Have you a dream of travelling to South Korea?
Here are some hacks to make your vacation even better!
- Bring things that can keep you busy in a hotel room
As we know, during the Coronavirus pandemic, all foreigners entering the country on a tourist visa or visa-free will be required to quarantine in a government-designated facility for two weeks.
This is normally a hotel near Incheon International Airport, and you are required to pay for the costs, which run about ₩2,100,000 KRW ($1,850 USD).
You can’t leave your room and your meals are brought to your door, with the lunch also including snacks. So, bring something to do during your two weeks: books, computers, video games, something to keep you busy!
- Make sure to pick up a transportation card to take the bus, train, and taxi!
You should be sure to have your card ready when you’re about to get on and off to avoid getting stuck.
You can use them not only in Seoul but all over South Korea. By using transportation cards, you are charged less fare than when you pay with cash. - Be prepared to scan a QR Code
Nearly all restaurants in Korea now require some sort of identification prior to entering. Most people opt to scan in a personalized QR Code that can be found on both Naver and Kakaotalk.
If that option is not available for you, you are able to write down your name and phone number, so authorities can contact you if there happens to be a confirmed Coronavirus case at the location.
- Avoid black taxis and ensure the fee counter
Black taxis deluxe model taxis and offer more passenger space and a higher standard of service for a higher price. Take a silver or orange taxi for a more standard fee.
As information, some taxi drivers do attempt to rip off tourists by driving them to their destination without running the meter and then asking for a high fee at the end of the trip.
- Be vigilant about spycam crimes in South Korea.
Spycam crimes within public baths and washrooms are rampant, and it is a good idea to wear a mask when using public washrooms.
Spycams are often installed in shoes, cigarette boxes, and more. Be vigilant when taking public transit, especially if you plan to wear shorts or skirts while traveling. - Festival culture in Korea
Research ahead of time to see if there are any fascinating festivals you’d like to visit, like the Jindo Miracle Sea Road Festival! - Carry around a little shopping bag in your backpack or purse in case you can’t find a trash can.
It can be very tough to find public garbage disposal in South Korea, so keep a little plastic bag on hand to hold your coffee cups and straw wrappers until you find one! - Follow the official social media of Korea Tourism and even Seoul Metropolitan Government, to be the first to hear about tour packages, flight deals, and even free K-Pop concerts for foreigners.
Korea Tourism has the main page as well as regional pages, so be sure to follow the social media for your local Korea Tourism office to get the best deals possible! - A Mask
South Korea is running almost as normal during the current Coronavirus pandemic, with more shops, restaurants, and activities going on as normal.
However, a mask is mandatory when going outside, whether it be using public transportation, shopping, and even walking in the park. - Download travel and transit apps specific for Korea, to look for fun things to do and to avoid getting lost
The Google Maps app for South Korea is not perfect, and it’s better to use Kakao Maps as it has an English interface.
