Thursday, October 30, 2008

Save Money Traveling In South Korea

Traveling in South Korea can be an eye opening experience for everyone. The country has numerous scenic locations, from the Jeju Islands to the various cultural heritage relics that pepper their landscape. Even though a large part of the South Korea peninsula is made up of mountainous regions, you will never find it physically challenging to see the country. This is in part, thanks to a well planned and efficient transport system that stretches all over its various provinces and city centers.

However, enjoying a holiday in South Korea can be an expensive exercise as well. The economic boom that the country enjoyed in the 1990s and early 2000s led to increased affluence. This in turn resulted in unavoidable higher costs of living, even as the currency strengthened over time. Therefore, if one were to make a trip to the beautiful Land of the Morning Calm, he or she would be well advised to plan and budget the trip with that in mind. There are definitely many ways that one can still have a fun holiday in South Korea, without having to burn holes in their pockets.

One of the best ways is to plan an itinerary that focuses on the various interesting sights and locations that do not require entrance fees, or at least low ones. No one can claim to have visited South Korea without having visited the many fascinating temples that have a long history and tradition in the country. These places of worship never require any fees, and there is always a charm about them that everyone will enjoy. Seoul, the capital of South Korea, has other attractions that are also free to visit and will occupy you for the best part of several days, including the amazing Namdaemun Gate, the many palaces such as Gyeongbok-gung and the tranquil parks, with Yongsan Park a popular choice.

If there is one thing that could easily add up on your South Korea travel expenses, it would be that of food. Part of the reason would be the limitless choice of delicious cuisines that one would find hard to turn down. But food in South Korea is expensive, especially so in Seoul. As much as possible, try to dine in the various food stalls or small eateries that can be found anywhere, as prices are much lower, with great hospitality. While you might enjoy professional table waiting services in restaurants, expect to pay a lot more. But you will never go hungry when dining in South Korea, and might not even be able to finish all the food at times.

Finding an affordable place to stay during your trip can make a huge difference to your overall budget. South Korea is similar to Japan, in the sense that accommodations can be pricey. But there are hotels or serviced apartments that are relatively cheaper, and offer the same high level of services and amenities. In Seoul, there is the budget chain of serviced apartments known as the Co-Op that is popular with travelers who seek comfortable accommodations at low cost. For example, the Western Co-Op Residence Serviced Apartments, situated right in the bustling Dongdaemun, is one of the top hotel picks for tourists in South Korea. Their availability makes it easier to book cheap Seoul hotels, saving you money.

There are many other money saving tips one can have for traveling in South Korea. Every little detail helps, and while it might require some time to prepare ahead of the trip, the rewards are well worth the effort.

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