Seoul Sisters: Kimchi, Karaoke, and Crazy Adventures

안녕하세요 (Annyeonghaseyo) hope you did not unpack those bags and get ready to go on another adventure with me. Picture this, a scene straight out of a K-drama, where two intrepid explorers embark on a Seoul-ful adventure filled with more twists and turns than a K-pop choreography.

Whether you’re chasing cherry blossoms in spring, soaking up the summer sun, admiring autumn foliage, or embracing the winter chill, Seoul offers a season for every type of adventure. So, pack your bags, adjust your itinerary according to the weather, and get ready to experience the dynamic charm of Seoul in every season. After all, no matter when you visit, you’re bound to be swept away by the magic of this vibrant cityscape. Seoul promises a year-round adventure that’s as quirky and fun as you are. So pack your bags, pick your season, and get ready to Seoul-search your heart out!

Blossoms and Bliss (Late March to Early May)

Cue the confetti cannons of cherry blossoms! Springtime in Seoul is like stepping into a K-drama romance, with streets awash in delicate pink petals. Stroll through Yeouido Hangang Park or snap selfies under the blooming trees at Gyeongbokgung Palace. Watch out for the selfie sticks – they bloom faster than the flowers!

Sizzle and Sips (June to August)

Get ready to turn up the heat because summer in Seoul is hotter than a spicy kimchi stew! Dive into the Boryeong Mud Festival for muddy fun, or cool off with a cruise along the Han River. Pro tip: Pack your sunscreen and your appetite for street food – summer nights in Seoul are a feast for the senses!

Foliage and Food (Late September to November)

As the leaves turn golden and the air gets crisp, Seoul transforms into a breathtaking canvas of autumn colours. Grab your camera and head to Namsan Park for some Insta-worthy foliage shots, then warm up with steaming bowls of jjajangmyeon. It’s comfort food season, baby!

Snowy Shenanigans (December to February)

Let it snow, let it snow, let it Seoul! Winter in Seoul is a snowy playground with ice skating rinks, ski slopes, and cozy cafes galore. Embrace your inner kid at the Seoul Plaza Ice Skating Rink or cozy up with a cup of hot cocoa at a themed cafe.

Girls just wanna Have Fun

Despite the sweltering humidity, Nikki and I had a blast in Seoul. Arriving at the airport on that scorching June day, we faced a decision. Opting for a taxi to our hotel due to my physical limitations, we knew Seoul’s stellar public transportation system offered cheaper alternatives like trains or buses.

Throughout our trip we relied on the subway to traverse the city. Seoul’s subway operates much like New York’s Metro, utilizing a refillable card system that is easily accessible at train stations or your neighborhood convenience store. Plus, navigating the subway was a breeze, with elevators accommodating those with physical limitations. Snagging snacks from corner stores or shopping was all possible underground while waiting for the train.

Navigating the subway became second nature for Nikki, a seasoned New Yorker accustomed to the hustle and bustle of city life. With her expert guidance, we smoothly glided through the labyrinthine tunnels and the bustling subway stations of Seoul’s subway system. However, even with Nikki’s experience, we still managed to veer off course occasionally – blame it on the allure of exploring every nook and cranny of this vibrant city.

As for me, let’s just say my metro card seemed to have a mind of its own. In a stroke of bad luck (or perhaps absentmindedness), I managed to misplace it not once but twice! After each tap at the subway station, it became a ritual akin to a child handing over their precious toy for safekeeping. Nikki, ever the patient companion, graciously assumed the role of guardian for my wayward metro card, ensuring our subway adventures continued without a hitch.

So there we were two intrepid travellers weaving through Seoul’s bustling streets and underground passages, with Nikki as our subway whisperer and me as the hapless guardian of my perpetually misplaced metro card. But isn’t getting lost (and losing metro cards) part of the adventure?

Though I had a dedicated tour guide (shoutout to Eunji for loaning me your sister for the day!), one standout experience was our visit to a local tea shop. Escaping the tourist trail, we dove into an authentic Korean outing. And what better way to kickstart our adventure than with soju and fried chicken? With our bellies full and throats lubricated, karaoke was the only logical next step! Now, those who know me understand I couldn’t carry a tune if my life depended on it. But hey, when in Seoul, and with a bit of soju courage, we belted out songs like Hype Boy with gusto.

And what better way to cap off our day than with a photo booth session? Savouring the memories, one snapshot at a time.

While we didn’t get to explore Gyeongbokgung Palace‘s grandeur in person, our Seoul adventure took us on unexpected detours filled with hidden gems and cultural treasures. Thanks to the generosity of my Korean friends, I was able to vicariously experience the majesty of the palace through their stunning photographs, capturing its timeless beauty and historical significance.

Despite missing out on some typical tourist attractions, our journey led us to the Seoul Museum of Craft Art, where we embarked on a captivating stroll through the annals of time. Transported back to an era preceding Korea’s transformation into the modern powerhouse it is today, we immersed ourselves in the rich heritage of the Joseon dynasty and beyond.

As we wandered through the museum’s halls, we were captivated by traditional Korean art forms’ intricate craftsmanship and timeless elegance. From delicate ceramics to ornate textiles, each exhibit served as a window into the soul of Korean culture, offering a deeper understanding of the country’s rich artistic legacy

A Culinary Journey and Han River Hideaway

Prepare your taste buds and dust off your picnic blanket(if you don’t have one, you can rent one at the park, so fret not) because we’re about to embark on a mouthwatering adventure through the culinary delights of Seoul, followed by a relaxing riverside retreat along the picturesque Han River. Get ready for a feast of flavours and a side of scenic serenity!

Seoul’s Culinary Scene

First things first, let’s talk food! Seoul’s culinary landscape is a tantalizing tapestry of flavours. Dive headfirst into a world of culinary wonders as you sample iconic dishes like bulgogi (marinated beef), bibimbap (mixed rice bowl), and the ever-popular Korean BBQ. But why stop there? Seoul is a foodie paradise, where every street corner offers a new gastronomic adventure waiting to be savoured. So don’t be afraid to follow your nose (and stomach) – you never know what delicious surprises await!

After indulging in a feast fit for a king, it’s time to kick back, relax, and let the food coma set in. And what better place to do so than along the tranquil banks of the Han River? Grab your ramen, soju, and your closest pals, and head to one of the many riverside parks for a picnic extravaganza. Whether you’re people-watching at Yeouido Hangang Park, cycling along the riverside paths, or simply lounging on a blanket as the sun sets, there’s no better way to unwind after a day of culinary exploration. But wait, there’s more! The Han River isn’t just a scenic backdrop for your picnic – it’s also a playground for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

Lavish Adventures at Lotte Department Store: A Shopper’s Paradise

From shopping sprees to gourmet delights and entertainment galore, spending a day at Lotte Department Store is an experience like no other. So grab your credit cards, appetite, and sense of adventure, and embark on a lavish journey through Seoul’s ultimate shopping paradise. It’s a day filled with luxury, indulgence, and unforgettable memories – you deserve nothing but the best!

Let’s Not forget our Skincare Girlies

Amidst the hustle and bustle of our Seoul adventure, we made sure to carve out some time for a little self-care indulgence, because let’s face it – a skincare routine is essential, even on vacation! And where better to stock up on all our favorite beauty essentials than Olive Young, the holy grail of K-beauty?

So, to all our fellow skincare aficionados out there, take note: no trip to Seoul is complete without a pilgrimage to Olive Young. Whether you’re in need of a skincare refresh or simply want to indulge in a little beauty therapy, Olive Young is your one-stop shop for all things K-beauty. So lather on that essence, slap on that sheet mask, and let the pampering begin – because in Seoul, glass skin is always in!

Valuable Tips for Your Seoul Adventure

Don’t Forget Your T-Money Card: Like your trusty sidekick, your T-Money card will be your ticket to navigating Seoul’s efficient public transportation system. Pick one up at the airport and guard it with your life – trust me, you don’t want to experience the heartache of losing it like I did!
Navigate with Ease: While Google Maps can be a lifesaver, locals swear by the Kakao app for seamless subway navigation and translation assistance. Download it before you go, and thank me later!
Cash vs. Card: While you can grab some money at the airport for peace of mind, rest assured that most places in Seoul accept debit and credit card payments. Just inform your bank of your travel plans beforehand to avoid any hiccups.
Break the Language Barrier: Don’t let language differences deter you – you’ll be surprised at how far a little basic English can take you. Plus, Koreans are incredibly friendly and resourceful, often using gestures and other methods to bridge the communication gap.

And remember, a smile and a willingness to embrace the unknown will take you far in Seoul!

사랑해 (Sa-rang-hae): Before we part ways, here’s a little Korean phrase to warm your heart: “I love you.” So, from one Seoul adventurer to another, 사랑해!

Until next time, remember to comment and subscribe for more travel updates! Happy Seoul-searching!