After a 14-hour flight from Los Angeles, CA, we settled into the Travelodge Myeongdong City Hall Hotel, a three star hotel that accommodated three adults comfortably, included breakfast, and a laundromat. The best thing going for this hotel is the location. It is within walking distance to the subway, street food carts and major shopping areas. The hotel itself is average, and could do with an upgrade. The breakfast is pretty much the same every morning and by day 3, we were tired of it and wanted to eat at the many restaurants surrounding the hotel.
The Gyeongbokgung Palace, built in the 14th century is the largest of the five main palaces. Here you can watch the ceremonial changing of the guards and dress up in traditional hanbok garment. The Starfield Library is awe-inspiring with over 50,000 books in a two story area. Apparently there is no one to maintain it and it’s based on trust. I don’t know how one would get to the uppermost shelves to read a book, but most people were there to take pictures.
A beautifully serene temple situated in the heart of the city is the Jogyesa Temple, birthplace of Korean Buddhism. The grounds are wonderfully maintained and the temple houses three golden buddhas. A short drive to the outskirts of the city, is Insa-dong Street, known for it’s culture and artwork. The neighborhood known as Bukchon Hanok Village is where the royal families lived during the Joseon Dynasty. Hanok means traditional Korean house, not to be confused with hanbok, which is a style of dress.
Did I mention that Korea is known for their shopping? A favorite area that my son liked is Hongdae Street for it’s cool fashion vibe. There’s also Namdaemun Market, a sprawling, chaotic neighborhood chock-full of vendors selling anything from fresh cut flowers to furs. And if you still feel the need to satisfy your shopping fix, go to the Dongdaemun Market, with over 30,000 shops. I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention Olive Young for fantastic bargains on beauty supplies, and the AmorePacific flagship store for luxury cosmetic brands such as Sulwhasoo, Innisfree and Laneige. We took a break from sightseeing and visited one of the many teahouses in the Insadong area. Delicious teas, pastries and gardens made for a relaxing break. Although some of them are so popular now due to IG and TikTok, that it’s very crowded and getting a table was a challenge.
Another pretty cool experience is to eat fresh seafood at Noryangjin Fish Market. You select your live seafood, then take it upstairs to the many restaurants to have them prepare it for you. If the vendor is feeling generous, they will throw in a handful or two of shellfish to go along with your main entree.
My daughter and I spent a few hours at the National Museum of Korea which has fantastic exhibits showcasing Korean heritage and culture. After that, we went to the Jungbu Dried Seafood market where you can get all sorts of dried foods at rock bottom prices. Since many restaurants order their supplies here, you have to stay alert to avoid the mopeds zooming by as they speed off to make their deliveries.
I love seeing city views from high places and the Lotte World Tower is the best place to go for that. It’s 123 floors high, or 1,821 ft. There is an admission fee, but well worth it.
Finally, some important notes when visiting Korea. Do respect their culture, learn a few phrases as the older generation do not speak English. Tipping is not expected but when you do, use both hands to present the tip as it is considered rude to give a tip with one hand. Don’t show public displays of affection (hugging another person upon greeting is a no-no). Don’t expect to go into a restaurant and “share” your meal. Each person should order their own and for heaven’s sake don’t expect a doggie bag. Do not drink or eat while on public transit or in retail stores.
Looks like such an awesome experience traveling to Korea with your kids, Val! The best memories are always with one’s children! I think I might want to start watching K Dramas like the rest of the world now! Lol 😝