Welcome to my last and final post about Seoul!

Transportation was probably one of the easiest aspects about traveling in Seoul because the subway system is fairly organized and almost always on time!

My biggest tip to you is to download the Kakao metro app. IT IS THE BEST. I'm not exaggerating. It tells you exactly what stop to get off at, which train you need to take, where to transfer, and even which carts to get on. Even if you don't use it for that, the app also has the subway map right on the main page, which you can refer to at any time.

Many places are within walking distance even though they seem far on the subway map. If you can, I recommend walking. It's a great way to get exercise and save a little on train fare. My mom and I walked from Insadong to Jonggak near the Cheonggyecheon Stream and then all the way back to Myeongdong. We were able to explore more areas than if we had taken the train!

BUY A TRAIN CARD. Seriously. You'll be able to avoid buying single tickets every time you need a ride. You can keep the card as a souvenir at the end of your trip or return it at the machine for a deposit.


Here are some general tips that might make your life easier while you're in Seoul:

* Weekends are a nightmare. If you like being surrounded by a buttload of people, then this might not be as big of a problem. However, I'm a homebug. Personal space is necessary. But you won't get it here, especially on the weekends. People have no awareness for personal space. You'll get pushed around in the subway and on the streets. No one really apologizes for it; don't take offense!

* Public trash cans don't seem to be a thing here. This becomes very evident when you've purchased ice cream or other portable foods and find that you can't dispose of it when you're done. Carry an extra plastic bag just in case. Some places have trash cans where there are food stalls and food stall owners will typically take your trash for you when you're done eating the street food. I've stopped by convenience stores before to throw stuff away so that's also another option.

* If you are exchanging money, it's better to do it in the city than at the airport. Myeongdong has a ton of money exchange stalls so keep your eye out for the ones with the best rate.

* Depending where you are staying in Seoul, a taxi can be very convenient. Yes, it's pricier than taking the airport limousine or even the train. But if you have luggages to carry around and you've just gotten off a long flight, a taxi can be much more comfortable. We took the international taxi so they spoke English, which was great. It was a flat rate based on region. You can split the cost with others so it's not TOO expensive. Plus, there's less stress from not having to lug your suitcases on the subway.

* Find a hotel or Airbnb near a supermarket if possible, if you plan on cooking or just want better food selections. I loved being near Emart during my first visit and was devastated on having to rely on convenience stores in my second trip. Food is less expensive at supermarkets compared to convenience stores. If you do end up going to a supermarket nearby, remember to use a 100 won coin to access the shopping carts. Don't worry; you'll get it back when you return the cart.

* Beware of scooters!!! I can't tell you how many times I almost died because they snuck up behind me in alleys.

* Don't forget that many businesses operate above the first floor. You might miss out on something great if you only keep your eyes straight ahead.

* Need to pee? Most subway stations have restrooms. It's just plain awesome.


I hope you enjoyed this mini series of posts. Let me know if you plan on visiting Seoul and where you end up going!

Not everyone likes shopping but if you're traveling to a different country, it can be worthwhile to pick up a few souvenirs! Similar to food, shopping ranges from cheap to high end. If you are looking to purchase a lot of souvenirs or clothing, I would try the underground malls connected to the subway stations. My favorites were the Goto or Gangnam and Myeongdong underground shopping centers. There are others as well like in Dongdaemun and Jonggak. Goto is the biggest one that I visited and definitely the most crowded. I would stop by on the weekdays if possible.


Thinking about a pricier purchase? You can try haggling in some of the shops in the underground malls. Most prices are set but if the item is above $70, it's worth it to try and get them to lower it a bit.

To get to Goto mall, take the subway to the EXPRESS BUS TERMINAL STATION, EXIT 8. Bonus! This is also connected to Famille Station. It's like this fancier area with a variety of international food options. The Banpo Bridge is also nearby if you are interested in seeing the rainbow lights show at night. Within the Goto mall are food courts on either end so feel free to grab a bite while you're browsing.


If a traditional mall seems more appealing, the biggest ones are COEX and Lotte World. COEX is nice since it's attached to the aquarium, so you can kill two birds with one stone. Both have extensive food options as well. COEX is also connected to Parnas Mall, with a lot of higher end brands. I liked that COEX had a mix of expensive and more affordable brands. The aquarium was fun as well, though definitely very pricey. If you are in the area, the Bongeunsa Temple is also nearby so be sure to check that out! To get to the mall, go to SAMSEONG STATION.


Lotte World Mall is divided into two areas so be wary when you first enter the building from the station. When we entered, we thought the mall only had designer brands. After viewing the directory, we realized there's a bridge to another side (also where the food is). I believe it's on the fifth floor but once you cross the bridge, the other building will have more affordable clothing options as well as several restaurants. There's a bubble tea shop right past the bridge, which I recommend! To get here, go to JAMSIL STATION.


As I mentioned in my other posts, university areas also have a lot of shopping. My favorites were Ewha and Hongik.


Here are some other tips you will need to know:

* Some places will charge you extra for a plastic bag. It is worthwhile to carry an extra tote bag if you plan on buying a lot. Same goes for supermarkets!

* If you're buying something cheap, chances are, the quality won't be that great either. However! I have found quite a lot of good sweatshirts for under $10 USD so it's not applicable to everything. Just try not to have high expectations.

* Many shops, particularly the ones on the street or in the underground malls, do not sell clothes with sizes. They are 'free' size. One size fits all. I have also seen this in several clothing stores in traditional malls. I mainly eye-balled and hoped that it would fit (though some places do have fitting rooms).

* Sometimes they will sell you the item on display. I always try asking to see if they have a new one in stock and more often than not, they'll check for you!

* Sales people can be VERY aggressive here. Do not let that deter you from making your own decisions and do not be afraid to say no if you really do not want to buy something. I've had quite the few ladies being pushy as soon as I touch something on the rack. Not all of them are like that but it's something to be aware of.


....And that's a wrap! My next and final post will be general tips that helped me during my trip!

We could spend all day eating but you're probably going to want to do some touristy things and visit some landmarks and such. Here's the continuation of my guide to Seoul with places that might be interesting to see during your trip there! Let me know down below if you have any questions or if you're planning to visit Seoul any time soon :)

~~~~~~
PLACES TO GO

There were a few that made the top of my list but overall, I enjoyed all the places I went to in both trips.

First- the Seoul Trickeye Museum is kind of a very hyped place to visit when you're in the Hongdae area but I think it's totally worth it. Like I said, it's located in Hongdae. I recommend going to the area to shop, eat, and then take a break with this museum. Unlike other 'museums', this one is dedicated for picture taking. The actual location is a bit tricky so definitely whip out your phone and use the GPS.

If you're coming out of HONGIK UNIVERSITY STATION, EXIT 9, head in the direction of Han's Deli (mentioned in earlier post) or past Adidas. Instead of turning left, take a right down until you see Bershka. Head straight down into the road with all the street clothing shops. After a few shops, you'll see on the right this really small alley that leads into another street. You can turn in there OR turn at the end of all the shops to the right. There will be another alley that you can head into. You'll know it's the right one if you see a waffle stand and other food shops! Keep walking straight until the end of the street (sort of). It's on the left corner. If you take the earlier small alley, take a right at the end and keep walking straight down. Same deal; go straight and it'll be on your left.

The admission is about $15 USD per person but it lets you into three attractions: the trickeye museum, ice museum, and carnival. The carnival wasn't really worth it because if you want to play, you need to pay AND call an attendant over. Kind of annoying. But the other two were so much fun that I overlooked the third being a downer. One tip that I can give you is to use the lockers at the front desk to keep your jackets and bags so you can be hands-free to fully enjoy the museum. Just remember to take them back when you go into the ice museum. It's SUPER cold inside.

Address: 20 Hongik-ro 3-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul
-
Second- Naksan Park. I loved walking here, though the walk up is kind of steep. Once you get to the top, though, the view is just stunning and I bet at night, it would be even more beautiful. There is also some kind of art or mural walk nearby if you want to visit that while you're in the area.

Get off at HYEHWA STATION, EXIT 2. As soon as you get off, you'll see this small shopping area, which is nice to explore before you head up to the park. From here, I just followed my GPS but here is a link with more info: here.

Address: 54, Naksan-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul
-
Third- Gyeongbokgung Palace is basically on every tourist's itinerary. It's cheap (no more than $3-4 USD) and close to other attractions like Bukchon Hanok Village and Insadong. The experience isn't mind blowing but it's pretty interesting to see the palaces up close. It also makes for a very scenic walk! If you rent a hanbok, the admission to the palace is free. Bonus! If you go on Cultural Day, admission is also free. Keep your eye out for the guard changing ceremony and for when the 'king' and 'queen' walk by.

Right next door is the National Folk Museum so feel free to hop over (admission is separate, I think) if you're looking for something else to do.

This one is pretty easy to find, since it has its own station, GYEONGBOKGUNG PALACE STATION, EXIT 5. You can also get off at GWANGHWAMUN STATION, EXIT 2. I have also gotten here from ANGUK STATION before, just by walking. It's not a super short walk but if you want to visit Bukchon Hanok Village first, it's doable!

For more info, click here.
-
Fourth- DDP or Dongdaemun Design Plaza. When I came here the first time, we got to look at the exhibitions where people or brands were selling products. Everything was adorable and fun to see, even if you didn't want to purchase anything. The space itself is architecturally pleasing to the eye and great if you're looking to get away from the cold or heat outside.

It's also quite popular during fashion week; something to keep in mind!

Get off at DONGDAEMUN HISTORY AND CULTURE PARK STATION. There's also quite a few shopping options nearby as well as the Cheonggyecheon Stream.
-
Fifth- Emart is a must on my list. It seems weird to include a supermarket but if you like grocery shopping or just looking at food, I definitely recommend this. It's in the Sindang area, which is well known for its Tteokbokki Alley so if you're stopping by to eat some, check out the supermarket too! My boyfriend and I came here so often during our trip; I felt so sad to leave!! Emart is basically like a Walmart, Target, and Costco combined but with a clean, supermarket atmosphere.

There are a couple of food options nearby, including Pho Mein, Burger King, Baskin Robbins, Paris Baguette, etc.

Get off at SINDANG on the green line, EXIT 2. Walk straight until you pass a small supermarket. Keep walking straight but stay closer to the left side. You should pass a fried chicken restaurant and a small hotel. Head straight into the back alley. DO NOT head directly left or right from the hotel. Just keep going straight until you see another hotel (I think it's called Rio?). Take a right into that small parking area until you get back onto the main street. From there, take a left and just keep heading straight all the way down. You'll reach a huge building with a coffee shop outside. That's the building! Head inside and follow the signs to Emart (you'll have to go into the door and past the Baskin Robbins and then go downstairs).
-
Sixth- Totoro Store. There's actually a few of these but I went to the one in Hongdae. Same deal. HONGIK UNI STATION, EXIT 9. Not for everyone but if you like Studio Ghibli, this is a place you should put on your list! Products a pricey but you'll end up walking out with everything...too cute to resist.

For this one, you'll head out of the station, turn left, and walk straight down toward Han's Deli and keep walking straight all the way down until you reach a big main street. Another way to get here is to head to Hongik University. When you get to the main entrance, take a left and go straight down the street until you see it.

Address: 110, Wausan-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea
-
Seventh- Bukchon Hanok Village. This is mainly a place for people who like taking pictures and enjoy old architecture. You'll swoon over this place. It's almost surreal. For this, you'll get off at ANGUK STATION, EXIT 2. There's also a samgyetang restaurant that I liked nearby called Baengyeon Samgyetang. If you have time, def try it out.

-
Eighth- National Museum of Korea. They filmed Running Man here before, hundreds of episodes ago. If you like history, this is a no brainer. This museum is unbelievably clean and HUGE! Also, it's free!!

Get off at ICHON STATION, EXIT 2. The museum is connected to the subway, super convenient.
-
Ninth- Seoul Zoo. It was kind of nasty, tbh, because we came in the summer. The weather was humid and there were bugs everywhere. However! The cable car ride made the experience worth it. You ride on these open benches across a body of water and you get to see some animals from above! The ride isn't free but I recommend getting round trip tickets. It was a lot of fun and so many opportunities for selfies :)

The zoo itself is pretty extensive in terms of animals. The llamas and alpacas were my favorite! Be aware of the show times if you're interested in seeing those.

Admission is cheap ($4-5 USD). Get off at SEOUL GRAND PARK STATION, EXIT 2.


In my next post, I'll talk about transportation as well as a few other general tips I have to make traveling in Seoul much easier!

I am happily back after a long hiatus. My summer was flooded with major projects for my final semester in grad school and then I hopped on a 15+ hour flight to Korea. Once I got back, I decided... I wanted to go again so I did. For context, I actually went with my boyfriend the first time and then took my mom the second time. She was also enticed after seeing all the photos (can't blame her).

Anyway, I really wanted to share my experiences in case you were thinking about going to Seoul for your next vacation. So I'll be talking about restaurants, activities, transportation, and other tips that might be helpful as you plan where to go :)

WARNING: This is going to be an extremely long post. The reason? It took me a long time to research during both trips and finding addresses and directions isn't always easy. You don't want to go places where the food is bad and I had regrets after my first trip for not doing the proper research in the first place. But I also want to say that over-planning can take the fun out of making mistakes in a foreign country. Sometimes, that's what adds to the sense of adventure! So use my suggestions as you see fit.

[I will continue this in another few posts as it turned out to be longer than expected, merp.]


FOOD

I love food. Who doesn't? In Seoul, I discovered the appeal of street food. In America, you can buy hot dogs, Italian sausages, and peanuts on the street. In some places, you can even buy tacos and cookies from food trucks. Street food in Korea is on a whole other level.


My favorite foods were tteokbokki or spicy rice cakes, banana nutella crepes, fried dumplings or mandu, baked cheese with rice cake, and the potato tornado (basically one fried potato spiral on a stick). There are tons of other options that are worth trying though, like fish cake on a stick or odeng, rice rolls or kimbap, fried noodles, steak, and the list goes on. I recommend trying the fish cake because they'll usually give you the hot broth that it's simmered in. So yummy and refreshing, especially when it's cold outside.

If you're interested in trying street food, I recommend visiting Myeongdong at night, when it's really hopping. There's also Namdaemun Market, which has a more traditional vibe. Of course, there are plenty of other markets in Seoul but these two are the ones I liked the most!

~~~
For restaurants, it really depends what kind of food you want and what area you’re in. I stayed in the Sindang area the first time and then in Chungmuro the second time. We tended to gravitate toward restaurants near our ‘home’ since it was most convenient. However, we did eat near places that we visited on certain days of our trip, especially restaurants that were well known for specific dishes. Below, you’ll find a list and a short review/summary of each restaurant that I enjoyed. [Not in any particular order.]

Please don't judge me for not eating all Korean food while I'm in Korea! Some of the international foods were actually super yummy so give them a try if you want a quick break from the traditional Korean cuisine during your trip.

1. Pho'na Thai

This restaurant offers a mix of Vietnamese and Thai foods. If you're craving some hot soup on a cold day (and don't want anything super spicy), my mom and I really loved this place. The ingredients come straight from Vietnam and the taste is pretty authentic. Prices aren't too bad either. Once you get to EWHA UNIVERSITY STATION, walk out EXIT 1. Just keep walking straight until you reach the address. There are stairs near the side of the building. It's on the second floor!
Address: Sinchon-ro 155, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul
For more info: click here.

2. Onedang

This place is a chain but is known for their gamjatang or spicy pork bone stew. I had eaten here on both trips but had different meals. Both meals that I tried were yummy and their menu is pretty comprehensive (the pictures help). In addition to gamjatang, they offer some other typical Korean dishes like bibimbap and bossam wraps. There are actually two locations in Myeongdong but I included the address for the one I went to. It's a bit hard to explain how to get there but you'll need to get out at MYEONGDONG STATION. Pop the address into Google maps and navigate! If it helps, it's close to the end of the street and if memory serves me correctly, there should be a bubble tea or drink place nearby.
Address: 34-1 Myeong-dong 1-ga, Jung-gu, Seoul 100-021, South Korea

3. Han's Deli

We actually came across this place by accident in Hongdae and decided to try it; this was on my first trip. I loved it. Not only was it a cute diner/café style eatery, it was also one of the first not so traditional restaurants that we ate at. The food is kind of fusion. There’s pasta, fried rice, steak, pork cutlets, etc. but with a Korean twist. The Hongdae location is on the second floor. Get off at HONGIK UNIVERSITY STATION, EXIT 9. Walk straight down past the Adidas store and take a left. There’s also one in Myeongdong on the 4th floor of a building down the street from ArtBox but the menu is slightly different. Tip! Be sure to order at the counter. Pickled items are self-serve as well as the soda, if you order any.
For food, I recommend trying the tteokbokki gratin (Myeongdong location), pork cutlet omelet rice, and the spaghetti.

4. Shabu Suki

Not sure how to describe the location on this one but it’s on the second floor of a building in a quiet alley. There’s a lady out front with a sign, encouraging people to come in. It’s also near a cleaner and fancier looking clothing store than the others in Myeongdong. Anyway, this place has hot pot/shabu shabu as well as Korean BBQ. I can’t speak to the quality of the shabu shabu but the Korean BBQ is yummy. Compared to some other places in Myeongdong, the price is decent. They also speak Mandarin if that helps!
Sorry, since we stumbled upon this restaurant, I don't have an exact address. Happy hunting!

5. Churro 101

They have quite a few of these around. Churros seem to be a thing in Korea? I’m not complaining. Anyway, I have seen these in the Parnas Mall near COEX Mall, Hongdae (near Han's Deli), and near Hyehwa Station (if you're heading to Naksan Park) but pretty sure there are a lot of other places that sell churros. They come in a variety of flavors and if you visit in the summer, be sure to try it with ice cream!

I personally really like the cinnamon and the chocolate filled one. Drooool.

6. Mom's Touch

[Sorry, no picture of this!]

This is a fried chicken/burger place in Myeongdong. It’s kind of sandwiched next to a Baskin Robbins, I believe. It’s also not on the ground floor so you’ll have to take an elevator to get upstairs. The good part about this is that they do takeout if you ever feel like you want to eat at home, which is what my mom and I did. Mom's Touch is a good alternative if you want fast food but don't want to settle on McDonald's or Burger King.

Address: 52-18 Myeongdong 2(i)-ga, Jung-gu, Seoul

7. Congee House

[No pic, oops!]

As the name suggests, this restaurant specializes in congee. It’s a little pricey but not really THAT pricey. It is located in Myeongdong, in the same building as The Stay Hotel. It's right near Hazzy’s (clothing store) and Gogung (popular for bibimbap), you should see it. They have a menu with English and takeout is also an option! I went to get some to bring home for dinner, and the guy offered me some tea while I waited. Super nice.

Address: 31, Myeongdong 8ga-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul

8. Remicone

This is an ice cream shop in the Garosu-gil area, SINSA STATION. They have a bunch of unique options, like ice cream with cotton candy on top! Remicone offers a mix of pre-made combos but you can also mix and match your own toppings. It's a little hard to find but you'll walk down an alley and see a sign on the side of a building. Keep walking straight until you're about to turn left and it's right at the corner.

Address: 547-12 Sinsa-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul

9. Sinseon Seolnongtang

I never tried seolnongtang or seollongtang before coming to this restaurant but was pleasantly surprised. Do not be put off by the milkiness of the broth! It's especially delicious on a frigid day (or if you're hungover). They have different variations of this. I’ve only tried the rice cake one and the regular one. Both were yummy but I did like the plain one better. The soup comes with rice. You also get to cut your own kimchi! Tip! Be sure to add your own salt and pepper to taste.

I believe it's a chain restaurant. There's one in Insadong but we tried the Myeongdong one. Some or all (not sure) of the staff also speak Mandarin.

Address: 56-1 Myeongdong-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul

10. Chinese food

Sorry guys, I can’t remember the name of this! It was in Chinese characters. But if you’re in Myeongdong, walk down the street until you see Shinsegae. It's on the same street as the LINE Friends store and SPAO (I think). There should be a durian café across the street from this restaurant. It’s right at the corner, with food displays outside. The buns were AMAZING. Definitely recommend if you’re in the mood for decently authentic Chinese food.

11. Traditional Wellbeing Foods

Okay, this one is a bit out of the way, unless you plan on visiting the Bukhansan mountain or national park. But it was one of my favorite places to eat the first time I went to Korea. Their menu is in Korean but they have some pictures outside. I recommend taking a picture of what you want to eat on your phone and showing it to the lady. As far as I know, it’s run by one lady (super nice). The food is simple and healthy but so yummy. Also, really cheap. Basically is akin to a home cooked meal. When I went, I had rice mixed with green veggies in a pot, some soup on the side, and other side dishes. Dirt cheap (no more than $4-5 USD).

No address but get off at MANGWOLSA STATION. Walk toward direction of the park. You should pass by this little plaza (?). It's one of the restaurants in there.

12. Pane Pasta

I had somewhat good experiences here but the food makes it worth mentioning. Their pasta and pizza taste so scrumptious, especially if you have cravings for Italian! The service can be a little slow though so be careful. I wouldn’t come here if you are dying of hunger but if you want somewhere to just relax and you don’t mind waiting, then give this a try. They bring out small pieces of bread for you to eat while you wait. There are also combo sets if you feel like getting pasta AND pizza!

Prices are not too bad but not the cheapest either. Bathroom is right near the front entrance. The restaurant itself is on the second floor, right next to Han's Deli in Myeongdong.

Address: 26-3, Myeongdong 2-ga, Jung-gu, Seoul

Some general things you should know about eating in Korea include the fact that tipping is pretty much nonexistent and most of the time, you pay the bill at the counter after you eat. They will usually bring the check either right after you order or near the end when you’re almost done eating. You bring the check up to the counter to pay; don’t expect someone to come get it for you! Most of the places I listed accept credit card, too.