Getting Around South Korea (Part Two)

This is continuation of Getting Around South Korea Part O-N-E.


Tips for travelers who don't know what to expect on a winter season. If you don't have much garments to keep you warm, you can always get tons of them in Seoul. It is going to be way cheaper than purchasing them from a tropical country and keeps you "in" style too...

NAMI ISLAND
It is a small but beautiful island that is almost 2hours away from Myeongdong. Literally breath taking. You are about to step your foot on an imaginary country wherein you have to purchase yourself an entry visa (simply means ticket).

So called Immigration



Begin your exploration with a 5 minute ferry ride. If this idea bores you, you can try the zip line. Choice is yours.  

  

Ferry ride Vs Zip line? What its gonna be?


Are you a fan of Korean dramas? Part of this island was where “Winter Sonata” was filmed. Now how is that for a starter?



You don’t have to worry where to get your food. They are all over the island -- hotdog stands; ice cream & coffee shops at your convenience. You can also find restaurants serving Korean barbeques with side dishes that are appealing to the taste buds.

 

 

 

Snowy island+ Icy lake + Beautiful art exhibits +  Brisk air  = SCENIC VIEW

 

 

 

    

 

 

DMZ (DEMILITARIZED ZONE)
 

This is the only tour that we’ve booked. This may not be for everyone.  To highlight:

 

• If my memory serves me right, children below 11years old are not permitted. I could be wrong so I suggest that you check this out before making any bookings.

• Be cautious on the dress code. Stay away from camouflage prints. This is not the place to be too trendy. If you are not sure what to wear, ask.

• For tourists who love to take photos, be mindful that there are prohibited areas. 

• We wanted to change to Panmunjeom Tour last minute but they told us that it must be done few days in advance. Missed the chance to step in the North Korea soil. Do you know that South Koreans are not allowed in Panmunjeom? Our tourist guide told us so.

 

                                                           Bridge of Freedom

DMZ package tour included hotel pick-up. Call time was 8am. Luckily our tourist guide can speak English well.  During the course of the trip she would share historical facts.

Impression: Inspiring & Heartbreaking.

First stop was at Imjingak Park then we ended up in Ginseng Center.
 

 

 

  

What is expected in the tour? 

 

You can have a sneak peek of North Korea and its flag that is known to be highest in the world through binoculars at “Dora Observatory.”       

 

Short-film watching wherein headsets are provided (translated in different languages). 

 

Up close view of the “Bridge of Freedom.” North Korea being near yet so far.  I was emotional while gazing at this.

 

One of the highlight is the “3^rd Infiltration Tunnel.” Hard hats will be provided for your safety. If you are asthmatic, claustrophobic or with health issues, you may want to skip this. Tunnel is steep. At first it was easy but it’s the going back part that makes it difficult due to inclined slope.

 

 

 

Last stop of the tour is the Ginseng Center. I bought some Ginseng sweets to bring home.


TOY MUSEUM at INSADONG
 

For toy collectors and enthusiasts there is a small toy museum located in Insadong. If this is your thing, you can check out their vintage collection.

  

 

 

Keep on Ronski Doodling!!!

 - End -

 

 

Getting around South Korea (Seoul City) Part One

I highly recommend that couple should take a time off and spend quality time once in a while. I've read somewhere that Seoul is like Paris in Asia. Never been to Europe myself but I will have to agree that it is a romantic city. Cheesy isn't it? If you are looking for a travel destination that will offer both rich culture and modern city life then South Korea could just be the place for you...

If there are three things that I remember South Korea for it will be:

1.  Kimchi & Kimbap (Korean Sushi Rolls). You wouldn't have to worry where to eat your breakfast. Coffee shops are all over the place. It was perfect for winter. And oh boy I just love the street foods and Korean barbeque!!!

2.  Korean fashion & Korean Cosmetics. A trip to Korea wouldn't be complete without Korean cosmetics. You can find them in every corner... Of course who would not be astounded by Korean fashion? If you want to experience insane shopping experience, check out Myeongdong.

3.  Rich culture and heritage. Seeing the palaces myself was like a dream come true. I admire how they manage to preserve this. DMZ (Korean Demilitarized Zone) something not to be missed.


One downside is that English conversations could be difficult at times especially when you need directions. But overall, it was a great experience. A taste of different culture.

So here are some of the photos.


MYEONGDONG
This is shopper's paradise. Literally shop 'til you drop!!! Take a walk and enjoy the sight of busy shoppers!



Chicken to die for. Must try!!!

 



LOTTE WORLD

Korea may not have Disneyland but they have their own theme park that is world class. This is an indoor and outdoor theme park both for the young and old. Aside from the rides, you can just sit back and enjoy the Live Show featuring K Pop entertainment.

 

 



     

 K Popin Live 

 





 



 

 

 

N SEOUL TOWER
Communication & Observation Tower located in Namsam wherein you can see the rest of Seoul from the top. Cable car ride is available here. You can check out the Bear Museum which is part of the attraction... Hang named padlocks to make your visit a memorable one. You can purchase padlocks from the stalls around the area but it's going to be pricey. So... You can bring your own!  :)

 

 

 

 

  



Keepsake.



 

CHANGDEOKGUNG PALACE   &   GYEONGBOKGUNG PALACE

Your trip to Seoul will never be complete without paying a visit to these palaces. This tells so much about their history. The façade is truly amazing. Ensure not miss the Royal Guard Changing Ceremony at the Gyeongbokgung Palace. If you have the spare time, you can borrow their cultural costume for a worth taking picture. Last time we went it was free of charge! How cool is that?

Inside the Gyeongbokgung Palace, you can find the National Folk Museum.  
 

Changing of Royal Guards Ceremony

Gyeongbokgung Palace

                                                                

      National Folk Museum   

 



Changdeokgung Palace






 

NAMSANGOL HANOK VILLAGE
Another place to add to your list if you want to learn more about Korea. This showcases traditional Korean houses that had been preserved through out the years.

 

 

 

 



This is just PART ONE of my travel blog featuring South Korea! So keep on Ronski Doodling... :)