Joanna James
Seoul is a multi-faceted metropolis that will thrill you to bits no matter where your journeys take you. From green spaces, and comfy cafes to heritage sites, Seoul sure does have a lot going for it.
Of the 5 Joseon palaces that adorn South Korea’s capital city of Soeul, Changdeokgung Palace stands out as the best-preserved from the mentioned lot. To the curious globetrotter, Changdeokgung Palace and its astounding complex will be a treasure trove that will be well worth discovering at one’s own leisure. As the primary royal residence that was used for well over 2 centuries, Changdeokgung Palace is currently a UNESCO World Heritage Site and features a wide spectrum of elements. These include ornate pavilions, landscaped lawns, a lotus pond and a secret garden. To the photo-hungry vacationer, this heritage site will be the perfect introduction to striking that all-important holiday pose and making memories that will last for a lifetime.
Be greeted by the pungent aromas of street food wafting in as you make your way through the hustle and bustle of Gwangjang Market. Credited as one of the biggest traditional markets in all of Seoul, Gwangjang Market will pave the way for you to sample a wide array of street fare that ranges from seaweed rolls (mayak gimbap), sweet and spicy rice cakes (tteokboki) and mung bean pancakes (bindaetteok). While you will be well placed to exchange pleasantries with the locals, be sure to inquire about how you can get your hands on a bottle of rice wine (makgeolli) that will make for an excellent drink or gift for a loved one back home.
Considered the heart and soul of the city’s thriving shopping scene – Dongdaemun is where avid shoppers can embark on retail therapy outings of varying magnitude and appeal. Pick and choose from an underground shopping centre, a 24-hour shopping complex, wholesale outlets and a host of other value additions that will complement your every whim in no uncertain manner. Looking your best comes easy when in Dongdaemun where opportunities to venture off the beaten path can also be toyed with. Thus, Eulji-or cannot be overlooked if you’re hunting for tasty snacks and a glass of soju to keep your spirits up.
If you desire to stay well clear of traffic but still wish to take in the enormity of Seoul, then nothing should deter you from heading for Seoullo 7017. Constructed on what was once a highway, Seoullo 7017 is a multi-purpose pedestrian walkway that is perched over Seoul Station. Part and parcel of this eco-friendly leisure hotspot is a sky garden, pool and a slew of cafes from where you can get your daily dose of caffeine. Once here, devote your time towards checking out the peeping pots that play videos and sounds of Seoul together with the public art project titled ‘Yunseul’ which will come off as an immersive and insightful journey through the world of art.
Fancy enjoying a bird’s eye view of one of the world’s most talked about cities? Then waste no time in beelining for N Seoul Tower which is located a mere 7.6 km from Oakwood Premier Coex Center Seoul where you can select from a host of luxury apartments Seoul is known for. Rising to an awe-inspiring 480 meters in the air, N Seoul Tower will act as the ideal base to capture sweeping vistas of the city and all it represents. In terms of accessing the same, you will need to ride a lift and cable car that will combine to take you to a scenic destination worth all the time and effort.
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A travel writer who has a pas...
