Welcome to South Korea!
(hangug-e osin geos-eul hwan yeonghabnida!)
My 8-day Travel to Korea
TRAVELOGUE
TRAVELOGUE
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Annyeong!
Planning a trip to South Korea and see its beautiful scenery? Then this blog is just right for you.
I have created a guide for all of you guys and I hope that you will enjoy as much I did.
As a Filipino, I need to obtain a Travel Visa before boarding a flight to South Korea. I traveled last August 9-17, 2017 and before that, I went to the South Korean Embassy in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig, Philippines to submit my completed documents for visa application. I booked an online appointment, filled up the application form, obtained required documents like Certificate of Employment, Bank Certificate, Bank Statement (at least six-month bank transaction), and vice versa travel ticket.
For travel/tourism in less than 60 days, Visa is for FREE.
Effective July 1, 2018, visa application will be processed through designated travel agencies only due to an increased number of Korean visa applicants. This caused the applicants to stand in hot weather outside the embassy for hours to wait in line for their turn to apply for respective visas. To avoid such inconvenience, the embassy has designated 35 travel agencies to process the Korean visa application.
Coming to South Korea has been everyone's dream. Its majestic and beautiful palaces made it more persuading to come over this country. South Korea offers a lot of landmarks to go to and in terms of its transportation, I must say, the Government has done a great job. They got the fastest train in the world where you can get to your destination on time. Never be afraid of the traffic, the schedule was on time and consistent here. The buses are numbered so you cannot see the name of the place where your heading but you can find it to their bus stops where the number of the buses is listed and also to where it is going.
Coming to South Korea has been everyone's dream. Its majestic and beautiful palaces made it more persuading to come over this country. South Korea offers a lot of landmarks to go to and in terms of its transportation, I must say, the Government has done a great job. They got the fastest train in the world where you can get to your destination on time. Never be afraid of the traffic, the schedule was on time and consistent here. The buses are numbered so you cannot see the name of the place where your heading but you can find it to their bus stops where the number of the buses is listed and also to where it is going.
I used the Smart plan that charged me at Php 550 per 12 hours. I used the google maps so I won't get lost. The internet here is fast and good service as well, truly South Koreans have enjoyed the benefit in their country.
Booked via www.Agoda.com and stayed at Coco Hause Seoul, An apartment house, located in 79-1, Chungmuro 5-Ga, Jung-Gu, Seoul, South Korea. Around 1450 meters away from N Seoul Tower and Namsam Park. Set within a 5-minute walk from Chungmuro underground station.
The flight I bought was a connecting flight from MANILA-CEBU-INCHEON INT'L AIRPORT-MANILA which was purchased during promo fares for only around Php 5,400 v.v. via Cebu Pacific Air.
I took a bus from the airport and landed at Chungmuro station. The travel time was just quick since there was no traffic.
I arrived late in the evening and it was drizzling so I had a hard time looking for my hotel. After 30 minutes I finally found the apartment. It was already 12 a.m. and the receptionist already left. I was so scared and wondered where am I going to sleep. As I was reading through their bulletin, I read incoming guests who are expected to arrive on that day. I saw my name and the room number so I hastily check-in myself as they left the door open and settled my bill in the morning.
I got a single room, shared bathroom for 7 nights from Aug 9-16, 2017 for only KRW 138,262 or Php 6,600.
Page Break
DAY 1: Namsangol Traditional Garden, Danggogae Station, Seoul City Wall Museum and Dongdaemun History and Culture Park and Itaewon
First Stop_Namsangol Traditional Garden
Early in the morning, I wander around my apartment to get to see the place around. Then, there was this garden I found interesting and accidentally happened to be my first spot, Namsangol Traditional Garden. I got inside the garden and was amazed because of its beauty and traditional Korean houses. The first time to physically see these wondrous creations was really amazing.
Subways serve as a convenient means of transportation, probably the most favored public transportation by both Koreans and international visitors. Subways are currently available in five major cities including the Seoul Metropolitan Area, Busan, Daegu, Gwangju, and Daejeon.
FREE ADMISSION, CLOSED EVERY MONDAY
For more info, visit the below website.
http://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/ATR/SI_EN_3_1_1_1.jsp?cid=264116
Second Stop_Danggogae Station
Since I am a foreigner here and everything is new, I thought of just wandering around South Korea.
Took a subway from Chungmuro station going to Danggogae with an estimated travel time of 30-35 minutes, 14 stations away, it cost KRW 1,450 (T-Money), or 1,550 (Cash). The travel was very surprising as the train is fast and not so crowded. I took 1-hour roaming around the place, climbed the uphill houses, and saw a local park, and its really nice because in the park, you can see gym equipment installed for public use.
Third stop_Seoul City Wall Museum and Dongdaemun History and Culture Park
After finishing at Danggogae, you may opt to visit Seoul City Wall Museum, a 12 stations away from Danggogae to Dongdaemun, fare cost at KRW 1,350 (T-Money) or 1,450 (cash).
It is a museum in Jongno-5.6 ga Subdistrict, Jongno District, Seoul. Built-in 1396, Seoul City Wall has protected Seoul for 600 years.
Even though some parts were demolished through modernization, it has kept its original form well to be designated as a valuable Cultural Asset.
Even though some parts were demolished through modernization, it has kept its original form well to be designated as a valuable Cultural Asset.
Located inside Dongdaemun City Wall Park, Seoul City Wall Museum exhibits historical artifacts relating to the transformation of the city and has a permanent exhibition hall, special exhibition hall, information center, and multi-purpose lecture room.
Admission is FREE. The tour may take you around 1 hour and outside the museum, you can also explore the actual.
Adjacent to the Wall Museum is a wonderful work of architecture, Dongdaemun History, and Culture Park.
The activity fee is FREE and is open all year round. The tour took me more than 2 hours for both Seoul City Wall Museum and Dongdaemun History and Culture Park.
From Dongdaemun History and Culture Park, I took a subway and went to Seoul Station to see how the city of Seoul looks like. It's 4 stations away and just for 7 minutes of travel time cost KRW 1,250 (T-Money).
For your transportation needs, I suggest buying a T-MONEY (Transportation card) available at the airport or in town. It’s like a beep card or prepaid card that you can tap whenever you use their automated transportation e.g buses, subways, or trains plus you will enjoy the discounted fares as well as compare to buying a single journey ticket or paying in cash.
Also, you may install their App, Visit Korea: Official Guide via Playstore or Appstore for more details and is very helpful for tourists as well.
Last Stop_ Itaewon
I chose to spend my evening at the homo hill in Itaewon where I met new friends German, Austrian, Danish, and Korean. The subway opens until 12 a.m only and you will need to take a cab to go back to the apartment.
Itaewon is known for its cosmopolitan dining and nightlife, with Korean BBQ restaurants, and upscale bistros, as well as low-key kebab shops catering to a late-night crowd. Casual beer bars and gay pubs sit alongside hip dance clubs where DJs spin hip-hop and house.
DAY 2: Gyeongbokgung Palace, Bukchon Hanok Village, and N Seoul Tower
No. 1, Korea's top attraction. Gyeongbokgung Palace was the major legal residence of the royal family during the Joseon Dynasty.
Carrying a meaning of “a place where the new king can enjoy the prosperity of great blessings,” this was the first palace built during the Joseon Dynasty.
From Chungmuro Station, 4 stations away to get to see the beautiful and well known Palace. Inside the palace, there is a National Palace Museum of Korea, and a library as well. The fare costs KRW 1,250 in just 7 minutes.
Address: 161, Sajik-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul
Directions: Gyeongbokgung Station (Seoul Subway Line 3), Exit 5.
Admission: Adults 3,000 won / Teenagers & Children 1,500 won.
Bukchon Hanok Village shows the charm of Korea’s traditional buildings. The neighborhood where relatives of the royal family lived, the Hanoks here are grand, providing beautiful scenes down every lane. To make the most of your visit, we recommend finding the “Eight Scenic Spots of Bukchon.”
It's just one ride away from Gyeongbokgung station to Anguk Station. Fare cost KRW 1,250 in just 2 minutes.
Address: 37, Gyedong-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul
Directions: Anguk Station (Seoul Subway Line 3), Exit 2. Walk approx. 7-10min.
Admission Fee: Not Applicable
Please be quite also as a courtesy to the locals living in this village. The scenery was awesome and they have a very nice restaurant called Korean Chicken Ginseng Soup.
The food I had was very delicious and I recommend that you should try it. It's worth the value of your money.
This is the first time I ate such good tasting m and will definitely come back again. The meal cost KRW 15,000 or 725 pesos.
The food I had was very delicious and I recommend that you should try it. It's worth the value of your money.
This is the first time I ate such good tasting m and will definitely come back again. The meal cost KRW 15,000 or 725 pesos.
In the evening, I headed to the N Seoul Tower, Korea's top 2 major attractions.
Located atop Namsan Mountain in the center of the city. The tower draws in visitors year-round and is most famous for the view it offers of the cityscape at night. For Hallyu fans, the tower is a must-visit attraction, having been featured in dramas like “My Love From the Star (2013)” and “Legend of the Blue Sea (2016).”
The tower features not only an observation deck but also atmospheric cafés and restaurants among other facilities. N Seoul Tower is a great place to spend an enjoyable evening with friends or loved ones, taking in the beautiful nightscape over a cup of coffee.
Address: 105, Namsangongwon-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul
Directions • Public transportation: Chungmuro Station (Seoul Subway Line 3, 4), Exit 2 → From Chungmuro Station Exit 2•Daehan Theater Bus Stop, take Namsan Circulation Bus No. 02 to N Seoul Tower Bus Stop • Namsan Cable Car (Ticket booth): Myeong-dong Station (Seoul Subway Line 4), Exit 3. Walk approx. 10min. (Address: 83, Sopa-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul)
Operating hours (Observatory): Sunday-Friday 10:00-23:00, Saturday 10:00-24:00
Admission (Observatory): Adults 10,000 won / Children 8,000 won
The view was spectacular, you can see the beautiful and amazing Seoul city.
DAY 3: Namiseom Island and Korean Chicken Ginseng Soup
From Chungmuro Station to Gapyeong 134 station, the travel time was around 1 hour and 30 minutes via subway and is 24 stations away that costs KRW 2,250 and 2 transfers as well.
I extremely suggest that you install their subway guide app called Subway Korea (Subway route navigation). It's very helpful during navigation.
I extremely suggest that you install their subway guide app called Subway Korea (Subway route navigation). It's very helpful during navigation.
Namiseom Island became a popular tourist attraction after appearing in the Korean drama “Winter Sonata (2002).”
Originally just a hilltop, Namiseom Island became an island with the construction of Cheongpyeong Dam, which elevated the surrounding water level.
The island is rather small, allowing visitors to complete a full tour within half a day.
Address: Namiseom Ticket booth, 1024, Bukhangangbyeon-ro, Gapyeong-eup, Gapyeong-gun, Gangwon-do.
Directions (Namiseom Dock): Take a taxi for approx. 5-10 min. from Gapyeong Station ※ Namiseom Island is accessible via ferry from Namiseom Dock
Operating hours (Namiseom Ferry): 07:30-21:40
Admission: Adults 10,000 won / Teenagers (Middle∙High school) 8,000 won /
Admission: Adults 10,000 won / Teenagers (Middle∙High school) 8,000 won /
Children (Age 3 – Elementary school) 4,000 won
International tourists can receive a discounted fee of 8,000 won.
Admission includes the round-trip ferry ticket.
Admission includes the round-trip ferry ticket.
After my almost full day at Nami Island, I headed back to Anguk, to once again try their Korean Ginseng Chicken soup for brunch.
I cannot miss this one of a kind meal in South Korea and will definitely miss it.
I cannot miss this one of a kind meal in South Korea and will definitely miss it.
DAY 4: Changdeokgung Palace, Gangnam Station and Samneung Park
Changdeokgung Palace was built in the early Joseon period and of all the palaces, served as the royal residence the most.
Changdeokgung Palace’s magnificence was recognized internationally and became designated as a UNESCO World Heritage in 1997. If you’re looking for a charming and nature-friendly palace, head on to Chandeokgung Palace!
Changdeokgung Palace’s magnificence was recognized internationally and became designated as a UNESCO World Heritage in 1997. If you’re looking for a charming and nature-friendly palace, head on to Chandeokgung Palace!
Address: 99, Yulgok-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul
Directions: Anguk Station (Seoul Subway Line 3), Exit 3. Walk for approx. 5 min.
Operating hours - Palace: February-May∙September-October 09:00-18:00 / June-August 09:00-18:30
/ November-January 09:00-17:30 (Tickets available until 1 hour before closing) -
Huwon (Secret garden): March-May∙September-October 10:00-17:30 / June-August 10:00-8:00 / February∙November 10:00-17:00 / December∙January 10:00-16:30 (Tickets available until 1 hour before closing; online reservation advised)>
Admission: 3,000 won
Palaces here in South Korea was impressive and very detailed, it has its own uniqueness.
From Chungmuro station to Anguk fare cost KRW 1,250, 3 stations away in just 5 minutes.
From Chungmuro station to Anguk fare cost KRW 1,250, 3 stations away in just 5 minutes.
Second stop_Gangnam Station!
From Anguk Station plus 13 stations, you will arrive at Gangnam station for about 31 minutes and cost KRW 1,350.
Gangnam-gu is Seoul’s upscale, modern centre, home to gleaming skyscrapers, designer brands, and stylish nightclubs. Starfield COEX Mall draws visitors to its aquarium, while Seoul Arts Center has a design museum and a theatre.
Third Stop_Samneung Park
After wandering around Gangnam, I went to Samneung Park via subway, from Gangnam station to Seolleung station, 4 minutes travel time, 2 stations away, and cost KRW 1,250.
Paju Samneung consists of the Gongneung, Sulleung, and Yeongneung tombs.
Gongneung is the royal tomb of Queen Jangsun (1445-1461), consort of King Yejong, the 8th ruler of the Joseon Dynasty.
Sulleung is the tomb of Queen Gonghye (1456-1474), a consort of King Seongjong, the 9th ruler of the Joseon Dynasty.
Yeongneung is the tomb of King Jinjong 1719-1728. King Jinjong became the crown prince at the age of 7, but he died when he was only 13 in Changgyeonggung Palace.
a UNESCO World Heritage / Historic Site No. 205
Closed: Every Monday
Duration: 40 mins
Operating Hours: 09:00-18:30 (Mar-Oct) / 09:00-17:30 (Nov-Feb)
Admission is 1 hour before closing.
Admission Fees
Adults (ages 19-64): Individual 1,000 won / Group (10 people or more): 800 won
Children (ages 7-19): Individual 500 won / Group (10 people or more): 400 won
And Lotte World Mall as my last stop for today.
Checked out this big and known mall in South Korea. I stayed for a couple minutes and head home.
Lotte World Mall, located next to the Lotte World tower, features Avenuel, a complex of luxury department stores.
Day 5: Bukhansan National Park
Took several stops and the admission fee is FREE.
Took several stops and the admission fee is FREE.
Something I loved doing is hiking/trekking. It's good for our health and makes us fit and athletic.
I traveled from Chungmuro via bus to reach Bukhansan National Park.
I used a google map to see the route and luckily I was not lost. The trekking was so quiet, I saw elder but not people at my age. Though I was alone, I was never afraid to take this adventure.
I used a google map to see the route and luckily I was not lost. The trekking was so quiet, I saw elder but not people at my age. Though I was alone, I was never afraid to take this adventure.
It took me more than an hour and saw a wonderful view.
Bukhansan Mountain is situated in the northern part of Seoul. The name Bukhansan means "big mountain in the north," and it is also called Samgaksan Mountain. The mountain has many different kinds of peaks but its main peak is Baegunbong.
Day 6: Lotte World Tower Seoul Sky
Lotte World Tower was designed with a conceptual design drawing inspiration from Korean ceramics and Korean writing brushes. With 123 floors total, the tower is the fifth tallest building in the world, standing at 555 meters (1,824 ft). The tower contains galleries, cafés, and a luxury hotel, in addition to a skywalk and an observation deck. It will be one of the best spots to appreciate the breathtaking view of Seoul's vibrant city lights.
Address: Lotte World, 240, Olympic-ro, Songpa-gu, Seoul
Directions: Jamsil Station (Seoul Subway Line 2, 8), Exit 4. Walk approx. 5min.
Operating hours: Monday-Thursday 09:30-22:00 / Friday-Sunday 09:30-23:00 ※ Extended operations until 23:00 on weekdays during peak season
Admission: - One-day Pass: Adults 55,000 / Teenagers 48,000 won / Children 44,000 won / Infants 14,000 won - After 16:00: Adults 44,000 / Teenagers 38,000 won / Children 34,000 won / Infants 14,000 won
Korea's top 6 major attractions, Myeongdong.
The area of Myeong-dong is filled with unique street foods and plenty of things to see! A district of fashion and shopping, many young Koreans and international tourists seek out great deals and the latest trends.
Myeong-dong stretches approximately 1km from Myeong-dong Station (Seoul Subway Line 4) to Eulji-ro Avenue and Lotte Department Store. The streets are lined with department stores, duty-free stores, and various brand shops. Even if shopping isn’t really your thing, you can still enjoy Myeong-dong by trying street foods and many famous restaurants in the area!
It is just one ride away from Chungmuro station to Myeongdonng station, fare cost KRW 1,250 in just 1 minute.
Address: Myeongdong-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul
Directions: Myeong-dong Station (Seoul Subway Line 4), Exit 7 or Euljiro 1(il)-ga Station (Seoul Subway Line 2), Exit 6. Walk approx. 3min.
Day 8: Last Day_Seoul Catholic church in Myeongdong and went to the airport
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| Cathedral in Myeongdong. |
Thanks for reading. I hope I have given you helpful information for your soon travel to SOUTH KOREA.
Overall experience here in SK was amazing, the food was great and with its spectacular scenery, palaces, history, art, modern technology, fast and reliable transportation, and awesome internet connection made this country a one of a kind.
If you want to save up, bring your own water and snacks as well as everywhere you go.
Total Expenses Incurred for the 8-day trip below:
Airfare: via Cebu Pacific- PHP 5,400 (Promo fare All in)
Apartment: (Coco Hause)- PHP 6,600 for 7 nights, Single bed
Tourist Destination Entrance Fees-
PHP 144 or KRW 3,000- Gyeongbukgong Palace
PHP 480 or KRW 10,000- N Seoul Tower
PHP 385 or KRW 8,000- Nami Island
PHP 144 or KRW 3,000- Bike Rental for 30 minutes in Nami Island
PHP 144 or KRW 3,000- Changdeukgong Palace
PHP 48 or KRW 1,000- Samneung Park
PH 2,645 or KRW 55,000- Lotte Tower Seoul Sky
PHP 144 or KRW 3,000- Gyeongbukgong Palace
PHP 480 or KRW 10,000- N Seoul Tower
PHP 385 or KRW 8,000- Nami Island
PHP 144 or KRW 3,000- Bike Rental for 30 minutes in Nami Island
PHP 144 or KRW 3,000- Changdeukgong Palace
PHP 48 or KRW 1,000- Samneung Park
PH 2,645 or KRW 55,000- Lotte Tower Seoul Sky
Transportation- PHP 1,442 or KRW 30,000 Thru T-Money
Meals: PHP 1,923 or KRW 40,000 for 8 days
Souvenirs: PHP 5,000 or KRW 104,000 (Optional)
Miscellaneous Expenses: PHP 2,019 or KRW 42,000
TOTAL EXPENSES INCURRED: PHP 26,374 or KRW 548,101 or USD 488
Souvenirs: PHP 5,000 or KRW 104,000 (Optional)
Miscellaneous Expenses: PHP 2,019 or KRW 42,000
TOTAL EXPENSES INCURRED: PHP 26,374 or KRW 548,101 or USD 488
If you have questions or clarifications, you may reach me through these app/sites:
Email: khentaquiman@yahoo.com
IG: mister_aquaman
Facebook Page: The Best of Me
Gomabseubnida!
Nice blog!!! Teach me how to do this.. Wanna try blogging too.
ReplyDeleteJust log in your gmail account at www.blogger.com and create a blog. 😊
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