From Tokyo to Seoul
Embarking on an adventure from the bustling metropolis of Tokyo, my travels took me to the vibrant city of Seoul, a hub of culture and history. Navigating through the lively airport and mastering the efficient bus system, a clean and cost-effective way to traverse Korea, I felt the excitement building.
Korean Hospitality Begins Immediately
As I strolled from the bus drop-off to my hotel, the welcoming locals added an extra layer of warmth to my journey.
I encountered two friendly Koreans, curious about my origins. The first gentleman, brimming with enthusiasm, insisted on gifting me a coffee, hurriedly slipping some Korean won into my pocket for a coffee on him.
The second encounter was equally delightful; a man wearing a “Trump” ballcap expressed joy at meeting someone from America.
Staying in Itaewon
My accommodation was the Hamilton Hotel in the Itaewon District, a place that had witnessed a massive gathering of over a million revelers celebrating Halloween.
Upon arrival, I learned of the tragic history tied to this very hotel, a somber reminder of a very recent event where 154 lives were lost. The entire world had heard of the crushing, and I was shocked to know that this was the very hotel where the tragedy occurred and the entire area was flooded with reporters and press, mourners, onlookers, and police.
Yet, amidst this sorrowful backdrop, I met fascinating locals, including Nikki from the America, an English teacher, who introduced me to the joy of Korean Barbeque, a popular dining experience where raw meats and veggies sizzle right at your table.
Exploring Seoul
Days in Seoul were a delightful blend of experiences. I devoted a day to fixing my phone at an incredible Samsung dealer, allowing me to capture the magic of this city.
Exploring the local architecture and immersing myself in a vibrant food bazaar, I found myself temporarily lost in the tantalizing aromas and diverse flavors.
Stepping Into Korea’s Ancient Past
A highlight of my journey was a visit to Changdeokgung Palace Complex, a relic from the Joseon dynasty and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Stepping back in time amidst the grand palace grounds, secret gardens, ponds, and ancient buildings, I marveled at the beauty of fall foliage embracing the surroundings.
New Friends and Korean Fried Chicken
My adventure took an even more exciting turn as I met kindred spirit and fellow solo traveler Poppette from South Africa.
We bonded over a delectable dinner featuring the original KFC – Korean Fried Chicken, served in spicy barbeque and traditional soy-ginger flavors.
Korea proved to be a haven for gastronomic delights, architectural marvels, and the timeless beauty of centuries-old traditions.
This journey was a tapestry of experiences, leaving me eager to unravel more of Korea’s wonders.
Where I Stayed:
Royal Square Hotel Seoul
The Royal Square Hotel Seoul was a convenient place to stay while traveling through Seoul, particularly because of its location near Gimpo International Airport. It gave me an easy base for getting around the city while still providing a comfortable retreat at the end of the day. I appreciated the convenience of being away from the busiest central areas while still having Seoul’s attractions within reach. It was another practical stop as I continued exploring South Korea.
Life Style S Hotel
The Life Style S Hotel was another of my Seoul accommodations, located in Gangseo-gu, not far from Gimpo International Airport. The hotel offered the practical comforts I needed, including Wi-Fi, room service, luggage storage, and free parking. My room included a desk, refrigerator, and city views, making it a comfortable place to recharge between adventures. Its location gave me another perspective on Seoul beyond the central tourist districts.
Hamilton Hotel
The Hamilton Hotel put me right in the heart of Seoul’s Itaewon District, a lively neighborhood known for its restaurants, nightlife, and international atmosphere. Its location made it a convenient base for exploring Seoul and experiencing the energy of Itaewon on foot.
The hotel had just taken a much more somber significance for me because of its proximity to the tragic Itaewon crowd disaster. Staying there placed me directly in an area that had suddenly become known around the world for a heartbreaking event.