Tradition and innovation come together in a fascinating and alluring way in Seoul, the bustling capital city of South Korea. Every tourist will find something to enjoy in Seoul, whether they come for the city’s ancient palaces and historic districts, its thriving markets, or its cutting-edge skyscrapers. If you are thinking about going to Seoul, here is everything you need to know before you go:
The Journey There:
Incheon International Airport, which is located in Seoul, is consistently ranked as one of the busiest airports in the world. It provides a high level of connectivity to major cities all over the world. Taking the Airport Railway Express (AREX), one of the airport buses or a taxi from the airport will get you to the heart of the city quickly and easily.
Weather and Best Time to Visit:
There are four distinct seasons in Seoul, with summers that are extremely hot, winters that are extremely cold, and spring and autumn that are very pleasant. When the temperature is mild and the city is adorned with beautiful cherry blossoms or colourful foliage, spring and autumn are the best times to visit. The best time to visit is during spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November).
Transportation:
The city of Seoul is home to a public transport network that is both reliable and extensive. It is highly recommended that you use the tube system to get around the city because it is quick, reliable, and covers the majority of the city’s major attractions. In addition, there is convenient access to taxis and public buses. Think about getting a T-money card so that you can use the public transport system more easily.
Must-Visit Attractions:
Gyeongbokgung Palace:
This magnificent palace is a representation of Seoul’s long and illustrious history. It is also famous for the stunning architecture it contains and the traditional ceremonies it hosts.
Bukchon Hanok Village:
Traditional Korean culture can be experienced in this neighbourhood that has been meticulously preserved and is filled with traditional hanok houses, art galleries, and teahouses.
Namsan Seoul Tower:
From the observation deck of this famous tower, which is situated atop Namsan Mountain, visitors can take in breathtaking vistas of the city below them.
Myeongdong:
A bustling commercial district that is well-known for the hip fashion boutiques, street food stalls, and cosmetic stores that can be found there.
Insadong:
Explore this cultural neighbourhood that is famous for its traditional tea houses, art galleries, and souvenir shops offering traditional artwork and artisanal goods.
Food:
Because it has such a diverse selection of mouthwatering dishes, Seoul is a true paradise for those who enjoy good food. It would be a shame to visit Korea without trying some of its most famous dishes, such as bibimbap (a bowl of mixed rice), bulgogi (marinated beef grilled over charcoal), and samgyeopsal (grilled pork belly). Street food markets such as Gwangjang Market and Namdaemun Market offer a wide variety of tantalising treats for visitors to enjoy.
Shopping:
It doesn’t matter if you’re shopping on a dime or a million, Seoul has something for you. There is an endless variety of options for fashion, cosmetics, electronic goods, and traditional crafts to be found throughout the city of Seoul, in shopping districts such as Myeongdong and Gangnam, as well as trendy fashion districts such as Hongdae and Garosugil.
Cultural Etiquette:
It is essential to show proper esteem for Korean rituals and practises. Always remember to bow when greeting someone, take off your shoes before entering traditional homes or temples, and be respectful of the cultural norms and practises of the area in which you are travelling.
Safety:
With a relatively low overall crime rate, Seoul is a relatively risk-free destination for tourists. However, it is always wise to take common safety precautions, such as keeping a close eye on your belongings and exercising caution in areas that are densely populated.
Conclusion:
Ancient customs and cutting-edge practises come together in perfect harmony in Seoul, making for a captivating combination of the old and the new. Every visitor to Seoul is sure to take away with them a memorable experience thanks to the city’s extensive history, thriving culture, mouthwatering cuisine, and welcoming people. Now is the time to get organised, pack your bags, and get ready to discover all that this vibrant city has to offer.