It will be a disgrace to put in writing off Seoul as merely one other Asian mega metropolis. Whereas it’s true the South Korean capital has traditionally been influenced by neighbors China and Japan, the Seoul that exists right this moment is a novel cultural powerhouse that has embraced its previous even whereas it seems to be in the direction of the long run.
Purchasing
A nexus of trend and expertise, purchasing in Seoul appears like making a fast journey to a not-too-distant future. In truth, your first buy may happen earlier than you really attain the purchasing areas correct: Pocket Wi-Fi is obtainable for beneath US$5 a day, permitting you to maintain monitor of the perfect offers whilst you make your manner across the metropolis.
The place you store relies on what you’re out there for. Insadong is a good district for conventional wares, whereas Namdaemun Market is a good place to go for just about the whole lot else. These trying extra for the expertise of purchasing moderately than precise gadgets have a couple of locations to go to as nicely. Seoul has a number of underground markets to discover, together with Gangnam Underground Purchasing Middle. From 10PM to 5AM, there’s all night time purchasing at Dongdaemun for these fashionistas on the market. Lastly, Myeongdong is nice for make-up, skincare, and extra worldwide merchandise.
After all, no purchasing journey is full with out snacks. Fortuitously, most purchasing districts both characteristic Korean avenue meals or are in shut proximity to it. Strive some favorites similar to kimbap, bibimbap, rooster skewers, or spicy rice truffles.
Sightseeing
When you arrive, there are numerous issues to do in Seoul. Whether or not your itinerary is full of historic points of interest or extra trendy diversions, town can ship in spades. Begin your go to out proper by heading to Namsam N Seoul Tower, arguably essentially the most well-known landmark within the metropolis, to get panoramic views of your entire area. From right here your itinerary diverges a bit relying in your curiosity.
Traditionally-minded vacationers ought to head out to Bukchon Village, a district dwelling to conventional Korean homes and exquisite alleyways. Be certain, additionally, to cease by Gyeongbokgung, the ancestral palace of the Joseon Dynasty. Not solely do you get to discover the attractive structure, however you additionally get to see individuals strolling round in conventional clothes. As you may think, this makes for excellent photograph ops.
Those that want to see the extra trendy aspect of Seoul ought to focus much less on landmarks and extra on the varied metropolis districts. Gangnam district is known for its flashy model and is definitely value a go to, however in case you’re in search of one thing equally artistic however only a bit extra subdued, head to Hongdae. This space surrounding Hongik College is fashionable and hip in all the fitting methods. Lastly, these with households ought to try Lotte World, a purchasing and leisure district that’s the Korean equal of Disneyland – full with its personal citadel!
Nightlife
Sure, Seoul has its justifiable share of nightclubs, bars, and different mainstays, and lots of of them are even value your time. These seeking to actually lose themselves within the metropolis’s tradition, nonetheless, ought to try a few of these distinctive choices.
Surprisingly, many theater reveals are well worth the admission value even in case you don’t converse a phrase of Korean. Seoul’s iconic NANTA reveals characteristic non-verbal comedy in more and more hilarious conditions; the present present focuses on kitchen hijinks. Although it closes a bit earlier within the night, the Operating Man Thematic Expertise Middle gives to place you in the course of a Korean recreation present expertise the place you may trigger some hijinks your self.
Those that want digital actions ought to think about dropping into one among Seoul’s many arcades or PC cafes (domestically generally known as bangs). Whether or not you need to play or just watch the professionals at work, there’s one thing decidedly distinctive about spending the night in such an electrical setting.
Header photograph by Kenneth Bastian on Unsplash
