For first-time travelers intending on covering the breadth and length of Seoul, it is recommended that the following information be factored in ahead of arriving at an informed decision.
When should you go?
Having excellent weather to work with will surely be a step in the right direction and in this case, choose between the seasons of spring (March–May) and autumn (mid-September – early November). Varying hues and shades will be yours to indulge in with the former associated with whites and cherry blossom pinks while the latter is renowned for showcasing a series of oranges, reds and yellows no matter what you wander off to.
Getting around the city
The subway system in Seoul can be easily described as efficient and convenient but at the start, it would take some getting used to, especially from the perspective of a first-timer. In short, all that you need to remember is your subway stop and the corresponding line number. Added to this, purchasing a T-money card is mandatory (KRW 2,500) which can be done at any subway station or department store. This way, you can ditch the thought of buying single journey tokens and also use them to transfer between buses and subway lines.
Eat right
The food in Seoul is a spectacle in itself and to begin with, do make a date with Myeongdong Food Street where delicacies in the likes of tteokbokki, grilled lobster tails and scallion skewers can be sampled. For the best of Korean BBQ, consider Yeontabal BBQ Restaurant for one awe-inspiring takes on charcoal-grilled specialties that will testbuds leap in delight.
Places to head for
From watching the changing of the royal guard at Gyeongbokgung Palace, exploring the labyrinth of alleyways which grace Bukchon Hanok Village, and enjoying a bird’s eye view of the city from N Seoul Tower to calling by Dongdaemun Design Plaza; Seoul serves up an assortment of escapes, each with its own unique story to narrate. Further, be sure to look for decent and comfortable accommodation option and in this light, hotels in Dongdaemun the likes of Travelodge Dongdaemun Seoul can be considered.
