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Guide to Seoul, South Korea (Republic Of)
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Click to go to Flight Prices for Seoul
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SeoulThe largest city in Korea and one of the largest in the world, Seoul is a sprawling metropolis, home to more than 11 million residents. Its modernity is extraordinary for its country, but its historic structures were nearly all demolished in the Korean War, and most of the images only remain in the hearts and minds of the people who inhabit Seoul. Today, it is a thriving mass of commerce, governmental centers, and some of the greatest architectural structures in the world. Walk around Yeouido Island and tour the tallest building in the country after a visit to what many say is Koreas economic center the Korean Stock Exchange. The city is also well in tune with its natural surroundings, boasting world-class botanical gardens and palaces mind-bogglingly beautiful with landscapes to accompany them. Seoul has quickly transformed from a hermit-like state to a primary magnet for anything and everything international, and you too can join in the phenomenon! Book your flight today!
When to go:
Seoul is a madhouse during the months of July and August. Many Korean holidays take place during this period and as a result, hotels are packed, prices skyrocket, and the streets are at what seems like a standstill for much of the day. It can also get a bit stuffy and overly-humid; we suggest avoiding summer in Seoul altogether. Unless youre enthusiastic about Korean traditions, you may want to steer clear of the countrys Lunar New Year, when everything is in a frenzy, and we mean /everything/. Other than these obstacles, Seoul is an absolutely glorious place to visit, whether it's spring, autumn, or winter.
Getting there and around:
Incheon International Airport is where locals board flights for international destinations, and foreigners vice versa. It is also well appointed with multitudes of services for all different kinds of travelers from all over the world. It may seem a bit crowded and busy inside the terminal, especially during mid-day hours, the staff seems to work in an expedited fashion, making it all go by faster than youd expect. For transportation into the city, you must either rely on buses, taxis, or car rentals, and while having your own vehicle may seem like the key to freedom, its a burden you definitely dont want to assume. Go with a taxi if youve got expendable funds; if youre on a tight budget, board
Seoul has one transportation service that will get you around to almost anywhere in the city quickly the subway. It was constructed (or should we say, dug out) in recent years to work in unison with the modernization of the city, and it does a great job of getting locals and visitors around. The cars are clean, the system is safe, and you wont find a cheaper alternative anywhere. If you find yourself out late in the evening in search of a ride back to your hotel room, you may be out of luck trying to use the subway system; they close down each night at 11:30pm. Your best bet is to hail a taxi, and you may be paying a heftier price for the evening drive.
Attractions:
Seoul is famous for having some of the most beautiful palaces in the country; nearly all were built under the Joseon Dynasty. Over 500 years, emperors have built these palaces, all constructed in unique fashions yet all having the similar attribute of a surrounding high-wall. Most emperors made it a point to create their own abodes, but youll find that some palaces were occupied by more than one royal family over their histories. Today, the palace in use is known as Changdeokgung, and hosts tours throughout the day, though some portions are inaccessible. The highlight of Changdeokgung is the Biwon, or Secret Garden, where acres of ponds, pavilions and ancient trees exist with beautifully landscaped lawns.
Namsan Park is an attraction in Seoul that receives thousands of visitors each year, and is home to the 3^rd -largest tower in the world, Seoul Tower. It sits atop Mt. Namsan, offering unrivaled views of the Korean landscape; on a clear day, you can even see far into North Korean land. Along with its great size, the Tower holds a number of great attractions within: Aquarium, Ocean Life Museum, Funny World, Game Room, and Natural Stone Exhibits. Also in the greater Namsan Park are the Namsan Botanical Gardens and library.
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