Destination: Korea
Destination: Korea
What can I expect from South Korea?
South Korea is probably one of the most underrated countries in East Asia. However, despite its small size, South Korea has a lot to offer: history, UNESCO heritage sites, beaches, islands, modern cities – and delicious food.
There are 9 provinces in South Korea: North Chungcheong, South Chungcheong, Gangwon, Gyeonggi, North Gyeongsang, South Gyeongsang, North Jeolla, South Jeolla, and Jeju Special Self-Governing Province.
COVID-19 Travel Information for Korea
At of the time of writing, international tourists are allowed to enter South Korea. You must submit the following in order to travel Sout Korea:
- K-ETA – Korea Electronic Travel Authorization: The K-ETA is not a visa. It’s a travel authorization document by the Korean government to monitor international travelers to Korea.
- Q-Code for Quarantine-Free Travel
- Proof of Vaccination
For more details about the K-ETA, Q-Code and quarantine information, read my blog post here.
Things to See and Do in South Korea
Suggested daily budget
35-50 EUR / 40-56 USD
(Note: This is a suggested budget assuming you’re staying in a hostel, eating out a little, cooking most of your meals, and using local transportation.
Using the budget tips below, you can always lower this number. However, if you stay in fancier accommodation or eat out more often, expect this to be higher!)
Money Saving Tips
Recommended Travel Guides for Korea
If you want to learn more about South Korea and have a handy travel guide in your pocket, check out these three options below:
DK Eyewitness Top 10 Seoul
This Top 10 Seoul guide is a great pocket guide that breaks down the best of Seoul into helpful lists of ten - from selected highlights to the best museums and galleries, and the most authentic restaurants, tearooms, bars, shops, and markets. I personally helped update the most recent version of this guide. Buy this book.
Lonely Planet Korea
You really can't go wrong with a lonely planet guide in your hand luggage! I'm a huge fan of Lonely Planet and own this guide myself. What I love is the brand-new pull-out, passport-size 'Just Landed' card with wi-fi, ATM and transport info - all you need for a smooth journey from airport to hotel! Buy this book.
South Korea: The Solo Girl’s Travel Guide
Calling all my solo female travel ladies out there - this guide is amazing! Part of the #1 Travel Guidebook Series for Women (and couples), this take on South Korea will help you avoid the scams, creeps, and tourist traps and skip ahead to the cities and adventures that are worth your time (and money)! Buy this book.
Travel Insurance for South Korea
I’m always surprised how many people travel without travel insurance. For me, it’s as essential to travel as buying a plane ticket, backpack or accommodation, and I never go without it.
Although South Korea is relatively safe, unexpected natural disasters can always happen and I’ve witnessed people getting laptops and phones pickpocketed first hand.
Adequate insurance not only provides you with medical coverage (if you get sick or break your leg), but also covers things like your camera full of epic shots getting damaged or stolen, your flights getting cancelled, or you getting caught up in a natural disaster.
In short, it’s an insurance against potential issues that arise when you’re traveling and can save your life (or at the very least, a lifetime of debt).
BOOK | I recommend booking World Nomads travel insurance
World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.
Teaching English in South Korea
Do you want to stay in Korea permanently? South Korea is a great destination for those interested in teaching English abroad.
With a strong economy and an increasing demand for English language skills, South Korea offers a wealth of opportunities for teachers to gain valuable experience and contribute to students' language development.
To begin your teaching journey in South Korea, it's recommended to obtain a TEFL/TESOL certification. There are various course options available, both online and in-class, that can help prepare you for teaching in South Korea.
Teaching English in Asia has been an enriching experience for me, offering a chance to explore new cultures and meet new people. In South Korea, you'll have the opportunity to work in modern cities, traditional villages, and rural areas, each with its own unique charm.
For those seeking a reliable provider for TEFL/TESOL certification, consider ITTT for the following reasons:
- Experience: ITTT has been providing high-quality TEFL training courses since 1998, making it a well-established provider.
- Inclusive: ITTT courses are open to all fluent English speakers, regardless of nationality or teaching experience.
- Transparent: ITTT offers transparent pricing with no hidden costs, covering all necessary materials and certification.
- Support: ITTT provides 24/7 customer care, lifetime job assistance to course graduates, and access to teaching materials and lesson plans.
- Additional Resources: ITTT offers supplementary resources to support its graduates, such as teaching videos, an online blog, and partnerships with leading recruitment companies in the EFL industry.
Sign up through my link and receive a 20% discount off your TEFL/TESOL course to start your teaching journey in South Korea today!
For more details, check out my complete guide for teaching English in South Korea.
What can I expect from South Korea?
Be prepared to get your mind blown. Serioulsy, because not many people consider Korea a travel destination, it isn’t much talked about. That’s why you’ll be even more impressed once you explore the vibrant local culture and visit Korea’s many fascinating attractions and natural wonders.
