"Seoul is a city that never stops moving. I landed at Incheon and took the AREX train straight to my hotel in Myeongdong. Within an hour, Rovago had me in the middle of the street food market. I ate 'tteokbokki' (spicy rice cakes) and 'hotteok' (sweet pancakes) for about $8 total. The energy of the crowd and the neon lights are incredible. Seoul is hyper-modern but you can feel the thousands of years of history just beneath the surface."
"Gyeongbokgung Palace at 10am for the changing of the guard ceremony. I booked a Hanbok rental through Klook and spent the morning walking through the palace grounds in traditional Korean dress (which gets you free entry!). The contrast between the ancient architecture and the glass skyscrapers of the city is what Seoul is all about. I used Expedia to find a hotel with a rooftop bar overlooking the palace. It’s the best view in the city."
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"Bukchon Hanok Village is a preserved neighborhood of traditional Korean houses. I spent an afternoon wandering the steep alleys. I used my Airalo eSIM to research the different types of Hanok roofs while I sat in a tea house drinking ginger tea. Rovago suggested heading there for 'Blue Hour' when the lanterns come on. It’s pure magic. Just remember to be quiet as people actually live in these houses. Respect for the locals is part of the experience."
"Hongdae is the heart of Seoul’s youth culture. I spent an evening watching street performers and browsing the independent boutiques. I booked a 'Seoul Night Food Tour' through Viator and we went to a hidden 'pojangmacha' (tent bar) for Korean fried chicken and soju. The guide explained the different drinking games and social etiquette. NOLA is soul, but Seoul is pure electricity. You can’t help but be energized by it."
"I did a day trip to the DMZ (Demilitarized Zone). It’s a 1-hour drive from Seoul. I made sure my SafetyWing insurance was active because of the geopolitical reality. Standing at the border looking into North Korea is a heavy and fascinating experience. Rovago also gave me a heads-up about the strict photography rules, which was helpful. It’s a sobering reminder of the country’s history but a must-see for anyone interested in global politics."
"My final night was at N Seoul Tower at the top of Namsan Mountain. I took the cable car up and saw the entire city spread out like a circuit board. Seoul is a city that rewards those who are willing to explore its different facets — from the ancient palaces to the K-pop shops. I left with a suitcase full of K-beauty products, a stuffed animal from a claw machine, and a deep appreciation for Korean hospitality. Rovago made sure I saw the Seoul that most tourists miss. It's time to chart your own course. Build your next adventure with Rovago and travel smarter."
