Seoul, South Korea the second largest metropolitan city in the world!

The first of firsts one needs to know when visiting Seoul is that it’s huge! There are several different districts within the city, so getting around can be complicated if one isn’t prepared. I recommend downloading the Seoul Subway App (for android & apple) because this will make your traveling experience less stressful! This app was a lifesaver for my husband and I. It allows you to key in your location, destination, and then gives you step-by-step directions on which metro lines to take and their times of arrival/departure. During rush hours, especially in busy districts, expect to get to know people very well as you squeeze into the train with barely any room for your breath. But it is all worth it, especially for the cheap fares. Taxis will get you stuck in traffic.

I mean just look at this metro-line system! (photo from google)

My husband and I on a metro train

Another tip when traveling through the metro in Seoul is to not to carry anything heavy: like suitcases.

Some of the train stations have steps (lots of them) since this system lives underground. Along more populated and congested areas of the city, like in major stops on the line, you may find some escalators/elevators. Otherwise expect a workout or take a few moments to stop and shop or grab a bite to eat in some of the stations’ underground markets.

Underground market

If you want a Cheaper Place to Stay then try a Guest house. Similar to hostels, but with more privacy and most-likely family owned. You can stay within the city inexpensively— allowing yourself to splurge in the elements of what Seoul has to offer.

A cute Guest House we stayed at in Seoul

If you’re seeking to see the city at heights then take a trip to the Seoul Tower. We traveled the nature route, climbing stairs/smelling flowers, to reach the monument (there is also cable car available). The work was worth the views!

Walking up the stairs, climbing to reach the Seoul Tower

view of flowers in the night on our way up to the Seoul Tower.

Inside the Tower

Seoul Tower

View of Seoul, South Korea

Don’t forget about the Food!

My favorite Korean dish had to have been ssambap (it looks like the picture below). You choose your meat (we always got beef) that will be grilled in front of you, then you place it on a piece of lettuce with other veggies/sauces and bite in— my mouth is watering just telling you about it!

ssambap is delish! Us Americans called it ‘Beef on a Leaf’

This is a spicy chicken, mixed with rice and seaweed. You’ll find restaurants with these tables all over the city

BimBop

Chicken Bulgogi. My husband’s favorite. I continue to make it for dinner sometimes.

Other foods to lookout for: Koreans are known for their spicy cabbage called Kimchi. They also use rice noodles often in their dishes and enjoy seafood, soups and cooked dog.