Joanna James
The best part of any vacation has to be the attractions - it's a great way of seeing what's unique about the country you're visiting. Whether it's the history, the culture, the things you can buy, or even the daily routine of the people within, there's so much you can learn and use to improve your life. This is definitely true for the country of Korea, a place full of things that visitors will love to see.
Staying in a Myeongdong hotel may be good for many reasons, but the main one being that it's close to the Insadong shopping district - one of the places in Seoul where you can truly lose yourself. Whether it's a charming souvenir or a relaxing tea shop, the district here is special. Devoid of the usual trappings of a metropolitan shopping experience, but full of culture and whimsy, it's also a nice place to get some insight into the normal day-to-day of a Korean city.
While Seoul is truly an amazing city, there's nothing stopping you from visiting outside the concrete jungle, and in fact, you may even be delighted as a fan of nature. The Seoraksan National Park is home to a beautiful mountain range and some thrilling hiking trails. You get to see the wondrous ecosystem at work, and it's a great place to visit at any point in the year. Try aligning your visit with the Autumnal months for the best effect, though - the trees change pigments in a fascinating display of living colour.
If you were curious, it's a tomb that was built to the King's preference and not one that sank to the depths! An important part of Korean history from 1,500 years ago, King Munmu's fervent wish was to be buried underwater, to return as a dragon to protect the land. Speaking of the land, the areas nearby are famous for the freshest and most delicious seafood, so make sure to stop by a few places for a bite!
No trek around the city of Seoul is over without a stop by the N Seoul Tower, a great example of Korean ingenuity and architecture. Sitting at 236 meters tall, the place is great to take a sight and something to consider doing while relaxing at a popular hotel like the Travelodge Myeongdong City Hall, and the observation decks are great to peek at the city during sunrise. It's also quite popular as a spot to eat or to go for a date, and for good reason - it's truly breathtaking.
A magnificent palace built in the year 1395, this famous place is a quintessential piece of Korean history, holding an honoured spot as the largest of the Five Grand Palaces of Korea. The opulent design and immaculate architectural layout reflect its place as an abode for royalty, as easily as laying your eyes upon it. Tragically, it was destroyed 100 years ago by Imperial Japan and is still being restored to this day. However, there's so much to yet see, that you'll need a few hours to get through it all, and there are plenty of museums to absorb just a little more knowledge if it suits you.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a pas...
