friends & family | SEOUL
Korean Hot Spot Seoul sizzles with family-friendly fun. BY GREGORY D. MCCLUNEY
et Secr led: revea he l is t Seou ndo ’s sec world est city larg ly a; on e r a in o Toky rger. is la
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globaltravelerusa.com
LIKE THE FRANTIC KITCHEN of a sold-out Korean restaurant, Seoul is hot, sizzling, a 24/7 mass of energy. Yet few travelers have the bustling South Korean capital of 25 million people at the top of their bucket list of destinations. Seoul may not possess the panache of Paris, the royal history of London or the flair of New York City. What it does offer is thousands of years of history, mega-shopping for the latest fashions, a vibrant food scene particular to Korean customs and tastes, five palaces, pageantry, casinos, clubs and exciting attractions to please business visitors or entice families. Add to this a favorable exchange rate ($1 equals 1,125 won) and lots of English-speaking young people you won’t find in most other Asian countries. When you’ve settled in your hotel (there’s one to fit every budget) and rested from the major time change, you’ll find the subways and taxis provide the best way to see the city. Purchase a T-money card for the subway and enjoy the good maps and English signage at most stops. Taxi drivers rarely speak English but can translate using smartphones (keep the business cards provided by your hotel). Taxis are reasonable, clean and abundant. Unless you read or speak Korean, the bus system will prove an
MAY 2019
INFO TO GO
Because of the worldwide reach of the South Korean business network, the city’s Incheon Airport is a model of efficiency and design. Korean Airlines and Asiana Airlines offer direct flights and connections to most of the world’s capitals and beyond. Service to and from other Asian countries is frequent and convenient. Some routes within Asia utilize Gimpo, a second Seoul airport. The big three U.S. carriers offer service with several non-stops. Once on the ground, passage through customs and immigration is quick and efficient. Reach the city center in less than an hour by rail, express airport bus or taxi. Remember, you need not tip in Korea. You can exchange currency to the local won, with ATMs in banks and some retail spots. Major international credit cards are widely accepted. For the best weather, visit in the fall or spring.
