4 wonderful solo weeks in South Korea
Nov 1st, 2014, 07:31 AM
#141
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Oh no ditto! Did you lose your photos? I started a habit of uploading them everyday from my camera to whatever else I have with me - during my recent trip in the US my tablet -or else my laptop.....
When I was in Japan I had a memory card error at one point but I had already, thank goodness, uploaded all the photos to my laptop....
btw, kja, I already bought a Korean phrasebook.... ;-)
When I was in Japan I had a memory card error at one point but I had already, thank goodness, uploaded all the photos to my laptop....
btw, kja, I already bought a Korean phrasebook.... ;-)
Nov 1st, 2014, 04:59 PM
#142
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@ thursdaysd and Mara -- Thanks for your sympathies! Unfortunately, the camera is a goner. Just a point-and-shoot, and an old one at that, although I really liked it. I didn't "lose" any photos - rather, I have thousands and thousands of pictures that all have a dark, fuzzy-edged, dirty-looking blob just off center. 
Oh well, they still work for reminding me of things, and I didn't even own a camera for my first few trips.... Bottom line: I'd rather have the memories any day, and hope I have them longer than any pictures I might have taken.
and Mara -- that's awesome! I'm looking forward to hearing all about your trip.
Oh well, they still work for reminding me of things, and I didn't even own a camera for my first few trips.... Bottom line: I'd rather have the memories any day, and hope I have them longer than any pictures I might have taken.and Mara -- that's awesome! I'm looking forward to hearing all about your trip.
Jan 20th, 2015, 10:04 PM
#144
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@ crellston -- thanks so much for your post! I'm glad that you are finding my report helpful and hope you enjoy Seoul. Let me know if you have other questions -- I might not be able to answer, but will do my best!
Jan 21st, 2015, 06:35 PM
#145
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Very kind of you Kja. I will certainly take up that offer and will start a new post once I have a few things in mind. Still reading this thread and beginning to wish I had allowed longer for korea!
Feb 10th, 2015, 10:06 AM
#147
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Hi Kja!
I just made an account to express my thanks for your awesome report! Honestly, I haven't finished reading it yet - but I can already see that it will be very interesting and helpful during my planning. Thanks for taking your time to write so many details and upload it online
I found it by chance and it immediately got my attention. I'm also female, also plan for 4 weeks and it seems that I will also have to go solo. (offtopic: I never travelled solo, so I'm a bit worried about...well, basically everything
But also excited. If you don't mind me asking, how old were you when you went solo for the first time and where did you go?)
I just made an account to express my thanks for your awesome report! Honestly, I haven't finished reading it yet - but I can already see that it will be very interesting and helpful during my planning. Thanks for taking your time to write so many details and upload it online
I found it by chance and it immediately got my attention. I'm also female, also plan for 4 weeks and it seems that I will also have to go solo. (offtopic: I never travelled solo, so I'm a bit worried about...well, basically everything
But also excited. If you don't mind me asking, how old were you when you went solo for the first time and where did you go?)
Feb 10th, 2015, 04:09 PM
#148
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@ will_travel – welcome to Fodor’s and thank you for your kind words! I’m glad that you are finding my report helpful.
I first traveled solo when I was in my 20s. A friend and I had been planning to attend another friend’s wedding in LA and then travel around, but just days before we were to go, something came up and my intended travel mate had to cancel. I already had my tickets, and they were nonrefundable, so I went on my own. I spent some time in LA, San Diego, San Francisco, Napa Valley, and Seattle. Thus began a LOVE for solo travel. I find it a great luxury, because I can do exactly what I want, when I want.
I can understand a bit of worry – I was nervous about that trip, and I was nervous before my first international journey, and nervous before each subsequent venture into the unknown. ;-) I’ve chosen my travels with some attention to my limits and some thought about my options should I feel uncomfortable. Fortunately, I’ve never needed my back-up plans. Instead, what I’ve found is a tremendous wealth of wonderful experiences.
There are several other solo women travelers who contribute to Fodor’s, and some solo male travelers, too. You might find some inspiration on this thread, where many of us provide links to our trip reports.
http://www.fodors.com/community/trav...collection.cfm
Feel free to ask questions, and when you're ready, start a thread about your plans. There don't seem to be too many Fodorites who have traveled to South Korea, but I think you'll find that many who have will be very generous with their knowledge.
I first traveled solo when I was in my 20s. A friend and I had been planning to attend another friend’s wedding in LA and then travel around, but just days before we were to go, something came up and my intended travel mate had to cancel. I already had my tickets, and they were nonrefundable, so I went on my own. I spent some time in LA, San Diego, San Francisco, Napa Valley, and Seattle. Thus began a LOVE for solo travel.
I find it a great luxury, because I can do exactly what I want, when I want. I can understand a bit of worry – I was nervous about that trip, and I was nervous before my first international journey, and nervous before each subsequent venture into the unknown. ;-) I’ve chosen my travels with some attention to my limits and some thought about my options should I feel uncomfortable. Fortunately, I’ve never needed my back-up plans. Instead, what I’ve found is a tremendous wealth of wonderful experiences.
There are several other solo women travelers who contribute to Fodor’s, and some solo male travelers, too. You might find some inspiration on this thread, where many of us provide links to our trip reports.
http://www.fodors.com/community/trav...collection.cfm
Feel free to ask questions, and when you're ready, start a thread about your plans. There don't seem to be too many Fodorites who have traveled to South Korea, but I think you'll find that many who have will be very generous with their knowledge.
Feb 11th, 2015, 09:48 AM
#149
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@ kja - Thanks for the warm welcome and also the link!
And also thanks for answering my question Seems like the day your travel mate had to cancel turned out to be a lucky one in the end! Honestly, you are quite an inspiration for me right now. I think your approach to travelling is very wise.
I'm currently in the "research" stage, which is going to take me a looot of time. But when I get enough ground and ideas, I will try starting the thread as you recommend.
Take care.
And also thanks for answering my question
Seems like the day your travel mate had to cancel turned out to be a lucky one in the end! Honestly, you are quite an inspiration for me right now. I think your approach to travelling is very wise. I'm currently in the "research" stage, which is going to take me a looot of time. But when I get enough ground and ideas, I will try starting the thread as you recommend.
Take care.
Aug 29th, 2015, 01:29 AM
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@kja: I can't stop reading your TR since yesterday. I have been thinking of giving a surprise b'day present to my 68 y.o. mom who loves anything about SK.
My mom & I are addicted to kdrama especially the historical stories. I am more so than her though ;b..
It is a year in advance planning
... hopefully to celebrate her 69th bday in Oct'16, there.
I am similar with you. Always do an extensive research, plan in detail ahead of time to ensure the most cost effective but most enjoyable trip.
We are Indonesian who live in San Francisco.
I ran into some interesting info during my research:
http://seoulistic.com/travel-to-kore...t-attractions/
http://seoulistic.com/travel-to-kore...0-usd-a-night/
https://jungrach.wordpress.com/2013/...booking-guide/
Hostel Maru
Best location in Hongdae
www.guesthouseinseoul.com
400-3 ASAN BUILDING
SEOGYODONG MAPOGU
SEOUL KOREA
[email protected]
Tel: +82-70-8833-0046
Reception open from 9am untill 11pm
Earlest check in from 3pm
Check out by 1pm on your last day of staying in Maru
No curfew, less regulation, more enjoy.
> This one was just opened recently. The reason for no review found yet.
> They claim all rooms are soundproof & safe with electric lock key.
> They have their own luggage lockers the guests can use.
Hope those who are planning their trips right now will find these usefull.
My mom & I are addicted to kdrama especially the historical stories. I am more so than her though ;b..
It is a year in advance planning
... hopefully to celebrate her 69th bday in Oct'16, there.I am similar with you. Always do an extensive research, plan in detail ahead of time to ensure the most cost effective but most enjoyable trip.
We are Indonesian who live in San Francisco.
I ran into some interesting info during my research:
http://seoulistic.com/travel-to-kore...t-attractions/
http://seoulistic.com/travel-to-kore...0-usd-a-night/
https://jungrach.wordpress.com/2013/...booking-guide/
Hostel Maru
Best location in Hongdae
www.guesthouseinseoul.com
400-3 ASAN BUILDING
SEOGYODONG MAPOGU
SEOUL KOREA
[email protected]
Tel: +82-70-8833-0046
Reception open from 9am untill 11pm
Earlest check in from 3pm
Check out by 1pm on your last day of staying in Maru
No curfew, less regulation, more enjoy.
> This one was just opened recently. The reason for no review found yet.
> They claim all rooms are soundproof & safe with electric lock key.
> They have their own luggage lockers the guests can use.
Hope those who are planning their trips right now will find these usefull.
Aug 29th, 2015, 10:44 AM
#153
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vclilydb - I am also a kdrama addict and spent three days in Seoul last spring. There are a few palaces there than you can visit and also see the changing of the guard when they wear the costumes that you will recognize.
In the Gwanghawmun Square you will see the huge statues of King Sejong and Admiral Yi - below is a wonderful museum about them....
You will constantly see posters with stars that you have seen in dramas. When I was there I had recently seen My Love from Another Star and Kim SooHyun posters were all around.
I'm sure you and your mom will enjoy!
In the Gwanghawmun Square you will see the huge statues of King Sejong and Admiral Yi - below is a wonderful museum about them....
You will constantly see posters with stars that you have seen in dramas. When I was there I had recently seen My Love from Another Star and Kim SooHyun posters were all around.
I'm sure you and your mom will enjoy!
Sep 1st, 2015, 10:16 PM
#155
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There are many sites in Korea associated with Korean dramas. I don't know much about the subject, but I do know you can visit the Danyang Ondal Movie Set which has been the location for many historical Korean dramas. Here is the Korean Tourism webpage about it:
http://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/...jsp?cid=905827
http://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/...jsp?cid=905827
Sep 2nd, 2015, 04:40 PM
#156
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I think there are several sets from kdrama that you can visit --
http://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/...jsp?sets=drama
http://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/...jsp?sets=drama
Sep 18th, 2015, 06:22 AM
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Hi Kja,
Your exploration of South Korea was wonderful reading! I plan on visiting in June 2016 and I may end up going alone. I have never been to Asia and I really would like to get a handle on the cost of things, self-explorative tours and such…but I was wondering about the amount of money it would take to explore like you did but for only about 14 days. Based on your experience, can you give me a round-about figure?? Thanks
Your exploration of South Korea was wonderful reading! I plan on visiting in June 2016 and I may end up going alone. I have never been to Asia and I really would like to get a handle on the cost of things, self-explorative tours and such…but I was wondering about the amount of money it would take to explore like you did but for only about 14 days. Based on your experience, can you give me a round-about figure?? Thanks
Sep 18th, 2015, 07:36 PM
#158
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@ Janetr -- I'm sorry, but no, I really can't estimate your costs, as it will depend on how YOU travel and where, exactly, you go.
If you are traveling from somewhere outside of Asia, my guess is that your biggest expense will be your airfare. IIRC, my rooms ranged from about $40 to $100 per night -- though of course that’s largely a function of my selection process. Check booking.com for a better sense of what it will cost you in light of your needs and preferences. And IIRC, my Korean dinners ranged from about $10 to about $40, but you could eat for less if you go for street food. (Breakfast was generally included in my room rate and I don't eat lunch.) I thought transportation costs very affordable -- especially the buses, but even the high-speed rail line and flights were reasonable as I recall -- but I honestly don't remember. You might be able to get some idea from South Korea's on-line tourism site:
http://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/TR/TR_EN_5_1_2.jsp
I'm sorry I can't help with budget estimates, but wish you well and am happy to try answering other questions.
If you are traveling from somewhere outside of Asia, my guess is that your biggest expense will be your airfare. IIRC, my rooms ranged from about $40 to $100 per night -- though of course that’s largely a function of my selection process. Check booking.com for a better sense of what it will cost you in light of your needs and preferences. And IIRC, my Korean dinners ranged from about $10 to about $40, but you could eat for less if you go for street food. (Breakfast was generally included in my room rate and I don't eat lunch.) I thought transportation costs very affordable -- especially the buses, but even the high-speed rail line and flights were reasonable as I recall -- but I honestly don't remember. You might be able to get some idea from South Korea's on-line tourism site:
http://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/TR/TR_EN_5_1_2.jsp
I'm sorry I can't help with budget estimates, but wish you well and am happy to try answering other questions.
Jan 23rd, 2016, 11:25 PM
#159
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Your trip report is so detailed and so very helpful. After trying to discover the frequency of spring yellow dust pollution in Seoul, we have decided to visit South Korea in April. Along with articles, travel books and postings on Fodor's Forum I am learning a great deal and have come up with my first itinerary. Thank you kja for this report with all its great information.
Jan 23rd, 2016, 11:57 PM
#160
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@ re -- I'm so glad that you found some helpful information in my report! I hope it communicated my sense that South Korea can be an interesting destination, and hope that's how you find it.
I'm always open for questions!
I'm always open for questions!
