In the present time where travel for leisure is strongly discouraged – or in some cases, even impossible – avid travellers are finding new ways to scratch that itch for travel. Dreaming of your next travel destination is one excellent way!
If you love Korean dramas, Korean pop culture, or even just can’t get enough of Korean cuisine, then putting South Korea as your next travel destination is an easy choice to make! Of course, one can’t just visit South Korea without making a stop at its sprawling metropolis, Seoul.
It might sound overrated or overly touristy, but there are ample reasons why spending a few days in Seoul is definitely worth it. From its plenty of attractions to its cosmopolitan air, here are some reasons why Seoul should be on your post-pandemic travel list!
1. The perfect place for foodies
Anyone looking forward to indulging in endless kimchi, bulgogi, and tteokbokki will find Seoul a haven! While it’s true that you can get amazing Korean food anywhere in Korea, Seoul takes the eating experience up a notch because of its variety of cuisines all in one area.
For example, you can enjoy award-winning Korean food at top-notch restaurants in the heart of town, and then turn a few corners to a food market for delectable street food to take back to your hotel for supper. Homely eateries line the roads, where you can easily get your fix of a hearty stew or ramen. Then, if you need a change of cuisines once in a while, there’s also no lack of international restaurants for that burger, pasta, or steak you’ve been missing!
2. It’s a place full of wonder and adventures
Nature lovers have no excuse not to pay this capital city a visit. While it is known as a modern, urban city, Seoul also encompasses incredible natural sights to give you a totally different view of the city.
Several mountains surround the city, offering visitors the opportunity to go on hikes not far from the city centre. The scenery you’ll be treated to will vary based on the season you are there – if you’re lucky, you’ll be able to catch the romantic warm autumn hues blanketing the hills. Once at the top, you’ll be greeted with panoramic views of the city you’ll remember for days.
3. Dive into Korean history
If ancient stories and places have always fascinated you, then Seoul is the place to go! Amidst its modern architecture and cutting-edge urbanity, Seoul holds its history dear with preciously-preserved historical sites peppered all around the city. There’s not just one, but at least 5 magnificent palace grounds you can visit in Seoul.
Temples and museums are also widely available for visitors to soak in the culture and history. Apart from the educational aspect, these attractions are also often quite picturesque. Why not pick up a traditional Korean garment (hanbok) and conduct your own photoshoot?
4. It’s amazingly well-connected
With so many things to see and do in Seoul, you might worry about how you will have time to reach all of them. Thankfully, accessibility is not an issue, as Seoul is a super well-connected city, served by reliable and extensive subway and bus systems. Even if you are backpacking in the city, you shouldn’t have much trouble navigating the city due to the availability of English signs in most places.
Then, consider that Seoul is served by its own airport – Incheon Airport – and travelling suddenly seems so much easier! You don’t have to worry about taking additional domestic flights or long bus rides to another city. Incheon Airport is also extremely well-rated, so you can expect a fantastic experience flying into Seoul.
Have these reasons tickled your urge to travel again? While travelling is not a good idea now, there’s no harm in planning for your next trip (2021, anyone?) or even living vicariously through travel documentaries or your favourite Korean dramas or variety shows. Meanwhile, it might also be a good idea to spend time learning the language!
Travelling while being able to speak the local language offers a whole different experience, as you are able to converse with the locals, learn more about the local way of life, and perhaps even uncover hidden gems recommended by the people who know it best! Begin your learning journey with Korean language courses at Sejong Korean Language School with our native Korean teachers!