7 Top Tips for First-Time Travelers to Korea

7 Top Tips for First-Time Travelers to Korea

 

Another new year is upon us. For sure, you’ve already got a few vacation trips planned. If Korea is part of that list and if you want things to be hassle-free and well worth the hard-earned money that you’ll be shelling out, here are some top tips that might come in handy for first-time travelers to Korea.

 

7 Top Tips for First-Time Travelers to Korea

 

7. Make preparations.

Great job. The fact that you’re reading this article means that you’re doing a bit of research. Aside from online reviews and tips, there are apps available out there that work quite well. Also, their weather forecasts are pretty accurate, so just prepare your luggage depending on those forecasts. The freezing cold can be just as irritating as the heat in the Philippines; in some cases, even worse.

 

 

In the airport, you can get your currency changed, and get a T-money card and pocket Wi-Fi. We got an Olleh egg with a speed of 20 mbps for just an equivalent of a little over 300 pesos a day. It’s freaking 20 mbps – way better than what’s offered here in Manila. Totally worth it.

 

6. Turn the subway into your new best friend.

Or your wallet’s best friend. The subway option will save you a lot compared to going around in taxis or rented cars. Besides, their system is efficient and REALLY punctual.

 

 

You might want to take a good look at their subway map, though, because it’s very easy to ride the wrong one with the number of connecting rides available. Nope, it’s not as simple as the LRT 2 – MRT connecting station in Cubao, especially with the unfamiliar Korean names on them. This may require long walks, too, so better bring some comfy footwear.

 

5. Makeup. Makeup everywhere! Take advantage.

The Korean cosmetics craze has reached Manila long ago and we know why they’re so popular. Well, almost every corner in Seoul has a cosmetics shop, and districts like Myeongdong will surely overwhelm you with the street all lined up with them. They’re a LOT cheaper there and more products are available, too.

 

 

Nature Republic, Etude House, Face Shop to Iope – just name it. And almost every store gives out free stuff with every purchase. Guess that’s what competition does. Makeup would make for great pasalubong without hurting your pockets too much, too. 

 

4. Relive your favorite Korean drama(s).

Going to Nami Island is a total must! Get your partner to try a tandem bicycle with you and spread the romantic vibe.

 

 If you ever make the right choice of bringing a special someone with you, go all out and ride with the Korean cheesiness in Namsan tower like they do in Korean dramas.

Remember when Do Min Joon (Matteo Do) revealed his extraterrestrial side to Cheon Song Yi (Steffi Cheon)? You can visit that exact site in Petite France. 

A walk through a Korean palace would also be lovely.

 

If you’re alone, that’s alright, too, because Lee Min Ho and Kim Soo Hyun standees can be found everywhere! I saw a coffee shop that sells a whole line of Lee Min Ho merch. There actually used to be a Kim Soo Hyun museum, but it just closed quite recently – too bad. Kpop merch is also readily available.

 

 

From socks to pillows, they can feed your obsession to the brim!