Korea

1. Seoul: The Dynamic Capital

Seoul is a megacity that never sleeps, where history and future collide.

· Historic Core: Explore the Bukchon Hanok Village, a neighborhood of traditional Korean houses (hanok), and step back in time at the grand Gyeongbokgung Palace. Don’t miss the changing of the guard ceremony. Nearby, the Insadong street is perfect for antique shops, tea houses, and buying traditional crafts.

· Modern Pulse: Ascend the N Seoul Tower on Namsan Mountain for breathtaking city views. Shop till you drop in the massive Myeongdong shopping district (famous for beauty products) or the ultra-luxurious Dongdaemun & Gangnam areas.

· Culture & Design: Visit the Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP), a stunning neo-futuristic structure, and the vibrant Hongdae area, known for its indie music scene, street art, and youth culture.

2. Busan: The Beach Metropolis

Korea’s second-largest city is a bustling port known for its beaches, seafood, and laid-back vibe.

· Jagalchi Fish Market: The country’s largest seafood market. You can buy live fish and have it prepared fresh at a restaurant upstairs.

· Gamcheon Culture Village: A hillside community of colorful houses turned into an art village, often called the “Machu Picchu of Busan.”

· Haeundae Beach: The most famous beach in Korea, perfect for people-watching in summer and visiting the nearby SEA LIFE Aquarium.

· Beomeosa Temple: A beautiful and important Buddhist temple nestled on the slopes of Geumjeongsan Mountain.

3. Jeju Island: The Island of Wonders

A volcanic island and a honeymooner’s paradise, Jeju is a natural wonder designated a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site.

· Hallasan Mountain: A dormant volcano and the highest peak in South Korea, with stunning crater lakes and hiking trails.

· Seongsan Ilchulbong (Sunrise Peak): A dramatic tuff crater rising from the sea, best visited at sunrise.

· Manjanggul Lava Tube: One of the longest lava tubes in the world, a fascinating geological site.

· Unique Culture: Discover the iconic Haenyeo (female divers) and the playful Dol Hareubang (“grandfather statues”) carved from volcanic rock.

4. Gyeongju: The Museum Without Walls

The ancient capital of the Silla Kingdom, Gyeongju is an open-air museum filled with historical treasures.

· Bulguksa Temple: A masterpiece of Buddhist art and a UNESCO World Heritage site.

· Seokguram Grotto: Near Bulguksa, this grotto houses a serene and majestic stone Buddha statue.

· Daereungwon Tomb Complex: Large grassy mounds in the city center that are ancient royal tombs. One, the Cheonmachong Tomb, is open to the public.

· Anapji Pond: A beautiful illuminated pond and garden complex, especially magical at night.