I did a 10 day trip in Seoul with a splash of Pangyo aka the Silicon Valley of Seoul and stayed at the amazing DoubleTree Hilton Pangyo.
Hotels:
Seoul I stayed at the newly opened Hilton Garden Inn Gangnam, Conrad Seoul, and Andaz Gangnam.
My status with both H and H locations allow my guests to get upgraded, complimentary breakfast, and complimentary access to the executive lounge (Conrad, DoubleTree Pangyo).
Disclaimer: I am loyal to Hilton + Hyatt only.
Downtown Pangyo is a subdued version of Seoul - great restaurants, amazing shoppinng is available.
Yes Uber is available in Korea and very reasonably priced; no tipping in needed and you can enjoy yourself like royalty for a fraction of what we pay back in the states.
Conrad Seoul is in Yeouido the Financial District; Hyundai and IFC Malls are across the street and so is the Fairmont Seoul.
Many office workers; Conrad Seoul and Fairmont Seoul both have great rooftop bars and restaurants onsite.
Hongdae: Williamsburg of Seoul fun place for the young and young at heart with lively nightlife and great restaurants/shopping
Insadong: Arts district with various textile shops, design, and great street eats
Logistics/Getting Around:
Google Translate is your backup - many speak English
Get the T-Money card that can be used at public transportation and many convenience stores - you can also reload at the convenience store
I did not get a SIM card - I walked around with my phone on airplane mode and used WiFi where possible and at the hotel.
TMobile plan included some roaming data I used very sparingly - even going over a little bit which was still cheaper than getting a SIM card.
DO NOT exchange cash at airport before your trip; withdraw cash from any ATM in Seoul you get much better exchange rates.
Eats:
Hotel breakfast is no joke in the Korean hotels - from pho to kimchi jjigae to sausage egg and cheese you are full till dinner.
Spare yourself the trip to Gwangjang Market as ever since Netflix the food is not as good and the vendors are now overcharging as it is overrun by tourists.
Instead go to Namdaemun / Dongdaemun food is better and reasonably priced.
No tipping.
MUST go to the Noryangjin Fish Market - I went 2x during my trip; freshest seafood that is cooked right there live caught.
McDonalds (yes McD) fraction of the cost of what we usually get back home.
YES must eat spicy rice cakes and soondae (blood sausage/morcilla) in the stalls.
Itaewon: LGBTQ+ friendly and various clubs and restaurants; ex-pat friendly
GaeHwa Chinese Restaurant - Myeongdong;
Across the street from the Chinese embassy in Myeongdong; oldest restaurant with 50+ years tradition
Pork bone stew at this spot in Pangyo w. bottle of soju thank me later.
Beauty:
Gangnam is THE place for medical tourism (I saw people walking around with bandaged faces as they were returning from their appointments; a little jarring but it is totally normal for the staff there) - the entire block on both sides are covered in plastic surgery offices.
Get a haircut - great service and fraction of the cost in US.
Get a facial - Korea's skincare is the best of the best: History of Whoo (Myeongdong), Sulwhasoo (Gangnam),
Go to Olive Young - stock up on your favorite Korean skincare items
Shopping:
If you happen to be in Seoul during the Chuseok holiday (lunar harvest) there are some awesome sales going on in the markets and the malls
Expect higher prices for some of your favorite items such as Nike etc due to import tax even with USD exchange rate
Daiso - your Walmart for any household items or an additional luggage bag
Got Time?
Take KTX to Jeonju or Busan for 2 - 3 days; Jeonju has the beautiful Hanok Village and Busan offers incredible seafood and other great eats at a large port city.
Busan
Day 1: Cultural Immersion and Coastal Beauty
Morning:
Start your day with a visit to the vibrant Gamcheon Culture Village.
Explore the colorful houses, winding alleys, and art installations that make this neighborhood so unique.
Next, head to the breathtaking Haedong Yonggungsa Temple.
This beautiful temple complex is perched on the cliffs overlooking the ocean, offering stunning views and a serene atmosphere.
Afternoon:Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of the Jagalchi Fish Market, the largest seafood market in South Korea. Sample some fresh seafood delicacies or simply enjoy the vibrant scene.
In the afternoon, explore BIFF Square, known for its movie-themed attractions and street food stalls.
Evening:As the sun sets, head to Gwangalli Beach to relax and enjoy the beautiful views of the Gwangan Bridge.
Day 2: Modern Marvels and Natural Wonders
Morning:
Start your day with a visit to the Busan Cinema Center, an architectural marvel and a hub for film festivals and events.
Next, experience the thrill of the Oryukdo Skywalk, a glass-bottomed platform that offers stunning views of the ocean and the surrounding islands.
Afternoon:
Spend the afternoon exploring the natural beauty of Taejongdae Park. Hike along the scenic trails, admire the dramatic cliffs, and take in the panoramic views of the ocean.
Evening:
End your trip with a visit to the lively Seomyeon district, known for its shopping, dining, and nightlife options.
Additional tips for your Busan trip:
Consider purchasing a transportation card to make getting around the city easier and more affordable.
Don't be afraid to try some of the local street food. Busan is known for its delicious and diverse culinary scene.
Be sure to check the weather forecast before you go and pack accordingly.
Most importantly, have fun and enjoy exploring this vibrant and beautiful city!
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