Seoul is a city of contrasts that’s easy to get lost in. It’s got the glitz and glamor of its capital, but it also has some of the most authentic food anywhere in Asia. You can eat at street stalls or fine-dining restaurants, and there are plenty of places to enjoy both. The city has much more going on than just eating: from world-class museums to ancient temples, the city offers something for everyone. And if you’re looking for an escape from all that hustle and bustle, head out into the countryside and visit one of Korea’s many beautiful national parks. However, some travel hacks must be done before you leave home for your journey to be smooth. Here, we’ve put together a list of travel hacks for your next trip to Seoul:
1. Get an International Driving Permit
If you’re planning to drive around South Korea, you must ensure you have an international driving permit (IDP). This will allow you to go legally in the country and give you access to any toll roads. If you don’t already have an IDP, you can buy one at any Korean embassy or consulate abroad. If you have an international driving permit, If you have international driving permits, you can use them when entering South Korea. If you do not have one, you must apply for one at least three months before traveling.
2. Book Your Hotel Online
If you want to save money while staying in Seoul, booking online is the way. Many websites offer great hotel deals in Seoul, so why not take advantage of this? If you use a credit card, check with your bank first to see if they offer any cashback incentives. Booking your hotel online has become very popular over the past few years, especially with budget travelers.
3. Check Out the Public Transportation System
The public transportation system in Seoul is pretty good, although it does tend to be expensive. For example, a single ticket costs about USD 4, and it takes about 30 minutes to walk from one end of the line to the other. But if you plan, buying tickets in advance can help cut costs. Tickets can be purchased at subway stations, convenience stores, and bus stops. Two types of tickets are available – a “one-day” key and a “three-day” one. A one-day ticket allows you to ride only one route during a specific period, whereas a three-day ticket gives unlimited rides within a particular area. The best way to get around Seoul is by taking the subway. It’s fast and efficient. There are four main lines, each running through different parts of the city. The most useful ones are the blue line, which runs along the east side of the Han River; the green line, which runs along Gwanghwamun Square; the pink line, which runs along the Insadong and Bukchon districts; and the red line, which runs along Gangnam section.
4. Buy a SIM Card
A mobile phone is essential for anyone who wants to stay connected while traveling. Unfortunately, roaming charges can add up, so you must purchase a local SIM card for your phone before arriving in South Korea. You can buy a SIM card in any major department store, such as Lotte Mart or E-Mart. They usually sell prepaid cards, so you won’t be charged until you make calls. You can also buy a pay-as-you-go card from any convenience store. It’s worth noting that many people prefer to use their smartphone instead of a traditional handset. However, smartphones aren’t always easy to find in South Korea, so you may want to bring a basic model.
5. Bring Cash With You
When visiting South Korea, you’ll need to carry plenty of cash. Most places accept US dollars and euros, but there are still plenty of small shops where you cannot change foreign currency. Bring enough money to cover all of your expenses, including tips. This usually isn’t an issue since tipping is common practice in South Korea. Most restaurants automatically include a service charge in their prices, so you don’t have to worry about leaving a tip. It’s customary to go 10% of the bill when dining out.
6. Get Your Passport & Visa Ready
Before leaving home, ensure you have everything ready for your trip. This includes getting your passport and visa and packing any medications that you will need. You can apply for permits and tickets at the Korean embassy in your country. If you plan to travel outside South Korea, contact the nearest consulate before your departure date. Ensure you know what documents they require and how much money you’ll need to secure them.
7. Pack Lightly
South Korea is known to be quite humid, especially in the summer months. If you’re planning to visit during this season, pack light. Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat are essential items to bring. Also, consider getting a lightweight jacket or sweater if the weather turns unexpectedly cold. You can rent umbrellas at train stations, airports, and tourist attractions.
8. Keep Your Expectations Realistic
South Korea is known for its high living standards, so you shouldn’t expect to see poverty here. Some areas do suffer from pollution issues, however. Also, it’s important to remember that most Koreans speak English, so you won’t struggle too much if you don’t understand every word from their mouths.
9. Know The Language
To communicate effectively in South Korea, you must learn some language basics. There are two official languages: Korean and Hangul. While most people are fluent in one or the other, learning both will help you get by even better. English is widely spoken nationwide, so you shouldn’t have trouble communicating with locals. However, if you plan on going to more rural locations, you may encounter problems finding translators. It’s best to try to avoid these situations altogether, though.
Bottom line
Traveling to South Korea is relatively simple, provided you prepare beforehand. Just remember that cell phones and credit cards are unavailable everywhere, so you must ensure you have the proper documentation before visiting Seoul.
