Joanna James
Seoul is a metropolis which offers every comfort and luxury and if full of ways to keep visitors entertained and engaged. However, it is not a city that has lost touch with its history or culture.
What stands in Seoul today is not the original palace but a very precise replica. The palace was initially built in 1495 but suffered much damage and fell into disrepair during the Japanese occupation of Korea. The most recent renovations to the palace saw completion in 2007. You can wander around the beautifully landscaped gardens and admire the architecture of the palace but also you can get a glimpse of locals dressed in their traditional 'hanboks'. If you wear hanbok when visiting the palace you can enter for free. The best time to visit would be in the morning around 9 am as it isn't that crowded at that time.
Bukchon Hanok simply means North Village – a name given to the village because it is situated to the north of the Cheoggye stream. Since this beautiful little village is located close to the palace you can probably fit both into one day. Bukchon Hanok is still a residential area – however, the houses are all of the traditional Korean builds and are very aesthetically pleasing. The area has many guesthouses and restaurants. It's best to get a map from the tourist information centre before you begin exploring, however.
Seoul is a super-developed city so you will have no shortage of comforts and if you know how to look you can make your stay a very luxurious one without having to bust the bank. There are many big-name global hotel chains present in Seoul – so if you want to splurge, by all means! But if you want a better deal, check out Somerset Palace Seoul. It is an exemplary example of the serviced apartments in Seoul Korea has to offer.
Shopping is an important part of life in Korea so even if you aren't a big shopaholic yourself be sure to head down to Myeong-Dong to people watch at least. It is a busy street with shops selling everything from textiles to Korean cosmetics – trinkets and even jewellery. There are also a few western and Korean restaurants where you can stop for a bite. There are lots of food stalls where you can try a vast variety of authentic local cuisine.
Built-in 1965 as a television and radio broadcast tower the N Seoul Tower has since been relieved of its former duties and is now open to the public to come and take in the best view Seoul has to offer. The tower is an iconic landmark of the city and is one of its most visited attractions. If you appreciate a good view visit but be prepared – it can get a bit packed.
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