We have a couple of extra days in our Hong Kong itinerary. Why don’t we do a 2-day side trip to Seoul? It’s only a 3 ½ flight from Hong Kong and we’ve never been there.
Geoffrey was keen but was weary of the heat in August. Neither of us can take the hot temperatures that well so good planning is important. Ie. Visit the main attractions as soon as they open and take plenty of cool drinks and so forth. The other important thing was food. We both love most Asian cuisine but Geoffrey doesn’t do spicy at all well (even more so in the hot temperatures).
Over the 2 days we visited Ghangdeokgung Palace , Bukchon Hanok Village, Gwangjang Markets, N Seoul Tower and the Myeong-dong Shopping District.
Ghangdeokgung Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and well worth a visit. Unfortunately it was a blistering day, the Palace grounds are huge and Geoffrey and I found ourselves chasing shadows most of the time. We liked the nearby Bukchon Hanok Village much better. Lots of narrow alleys with interesting shops and small restaurants. Gwangjang Markets were a good place to grab some souvenirs and try out a variety of traditional Korean cuisine. Seoul Tower is for those who like, well, Towers. It’s a bit out of the way but you will be rewarded with great views of the city if you make the effort. Myeong-dong is a good place to check out at night. Busy and full of colour (and of course cooler!)
We’ll definitely return for a fuller visit but perhaps when the weather is a bit kinder.
If you would like more information about this destination please contact me.
