Korea Trip 2016: Memories & Adventures
Hey guys! Let's dive into my awesome trip to Korea back in 2016. Get ready for some major wanderlust as I share all the incredible experiences, delicious food, and unforgettable moments from this adventure. Buckle up, because this is going to be a fun ride!
Arrival in Seoul
Landing in Seoul was like stepping into a vibrant, bustling world. The energy of the city was immediately contagious. As soon as I stepped out of Incheon Airport, I was greeted by a wave of organized chaos, but in the best way possible! Navigating the airport was surprisingly easy, thanks to the clear signage in both Korean and English. Seriously, props to Korea for making it tourist-friendly right from the get-go.
My first mission? Getting to my accommodation. Public transportation in Seoul is amazing. The subway system is clean, efficient, and covers almost every corner of the city. I grabbed a T-money card (basically a rechargeable transit card) and hopped on the Airport Railroad Express (AREX). It was a smooth, comfortable ride that gave me my first glimpse of the Korean landscape – a mix of modern skyscrapers and traditional houses nestled among green hills.
Arriving at my guesthouse in Hongdae was a breath of fresh air. Hongdae is known for its youthful vibe, street art, and indie music scene. The guesthouse was cozy and welcoming, with friendly staff who gave me a bunch of tips on where to go and what to see. After dropping off my luggage, I was itching to explore. The streets of Hongdae were alive with energy, filled with students, artists, and street performers. I remember being immediately captivated by the unique fashion sense of the people – so stylish and expressive! I grabbed some street food (tteokbokki, of course!) and wandered around, soaking in the atmosphere. The bright lights, the music, the delicious smells – it was all so exciting and new. That first evening set the tone for the entire trip: full of adventure, discovery, and unforgettable moments.
Exploring Seoul's Palaces
One of the highlights of my trip was definitely exploring Seoul's stunning palaces. These historical gems offer a glimpse into Korea's rich past and are a must-see for any visitor. I started with Gyeongbokgung Palace, the largest and arguably the most beautiful of Seoul's Five Grand Palaces. Walking through the massive gates and courtyards, I felt like I was transported back in time. The architecture is simply breathtaking, with intricate details and vibrant colors. I was particularly impressed by the graceful curves of the roofs and the meticulous craftsmanship of the wooden structures. Renting a hanbok (traditional Korean dress) is a popular thing to do, and it totally enhanced the experience. I felt so elegant strolling around the palace grounds in my hanbok, snapping photos and imagining what life was like for the royalty who once lived there. The palace gardens are equally stunning, with serene ponds, lush greenery, and picturesque pavilions. It's the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and find a moment of peace and tranquility.
Changdeokgung Palace, another of Seoul's Five Grand Palaces, is famous for its Secret Garden (Huwon). This hidden oasis is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered one of the most beautiful gardens in Korea. I joined a guided tour (essential for exploring the Secret Garden) and was mesmerized by the landscape. The garden is a harmonious blend of natural beauty and carefully designed landscaping, with winding pathways, hidden pavilions, and tranquil ponds. Each corner of the garden seemed to reveal a new and enchanting view. Our guide shared fascinating stories about the history of the garden and its significance to the royal family. I learned about the different pavilions and their purposes, and how the garden was designed to reflect the principles of Confucianism and Taoism. The Secret Garden is a truly magical place, and I highly recommend it to anyone visiting Seoul.
Food Adventures
Okay, let's be real – one of the main reasons I travel is for the food! And Korea did not disappoint. From street food to fine dining, every meal was an adventure for my taste buds. I started my culinary journey with the basics: kimchi, bibimbap, and bulgogi. Kimchi, the spicy fermented cabbage, is a staple of Korean cuisine and is served with almost every meal. Bibimbap, a colorful mix of rice, vegetables, meat, and a fried egg, is a delicious and satisfying dish that can be customized to your liking. Bulgogi, thinly sliced marinated beef, is a classic Korean barbecue dish that is always a crowd-pleaser.
But I didn't stop there. I ventured into the world of Korean street food and discovered a whole new level of deliciousness. Tteokbokki, spicy rice cakes in a fiery red sauce, became an instant favorite. The chewy texture and the intense spiciness were addictive! I also tried hotteok, sweet pancakes filled with brown sugar and nuts, which were the perfect treat on a cold day. And let's not forget about Korean fried chicken – crispy, juicy, and bursting with flavor. I tried several different varieties, from the classic original to the sweet and spicy yangnyeom chicken. Each one was a winner!
For a more upscale dining experience, I visited a Korean barbecue restaurant. Grilling your own meat at the table is such a fun and interactive experience. The quality of the meat was outstanding, and the side dishes (banchan) were plentiful and varied. I also tried some traditional Korean dishes like samgyetang (ginseng chicken soup) and galbijjim (braised short ribs). Each dish was a culinary masterpiece, showcasing the unique flavors and techniques of Korean cuisine. I definitely gained a few pounds on this trip, but it was totally worth it!
DMZ Tour
A visit to the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) was a sobering and eye-opening experience. The DMZ is a buffer zone between North and South Korea and is a reminder of the ongoing conflict between the two countries. The tour started with a briefing about the history of the Korean War and the division of the peninsula. It was a somber reminder of the human cost of conflict and the importance of peace.
We visited the Joint Security Area (JSA), also known as Panmunjom, where negotiations between North and South Korea take place. Standing in the room where the armistice agreement was signed was surreal. I could feel the tension in the air and sense the weight of history. We also visited the Third Infiltration Tunnel, one of several tunnels dug by North Korea to infiltrate the South. Walking through the narrow tunnel, I could imagine the determination and desperation of the North Korean soldiers who built it.
The highlight of the tour was the observation point overlooking North Korea. Through binoculars, I could see the North Korean propaganda village of Kijong-dong. It was a bizarre and unsettling sight – a perfectly manicured village with no signs of life. The DMZ tour was a powerful reminder of the complexities of the Korean conflict and the importance of dialogue and understanding. It's an experience that I will never forget.
Shopping in Myeongdong
No trip to Seoul is complete without a shopping spree in Myeongdong. This bustling district is a shopper's paradise, with everything from high-end department stores to street vendors selling trendy clothes, cosmetics, and accessories. I spent hours wandering through the crowded streets, browsing the endless array of shops.
Korean cosmetics are world-renowned, and Myeongdong is the place to stock up. I visited several different beauty stores and was overwhelmed by the variety of products. From sheet masks to BB creams to lip tints, there was something for everyone. I also indulged in some Korean fashion, buying a few trendy outfits and accessories. The prices were surprisingly reasonable, and the quality was excellent.
But Myeongdong is not just about shopping. It's also a great place to people-watch and soak in the vibrant atmosphere. The streets are always alive with energy, filled with shoppers, street performers, and food vendors. I tried some delicious street snacks, like grilled squid and bungeoppang (fish-shaped pastries filled with red bean paste). Myeongdong is a sensory overload in the best way possible, and it's an experience that I highly recommend.
Conclusion
My trip to Korea in 2016 was an unforgettable adventure. From exploring ancient palaces to indulging in delicious food to experiencing the vibrant culture, every moment was filled with excitement and discovery. Korea is a country that seamlessly blends tradition and modernity, and it's a place that I can't wait to visit again. If you're planning a trip to Asia, I highly recommend putting Korea on your list. You won't be disappointed!