Visit Seoul in South Korea – A Traditional City with a Modern Edge

Whenever I walk into a travel agency and browse all the brochures on various tourist destinations worldwide, I find South Korea neglected and quite hard-pressed to find anything related to the country, save for a small snippet in an Asian travel magazine. Let me get you on track immediately and tell you why you should visit Seoul in South Korea, a traditional city with a modern edge.

In my travels, I have visited Seoul in South Korea on three separate occasions, yet I find the country’s capital a very underrated tourist location. Perhaps the demand is not as high; I can’t imagine why. Maybe travellers are wary of the neighbours in the north, but don’t be; in my opinion, it’s all talk. Of course, you need to have your basic travel senses as you do when you visit any country, and that’s where travel insurance is mandatory, but Seoul in South Korea is as safe as it gets.

The nightlife is electric, with many bars and nightclubs to suit everyone’s taste, from those who like to let their hair down and have a good time to those who prefer a more low-key evening. Restaurants are plentiful and of exceptional quality, with many Michelin-starred eateries if you feel fancy. There are also plenty of options for those on a budget. And if you want to shop until you drop, Seoul has covered you with its many department stores, markets and luxury boutiques.

Seoul is a city that should be on everyone’s travel list. It is full of culture, history, great Food, and plenty of things to do. There is something for everyone in Seoul, from theme parks to mountains and landscapes. The city is also very safe, making it a great place to visit for families and solo travellers alike. If you are looking for a bustling town with plenty to see and do, then add Seoul to your travel list. You won’t be disappointed.

 

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Visit Seoul in South Korea – A Traditional City with a Modern Edge

Seoul is the capital of South Korea and one of its largest cities. The city is home to a rich culture and history, as well as a modern edge that makes it a popular tourist destination. Seoul is known for its traditional architecture in its palaces and temples.

From its rich culture to its modern amenities, Seoul has something to offer everyone who visits. The city also has a lively food scene, with various restaurants offering traditional Korean cuisine and international dishes. In addition, Seoul is home to numerous shopping districts where visitors can find local and global brands.

 

Family fun is Assured in Seoul.

Family fun is through the roof in Seoul, with plenty of theme parks to keep you occupied for hours, day after day.

A popular day out is a trip to Everland Theme Park, a mega park and safari that is located about an hour out of Seoul in Suwon and is a crazy fun attraction full of rides, entertainment shows, plenty of Food and a few African animals to get up close and personal to, amongst other things in the park. A whole day out is not enough with everything to do in Everland, and the fun hits the roof on the fun barometer scale.

Another theme park is Lotte World, another theme park in downtown Seoul. Lotte World is jam-packed with rides, carnival activities and even an ice skating rink in the basement of the mega indoor complex. An Indoor theme park will keep the family entertained for hours. The time will disappear as you lose yourself in this fantastic theme park that is not all full of entertainment but camera-happy scenery.

Take the whole family to the N Seoul Tower and see the best views of Seoul from high above; the tower is not only about seeing great city views; there is also entertainment and restaurants to make a great day out of your visit.

Another family fun entertainment to remember in Seoul is The Grand Children’s Playground, a beautiful part of nature in the city with open parklands, a miniature zoo, and gorgeous gardens. For Water Parks, it might be quite the trip during summertime, but Vivaldi Park Ocean World is the most famous in South Korea and is a two-hour trip from Seoul by public transportation.

Jjimjibang is another replacement for relaxing and unwinding for hours on end. It’s the perfect place to do so many saunas and even cold rooms within the peaceful area of Jjimjibang. It’s the ideal scenario to read a good book, have a massage, relax and fall asleep because you’re on holiday in Seoul.

Below, you can find some great theme parks in Seoul that will create family fun.

• Everland
• Lotte World Theme Park
• Vivaldi Park Ocean World

 

 

 

Go on a Shopping Spree in Seoul

You will never have to look too far to get a little retail therapy in Seoul and spend your hard-earned money. You usually have to come down from your hotel apartment; for instance, you’ll land at some shopping district because they are everywhere. Whether it’s one of the excellent Shinsegae shopping centres or the many other shopping districts and markets in the city, including the fascinating underground shopping malls, especially Goto Mall, that are usually attached to so many subways, it’s a blast to find that bargain in the city.

Seoul’s streets also come alive in a big way, especially at Night. Please go to Myeongdong and see why it is the shopping paradise in Seoul. Insadong is another place to lose yourself in a traditional sense while indulging in a little Korean culture.

List of excellent shopping paces:

• Myeongdong
• Lotte Department Store
• Namdaemun Market
• Insadong
• Guangcheng Market
• Underground shopping mall – Goto Mall

 

 

Korean Food is a real treat.

Many places in Seoul are either a café or a restaurant, so a suitable location to enjoy delicious Korean Food is easy to find. Like the rest of the world, Koreans are hooked on their Food, where dining out or buying takeout can be a way of life due to their busy lifestyles and long work hours.

Whether you’re enjoying Korean cuisines such as Bulgogi (marinated grilled beef), Sundae (black liver sausage), Bibimbap (rice with mixed vegetables and beef) and my choice, Korean BBQ, you’ll never have any issues satisfying your Korean food experience.

Perhaps your tastebuds desire a bit of Western flavour. Never fear; Seoul has many steakhouses and Italian and chicken restaurants. Of course, there are popular worldwide franchises such as McDonald’s, Kentucky Fried Chicken and Burger King, so no need to feel homesick when on vacation.

The best part of Food in Korea is that the beer is cheap, so raise your glasses and shout out cheers or Kombai.

 

 

Hiking and cycling in the Seoul Region

Visit Seoul in South Korea to see the picturesque city against the beautiful mountain backdrop. Many of the city’s outskirts are bordered by mountains, providing stunning vistas and opportunities for outdoor activities.

Hiking is a popular pastime in Seoul, and there are trails to suit all levels of fitness, from gentle, family-friendly walks to more challenging routes for experienced hikers. Visit Namsan Mountain for an easy hike to the base of Seoul’s iconic N Tower, or tackle Bukhasan Mountain, the region’s highest peak.

To taste history, walk to the top of Mt Bugak, located on the edge of Gyeongbokgung Palace, one of Seoul’s most famous landmarks. Whatever your interests, you’ll find plenty to explore in Seoul’s mountains.

To have a little adventure by Food or pedal in Seoul, you need to get down to Han River and avoid the hustle and bustle of the city with scenic views. You can hire a bike and cycle along the river or take it slow and steady with a stroll, stopping at a café for coffee or cool drinks while admiring the surrounding views.

Lastly is the Cheonggyecheon Stream, a stunning city walk that takes you through the middle of the CBD for an 11-kilometre stretch and helps you avoid the busy streets and traffic if you need to get to a location through Seoul by foot. You can create a few great photos inside the stream and, best of all, lose those holiday calories.

Another great destination near Seoul is Nami Island, an excellent destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. The island is best known for its beautiful trees, planted by famous Korean writer Kim Yon-suk as a tribute to his deceased wife. Today, the island is a popular spot for picnics and walks, and visitors can also enjoy several activities, such as horse riding and zip-lining. In addition, Nami Island is home to various shops and restaurants, making it the perfect place to spend a leisurely day. So, if you’re looking for a scenic spot to relax and unwind, add Nami Island!

 

 

 

Tradition is alive in Seoul.

If you’re looking for a taste of traditional Korean culture, there’s no better place to visit than Seoul. The city is home to several palaces and temples that offer guided tours for visitors, providing a fascinating glimpse into the country’s proud history. The Five Grand Palaces of Seoul are particularly popular, with the Gyeongbokgung Palace a must-see.

The beautiful buildings and luscious landscapes make for a peaceful stroll, and it’s easy to see why this UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of Korea’s most popular tourist destinations. For a more immersive experience, check out one of the traditional villages in the city centre.

Insadong is a great option, where you can shop for traditional goods, enjoy local cuisine, and even dress up in conventional Hanbok clothing. With so much to see and do, Seoul is the perfect place to explore Korean culture and tradition.

Click here to enjoy a morning tour in Seoul to visit the best Palaces of Korea!

 

 

 

Winter Wonderland in Seoul

The weather will get cold during the winter as the snow begins to fall and the scarfs, beanies and jackets come out, but that means there is fun in the snow. If you go in winter, never fear; I am sure you would have planned it well because there are plenty of ski resorts in the northern parts of South Korea, and most are within a couple of hours of Seoul when travelling by bus or train.

A favourite of mine is The Deogyusan Resort, a great place to visit, with its European-style resort located three hours south of Seoul. You can enjoy skiing, breathtaking hikes, and great views of the Deogyusan National Park. Another great place to visit is the Muju Ski Resort, only a few hours away from Seoul by bus or train. The Muju Ski Resort offers a variety of different ski trails, as well as snowboarding and tubing.

There are also plenty of restaurants and shops to enjoy while you’re there. So, whether you’re looking for a place to relax or a place to adventure, Visit Seoul in South Korea during the winter months for an unforgettable experience.

If you’re travelling to South Korea, do your homework and research your ski resort.

 

 

Relax with a traditional Korean Spa.

If you want to relax and rejuvenate, visiting a Korean spa is a perfect way. Unlike Western hotels, which focus on pampering and luxury, Korean spas promote health and well-being. From the moment you step inside, you’ll be enveloped in a calming atmosphere. You’ll be given a uniform to change into, and then you’ll be free to explore the various available facilities.

While most facilities are co-ed, there are usually separate areas for men and women. These may include everything from heated pools and saunas to massage rooms and exfoliation treatments. When you’re ready to leave, you’ll feel refreshed and invigorated – willing to take on the world.

For practical information on Spas in South Korea, Lingua Asia has some helpful info on how to enjoy Korean spas like a local.

 

In Conclusion

I have only touched on what you can do when you visit Seoul in South Korea. If you are contemplating a trip to a busy city full of life and spectacular attractions, don’t consider putting it on your bucket list; get there and see why South Korea is fast becoming a tourism haven. You will not be disappointed, that I can assure you.

 

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