Category: Summer

  • Alpaca World Korea: Complete Visitor’s Guide (From Seoul)

    Considered the first and only Alpaca Theme Park in the entire world, Alpaca World (알파카월드) is located about 3 hours outside of Seoul and is one stop that I would highly recommend. If you love alpacas or are just looking for something unique to do, this is a great stop filled with animals, unique experiences, and even alpaca themed treats!

    My Essential Korea Travel Resources :

    There are plenty of travel companies out there, but these are my favorite websites and resources for planning an unforgettable trip to South Korea. This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more here.

    🚙 Car rentals, although not common in Korea, are best through Discover Cars – just make sure to have a copy of your international driver’s permit with you!

    🏨 I always use AGODA to compare hotels & prices in Asia.

    📶 To keep cell phone service, I use Airalo’s easy to purchase eSIM’s (no installation required).

    📸 For fun things to do, Klook specializes on tours in Asia, otherwise Viator also does the trick.

    🦋 Just in case, Safetywing is the insurance I always use when visiting a new country.

    🧳 Lastly, my essential packing list when visiting Korea.

    How to Get to Alpaca World (and what to bring)

    Because Alpaca World is located about 3 hours from Seoul, getting there can be a bit tricky. Personally, I booked this round trip full day Alpaca World Tour through Klook that also visited Nami Island so it was very easy. Alpaca World is open from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm and costs $13 when purchased in advance.

    If you want to do the trip on your own, the next best option would be using public transportation. You could also hire a taxi, however I imagine this would be quite spendy and I wouldn’t recommend. Using Seoul’s public transportation system will take you about 4 hours each way – you’ll want to make it to the Gangbyeon Subway Staion on the Green Line (Line 2), then walk to the East Seoul General Station and catch the bus to Hongcheon Terminal, and finally catch the bus to Pungcheon-ri End Point to walk the remaining 10 minutes to Alpaca World.

    You might also be wondering what to bring to Alpaca World, even if you only plan to visit for a few hours. I would highly recommend comfortable walking shoes – the grounds are quite hilly so going up and downhill will be much easier in tennis shoes. Because Alpaca World is located in the mountains the weather can also be a bit different from Seoul, so I recommend bringing a light jacket even in the summer months, as well as sunscreen!

    Lastly, if you plan to walk the entire grounds then I would bring a water bottle as well, but if you choose not to then there’s a few cafes on site where you can purchase a cold drink. I also recommend bringing a small backpack or large purse to fit all your items in during the Alpaca Playground interaction.

    What to Expect at Alpaca World

    Meeting the Alpacas – At the very beginning of your visit, all guests will be gathered in the Alpaca Playground. Here, you’ll get to experience the very adorable Alpaca Run & be able to feed the Alpacas! If you stand along the fence near the dirt road, you’ll have the best views of the Alpacas running through. I’ll be honest this experience goes very quickly, so I recommend trying to feed an Alpaca as soon as they come through the gate into the playground area. Also, watch out for the occasional peeing/pooping Alpaca! If you end up using all the free food they give you for this experience, then they will also give you more. (This event happens once a day at 10:10 am.)

    Animal Interactions & Experiences – In addition to the Alpaca Feeding experience, there are a few other experiences you can participate in throughout Alpaca World for an extra fee. The Alpaca Healing Walk is available all day until 5 pm for 12,000 Won (about $12 USD). For all other animal interactions, I recommend checking their event page here.

    Other Animals at Alpaca World – Honestly, before visiting Alpaca World I just assumed the only animals they had were Alpaca. However, it turns out that they have quite a large variety of animals including deer, rabbits, ostrich, peacocks, sheep & goats, squirrels, capybara, and quite a few different types of owls & birds of prey. During your time at Alpaca World you’ll have time to walk the property, so you can easily see all the other animals too!

    Feeding the Animals – Throughout the Alpaca World grounds you’ll see pink vending machines for feeding the animals! You’ll have to first purchase “Pacacoins” at the ticket office if you want to later exchange these for more food. Each “Pacacoin” costs 1,000 Won (about $1 USD). These can be used for the Alpacas, rabbits, and deer.

    Food & Drinks at Alpaca World – Like I mentioned above, if you’re planning to explore the grounds for a while I recommend bringing a water bottle to stay hydrated. Although there was no one checking if we had food with us, I don’t recommend. If you really want to bring some snacks I would make sure to have them zipped away in a backpack or purse.

    There are also plenty of cafes and places to cool down throughout the property. We only stopped at the Cafe near the entrance and ticket office (which I recommend only for their adorable Alpaca Breads!) but there are plenty of other options near the top of the Theme Park. You can find Korean snacks, drinks, and meals if you’re hungry! There’s also many picnic tables to sit at in the shade for you to enjoy a cool drink or snack!

    Getting your Free Alpaca Stickers – Even if your time is short, I always love a fun challenge and highly encourage you to try to grab all 10 stamps to get your free page of Alpaca Stickers! You can find the stamp collection page on the back of the welcome brochure/map, as well as a guide to where you can find each stamp – each stamp location looks like a stand with a little house on top. Even though I had to go pretty quick to get all my stamps during my tour time, I was able to grab my free stickers and still have time to enjoy some Alpaca Bread & some lemonade!

  • Han River Sunset Cruise Review: Is It Worth It?

    The Han River is one of the top attractions in Seoul, and is what divides the city into two main areas – Ganbuk to the North and Gangnam to the South. Both are equally as impressive, with plenty of top sights scattered throughout both areas, however in my personal opinion some of the best views of Seoul can be found along the Han River!

    My Essential Korea Travel Resources :

    There are plenty of travel companies out there, but these are my favorite websites and resources for planning an unforgettable trip to South Korea. This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more here.

    🚙 Car rentals, although not common in Korea, are best through Discover Cars – just make sure to have a copy of your international driver’s permit with you!

    🏨 I always use AGODA to compare hotels & prices in Asia.

    📶 To keep cell phone service, I use Airalo’s easy to purchase eSIM’s (no installation required).

    📸 For fun things to do, Klook specializes on tours in Asia, otherwise Viator also does the trick.

    🦋 Just in case, Safetywing is the insurance I always use when visiting a new country.

    🧳 Lastly, my essential packing list when visiting Korea.

    Booking & Prepping for Your River Cruise

    Luckily, booking your cruise on the Han River is very easy – especially if you go through this tour on Klook. However, it’s important to note that this tour requires visitors to have a non-Korean passport. (Locals in Korea have a better chance to book directly through Naver.)

    There are quite a few options you have when choosing which river cruise to book – and each are slightly different. The Fireworks Music Cruise only operates on Friday nights, and you’ll be able to enjoy the incredible skyline views of Seoul in addition to the fun fireworks. The Moonlight Cruise and Starlight Cruise both have live jazz music, and the Sunset Cruise is the shortest option for those who have a limited amount of time. If you’re able to visit during the day, then they even have an Afternoon Tea River Cruise!

    As you get ready for your cruise, there’s a few things to expect. No matter the cruise, you’ll need to bring your passport with you. Once you arrive on site you might also need to exchange your online tickets for real tickets at the ticket booth onsite. Here, you’ll also need to fill out an “immigration form” similar to one you would fill out when visiting a new country. After checking in and getting your tickets you can explore the area before boarding your ship – they typically open the gates about 10-15 minutes before departure.

    Depending on the time of your cruise and the season you’re visiting, I would recommend bringing layers to stay warm. Long pants and a light jacket are perfect if you plan to enjoy the views from outside.

    What to Expect on Your Han River Cruise

    Boarding : The gate to board your ship typically opens about 10 minutes before the departure time. The process was very easy and was completed within a few minutes. The ship left right on time so don’t be late! Also, there is a bathroom onboard the ship.

    Photo Opportunities : There are quite a few photo opportunities throughout the ship. From heart shaped backdrops to dress up opportunities with a captain and sailor’s costume – make sure to look around so you don’t miss them!

    Seagull Feeding Experience : If you visit the upstairs & outdoor area of the boat you’ll find the Seagull Feeding Experience! For 3,000 Won you can purchase a bag of dried anchovies at the onboard convenience store – then, you can head back upstairs and hold out one at a time for the seagulls to swoop down and eat them right out of your hands!

    Convenience Store : Like I mentioned earlier, the ship has it’s own convenience store right onboard! You can find little snacks like Kancho (chocolate filled crackers) or strawberry and banana flavored milks! I recommend purchasing snacks earlier in the cruise, towards the end they were out of a lot of their options.

    The Views : Personally, I think the best views you can find of the mega city that is Seoul is from the Han River. Although you don’t go too far up or down the river on the cruise, you can enjoy both the Ganbuk and Gangnam Skylines. Unfortunately, the air pollution in Seoul is quite bad, so although the views are beautiful, actually seeing a clear sunset on your sunset cruise is quite rare.

    Live Music : As you enjoy some of the best views of Seoul, you can also enjoy some live music! Although the type of music can vary, you can typically enjoy some live jazz on the main floor of the ship during the duration of your river cruise!

  • 108 Vows of Korean Buddhism: My Temple Stay Experience

    During my recent Templestay Experience at Bonguensa Temple in Seoul, I had the opportunity to learn and try the daily rituals of 108 Vows that are typically performed by Korean Buddhists every day. For each Vow, monks or practicing Buddhists will complete a full bow to show their dedication to Buddha. You can read through all 108 Vows here, and watch my complete Templestay experience below.

    My Essential Korea Travel Resources :

    There are plenty of travel companies out there, but these are my favorite websites and resources for planning an unforgettable trip to South Korea. This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more here.

    🚙 Car rentals, although not common in Korea, are best through Discover Cars – just make sure to have a copy of your international driver’s permit with you!

    🏨 I always use AGODA to compare hotels & prices in Asia.

    📶 To keep cell phone service, I use Airalo’s easy to purchase eSIM’s (no installation required).

    📸 For fun things to do, Klook specializes on tours in Asia, otherwise Viator also does the trick.

    🦋 Just in case, Safetywing is the insurance I always use when visiting a new country.

    🧳 Lastly, my essential packing list when visiting Korea.

    What are the 108 Vows?

    The 108 Vows are practiced daily by Buddhists, and are accompanied by a full bow for each vow. A full bow consists of beginning in a standing position, bending down to your knees in a crouch like position, continuing to bend and touching your forehead on the mat while raising your hands upwards, and then coming back up. Although completing 108 bows may sound like a lot, in reality the daily ritual goes fairly quickly.

    The 108 Vows of Buddhism

    1. With a pure heart, I take refuge in the sacred Buddha.

    2. With a pure heart, I take refuge in the sacred Dharma.

    3. With a pure heart, I take refuge in the sacred Sangha.

    4. I will bear in mind the truth that all beings will eventually cease to exist.

    5. I will bear in mind that only the spirit of togetherness can help beings survive.

    6. Understanding impermanence, I will escape the life of suffering.

    7. Understanding non-self, I will seek true happiness.

    8. I will realize that a deluded mind causes distress.

    9. I will gradually come to know that suffering comes from attachments.

    10. I will pacify my mind not to become greedy or feel rage.

    11. Finding the right path to enlightenment, I will practice diligently.

    12. I will overcome self-centeredness in regard to life and death.

    13. I will come to know that my happiness lies in the happiness of the world.

    14. I will be generous and help others unconditionally and without bias.

    15. Observing the precepts thoroughly, I will always act with compassion.

    16. With steadfast patience and endurance, I will accept hardship as a stepping stone to happiness.

    17. With diligence and sincerity, I will Buddhism into action in daily life.

    18. Based on the power of patience and diligence, I will attain enlightenment.

    19. Putting all effort toward finding truth, I will lead the world to peace.

    20. I will live wisely and compassionately as the Buddha did.

    21. Dispelling my delusions, I will retain the light of wisdom.

    22. With right view, I will regard the world impartially.

    23. With right thought, I will think in accordance with propriety.

    24. With right speech, I will speak only true and helpful words to all.

    25. With right action, I will engage in acts helpful to the world.

    26. With right livelihood, I won’t cause harm to others or myself.

    27. With right effort, I will keep moving forward toward truth.

    28. With right awareness, I will always live a mindful life.

    29. With right practice, I won’t lose peace of mind.

    ​30. Wherever I am, I will follow the Buddha’s perfect truth.

    31. With the beauty of perfect dharma, I will brightly illuminate the world.

    32. With harmony in speech and action, I will peacefully coexist with others.

    33. With harmony in intention and precepts, I will work and practice with others.

    34. With harmony in thought and gain, I will share with others peacefully.

    35. I will respect and make harmony with all beings.

    36. I will not wound or harm any living being.

    37. I will not use anyone with immoral intent or influence.

    38. Deceiving no one, I will build wholesome connections.

    39. I will not hurt anyone with harsh words.

    40. Pacifying my mind, I will not behave greedily.

    41. Thinking twice, I won’t act in anger.

    42. With honest and sincere words and deeds, I will care for all beings. 

    43. I will practice respect and forgiveness instead of arrogance and anger.

    44. I will readily share my possessions and joyfully disseminate truth.

    45. I will greet others with a smile and soft words.

    46. Dedicating my whole body and mind, I will do good and offer joy to others.

    47. I will always put myself in other’s shoes, and conduct myself properly.

    48. With a humble mindset, I will uphold and serve all beings.

    49. Being grateful for each small happiness, I will live a stisfied life.

    50. Leading by example, I will not defer the responsibility to act to others.

    51. When things must be done, I will be the first to do them.

    52. For things desired by many, I will be the first to concede.

    53. Together with the Buddhist fourfold community, I will propagate truth to the world.

    54. Following the Buddha’s example, I will steadfastly propagate the dharma.

    55. I will help everyone attain the Buddha’s freedom and peace.

    56. Uprightly and gently I will impart Buddhism to others and society.

    57. In a way to promote easier understanding for all, I will teach Buddhism.

    58. Using words understandable to all, I will teach Buddhism.

    59. I will earnestly introduce Buddhism first to my family and people close to me.

    60. I will teach Buddhism to others regardless of class or social status.

    61. I will teach Buddhism not with words only, but by example.

    62. I will disseminate Buddhism for the happiness and benefit of all.

    63. I wil bear in mind that all beings are inherently buddhas.

    64. I will live by treating all others as inherent buddhas.

    65. I will face all matters with a compassionate and good heart.

    66. I will be equally kind to everyone.

    67. I will praise and encourage everyone without bias.

    68. I will not look down on others with arrogance.

    69. I will not marginalize animals or small, trivial creatures.

    70. In any dispute, I will come forward and promote reconsiliation.

    71. I will not blame others for not taking my side.

    72. I will not pass by someone carrying a heavy load without helping.

    73. I will never turn a blind eye to people who are struggling.

    74. I will contribute to social communities based on the Buddhist spirit.

    75. I will walk the Buddhist path, becoming more harmonious and mature.

    76. We Buddhists will work together to resolve social issues.

    77. I will strive to help Buddhists take leading roles in society.

    78. I will help my children grow up properly in the bosom of Buddha.

    79. I will help teenagers grow into good Buddhists.

    80. I will help young college students live with more energy and freedom.

    81. I will work together with the middle-aged to encourage their enthusiasm.

    82. I will help the elderly to confront death with dignity.

    83. With my dedication as a Buddhist, I will set an example for society.

    84. To all people in society, I will be a Buddhist who practices what he preaches.

    85. I will always keep, recite, and remember the Buddha’s teachings.

    86. I will dedicate widely the merits of my steadfast practice and generosity.

    87. I will remember that the mind of non-discrimination is the buddha mind.

    88. I will not judge anyone for having different thoughts from me.

    89. I will not judge anyone based on their religion, culture, or identity.

    90. I will neither look down on the poor nor envy the rich.

    91. I will not judge people by their appearance or position.

    92. I will judge based on truth, not on what benefits me.

    93. I will put harmony at the top of my value system in life.

    94. Embracing all impartially, I will be a true friend to all.

    95. By practicing Buddhism in the secular world, I wil spread hope and courage.

    96. The sincere practice of each individual will lead to the rebirth of Korean Buddhism.

    97. By freeing my mind, I will work for peace in the world.

    98. Sharing the pains of society, I will readily dedicate myself to it.

    99. Based on the benefits of faith and practice, I will keep making new connections.

    100. Sharing the merits of my practice, I will make Buddhism more dynamic.

    101. I will regard the sick and lonely as inherent buddhas.

    102. I will put the obvious duty of Buddhists into action here and now.

    103. We, the fourfold community, will share the joy and sorrow of all citizens.

    104. We, the fourfold community, will share the pains of birth, aging, sickness, and death will all people.

    105. With steadfast faith and vows, I will reinvigorate Buddhism.

    106. The diligent, combined efforts of the fourfold community will reinvigorate Buddhism.

    107. Blessing all beings, I will repay my debt of gratitude for encountering the Buddha’s teachings.

    108. I will devote my whole life to propagating the Buddha’s teachings.

  • Bongeunsa Temple Stay Review: Everything You Need to Know

    A Templestay Experience in Seoul is one of the most unique cultural experiences you can partake in when visiting Seoul. If you’re lucky enough to include this in your South Korea itinerary, I highly encourage you to read through this post to make the best of your time there and know exactly what to expect and what to pack with you. Bongeunsa Temple is located right in the heart of Seoul, and this is hands down one of my favorite experiences in all of Korea.

    My Essential Korea Travel Resources :

    There are plenty of travel companies out there, but these are my favorite websites and resources for planning an unforgettable trip to South Korea. This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more here.

    🚙 Car rentals, although not common in Korea, are best through Discover Cars – just make sure to have a copy of your international driver’s permit with you!

    🏨 I always use AGODA to compare hotels & prices in Asia.

    📶 To keep cell phone service, I use Airalo’s easy to purchase eSIM’s (no installation required).

    📸 For fun things to do, Klook specializes on tours in Asia, otherwise Viator also does the trick.

    🦋 Just in case, Safetywing is the insurance I always use when visiting a new country.

    🧳 Lastly, my essential packing list when visiting Korea.

    How to Book Your Templestay Experience & What to Expect

    Booking your Bongeunsa Templestay experience is quite easy. You can simply head to the Templestay Reservation Website and choose the dates you’d like. The English Templestay Program is held over the first weekend of each month, from 2pm on Saturday until 11am on Sunday. The cost is 120,000 Won per person, and although they encourage you to pay online you can also pay with cash at check in.

    Overall, there’s a lot to expect from the Templestay program. All of your meals are included, and although it’s frowned upon to leave leftovers, you can always grab a smaller plate and then go back up for more. During your Templestay experience you’ll be asked to wear the orange uniforms and slippers while inside the buildings, so I recommend easy shoes to slip on and off each time you enter/exit a building. You’re “bed time” is quite early, but you’ll appreciate it when you get up at 4 am the next morning. I’ve listed a complete schedule breakdown below so you can know what to expect, but overall I would say this is an incredible and unique experience you won’t want to miss out on during your visit to Seoul.

    There are a few things you’ll need to bring with you for your Templestay experience, including comfortable walking shoes that are easy to slip on and off, a refillable water bottle, any toiletries like shampoo and conditioner, and towels for your use.

    During your Templestay, there are a few “rules” or “expectations” you’ll be asked to follow during your stay. These are as follows :

    When checking out, please clean your room and return any clothes and bedding to the program leader. Put trash in a bag and put it outside the front door.

    When you see a Sunim (monk), half bow by putting your palms together.

    Drinking and smoking are not allowed.

    Silence is recommended inside the temple.

    Please be punctual.

    When moving around, follow your program leader and stay in a line.

    During meal times, please try not to leave food – only put enough on your plate to eat.

    Do not disturb other participants during your break time.

    If sharing a room with other participants, please be aware of cell phone calls or watching videos.

    An Overview of the Templestay Schedule

    Day 1 Program :
    At 2:00 pm you’ll begin the check in process. If you haven’t paid yet, you’ll be asked to pay in cash as you check in. Then you’ll be brought inside, where you’ll wait for all participants to arrive while the program leader passes out uniforms for your stay and welcomes you with a cup of Sikhye (식혜), a Korean rice punch drink.

    Around 3:00 pm, after everyone checks into their rooms and has a chance to change, you’ll be led around the temple grounds on a guided tour. You’ll learn the history of the temple, like how it was moved from Busan, and basic temple etiquette.

    From 4:00 pm onwards you’ll be led through a variety of temple activities. From the Traditional Tea Ceremony where you’ll learn traditional Korean tea etiquette, to the Sutra Gold Ink experience where you’ll trace traditional Korean Buddhist sayings in gold ink – you’ll eventually be brought to your first meal at the temple. Like I mentioned above, you’ll be asked to only grab what you’ll eat so that you don’t leave leftovers, and before you eat you’ll say a short Buddhist prayer. Our meals were very traditional, and consisted of rice, tofu, different vegetables (banchan) like kimchi and seaweed soup.

    After dinner, you’ll experience your first Yebul ceremony inside the main temple, and then have a long discussion/guided meditation with a monk. During this time, you’ll be able to ask questions you have about Buddhism, and be taught how to meditate. At 9:00 pm it’ll be lights out for your early morning tomorrow!

    Day 2 Program :
    At 4:20 am, bright and early, your Templestay Experience will continue with a Yebul ceremony at the main temple. Afterwards you’ll experience the 108 Vows, a daily ritual for practicing Buddhists and monks. For each vow, you’ll also perform a full bow – but if you feel like you can’t complete all 108 bows you can sit or stand in the back of the room.

    After the bows you’ll have a short break time, then be brought to breakfast – which had the same dishes and expectations as dinner. Afterwards, you’ll have a bit more free time to explore the temple grounds with hardly any other visitors around – a rarity in Seoul. This is a great time to enjoy the peace and quiet of the temple grounds, and if you’re in a rush to head somewhere afterwards, to clean up your room and pack your things.

    Around 9:00 am you’ll have your last Templestay Experience activity, a final tea time with the monk you met last night. He’ll lead you through a quick, personal tea experience, where you can chat with him and ask him any more questions you have about him, Buddha, or Buddhism. From 10:00 am to 11:00 am you’ll be able to clean up, check out, and finish up the survey you were asked to take. Don’t forget to take any of your gifts and souvenirs you’ve been given during your experience!

  • Is Lotte World Seoul Worth It? My Honest Review

    Lotte World is said to be the largest indoor theme park in the world, and having been there multiple times as a child and now as an adult, you can trust me when I say this is one place you won’t want to miss on your trip to Seoul. Having been featured on countless Korean reality shows (specifically dating shows), there’s plenty of fun rides and delicious foods to try at Lotte World too!

    My Essential Korea Travel Resources :

    There are plenty of travel companies out there, but these are my favorite websites and resources for planning an unforgettable trip to South Korea. This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more here.

    🚙 Car rentals, although not common in Korea, are best through Discover Cars – just make sure to have a copy of your international driver’s permit with you!

    🏨 I always use AGODA to compare hotels & prices in Asia.

    📶 To keep cell phone service, I use Airalo’s easy to purchase eSIM’s (no installation required).

    📸 For fun things to do, Klook specializes on tours in Asia, otherwise Viator also does the trick.

    🦋 Just in case, Safetywing is the insurance I always use when visiting a new country.

    🧳 Lastly, my essential packing list when visiting Korea.

    Planning Your Trip to Lotte World

    Before you make your way to Lotte World, you’ll want to plan ahead, especially if you’re visiting during peak summer months. Tickets to Lotte World cost 59,000 Won per adult for a day pass, or 47,000 Won for a pass for late entry (after 4pm). You can also get discounted tickets for children or if you bundle your Lotte World Ticket with entry to the Folk Museum.

    If you want to do like the locals do, enter through the underground entrance from Lotte Tower – then head to 2F. Here you can find lockers you can rent for the day to store your belongings and a uniform rental shop called Pixie. (And yes, many Lotte World guests do rent school uniforms for the day.)

    Lotte World hours can change depending on the season and day, but they’re typically open from 10:00am to 9:00pm. I recommend going early to avoid the lines to the bigger and more thrilling rides – which can sometimes become hours long.

    Overall, Lotte World is one of my favorite theme parks. It’s large, but still manageable to do most of it in a single day. There are all kinds of rides catered to different age groups, some scarier and more thrilling than others – plus there’s even a wide variety of attractions like the skating rink, folk museum, daily parades, and 5D theater you can enjoy too!

    A One Day Lotte World Itinerary

    10:00 – To make the most of your day trip to Lotte World, I recommend going as early as you can. I would spend the morning hitting the bigger rides that will have very long wait times later in the day. This way, you can use your Magic Pass later in your visit to try the bigger rides again! I would spend the morning doing one round throughout the park stopping at your “can’t miss rides” list.

    12:00 – Around noon you’ll notice the park becoming significantly busier. I recommend heading inside to cool off, and grabbing some of my favorite bites to eat at Lotte World! You can see the current, daily parade schedule here – but there is typically one held around 1:00pm. After grabbing lunch or some snacks and cooling off inside I would head over to the parade route about 15-20 minutes early if you want a good view.

    2:00 – At this time I would do one more lap around the park, hitting all the rides you didn’t get to yet! Because lines will be longer, it’ll take you a while to finish this lap around the park – so I would take your time and stop at all the fun snack shops in the park too!

    7:00 – Around this time, during summer months, is when the sun typically begins to set in Seoul. I would try to time a ride on the Moonboats or on the Monorail during this time for some epic fairytale like views of Lotte World and Sokchon Lake. Afterwards, I would spend the rest of the night on Magic Island (the outdoor area of Lotte World), which feels truly magical at night!

  • Lotte World Tower Observation Deck: Is It Worth It?

    The Lotte World Tower in Seoul is 123 floors high, making it one of the tallest buildings in the world (currently the 6th tallest in the world). Inside you can find offices, a gigantic mall, an aquarium, a hotel, and of course the famous Observation Deck and SkyZone. In my personal opinion this is the best tower in Seoul to enjoy the city skyline & views, and in this post I’ve gathered everything you need to know from where to get tickets, what to expect, and best tips on visiting.

    My Essential Korea Travel Resources :

    There are plenty of travel companies out there, but these are my favorite websites and resources for planning an unforgettable trip to South Korea. This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more here.

    🚙 Car rentals, although not common in Korea, are best through Discover Cars – just make sure to have a copy of your international driver’s permit with you!

    🏨 I always use AGODA to compare hotels & prices in Asia.

    📶 To keep cell phone service, I use Airalo’s easy to purchase eSIM’s (no installation required).

    📸 For fun things to do, Klook specializes on tours in Asia, otherwise Viator also does the trick.

    🦋 Just in case, Safetywing is the insurance I always use when visiting a new country.

    🧳 Lastly, my essential packing list when visiting Korea.

    Getting Tickets to Lotte Tower Observation Deck

    Before you visit, I always recommend grabbing your tickets for popular attractions like this one as far in advance as you can. You can either book directly on their website (unfortunately it kept crashing when I tried) or through third party apps like this one on Klook. Any of these options are great. You can also get tickets in person on the first floor of the Lotte Tower – which is the same spot where you enter to take the elevator up to the Sky Deck. If you aren’t able to find it, then I recommend following the signs in the mall or asking any of the information desks.

    When you purchase tickets you have multiple options. You can opt for a single admission to the observation deck (which includes floors 117-123), a Seoul Sky Bridge ticket (which is the special exterior bridge), or even an aquarium and Seoul Sky ticket combo. I’ve only ever done the single admission to the observation deck.

    What to Expect & Best Tips for Lotte Tower Observation Deck

    The Lotte Tower Observation Deck experience can vary widely depending on the time of day and which day you visit. For the least amount of other guests, I recommend visiting early in the morning (around when they open at 10:30) and during the week. This will guarantee that you have the best experience and won’t be fighting for space or views at the windows or open air decks.

    When you first arrive, you’ll walk through a short art exhibit on the first floor as you make your way to the elevators. From here, you’ll take the very fast elevator up to the 117th floor with a fun visual display on the ride up, and from there you’ll be able to take escalators to each of the remaining floors up to the 123rd floor.

    During your visit I recommend taking your time at each floor, making sure to stop at the glass floors, the outdoor decks, and the Seoul Sky Cafe. If you have Seoul Sky Bridge Tickets, I recommend doing that last and enjoying the general admission area before it gets busy. If you stop by the cafe, they have some fun specialty drinks to try like their Tok Tok drink – filled with pop rocks! There’s also a few souvenir booths to enjoy too.

    From the various floors you can take in the incredible views of Seoul – including the views of Lotte World, Jamsil Stadium, the Han River and the surrounding mountains, Namsan Tower, and of course, the never ending apartment buildings. In my personal opinion, this is the absolute best tower in Korea for views of Seoul and the surrounding areas – and if you have more time, then Lotte World is right next door!

  • 10 Best Things to Do at COEX Mall in Seoul

    Coex Mall is one of the most iconic areas of Seoul. From the Instagram famous Starfield Mall to the gigantic gold “Gangnam Style” Statue outside, there’s plenty to see at the mall other than just shopping. You can walk the entire indoor walking track, head across the street to Bongeunsa Temple, or enjoy a book at the functioning Starfield Library.

    My Essential Korea Travel Resources :

    There are plenty of travel companies out there, but these are my favorite websites and resources for planning an unforgettable trip to South Korea. This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more here.

    🚙 Car rentals, although not common in Korea, are best through Discover Cars – just make sure to have a copy of your international driver’s permit with you!

    🏨 I always use AGODA to compare hotels & prices in Asia.

    📶 To keep cell phone service, I use Airalo’s easy to purchase eSIM’s (no installation required).

    📸 For fun things to do, Klook specializes on tours in Asia, otherwise Viator also does the trick.

    🦋 Just in case, Safetywing is the insurance I always use when visiting a new country.

    🧳 Lastly, my essential packing list when visiting Korea.

    Getting to COEX Mall & What to Expect

    Coex Mall is very easy to get to on public transportation, especially since it’s directly connected to the subway station. Just get on the Green Line 2, and get off at Samseong Station. You can also get there via the Gold Line 9 by getting off at Bongeunsa Station.

    You can also get to the Coex Mall by taking a bus, however this can be a bit more confusing since there are more options, or any public car service like KakaoT or Uber. If you want to take the bus, you can find all buses that stop at Coex here.

    10 Best Things to Do at COEX

    1. SeaLife Aquarium COEX
    The aquarium inside Coex Mall was recently completely remodeled. Although I’m not the biggest fan of aquariums and zoos, it’s definitely a fun stop for families with young kids. They have all kinds of exhibits, and even a fun interactive treasure hunt for kids. You’ll have to check their current schedule, but during different days of the week they have mermaid shows, magic shows, and various animal feedings.

    2. Starfield Library
    This famous Instagram attraction is what originally drew crowds to Coex. Although it’s really not much more than an actual running library, there’s plenty of photo opportunities inside if you don’t mind the crowds. During various times of year they’ll also have different kinds of popups and seasonal photo areas.

    3. Mega Box
    A “Mega Box” is Korea’s word for a cinema, and you can often find them in malls. The theater itself might be pretty basic, but at the entrance you can find a large set of steps open for people to sit and enjoy, and a large screen showing short films & commercials. You can also grab some popcorn and enjoy the large arcade at the bottom! If you’re looking for a more unique movie theater in Seoul, I recommend the bean bag movie theater!

    4. Shopping
    This is no surprise, but there’s plenty of shopping to do at Coex Mall. You can find global brands like Hoka and Adidas, or Korean based brands like Kakao Friends and Style Nanda. I enjoy browsing the smaller Korean boutique stores as they’re typically a bit cheaper than globally famous brands.

    5. Grab a Bite to Eat
    Along with plenty of shopping, there’s plenty of eating to do too! You can find restaurants sprinkled throughout the mall, but right now, my personal favorite spot is Tomodachi, a Japanese restaurant specializing in Pork Cutlets and rainbow soba noodles! They’re delicious, and not as “busy” as other restaurants.

    6. Visit the Gangnam Style Statue
    The evolution of K-Pop was catapulted forward in 2012 with the release of Psy’s “Gangnam Style.” Not only was it played around the world, but K-Pop became a common music genre in households everywhere. Right outside of the main Coex Mall entrance you can find a gigantic gold statue of the famous dance move in that song – they also have the song playing on loop in case you need a reminder!

    7. Head to Bongeunsa Temple
    Out the other side of Coex Mall and across the street you’ll find the Bongeunsa Temple – a local Buddhist temple open to visitors and tourists. Unlike other temples in Southeast Asia you don’t need to worry about a specific dress code, and there’s no entry fee to visit. If you’re interested in learning more about Buddhist culture or what life is like for local monks, you can sign up for a templestay experience!

    8. Get Your Korean Beauty Fix
    There are plenty of stores in the Coex Mall where you can get your K-Beauty fix, but my personal favorite store is Olive Young. You can find these on almost every corner in Korea, and they even have an app so you can re-order from the U.S. You can think of Olive Young as the Korean version of Sephora or Ulta, and their staff is incredibly knowledgable to help you find what you’re looking for.

    9. Relax & Unwind
    If you’re looking for something a bit more immersive (compared to shopping) then stop by the Spa Imbellis. They have all kinds of options from facials to scalp care to full body and skin lifting treatments. If you’re wanting to experience K-Beauty at it’s finest, then this is one spot at Coex you won’t want to miss.

    10. Spend the Night
    If you’re exploring Coex Mall and decide you need some more time to do everything on this list, then I recommend finding a room at one of the nearby hotels! There are two that are connected to the Coex Mall – the Grand InterContinental Seoul Parnas and the Oakwood Premier Coex Center Seoul – both of these are excellent options! If you want something more unique, I recommend looking into the Templestay option I mentioned above! (Don’t worry, the hotels will have western beds and not traditional bedding that’s shown above.)

  • Is COEX Aquarium Worth Visiting? My Honest Review

    The COEX Aquarium was recently completely remodeled and became branded with the “SEA Life” brand. During my visit this summer, I was able to visit after most of the construction had been completed, and to be honest I was quite impressed. With incredible performances, interactive exhibits, and amazing sea life – you might be wondering a visit to the aquarium inside the COEX Mall is worth it.

    My Essential Korea Travel Resources :

    There are plenty of travel companies out there, but these are my favorite websites and resources for planning an unforgettable trip to South Korea. This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more here.

    🚙 Car rentals, although not common in Korea, are best through Discover Cars – just make sure to have a copy of your international driver’s permit with you!

    🏨 I always use AGODA to compare hotels & prices in Asia.

    📶 To keep cell phone service, I use Airalo’s easy to purchase eSIM’s (no installation required).

    📸 For fun things to do, Klook specializes on tours in Asia, otherwise Viator also does the trick.

    🦋 Just in case, Safetywing is the insurance I always use when visiting a new country.

    🧳 Lastly, my essential packing list when visiting Korea.

    Getting to the COEX Aquarium (& Getting Tickets)

    Finding the COEX Aquarium is quite easy, there’s actually 2 subway stations you can choose to take that lead right to it. Your first option is to take the Green Line 2 to Samseong Station and take Exits 5 or 6 that directly connect to the underground of the Mall. Your second option is to take the Gold Line 9 to Bongeunsa Station and leave through Exit 7, which is technically a shorter walk to the Aquarium.

    Getting your Aquarium Tickets is also fairly easy. You can either get them in advance here, which is what I recommend in case you happen to visit on a day when they’re sold out or have a field trip there. Otherwise, you can risk it and get tickets in person at their entrance station. When I visited, they were only accepting cash payments – so this could still be the case. Currently, adult tickets are ₩24,000 online or ₩33,000 at the door.

    Honest Review of COEX Mall’s SEA Life Aquarium

    The first thing to know as you plan your visit to the SEA Life Aquarium is that there are multiple, scheduled daily shows. When I visited, I was able to time my visit to overlap with the Mermaid Show and the Magic Show. The Mermaid Show is typically 3+ times per day from Tuesday to Sunday, and the Magic Show is usually 2 times a day from Monday to Friday – so if you visit during a weekday you should be able to see both. Personally, I felt both were great shows, and they did a great job entertaining the kids that were there watching. In the auditorium, there are a few tables if you get there early enough, and some vending machines for you to grab a drink and snack at.

    The aquarium exhibits were also nicely done. I felt the highlights were the stingray pool, the aquarium tunnel you could walk through, and the “painting” exhibit. Where all sizes of frames showcased different “paintings” – a.k.a. windows into different aquariums. Throughout the aquarium there are signs sharing what could be found inside – from penguins to otters to electric eels – in both Korean and English, making it accessible for visitors also.

    Exhibits were also interactive for both kids and adults. There were face painting booths, a “science lab,” and a fun treasure hunt where kids (or adults) could look for special booths to collect stamps in their “passports.” If you’re there for the whole day, chances are you’ll also be able to watch some of their animal feedings or special shows, like with the otters.

    Honestly – looking at the exhibits, species, and entertainment included with your visit to the Aquarium – I would say a trip to the SEA Life Aquarium is a great activity for couples or families with young kids. There are so many fun things to do, beautiful animals to look at, and it’s completely inside – making it the perfect rainy day adventure.

  • 9 Best Things to Do in Seoraksan National Park

    Seoraksan National Park is on the eastern side of South Korea, near the east sea and Japan. As one of the top attractions in Korea for visitors and as one of the most visited and popular National Parks in the country, I highly recommend adding a stop to your itinerary, even if you can only spare one day. Within the park there’s plenty to see and do – with beautiful hikes, stunning waterfalls, an iconic cable car, and one of the most peaceful temples and tea houses.

    My Essential Korea Travel Resources :

    There are plenty of travel companies out there, but these are my favorite websites and resources for planning an unforgettable trip to South Korea. This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more here.

    🚙 Car rentals, although not common in Korea, are best through Discover Cars – just make sure to have a copy of your international driver’s permit with you!

    🏨 I always use AGODA to compare hotels & prices in Asia.

    📶 To keep cell phone service, I use Airalo’s easy to purchase eSIM’s (no installation required).

    📸 For fun things to do, Klook specializes on tours in Asia, otherwise Viator also does the trick.

    🦋 Just in case, Safetywing is the insurance I always use when visiting a new country.

    🧳 Lastly, my essential packing list when visiting Korea.

    How to Get to Seoraksan National Park

    Seoraksan National Park is fairly easy to get to, and you have a few options on how to get there. Personally, I highly recommend renting a car and driving there yourself – I have an entire guide on how to drive in Korea as a foreigner. This way, you can rent a hotel in the area and spend more than just one day exploring the park and nearby attractions. If you want to do some of the hikes in Seoraksan, you’ll definitely want more than a single day, I recommend 2-3 days at most. Driving yourself to Seoraksan is also the fastest option, and will only take about 2-3 hours depending on traffic, plus this way you can stop at some of the fun rest stops along the way!

    Your very last option on getting to Seoraksan National Park is by taking public transportation. Since the subway system doesn’t extend this far outside of Seoul, you’ll need to take a public bus. I recommend beginning at the Seoul Express Bus Terminal and catching the bus to the Sokcho Express Bus Terminal. From here, you’ll need to catch another ride to the actual entrance of the park, either on a local bus or through a taxi or Kakao T (Korea’s Uber).

    9 Top Sights You Don’t Want to Miss at Seoraksan

    1. Head Out on A Hike
    Even if you’re just visiting for one day, there’s plenty of hikes for you to do in the area. I have an entire guide on the best hikes in Seoraksan National Park, but my top recommendations for hiking trails would be to follow the path to Biryong Pokpo (or waterfall). The path begins paved, wide, and flat – and eventually brings you over a suspension bridge with giant canyons where you can see Yukdam Falls before you’ll need to head up some stairs to the actual Biryong Waterfall. From here, you can choose to enjoy the water by soaking your feet or continuing further and heading up to the Towangseong Observatory.

    2. Seoraksan Cable Car
    ​The Seoraksan Cable Car is one of the most popular attractions in the park. Before your visit you’ll want to make sure that the cable car is actually open – you can do this on their official website. In the past I’ve visited while the cable car is under construction, and although you can technically hike up to the same viewpoint, the cable car is a fun way to experience the views without the physical demands of hiking. Round trip tickets for adults are 15,000 KRW (or about $10 USD), and I recommend booking them on site – we’ve never had issues with them selling out for the day. It is worth knowing that just like in other areas of Korea they pack you in pretty tight, so if you have a hard time with crowds, I recommend trying to stand near one of the windows.

    3. Chase Some Waterfalls
    In Korean, “pok-po” means waterfall, and there’s a few in the Seoraksan National Park area. If you follow the trail to Yukdam & Biryong Falls you’ll see a couple along the way. Biryong Waterfall is the best in the park in my opinion, and once you get there, they have different areas where you can rest, relax, and soak your feet in the cold water.

    4. Visit the Tea House
    One of my personal favorite things to do in Seoraksan National Park is to visit the on-site teahouse. Every time I visit the park I make sure to stop and get one of their desserts (like bingsu) or teas. You can see the tea house on the way to the Sinheungsa Temple, and there’s some great views from their outdoor seating area.

    5. Sinheungsa Temple
    Sinheungsa Temple is located on the further end of the park, past the restaurants, cable car entrance, and majority of the starting points of the hikes. As you walk towards the temple, you’ll see a large, bronze seated Buddha statue to your right. I recommend stopping for a viewpoint, before continuing on past the teahouse to the temple. Unlike other temples in Asia, Korea doesn’t typically enforce dress codes for visitors, so you can visit, however you are. While you explore the temple grounds, you’ll want to be respectful and quiet.

    6. Grab a Bite to Eat
    Inside Seoraksan National Park you’ll find a few different restaurants. Personally, I always stop by the area of restaurants with picnic tables for outdoor seating, almost like a cafeteria. Their menus double in English and Korean, and have pictures, making it pretty easy to order. If you’re not sure what to get, I recommend a vegetable pajeon (pancake) or bibimbap. There’s also a few snack stands throughout the park if you’re wanting something a little lighter or more like street food.

    7. Gwongeumseong Fortress
    If you take the cable car to the top of the mountain, you can then continue hiking towards the Gwongeumseong Fortress. It’s said that you can still see remnants of the floor and castle walls of this stone fortress, however, if I’m being honest with you, it really just looks like a stone mountain peak. This is typically one of the most popular things to do in Seoraksan National Park, so you can expect lots of people, but it’s still worth it in my opinion because the views are absolutely incredible.

    8. Nearby Attractions
    As long as you’re in the area, it’s worth it to explore some of the other nearby attractions. Usually, I stay in the Gangneung area, near the famous coffee street here. It’s got a great beach, and an entire street lined with unique cafes. If you explore more of the town, you’ll find lots of seafood, restaurants, and some noraebangs (Korean karaoke bars). If you rented a car, I also recommend stopping at Alpaca World or at the Dreamy Camera Cafe on your way back to Seoul.

    9. Geumganggul Cave
    In order to visit this small temple cave, you’ll need to do a bit of hiking to get there. The trail itself is about 3.6 km (or 2.2 miles) each way. This is one of the harder hikes in the park, and as you get closer to the cave itself, can get very steep, however, the views are incredible and it’s a unique area of the park.

  • Afternoon Tea in Seoul : My Honest Review of Cafe Treeanon

    Even though Seoul is best known for its trendy cafes and adorable Korean desserts, you might be surprised to learn that you can also enjoy a traditional, English-style, afternoon tea. Hidden away in a quiet Gangnam neighborhood is Cafe Treeanon, a cute garden themed cafe that serves a beautiful afternoon tea set – complete with an entire teapot of tea, a two-tier serving stand and a cozy garden vibe. If you’re looking for a quieter way to enjoy an afternoon in Seoul, here’s everything you need to know before you visit.

    My Essential Korea Travel Resources :

    There are plenty of travel companies out there, but these are my favorite websites and resources for planning an unforgettable trip to South Korea. This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more here.

    🚙 Car rentals, although not common in Korea, are best through Discover Cars – just make sure to have a copy of your international driver’s permit with you!

    🏨 I always use AGODA to compare hotels & prices in Asia.

    📶 To keep cell phone service, I use Airalo’s easy to purchase eSIM’s (no installation required).

    📸 For fun things to do, Klook specializes on tours in Asia, otherwise Viator also does the trick.

    🦋 Just in case, Safetywing is the insurance I always use when visiting a new country.

    🧳 Lastly, my essential packing list when visiting Korea.

    Planning Your Visit to Cafe Treeanon

    When exploring Seoul, an English-style afternoon tea might not be on your list of top things to do, you might not even know that places like this exist in Korea. When I found Cafe Treeanon on social media I was pleasantly surprised. Located in a quiet neighborhood of Gangnam, this adorable cafe serves a traditional, English-style afternoon tea, similar to those you’d typically find in London. Similar to afternoon teas in other countries, Cafe Treeanon’s afternoon tea includes an entire teapot of tea, delicious desserts and small bites to munch on, and a beautiful garden setting, perfect for slowing down after a busy day of sightseeing in Seoul. Because it’s an afternoon tea set, I recommend trying to visit sometime in the afternoon. They can get a little busy around lunch time, so I’d try to time your visit for around 2-3 in the afternoon.

    According to Cafe Treeanon, you need to make a reservation to make sure you’ll be able to enjoy their afternoon tea, otherwise they don’t promise that they’ll have everything they need to create your tea set. You can make reservations through their NAVER listing or by messaging them on their Instagram. If for some reason you aren’t able to reserve ahead of time and they don’t have everything they need for the afternoon tea set, you’ll likely need to order from their al-a-carte menu. This is still a great option if you’re looking for cute drinks and pastries, you just wont get the entire “Afternoon Tea” experience and 2 tier serving platter. Parking in this neighborhood is extremely tight, especially since the cafe is hidden away in a residential area, so I recommend taking the subway. You’ll want to make your way to the Gangnam-gu Office Station and take Exit 4, from there you’ll have about a 1/2 mile walk to the cafe.

    My Honest Afternoon Tea Experience

    When you get to the cafe you can sit wherever you’d like, they have cute and cozy indoor seating or more garden tea party style outdoor seating. On the top floor of the cafe is a small boutique store, unaffiliated with the cafe. Cafe Treeanon’s afternoon tea set is large enough for 2 people, so I recommend going with a friend and sharing. When I visited we were given an entire teapot of your choice of tea, I chose Earl Gray, but they have endless tea options – from what kind of tea, to what kind of sugar or milk, they even had boba pearls as an option. We were also give a two-tiered platter of small bites and snacks. The bottom layer was filled with more “savory” breads and pastries like small sandwiches, muffins, scones, etc. On the top layer were more “sweet” items – like macarons and fruits.

    Overall, I really enjoyed Cafe Treeanon’s Afternoon Tea experience! Even though I’ve been lucky to enjoy a proper English-style afternoon tea multiple times in London, I felt the tea and small bites were tasty, the cafe ambiance was great, and the staff was so kind and welcoming. Even though it’s not a traditional Korean experience, I thought it was a really fun way to spend the afternoon and escape the crowds to enjoy something a little different, and it’s definitely a spot I would go back to. I think Cafe Treeanon is perfect for couples, birthdays, girls’ trips, families, or anyone wanting a slower-paced afternoon in Seoul!