrange that for a hundred bucks a day.

Le me know of your needs. I can be very helpful for any of your needs in Korea.

cheers

Mike

Tax Refund for Tourists question

I read that there is a tax refund scheme in Korea for tourists.

How much(%) tax are placed on consumer goods?

How much will get refunded by the scheme?

Thanks

Tax Refund for Tourists question

I got information on tax refund at National Tax Service.

To get the tax refund, you got to buy any items at Tax Refund marked shop.

Below is the information issued by NTS.

-----------------------------------

INFORMATION

REGARDING

TAX REFUNDS FOR

OVERSEAS VISITORS

If you are an overseas visitor and meet the following requirements, you will be entitled to a refund, on your request, of such taxes as VAT(Value Added Tax), and SET(Special Excise Tax), which are included in the price of commodities you purchase at this store.

· The commodities must be taken out of the country within 3 months of the date of purchase

· Each purchase subject to a tax refund must exceed 50,000 Won (including taxes)

The following procedures must be followed in order to obtain a refund：

· Please present your passport or other ID and write on the form provided the address to which you want the refund mailed. You will then be given two copies of the Certificate of Selling Goods and a stamped return envelope. If you wish to designate a specific currency for the refund, please choose one of the following：U.S ＄, Japaness ￥, UK ￡, West German DM, French FR

· Please present both copies of the Certificate of Selling Goods and the return envelope, together with the commodities you purchased, to the customs officer at your port of departure. The officer will check the commodities and return the purchaser\%26#39;s copy to you(please keep this copy for your reference). The officer will mail the other copy to us.

＊ If you already have sent the commodities out of the country by parcel or other means at the time of your departure, please present the receipt issued by the post office or export declaration certificate in place of the above documents.

· Please remember that you shall not receive a refund unless you present the copies of the Certificate of Selling Goods to the customs officer.

We will mail you the refund within 20 days from the date on which we receive the copy of the Certificate of Selling Goods mailed by the customs officer.

We will deduct the remittance charge and th postage, paid for the return of the Certificate of Selling goods form, form the amount to refunded.

Please allow one month or more form the date of your departure for the receipt of the refund.

In case do not receive the refund within a reasonable period of time, please contact us, the Korean Embassy in your country, or the following Korean tax authority：

Director of VAT Division

National Tax Administration

108-4, Susongdong, Chongroku

Seoul 110

Republic of Korea

-----------------------------

I am not sure that it is easy to get the forms or not.(I have no chance to do that because I am Korean.)

But you can ask them in accordance with above information.

Please have refunded.

www.nts.go.kr/news/news_07_01.asp…

(It is written in Korean, English and Japanese)

Tax Refund for Tourists question

Tax refund gonna be around 10% of your payments.

ktc card

Hi

Is it worth it if i buy the KTC(Korea travelling card) cause i ll be staying 6 nights in Seoul?

It s seems that you can use it for Limousine airport bus and subway ,bus around Seoul,and you can top up money on it?

Thanks for any advice

ktc card

It looks like a debit card for foreigners. I haven%26#39;t used one or heard of it. The website says it is no longer the KTC but the SKTC issued by Shinhan bank.

If you just want something for subway and bus, get a prepaid card or key at any kiosk. Easy...

ktc card

Thank you seasmoke!

hi! was browsing through the forums and came across this post -- what is a prepaid card or key? we heard about T-money and were planning on using this on subways and/or buses. is it advisable to get the t-money card? can we refund the unused balance in the card?

btw, what is the biggest WON currency denomination?

I think Seasmoke%26#39;s opinion is right. I checked Shinhan card homepage. Even in the homepage I couldn%26#39;t find any info about the card. I think it is not used and accepted at many shops. So it is not good method of saving your money at the moment.

To travelpursuit

I found those cards.

seoulcitypass.com/jsp/鈥itypass_eng.jsp

seoulcitypass.com/jsp/鈥lus_Eng-01.jsp

I just got this info from citypass homepage, so I can%26#39;t guarantee how it works.(Because I never used those cards.)

And the biggest won currency denomination is 10,000 won at this moment.

Check this homepage section currency in circulation.

http://eng.bok.or.kr/

March -? weather

Anyone been to Seoul during the 1st week of Mar? or any help whether this is still winter time and no cherry blossom yet?

March -? weather

Usually cherry blossom bloom from April through May in Korea. The exact period varys across regions. The temperature in March is usually 5-6 degrees Celcious. We consider March as the beginning of spring, but it will be still cold for Singaporeans. Fortunately or unfortunately, Korea is experiencing warmer winter than usual possibly because of global warming.

March -? weather

Hi there,

thanks for the info.....i will reconsider going then in early Mar.......mayb mid April will be better and will get to see both the blossom and better spring weather.

would you advise for first timer to go free and easy to Seoul in this case. We been to tokyo 2 yrs ago and did not encounter much of a problem and Korea will be a challenge as most of the signages are not in english or mandarin.......

Most signages are in Korean and English, sometimes even Mandarin in subway(=metro), department stores, museums. The anouncement in subway is in Korean and English, too. But, knowing how to pronounce Korean characters will come in handy because many restraunts have no English menu. Though language itself is way difficult for English or Chinese speakers, Korean character is easy to learn. If you learn Korean character, you can avoid confusion of inconsitent spelling of Korean words in Roman letters.

Hi! We will be there from March 18-24, was just wondering, what kind of, or how many layers of clothing should we prepare for? Is it necessary to wear thermals underneath jackets and scarves and gloves too?

I have checked on the weather history for last year and the temp. ranges from 4-16 celcius starting from March18. That would be considered quite cold for us who live in a warm climate all year round. We would like to be prepared for how cold it could be but not to over-pack and bring what is necessary only.

Thank you in advance for any replies!

Long sleeve top with a warm coat/jacket should be sufficient. Spring/autumn scarf will be useful but I don%26#39;t think thermals and gloves will be necessary.

Korea is excellent for shopping. You can buy good quality fashionable clothes at reasonable price. Korean winter clothes are much warmer than european made ones. I suggest you take as little as possible and buy clothes in Korea if necessary.

Check below page. You can figure out average temp, low temp, high temp in the past. It is done in Korean but you could try.

http://www.kma.go.kr/sfc/sfc_03_02.jsp

thanks for the info.

any suggestions or recommendations on where we can find fashionable clothes at a reasonable price?

Dongdaemoon market! There are several shopping centers choked with many shops! …visitkorea.or.kr/enu/SH/SH_EN_7_2_5_1.jsp

I also like to shop at shopping center attached with Gangnam Express bus terminal.

…visitkorea.or.kr/enu/SI/SI_EN_3_6.jsp…

gangnam to namdaemon market area

travelling to Seoul in July for a 6 nite business trip, Can anyone please tell me the approx distance from Novetel Ambassador hotel, Gangnam, to the Namdaemon area,Dont mind cabbing it but dont want to be too far away, many thanks

gangnam to namdaemon market area

By map, it is 9 Km away from Novotel Gangnam. It takes about 15 - 20 min by taxi. The fare gonna be less than 10,000 won. And you can have lots of good food and fun at Gangnam station area, too. It is 10 min by foot.

gangnam to namdaemon market area

Take the green line (outer circle) from Samseong station close to Novotel. Change at Dongdaemun stadium to line 4 and get off at Hohyeon. The market is right there. 120 Won, and you won%26#39;t be stuck in traffic like you are likely to be in a cab

umm..your cab price will probably me more than 10,000won even without traffic. Your hotel is located where terrible traffic is, not to mention that namdaemun is not too much better either. If you take a cab, you will be bored in the car most of the time no to mention that the fare will be in the range of 20,000 considering the casual traffic in that part of town. I suggest you take the subway or the bus (the bus lane is faster). It will save you time and cost.

sorry 1200 Won.

mant thanks for all your helpful suggestions people!!

makeup

Hub Lounge Incheon Airport - Reviews?

Has anyone used the Hub lounge at Incheon? Do they have loungers to relax and would you say it was worth the money? Thank you for any feedback.

Hub Lounge Incheon Airport - Reviews?

sorry no.

I%26#39;m usually eith going to Seoul or in business class transitting to SYD.

Their website discusses ';slumberlets';- which suggests the sleeper seats found in the Asiana lounge.

There is also at ICN a transit hotel, which again I%26#39;ve never used, but is bookable for short durations.

Hub Lounge Incheon Airport - Reviews?

I have used the free transit area a few times at Incheon (3-7hrs) between Europe and South Pacific. Incheon%26#39;s transit lounge is the best I%26#39;ve ever experienced! Free shower facilities, free internet, movie/tv lounge, comfortable chairs/long lounge chairs for sleeping, many eating places at the airport etc. Pretty quiet too. I was happy haning out at the airport for several hours...

We have about a 10 hour layover in South Korea flying from Bali back to Hawaii next month. I was wondering what can we do for 10 hours. One option was try and leave the airport and see some things. However now that I saw your review and looked up the Hub lounge on the internet, I think we will just hang out there! It sounds Great!

How Can You Tell a Good Restaurant in Korea?

Hi, I found this article from this ex-pat%26#39;s blog, which I think will be real useful to many new visitors. Many times, when I am asked to recommend good place to eat in Seoul, I hesitates a little cause there are real quick turn around for restaurant opening and closing. Even my Seoul local friends who tried to taking me to their favorite places got stumped couple of times, because it was closed or replaced with new restaurant. So read the linked article which will help you to find decent place to eat at Seoul.

I agree with most of author%26#39;s suggestions except about his comment on long line. Line can be good thing since Koreans are usually quick-tempered, so they won%26#39;t wait in line without any good reson.

www.zenkimchi.com/FoodJournal/鈥?/a>

How Can You Tell a Good Restaurant in Korea?

I%26#39;m a little concerned about ';in Korea';- ';in Seoul';, or ';in big cities'; would be better.

Out of town, I%26#39;ve been taken to really good places that don%26#39;t meet the criteria too well.

And ';fusion'; CAN be OK (just often isn%26#39;t).

For Brits, we have NO idea what is meant by ';carnies';- can anyone who speaks the lingo (presumably US English) explain, please?

How Can You Tell a Good Restaurant in Korea?

ethelman2, Since I didn%26#39;t have many chance to eat out of cities. I defer to your opinion.

But I have to agree on author%26#39;s comment on fusion food, exception of ';bullgogie'; burger at Lotteria, most of fusion food I tried wasn%26#39;t good. Call me traditionalist.

As per carnie, it refers to a hawker who always yelling and hustling people to go in certain restaurant. This word is not that often used in my part of US. I think the original blogger must be a southerner.

thanks blee246:

I%26#39;m thinking of places like Naejangsan, even Kongju and near to but not in Gyeongju.

Seoul To Tokyo Airfare

I am planning to visit Tokyo a few days from Seoul. May I know where can I buy the airfares (am travelling on a budget), and how much does it cost in WON?

Should I buy it online or visit one of the travel agent when I%26#39;m in Seoul?

I saw from this website - http://www.priceair.co.kr/main/main.html, they are selling the airfares but I%26#39;m not sure about the payment and whether it%26#39;s reliable.

Appreciate any advise. Thanks much.

Transport in Seoul

Are there any transport pass for travelling round Seoul (like 2 or 3 days pass)? If so, how much is it in WON? Thanks

Transport in Seoul

Here is all about transportaion cards in Seoul.

english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/TR/TR_EN_5_4.jsp

vegetarian food

Hi guys,

When we went China, Ellyse from Tripadviser was kind enough to translate this to chinese for us. I was wondering if anyone here can translate it to korean.

Heading (underlined and bold): I am vegetarian

1st line: I do not eat pork, chicken, duck, goose, beef, mutton/lamb

2nd line: I do not eat frog, yak, dog

3rd line: I do not eat ham, offal (animal organs), any meat-related products

4th line: I do not eat any soup with any meat, fish, seafood flavours

5th line: I do not eat fish, prawn/shrimp, crab, any seafood

6th line: I do not eat any kind of eggs, chicken/duck/quail eggs, salted eggs, century eggs

I hope someone can help.

Thank you.

vegetarian food

Welcome to forum,

Good luck finding vegan meals in Korea. Although Koreans eat lot more vegetables than westerners, they usually mix meat or seafood stock/sauce with vegetables. There are a few Buddhist style restaurants — most famous one is ';San chon'; at Insa-dong — where you will be able to enjoy total vegan meals.

Here are my translation, I deleted out few words that you wouldn%26#39;t be needed since Korean usually don%26#39;t eat goose, frog, yak. salted eggs or century eggs.

저는 채식주의자 입니다 (I am vegetarian)

저는 돼지고기, 닭고기, 오리고기, 소고기, 양고기를 먹지 않습니다. (I do not eat pork, chicken, duck, beef, mutton/lamb)

저는 개고기를 먹지 않습니다. (I do not eat dog — Most of Koreans wouldn%26#39;t even suggest this dish to foreigners. Be very careful to bring this subject since many Koreans can be sensitive from harsh criticisms from westerners in the past.)

저는 햄, 소세지, 내장등 어뗜 육류식품도 먹지 않습니다. (I do not eat ham, sausage, offal (animal organs), any meat-related products.)

저는 고기, 생선, 해물 육수로 만든 국이나, 찌개, 탕 등을 먹지 않습니다. (I do not eat any soup, stews with any meat, fish, seafood flavors )

저는 생선, 새우, 게 등 모든 해물을 먹지 않습니다. (I do not eat fish, prawn/shrimp, crab, any seafood.)

저는 어떤 종류의 알, 즉 계란/거위알/메추리알/생선알을 먹지 않습니다. (I do not eat any kind of eggs, chicken/duck/quail/fish eggs.)

vegetarian food

Hi Blee246,

Thank you very very very much for the translation.I am really looking forward to our trip.

Dipps

I strongly recommend a restaurant called ';Chaegundaam';, which is near Samseong station (close to COEX).

I can give you directions if you like: their website is only in Hangul.

Buddhist veggie food: ';www.chaegundaam.com';

Very nice people who actually speak excelent Englsih

02 5559173, 9174

I am not vegie.. So I didn%26#39;t know any vegie restaurant in Seoul. I found the list of vegie restaurants. It is written in Korean but you print it before you come to Korea.

List of Korean vegie restaurants

서울

SM 채식뷔페

서울특별시 강남구 개포동 1229-10

전화:02-576-9637 / 02-576-9638

오세계향

서울특별시 종로구 관훈동 59

전화: 02-735-7171

오세계향 채식뷔페

02-453-2112 // 사형사저님(동수님) \10000

서울 광진구 구의 2동 53-10번지

사랑분식

서울특별시 강남구 개포동 1230-5 식권(10장)=\35000원(기본식사)

전화: 02-577-4012

채식도시락전문점

02-3676-7880

서울시 동대문구 숭인동 76-85

적수방

02-2276-0993

www.fgs.or.kr

동국대입구역 2번출구 태극당 뒷편 건물(사찰) 지하2층

서울특별시 중구 장충동2가 188-6 불광산사 (지하)

감로당

02-3210-3397

www.sachalfood.com

서울 종로구 화동 87-1 정독도서관 우회전하여 골목으로 150m 안쪽

뉴스타트 채식 레스토랑 뷔페

02-565-4324

www.newstartvege.com

서울 특별시 강남구 대치동 897-13 남곡빌딩 2층

선능2번출구

산골채식건강식당 뷔페

02-978-9006, 02-977-7437

서울특별시 중랑구 묵2동 238-12

7호선 먹골전철역 6번 출구

산촌

02-735-0312

서울특별시 종로구 관훈동 14

아승지(阿僧祗)

02-836-8442

서울시 영등포구 신길동 223-17

채근담

(02) 555-9173

주소 서울 강남구 대치동 983 일동빌딩 별관 사찰음식

초록뜰

02-2213-1878

서울특별시 동대문구 휘경2동 276-57

신동양 중화 요리 식당

02-782-1754 (중화요리, 채식으로 따로 주문)

5호선 전철 여의도역 5번 출구 여의도 종합 상가 건물5층

진리루

02-2215-6636 (중화요리, 채식으로 따로 주문)

서울시 동대문구 휘경2동 255-19

채식제과점

스티키핑거스 www.stickyfingers.co.kr

우유, 계란, 버터 등 일체의 동물성 재료를 쓰지 않음

채식 콩아이스크림

퓨얼리 데카던트 www.decadent.co.kr

우유, 계란, 버터 등 일체의 동물성 재료를 쓰지 않음

Above Information from : www.suprememastertv.com/kr/bbs/board.php…

i%26#39;m a vegetarian living in Japan and found Korea paradise compared to Japan!

We found so many vegetarian restaurants in Seoul. There was a great one in Insadong, I forget the name, but it%26#39;s listed on happycow.com

The owner is a herbologist and speaks fluent english.

I found Korean restauranteurs so much more accommodating than their Japanese counterparts. I only can speak a smattering of Korean but they understood my requests so much easier than when I try to get the same result in fluent Japanese!

If in a pinch, meat-free bibimbap always works!

Here is one more website concerning about vegetarian restaurants.

…visitkorea.or.kr/enu/FO/FO_EN_6_4_2.jsp

Hotels in Gwanak-gu?

Are there any nice hotels in Gwanak-gu besides the Stay7?

Hotels in Gwanak-gu?

I couldn%26#39;t find any nice hotels in Gwanak. But there are lots of Motels(usually they put Hotel signage) around Seoul Univ. station. I do not recommend them though.

makeup

Where to buy DVDs in Seoul ?

Any one could advise where to buy pirated DVDs from films and TV series in Seoul ?

Thanks

buying ginseng and other korean souvenir items

does anyone know which shops sell genuine, authentic ginseng and approximately how much they cost? what other souvenir items do people usually buy from korea?

our tour group itinerary includes a visit to a ginseng shop and amethyst factory and from what i gather from other people, these are usually rip-offs with marked-up prices.

appreciate your suggestions. many thanks.

buying ginseng and other korean souvenir items

your best place may well be Insa-dong. Not cheapest, but plenty of stalls who speak enough English. Ginseng, you name it, all in one place

buying ginseng and other korean souvenir items

Let me give you some useful site of Insam(we call it insam in Korea not ginseng).

www.kgc.or.kr/new_eng/company/contact.html

www.ginsengmall.co.kr/鈥?/a>

www.insam-mall.com/front/php/category.php鈥?/a>

Some are written in Korean, but you can click around.

Korean Souvenir samples.

shopofkorea.com/index.php鈥?/a>

www.urisalim.com/FrontStore/iStartPage.phtml

Please click around.

Any more questions are welcomed.

I am curious that is it possible to take raw Insam to your country?

Actually, You can try your luck buying souvenirs at Namdaemoon market. I think I saw same silk padded pouch selling at Namdaemoon about 1000 won to 2000 won cheaper, plus you can bargain there.

As per ';Insam'; products, be very careful to buy them at reputable store to ensure you get genuine products.

Thank you all so much for the info and also for the web links!! I think we鈥檙e gonna break our wallets buying all those souvenir stuff LOL there are so many to choose from! We will be going to Namdaemun and Dongdaemun, I just hope we can find them there at a good price :)

Seoulhyena, re raw insam, I really don鈥檛 know. I鈥檓 guessing that it鈥檚 allowed because most, if not all, of the group tours here have visits to ginseng store in the itinerary. Any tips on how to check if the product is genuine? Actually we might not have time to look for the stores, are these available at the markets too? We were thinking of buying the powder form, by the way.

Also, I鈥檓 thinking of buying some snack food that is unique to korea...something like biscuits or fruit preserves or what we call ';junk food'; here haha...Any suggestions on what is local or specialty of korea?

Be at Boshingak on 1 Mar

It is Indefendence Movement Day, 1 March.

There will be bell ringing ceremony at Boshingak.

It is located at Jonggak station(Subway line 1)

Ceremony will be held from 11:40 ~ 12:30.

Before that there will be other performances at Naminsa Madang in Insadong from 10:00.

Seoul To Tokyo Airfare

I am planning to visit Tokyo a few days from Seoul. May I know where can I buy the airfares (am travelling on a budget), and how much does it cost in WON?

Should I buy it online or visit one of the travel agent when I%26#39;m in Seoul?

I saw from this website - http://www.priceair.co.kr/main/main.html, they are selling the airfares but I%26#39;m not sure about the payment and whether it%26#39;s reliable.

Appreciate any advise. Thanks much.

Seoul To Tokyo Airfare

It varies from 200,000 won to 500,000 won without tax. It depend on which airline you take and when you fly. There are two ways of getting Tokyo by air. One is Incheon to Narita. The other is Gimpo to Haneda. And there are 6 airlines flying those route Korean air, Asiana, Japan airlines, All Nippon Air, United, North West. Usually the cheapest ones are NW, UA, NH.

Here is a online tickets website.(In Korean though)

You can check the price range. I put random date for the site but the cheapest ones are sold out and 250,000 ~ 350,000 won are available.

鈥nlinetour.co.kr/booking/BkFareSearch.lts鈥?/a>

Seoul To Tokyo Airfare

Thanks

I visited the website but it%26#39;s in Korean :( so I can%26#39;t do any research on it.

But still thanks :)

Over Night Layover in Seoul (ICN)

Dear worldwide travelers,

I will be traveling to Asia end of April. My flight will arrive to ICN at 9:45pm and depart at 4:55pm next day to my final destination.

I have already picked a hotel nearby ICN to crash for over night.

I would like to visit 2 places. They are: Insa-dong and Gyeongbokgung Palace.

I need your help and advise to determine if time allows me to go both places.

1. Are they close to each other and which one should I go first?

2. What is the latest that I need to get out of the city and head back to the airport for my 4:55PM flight.

Public transportation or Taxi is not an issue. I can take either one or whichever fastest way and direct path.

Many thanks and have a great day.

saigonhouston

Over Night Layover in Seoul (ICN)

1. Insa-dong and Gyeongbokgung are very close. You can get there in about 15 min by walk. It takes about 1 hour to 1 1/2 hour from ICN to Gyeongbokgung.

I recommend you visit Gyeongbokgung first then to Insa-dong. Have lunch in Insa-dong.

2. Take airport limousine no.6011 both way. You need to catch the bus at Anguk-dong(north of Insa-dong st. and there is Anguk subway staion) around 13:30. Then you will arrive at the airport before 15:00.

Here is some useful web page for you.

www.airportlimousine.co.kr/route/routee04.htm

www.royalpalace.go.kr/html/eng/main/main.jsp

鈥isitkorea.or.kr/enu/SI/SI_EN_3_1_1_1.jsp鈥?/a>

I recommend you to stay in Seoul if your hotel is not fixed.

Nami Island - How to get there...

Dear all,

Heard some review about Nami Island, please advise how to get there. We are staying around Sejong Hotel.By the way, what is the weather condition, will be travelling next wed.

Many thanks.

Nami Island - How to get there...

Hi Florabee, there are 2 ways to get to Nami Island. By bus or train. I went there by train last week.

By train:

Take the subway to Cheongnangyi subway station at Line 1. Exit the station, follow the signboard to Cheongnangyi Station. Buy a ticket to Gapyeong station. The ticket cost 3,800 won one way and is a 1.5 hour ride. The train interval is every hour.

From the Gapyeong train station, you can take a cab to the ferry wharf. There are a lot of taxis outside the Gapyeong train station. Just tell them ferry station or Namiseoum and they will understand. It cost 3,500 won and is only about 5 minutes ride.

From the ferry wharf, you need to buy the ferry ticket which includes the Nami Island entry ticket, total is 8,000 won. The ferry ride is another 5-10 minutes.

Coming back is the same. At the ferry wharf, you need to walk straight ahead to the family mart in from of you and there are a lot of taxis waiting there. Just tell them train station. You will have to buy a train station to Cheongnangyi station to go back to Seoul.

It seems that the buses to Nami Island depart every 15 minutes and you need to take the bus from Dong Seoul Bus Terminal. It%26#39;s also about 1.5 hour ride but not so sure of the cost

When I left Seoul last Friday, it was starting to get chilly. Bring along an umbrella as it rained twice when I was there.

Nami Island - How to get there...

Hi,

I%26#39;m in seoul now and plan to go to Nami Island this weekend. But I wonder if all trees are still with red/ yellow leaves. Is there any one know?

And is it enough time to stay there just 1 day since I%26#39;m in Seoul now?

Endless Passion,

You could see autumn foliage this weekend in Namil island, and if you planned to go there, visit early in the morning as it is too crowded with foreign tourists these days, actually almost all weekends around year. Staying half a day is enough.

Tks alot for ur info.

So if i want to get there by bus, i just need to go to dongseoul bus station and there will be bus go from dongseoul directly to Nami island? dont have to take ferry ?

As far as I know there is no bridge to connect from mainland to island. You still have to take ferry.

hi gud am. im goin to korea in dec 22 and i will be staying in ramada seoul w my 2 kids. i plan to hire the car from u to go to namiseo island , it says in ur forum thatu charge 30usd.i want to ask how much gas i can spend to go there. and do u know any goodwill guide.im from hongkong.pls email me back. my email pajero69x@yahoo.com

I will be going to Korea 10th-17th April 2009, me %26amp; boyfriend interest to go to Nami Island. Is it daily trip or you need to spend night there? How much price for transport from Cheilaccess,Pyeongtaek City. We also be stay in Holiday In on 10th-13th April. which day should we go to Nami, any event over there?

Dear MayaLeo

1. Bus : Osan/Dongseoul Terminal(3,200won)

Dongseoul/Gapyeong(6,100won)

Gapyeong/Namisum(Taxi or city bus)

2. I recommed you be there on weekday.

3. You can do one day tour over there.

makeup

Foreigner's Festival at Nami Island - Free entrance

When : 28Feb ~ 8Mar

Where : Namisum, Chuncheon(Gapyeong), Gyeonggido

koreatimes.co.kr/www/鈥?44_40253.html

Has anyone stayed at the Artnouveau City Residence?

I plan to visit Korea this year. Has anyone stayed at Artnouveau City or know of anyone who stayed there? Is it a nice place. I can%26#39;t find any reviews online.

Thanks!

Has anyone stayed at the Artnouveau City Residence?

I checked reviews of that residence written by Korans. There were 25 reviews and got 3.8 point out of 5. Have you seen hotel%26#39;s homepage? Please check its homepage too.

http://www.ancsr.com/english/common/main.asp

Has anyone stayed at the Artnouveau City Residence?

Do you know where I can see the reviews? I don%26#39;t speak Korean, so I wouldn%26#39;t be able to read. Did it say what was bad/good?

Best way to the Shilla Hotel to Incheon Airport

Hello

We%26#39;re looking for advice on the best way to travel to the Shilla Hotel in Seoul from the airport. What are the options, and would a taxi transfer be expensive?

Many thanks in advance!

N2O

Best way to the Shilla Hotel to Incheon Airport

Sorry, I meant to say: to the Shilla Hotel FROM Incheon Airport...thanks again

Best way to the Shilla Hotel to Incheon Airport

you can try this site.

scroll down to get to the namsan route and you will find the information

airport.kr/airport/traffic/bus/busList.iia鈥?/a>

Sorry got to add. if you have 4 person than just catch a cab... to Namsan area is about 60,000 won

Check the english site of this web page.

http://www.kallimousine.com/

Many thanks all. Regarding taxis, is it as easy as just getting one at the airport or would we need to be mindful of anything?

Why take a cab?

How do you get more than 4 into a cab? The trunk wil be full of an lpg tank.

I%26#39;d go for line 1 KAL limo every time. It%26#39;s fast comfortable and reliable. Your luggage goes under the bus- you don%26#39;t do that, a loader does- and unloaded at Shila for you.

Flower in Summer

Hi,

Does any one knows if there%26#39;s any flower blomming in summer season? Any flower farms in Seoul worth a visit? Example like lavender bloom in summer

Flower in Summer

Seoul%26#39;s summer weather is very similar to your home town weather. Very hot and humid with monsoon rains for about month. Not good climate for lavender which flourishes on drier climate.

Don%26#39;t get disappoint though as all that heat and rains makes the city virtually covered in rich green.

You can visit Namsan park which has small outdoor botanical park, Cheonggaecheon stream where numerous wild plants planted along the banks, or Botanical Garden at Seoul Grand Park, grandpark.seoul.go.kr/Eng/html/0301_bota.jsp

Flower in Summer

I recommend you the garden of morning calm.

It is not in Seoul but not too far from Seoul.

Check their homepage..

http://www.morningcalm.co.kr/

Hi all,

thanks :)

Ideas for places to see in a week in South Korea

I am after ideas for what to do, where to go, what to see in South Korea for a week. I will be based in Kyungki-do where my sister works, but happy to travel anywhere and stay overnight. Will be there from 21 - 28 July.

Ideas for places to see in a week in South Korea

is that Gyeonggi-do in New Money?

i.e around Suwon?

Ideas for places to see in a week in South Korea

Yes, that%26#39;s right.

Why in Trip advisor don%26#39;t have much information about place to stay in Pyeongtaek City or Gyeonggi-do? If any one have some info Please help me...I want to stay in that area between 5-7 days. I want to plan visit interesting places, do interesting activities %26amp; enjoy nature with my boyfriend.

I am sorry, that I can%26#39;t provide much information about Pyongtaek city, nor Gyeonggi-do since I don%26#39;t know much about the place. Most of hotels cater to tourists are located within Seoul, I am not sure you will able to find tourist hotels near Pyongtaek city. I tried to look up hotels, but other than ski resorts, there weren%26#39;t many places. See linked article about this place in Ichon;

鈥isitkorea.or.kr/enu/AC/AC_EN_4_8.jsp鈥?/a>

And general travel info article;

鈥isitkorea.or.kr/enu/SI/SI_EN_3_1_1_1.jsp鈥?/a>

3 days 2 nights in Busan

Hi, I am going Busan in Mid March with a girlfriend.

Is it easy to travel on our own in Busan?

We are going to take a train from Seoul.

Any recommendation on what to do and see or stay (Hostel) in Busan..

Thank you.

3 days 2 nights in Busan

Please check this website first.

http://english.busan.go.kr/main/

I recommend you below places in Busan.

Beaches : Haeundae(the biggest in Korea), Gwanalli

Shopping Area : Seomyeon, Gwangbokdong

Market : Jagalchi seafood market

Hot spring : Oncheonjang, Haeundae

Others : Taejongdae, Yongdusan park

Eatery : Sashimi, Dongrae pajeon and so on

makeup

USD exchange rate at the airport

hi, has anyone exchanged US dollars at the airport recently?

Incheon Airport Train

I%26#39;ve heard rumours that the long awaited train link to Incheon Airport is due to open in March. Can anyone confirm when/if this is due to open? Also, once running how long would it take to transfer into central Seoul? Thanks!

Incheon Airport Train

Incheon aiport already opend 16th March but that is Incheon-Kimpo line. You can go Seoul from Incheon airport by Airport limousine. I think it is the easiest waty to go Seoul. :)

Incheon Airport Train

Ok - so it is easier and quicker to get an airport limousine than taking the train to kimpo then subway from there?

yes i think so. :)

I agree- the buses are great. Unless your hotel is on the direct line (when it opens) you have to face stairs and possibly multiple changes of train.

Taking a limousine bus is the easiest and the most convenient way to reach to central city area.

It%26#39;s a real comfy limo, just as business class of airflight. It worth the cost and very fast.

I heard that the train is great if you have a connecting domestic flight that leaves from the Kimpo airport, which is located at peripheral area of Seoul.

The train is supposed to be linked to central Seoul in a few more years.

You could check the web site at

http://www.arex.or.kr/jsp/eng/main.jsp

for further informations on train

I have a 12 hr layover at Incheon Airport and want to go into Seoul to walk around for a few hours. The train is from Incheon airport to Gimpo airport then I take a subway into town? Or the limobus leaves from Incheon airport and goes direct to downtown? Where do I catch it and how much does it cost round-trip?

I recommend you to take limo bus to the town.

Please refer this article which I replied.

tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g294197-i8161-k258鈥?/a>

You can take a KAL bus or there are others. There%26#39;s a ticket office outside the airport building; KAL is about 14000Won each way.

Others may be cheaper.

See http://www.lifeinkorea.com/travel2/iabie.cfm

or

鈥isitkorea.or.kr/ena/GK/GK_EN_2_2_2_3.jsp

Latter covers train and bus, but tells you about different bus types.

2 girls travelling to south korea

hi all,

we are planning to travel to korea in september and we%26#39;re contemplating whether to take a tour or free and easy.

we already have an idea to go to seoul and jeju, these are the 2 places we%26#39;re keen on. maybe we%26#39;ll go busan too.

1) we can%26#39;t speak korean, only english, will that be a big problem?

2) how will the weather be like there?

3) any other safety issues to consider?

thanks!

2 girls travelling to south korea

1) Not many people speak English fluently, but not a big deal.

2) Weather in Sep

Everage Temp : 17 ~ 25

Rain : 5 ~ 10 days

Typhon : less than 2 times

3) Pretty safe but just be careful for the traffic.

2 girls travelling to south korea

I would do Seoul in free style since public transportations, especially subway, are very clean, efficient and easy to use since there are Korean and English signs.

As per Jeju island, local bus isn%26#39;t that convenient for non-Korean speakers, taxi is on expensive side, many tourist attraction are on country side, so I would do tour so you won%26#39;t have to muddle through.

Bringing pre-packed food

Are we allowed to bring pre-packed food that we buy from supermarket into Korea? Can we also bring fresh chillies into Korea? I will putting this in my check-in luggage. TIA

Bringing pre-packed food

Pre-packed means cooked? If it is cooked and packed, no problem. But I think you supposed to not bring fresh chillies.

Check this link.

www.airport.kr/iiacms/pageWork.iia鈥?/a>

Bringing pre-packed food

yes. thanks for the info %26amp; link