Top 10 Things to Do in South Korea

For many travelers, South Korea is an undeniable heaven. It is so beautiful that many believe that setting foot on the wonderful Land of the Morning Calm is a panacea. Exaggerated, but to a lot of travelers, it is true. It is just difficult not to buy a ticket to South Korea when you know you can.


Others may contradict the idea, though, and say that the country is not as exciting as the others. But this is not necessarily true. Here are the top 10 exciting things you can do in order to make the most out of your Korean trip.

1. Try the street food

source: pigpigscorner.com : Street Food in Seoul

Whether you are on an all-out or budget trip, you are mandated to eat street food if you wish to amplify your experience. Visit those tent-like stalls and try the different Korean delicacies like ddeokbokki (rice cake), sundae (Korean blood sausage), kimbap (rice roll), odeng (fish cakes), mandu (dumpling), and more. Drink soju with it and you are in for a very unforgettable night!

Kimbap



Odeng

Mandu

  source: My Korean Kitchen

Soju

  source: TriFood- Soju: Korean Alcohol

2. Visit the jimjilbang

Jimjilbang

source: Coffee Helps - Jimjilbangs

One of the most interesting parts of Korean culture is the public sauna. It is a place where people stay to relax, sleep and bond with friends or families. Don’t think that it’s only the old people who come here! Even the young ones are fascinated with the goodness this paradise provides! While at it, don’t forget to eat hard-boiled eggs and drink sikhye. That’s the culture there!


3. Lock the love up!

Locks of Love at Seoul Tower

source: sammiejayy.tumblr.com

This particularly applies if you will travel to Seoul with a loved one. Visit the Seoul Tower with a padlock and lock it up with the thousand others. Many, especially the young ones, believe that if you put a padlock there and throw the key away, you and your partner will be together forever. Mushy, isn’t it?


4. Enjoy the night life at Itaewon

Nightlife at Hongdae (Club Cocoon)

 source: Seoul Grid - Club Cocoon

Hongdae is a signature nightlife destination, but sometimes, it gets too crowded. If you’re not for the long lines, you could go to the clubs in Itaewon. Same environment, same adventure, same fun!


5. Jog along the Han River at the break of dawn

The nightlife in Seoul is extremely fascinating and appealing, that it will eventually make you sleep until noontime the following day. But try hard to combat the hangover and wake up early to see the tranquil atmosphere of the city at daytime. Jog along the peaceful Han River together with many locals and find out how many Koreans keep their bodies fit and healthy.


6. Walk/cycle around town

source: Cycle Seoul

Forget the taxis, buses and trains. Explore the city in a manual way. Whether you walk or you use a bicycle, it doesn’t matter. What is important is that you can easily stop and snap a photo of an interesting place. The public transportation is too fast for you to get a view of how the city really is. Take your time.


7. Visit the palaces

 source: Eastbound88: The Royal Palaces in Seoul

Modernism is rampant in Seoul and it is very much evident with the many skyscrapers around. So stride down the other road and go for a cultural trip. Visit the Five Grand Palaces around the city and transport yourself to the colorful and imposing past of the nation.

These are:

Gyeong-bok-gung

 Gyeong-bok-gung (경복궁/景福宮), the Main Palace

Chang-deok-gung

Chang-deok-gung (창덕궁/昌德宮), the Most Favored Palace by the Dynasty

Chang-gyeong-gung

Chang-gyeong-gung (창경궁/昌慶宮)

Deok-su-gung

Deok-su-gung (덕수궁/德壽宮)

Gyeong-hui-gung

Gyeong-hui-gung (경희궁/慶熙宮)

8. Sing your heart out at a noraebang

A noraebang is a karaoke room, which you will certainly enjoy. Designed like a cozy living room, more are installed with simple disco lights, maracas/tambourines, and colorful wigs, it is surely a place where you will feel very elated to test your singing skills. Just make sure that you can read Korean because most of the songs are in the local language.


9. Get out of the capital city

Busan Beach

South Korea is not just Seoul, as Seoul is not entirely South Korea. There are more beautiful places that everybody must discover in this country. The high-speed railway system will certainly bring you to different provinces in few hours. Don’t miss the chance. Recommended destinations are Gyeonggi, Kangwon, and Busan.


10. Go hiking

source: RipCitytoSeoul.com - Best Sight Seeing Spots in Korea

Most Koreans love hiking, and for sure, you will enjoy it too because you will be exposed to a breathtaking nature scenery. It is such a good resort if you want to escape the typical urban; and it earns you bragging rights when you complete a trek.

There are so many things to do to stay out of the norm and still enjoy your trip to this exhilarating city. So what are you waiting for? Grab that cheap air ticket to Seoul now and experience the best Asian trip you can ever get.


Related Reads:
* Travel Guide to South Korea
* Where to Find Halal Food in South Korea
* Things to Remember When in South Korea
 

January 2013 Celebrations to Look Forward To

January has kicked off and people are now beginning to busy themselves with planning their holiday trips for the year 2013, beginning with the hunt for cheap tickets. However, preparing for these grand vacations do not end with just wanting to travel. The optimum priority is, of course, the destination – which fun coincides with the different happenings that will happen in the place in time with the trip.

So what are the events across the globe, which are set to take place on January of this year?

1. Dunkirk Carnival

 If you are going to be in northern France on January 12 to March 30, you should not miss the chance of visiting one of the most extravagant and boisterous carnivals in the area, the Dunkirk Carnival. It is held to pay tribute to the heritage of the city which basically revolves around fishing and maritime industries.

Relevant Links:
*Travel Globe: What's on in Dunkirk France
*AgePhotoStock

2. Lowcountry Oyster Festival

If heading to South Carolina, make sure you’ll be there on the 27th as it is time for the Lowcountry Oyster Festival. There, you can suffice yourself with as many oysters as you can! That’s a whole lot of treat! Furthermore, the atmosphere is very festive as loud music plays during the event.

Relevant Links:
*Festival News: Lowcountry Oyster Festival, Charleston, South Carolina
 *Harbor Island Oyster: Worldwide Oyster Festival


3. World Buskers Festival

Total entertainment runs for ten days (January 17-27) at Christchurch, New Zealand everytime the World Buskers Festival is held there. You will surely have fun witnessing shows and performances from great street performers who will do comedy, fire shows, juggling, magic, and many more!

Relevant Links:
*New Zealand: World Buskers Festival
*Be There: World Buskers Festival

 
4. Winter Wineland

Craving for some delicious wine? Then attend the Winter Wineland in Northern Sonoma County, California from January 19-20. Winemakers and wine lovers come together at the Wine Road to celebrate the genius that is wine. Visit the different wineries and try the world’s best kinds.

Relevant Link:
*Epicuring: Annual Winter Wineland Sonoma
 

5. San Sebastián Street Festival

From January 17 to 20, Old San Juan is transformed into a very vibrant carnival that features revelers, rides, food stalls and live musicians to celebrate the San Sebastián Street Festival. The main attraction here is the grand parade along Calle San Sebastián.


Relevant Link:
*Legends of PR


6. Temple Bar Trad Fest

For six full days, Irish music is celebrated in Dublin through the Temple Bar Trad Fest. From January 22 to 27, people come together to see different local performers with world-renowned talents as they flaunt their talents.

Relevant Link: 
*Temple Bartrrad Schedule and updates


7. National Western Stock Show

 Experiencing the Wild Wild West is not difficult. You just have to visit Denver, Colorado from January 12-27 as it is during these dates when the National Western Stock Show is held. Bull ridings, rodeos, horse contests and show jumping are some of the main attractions which you’ll surely enjoy watching.

Relevant Link:
*Denverpost: National Western Stock Show Images


8. Hot Air Balloon Festival

Marvel on as colorful hot air balloons adorn the beautiful day sky at Château-d’Œx, Switzerland from January 26 to February 3. You can even ride one if you’re lucky! Afterwards, you can also visit the museum which features Montgolfier balloons.

*View more Images at AmusingPlanet: International Hot Air Balloon Festival


9. Gasparilla Pirate Fest

Turning into a pirate is quite easy at Tampa, Florida during the 26th of January. The main attraction here is the José Gasparilla, the world’s only fully-rigged pirate ship.

Relevant Links:
*Landosentinel: Gasparilla Pirate Fest in Tampa Florida
*Tampa Florida Photo Blog: José Gasparilla's Pirate Ship


10. January Basho

Flights to Tokyo will be more worth it if it coincides with the January Basho, happening on January 12-27. It is a unique event because it features sumo wrestling matches, and is actually the first of the six grand events for the year.

*View more Images at Jaydee Japan: Tokyo Grand Sumo Tournament

10 Most Popular Singapore Tourist Spots

There is no denying that Singapore is a very stunning country. Clean, disciplined, and brimming with beautiful places, the nation is definitely a favorite destination by many jetsetters. There are lots to do when there.

One of the most recommended activities would be buying Singapore attraction tickets to the following attractions:

1) Universal Studios Singapore

A premier attraction in the country is the Universal Studios Singapore. A first-class amusement park, it is sure to be enjoyed by the whole family. Thrill rides and fun adventures await you! Each area transports guests to a new world where all the excitement are within reach. When visiting the place, it is best to buy tickets online to avoid the long queues.


2) Singapore Zoo

One of the most spectacular zoos in the world is the Singapore Zoo. Perched on a heavily forested area that covers up to 28 hectares, it serves as a natural habitat to almost 500 species of animals including white tigers, monkeys, guanacos, sun bear, and pink flamingoes.


3) Singapore Flyer

No tour is complete without trying Singapore Flyer. Similar to London’s Eye, it is a huge Ferris Wheel which provides people who ride it with an unblocked and spectacular view of Singapore’s cityscape. Riding it feels like flying!


4) Merlion in Sentosa

There are numerous Merlion statues in Singapore and the one in Sentosa Island probably offers the best experience. Inside, learn about the history of the iconic Merlion and know more about the legendary sea dragons and mermaids. It also has an observation deck that offers a panoramic view of Sentosa Island and the country’s southern islands.


5) Gardens by the Bay

A new spectacle in Singapore is the Gardens by the Bay. Located at the Marina Bay area, it is a huge complex that features various plants and trees which are not often seen in Asia. It has two major attractions: Cloud Forest and Flower Dome.


6) Jurong Bird Park

Tagged as Asia’s largest of its kind, Jurong Bird Park is a primary tourist destination in Singapore. It is a vast landscaped park perched on Jurong Hill that gives home to almost 5,000 birds from 380 species. The aviary is open and birds can fly freely around. Interacting with the birds is also possible, with all the bird shows prepared for guests.


7) Night Safari

If you are looking for a unique experience, go to Night Safari. Located close to the Singapore Zoo, it is a good place to continue your ‘animal’ trip. It is the first nocturnal zoo in Asia and gives home to animals normally found in safaris, as well as night creatures like flying bats, tarsiers, and more.


8) Underwater World

Located at Sentosa Island, Underwater World is a stunning oceanarium which features more than 2,500 animals from 250 species. It features a 252 feet-long tunnel that would allow you to see the beautiful marine ecology. Tickets to this attraction also cover entrance to the Dolphin Lagoon at Palawan Beach.


9) Marina Bay Sands Hotel

Definitely one of the most beautiful hotels in Asia and in the world, the Marina Bay Sands Hotel is a 5-star lodging establishment that has become an icon of Singapore. It features three buildings, connected by a ship-like structure on top. Aside from its luxurious amenities and services, it features a casino, theaters, museum and a huge shopping complex, including the largest Louis Vuitton store.


10) Marina Bay Sands Sky Park

Located at the 57th floor of the Marina Bay Sands hotel is the spectacular Marina Bay Sands Sky Park. It is a favorite destination for many guests and plain tourists as it provides a spectacular view of Singapore. It is also famed for its outdoor infinity pool.

Top 10 Attractions in Vietnam

There are so many reasons to buy cheap flights to Vietnam. Most times, these are the places and attractions to visit when in the country. Vietnam, despite being a war zone for decades, has coped up already and is now among the many top tourist destinations in Asia.

Here are the top tourist attractions within this prime tourist destination:

1) Ha Long Bay

A very pristine place, the Ha Long Bay was one of the nominees for the Natural Wonders of the World. It is also known as the “Bay of the Descending Dragons” and features islands forming limestone pillars.



2) Nha Trang

For those who love the summer season, visiting Nha Trang would definitely be one of the best things to do. It is a famous seaside resort town which features several beaches and Vietnam hotels. Scuba diving is the top activity to do here.


3) Mui Ne

 Source: Timeout Singapore

People who are into windsurfing and kite-surfing are advised to visit Mui Ne. It is a nice place that has been a constant tourist destination for the past 15 years. A trip to the famous sand dunes is a must especially during sunset where the spectacle is truly stunning.


4) Mekong River

Source: Panoramio.com

It looks like a river of flood but the color of the water is really normal. Mekong River is an interesting destination in Vietnam because it would expose people to the typical culture of the locals. It is in the south.


5) Hoan Kiem Lake

One of the most historical places in Vietnam is the Hoan Kiem Lake. It is said to be the lake where the legendary King Le Loi accepted a magical sword from the deities to defeat the Chinese forces which was invading Vietnam then. After his victory, the king returned the sword to the Golden Turtle God.


6) Sa Pa Terraces

In Muong Ha Valley, the Sa Pa Terraces are located. Tourists are immediately stunned by the beauty of this attraction because it appeals very comforting and relaxing to the eyes. The terraces are actually rice fields and some are planted with vegetables.


7) Thien Mu Pagoda

The famous Thien Mu Pagoda is the tallest pagoda in Vietnam. It is an icon of the imperial era of the country and is a beautiful edifice that overlooks the Perfume River. It was built on 1601 during the rule of the Nguyen Lords.


8) Hoi An

Exposing oneself to the beautiful heritage of Vietnam is easy in Hoi An. It was actually a fishing village until it was turned into a tourist attraction. It is currently brimming with Chinese shophouses and cafés which travelers extremely attractive and unique.


9) Phu Quoc

Another place to visit during the summer seasons, Phu Quoc is the largest island in Vietnam. It is home to a stunning nature including a white sand beach which is even hailed as one of the cleanest beaches in the world. The coral reefs in Phu Quoc are also very breathtaking.


10) Cu Chi Tunnels


The Cu Chi Tunnels are basically a complex network of underground tunnels which can be found northwest of Ho Chi Minh (Saigon). It was used as a hiding place of the Viet Cong guerillas during the Vietnam War. Travelers can actually pass through the tunnels for tours.

One of the secret tunnel way

Demo on how to exit the tunnel

The Map of Cu Chi tunnel

  Source: Vietnamwiki.net

These top 10 attractions are just some of the beautiful places in Vietnam. Different flight promotions are available online so visiting these famous Vietnam attractions is certainly a breeze.