On this trip, we went with a tour group because we wanted to go and booked it during a time when there were more rumors circulating than mosquitoes in our backyard. We heard things like, "If you go, you might not be able to come back," and "You might have to travel alone." There were all sorts of exciting news that made our ears perk up like a cat with a new collar. During our tour, some people were sent back, while others managed to escape. It was definitely a wild ride.

This article will recount our observations and unusual experiences during a recent tour. While tours typically offer a mixed bag of positive and negative aspects, we rarely participate in them. However, we decided to give it another try this time around, and to our surprise, it turned out to be quite enjoyable in several ways. Let's delve into the details of our experience.

This review will not provide a detailed account of our journey or the mode of transportation used, as we were part of a tour group. This experience of traveling with a large group of strangers offered a unique perspective. While we functioned as a team, there was minimal interaction among members, creating an unusual and enjoyable dynamic, unlike any previous travel experience.

This post is for those who dream of visiting Korea, a land of alluring cosmetics, affordable shoes, kimchi that becomes an irresistible craving, and delectable grilled pork enjoyed at every opportunity, all washed down with refreshing beer and perfectly fried chicken that defies replication.

Let's go! It's good, really good, everyone likes it.

Expenses

-16,900 baht in total for everything from flights to accommodation and food.

(Price varies depending on the season, not by weight.)

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Day 1

"The money in my wallet disappears because the mileage in my life increases."

The piercing sound of the alarm clock echoed through the room as we repeatedly hit the snooze button. 5:00 AM was the designated meeting time with our tour guides at Don Mueang Airport. Naturally, with such an early departure and our residence in Ladprao, we had to wake up at 3:00 AM and brave the chilly morning air, a typical winter routine for many of us. After our guides escorted us out of the country, we found ourselves standing in the heart of Seoul, indulging in kimchi as our plane took off with an almost imperceptible lift.

"The money in my wallet disappears because the mileage in my life increases."

The insistent buzzing of the alarm clock echoed through the room as we repeatedly hit the snooze button. 5:00 AM was the designated meeting time with our tour guides at Don Mueang Airport. Naturally, with such an early departure and our residence in Ladprao, we were forced to wake up at 3:00 AM and brave the chilly morning air, a common practice for us during the winter months. After our guides escorted us out of the country, we found ourselves standing in the heart of Seoul, indulging in kimchi. The plane's takeoff was surprisingly smooth, almost too smooth.

This flight was operated by a crew wearing striking red uniforms. A minor highlight occurred when the crew member spoke, sounding remarkably like Woody from Toy Story, saying, "Hello, everyone in Thailand." His voice was incredibly smooth and deep, which elicited a chuckle from me. It was a pleasant surprise that brought a smile to my face. The takeoff was smooth and reassuring, which I greatly appreciated. I confess to being somewhat afraid of flying, but I always prefer a window seat.

The plane landed at Incheon Airport, a must-visit destination for all travelers. Upon arrival, we were immediately invigorated, as if we had just missed winning the first prize in a lottery. The temperature was a delightful 2 degrees Celsius, making it a perfect day to explore the city.

Upon arrival, we were greeted by a diverse crowd of passengers from various nationalities and religions, creating a surprisingly warm and welcoming atmosphere. The terminal building, which connects the boarding gates and baggage claim area, is serviced by a regular-speed train, as high-speed options seemed unnecessary for such a short distance. Initially, the layout was confusing, but we followed the flow of passengers until we reached our luggage.

**The notorious Korean Immigration, known for its strictness, can be a daunting experience. While some travelers pass through seamlessly, others are detained, revealing their true intentions as illegal immigrants. Tour guides have reported instances where groups of 30 dwindled to 15 upon arrival, transforming into private tours. Despite the uncertainty, it's best to remain calm, prepare necessary documents, and demonstrate your intention to return for work.**

We were then herded to the bus stop. You can actually take the train or the bus, just get off at the stop. Sneakily open Google Maps or ask the people around you, pretend to be lost, maybe you'll get a hottie to take you home.

The first place we will enjoy to the fullest is "Lotte World Adventure," the largest indoor amusement park, according to what they say. Well, overall it was okay, but what caught my eye and made me envious was that this place is for couples. If you come alone, you'll look out of place. You might as well shake your head and stay home, or come with a group of friends to make it look grand.

This area is divided into two zones: the indoor zone and the outdoor zone. The outdoor zone features extreme rides that will make your legs tremble with a mixture of excitement and fear, like a heart swaying towards a crush. This is the first target for our teenagers, the outdoor zone.

As you step into the Lotte World underground passage, you'll be greeted by a magnificent building featured in a Korean drama where a couple professes their love. The name of the drama escapes me, but the building's facade continuously changes colors, resembling the vibrant hues of Pocky candy sold in the market. The ambiance is delightful, illuminated by the building's brilliance and the charm of the surrounding people, including the handsome Korean men.

The first and only machine where the rider doesn't play, but their friend does. The Giant Drop is super cool :D This one has a mask that you wear, like you're watching something, and then it just drops you. Honestly, if you look at the view, it's even scarier. Oh, you're excited now, aren't you?

Note: The queue is extremely long, far too long to wait to play every machine, as there is unlikely to be enough time.

Lotte World Amusement Park

Returning to the indoor zone, where most children play, we ran in circles (like a carousel). We were told that this is the largest carousel in Seoul (or perhaps Korea). We also rode the light worm that runs along the tracks, taking us on a tour of Lotte World, perfect for families with three-year-old children. Finally, we ended with a balloon ride that hovered along the edge of the dome, offering a panoramic view of the entire indoor Lotte World. However, we didn't take the ride because the long queue of Korean and Chinese visitors made us impatient, so we followed them back.

This is another reason for going on a tour, right? There are pros and cons, but we think it's a different kind of experience. It's fun in a different way. It's like you get to fantasize about the celebrities you love and get excited about the people you admire.

The highlight of the trip is the largest carousel in South Korea. It's massive! (Although, to be honest, the one back home is bigger, so it wasn't that exciting for me.) The kids turned around and gave me the cutest look. "Can I take you home, son?" I thought to myself. "Mom will keep you spinning forever." The lively atmosphere and the incomprehensible music made it a truly magical experience. It would have been even more perfect if we had been on a three-month date. Wink wink.

After a while, around 9 pm, the tour guide told us to enjoy the place as this was the only time we had, as we had to head back to our accommodation. The accommodation we went to was called "JK Hotel", a hotel that seemed to be around 3 stars, no more than that. Most of the tour groups we saw were here. The accommodation is located in the district of

In our early twenties, sleep wasn't a priority when we were on vacation. The tour guide informed us that we had free time at night, so we could either sleep or do whatever we wanted. The first thing that came to mind was beer and fried chicken, which is incredibly famous in this country. Another thing that we craved was Korean BBQ.

Behold, the divine Korean BBQ buffet, a true taste of Seoul. Unlike its Thai counterparts, this establishment offers an authentic Korean experience, transporting you to the heart of the peninsula. For a mere 10,000 won (approximately 300 baht), you can indulge in an unlimited feast of succulent meats, unconstrained by time or the limitations of your stomach. However, beverages such as water and beer are subject to additional charges, as the buffet does not extend to drinks.

The restaurant is located a short walk from our accommodation. As you walk up the street, you will see a variety of shops on both sides, including bars, fried chicken restaurants, and barbecue restaurants like the one we are considering. A tip: using sign language can be helpful, as most people here do not speak English and may not understand my accent. The pork in the picture is delicious and satisfying, but be mindful of the fat content.

The side dishes were also buffet-style, so you could just walk up and grab them. You could even take them with you. Plus, there was a rice buffet. I had three big bowls, so much that I could barely breathe.

"The remnants of success in eating mostly come from eating greedily."

I can't read the sign in front of the pork pan shop. Can you read it for me?

I cannot read the sign at the front of the barbecue restaurant. Can someone please tell me what it says?

On the first night, we started with light beers and grilled pork to get the fat flowing. Then, we indulged in the most heartwarming "cantaloupe milk" for 1,300 baht at a shop that's as ubiquitous as 7-Eleven in our home country. It's a cantaloupe milk unlike any other, and you absolutely have to try every flavor. It tastes like dipping melon into condensed milk and slowly savoring it as it melts in your mouth, not in your hand.

On the first night, we warmed up our appetites with light beers and grilled pork, followed by the ultimate comfort drink: "Cantaloupe Milk (the green one)" for 1,300 baht at a convenience store chain similar to 7-Eleven. This mysterious cantaloupe milk is a must-try in all its flavors. It tastes like dipping a melon into condensed milk and slowly savoring it as it melts in your mouth, not in your hand.

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Day 2

"Grilled pork is divine, indeed."

This morning, I woke up to 0 degrees Celsius. The air outside my house didn't feel cold at all. Are you kidding me? It's freezing, man! We have an appointment at the "Yangji Pine Ski Resort" ski slope. This is our goal, right? Let's go skiing and drag me along. I feel like being Mewnitha, who has amnesia, and having you, Tee, come find me and take me home.

The ski resort is about an hour's bus ride away. It's not a long journey, but it feels like you're leaving the countryside. You wake up on the bus, take a nap, and then you're there.

We have arrived! It feels like we've been teleported here. The first touch of air is around -2 degrees Celsius, just like in Thailand. There are two types of skiing available here. The first type, as seen in the picture, is skiing with two legs. I'm not sure what it's called, but it costs 35,000 won. However, it's recommended to have some time, as you need to measure your size and practice standing and walking before you can start skiing. The other type is Slade, which is a sliding board that you can use to slide down the hill. You don't need to practice or do anything, just slide down.

Slade is a relaxed option that doesn't require much preparation or time. We chose this option for 25,000 won. The tour guides actually recommended this option due to our limited time (a bit of a shame). However, after inquiring further, they agreed to let us try the first option as they would personally teach us. This was a good thing, but we were worried we wouldn't have enough time to play.

**** If you have ample time, such as an entire day or night, and plan to spend more than half a day at the location, playing with both legs would undoubtedly be more enjoyable and raw. However, if you are short on time, it is recommended to choose the first option. This way, you can experience the thrill of "since we're already here, let's go all out" (we only have 1.5 hours). However, we also want to try the slide, which is similar to riding a slider when we were five years old. It's so much fun!

The child is adorable. May I take a picture? The parent is purchasing tickets at the back.

After a cool ski session on Slade's slopes, our rumbling stomachs started to crave a satisfying meal, urging us to devour food as if it were 11 pm and we were famished.

This is another all-you-can-eat Korean BBQ restaurant. The restaurant is located near ..., and it is a popular spot for tour groups, especially Chinese, Japanese, and Thai tourists. The restaurant serves a variety of meats, including beef, pork, and chicken. The meats are large and not cut into small pieces, which is different from most Korean BBQ restaurants in Thailand. The restaurant also serves a variety of side dishes, including kimchi. The kimchi is a perfect complement to the meat, and it is a must-try for any visitor to the restaurant.

We are hungry. We apologize.

After our stomachs were full of savory dishes, it was time for dessert. Our next destination was the "FOUR SEASON FARM" strawberry garden. This is a small garden that emphasizes the juiciness of its strawberries. They actually said that you could pick and eat the strawberries directly from the plants and pay later. However, there was an incident where a tourist ate too many strawberries and tried to sneak out without paying. As a result, the owner...

Here you go, no need to pick it yourself. Haha.

I love it here!

The taste is beyond words, incredibly sweet and juicy. The strawberries are huge, and each bite is a burst of flavor. A box of six costs 12,500 won, and the ones we sampled were likely included in our tour. But they were so good, we couldn't resist buying four boxes to take home. They even came wrapped in luxurious gold cloth.

FOUR SEASONS FARM

Accessing this area appears to be difficult. Public transportation options seem limited, and private vehicles may be necessary. The park's remote location and apparent lack of regular transportation services suggest that reaching it might require a bus journey or hitchhiking. However, this information may be inaccurate, and alternative travel methods could exist.

Welcome back to Nami Island, another landmark in the land of kimchi. Here, we cheer with light sticks. If you have the chance to visit, come around four o'clock when the sun is setting. It will be very beautiful. Actually, there's not much to do here. It's more about taking a leisurely walk, relaxing, and enjoying the view like the owner of the island.

Upon arrival, purchase tickets at the booth next to the checkpoint before disembarking. We will then be guided onto the boat bound for Nami Island. Follow the crowd, it's not difficult.

Nami Island is a charming island that offers a diverse range of attractions. From a historical perspective,

This island, named after General Nami, resembles a floating leaf. It is adorned with numerous stories, making every corner picturesque and brimming with potential for captivating photographs. Every angle provides an opportunity to strike a pose, truly a delight for the soul. The abundance of photogenic spots ensures a treasure trove of memories.

We are trying not to be ABC anymore. Another popular angle.

The entire journey exudes a natural ambiance, complete with twinkling lights, a charming atmosphere, and a sense of camaraderie that transcends words. The presence of attractive couples further enhances the experience. However, be warned: finding a potential partner here may prove challenging, as most attendees seem to be accompanied by their significant others.

Another shop on Nami Island that made us stop and pay was the steamed bun shop. Each bun costs 1,000 won, and they were delicious! The soft dough combined with the warmth of the bun against the cold air was just perfect. I wish I could have stopped time as the bun bounced into my mouth. The buns are in those black pots; I couldn't find a picture of them.

The sun is setting just in time for the last trip before it says goodbye.

The night view from the "Soul Tower" is a must-see for couples. This iconic landmark offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city, perfect for a romantic evening. Visitors can write their names on a love lock and attach it to the tower, symbolizing their eternal bond. The tower's immense height provides an unobstructed view, making it an ideal spot for stargazing or simply enjoying the cityscape. While the nighttime vista is spectacular, it can be slightly obscured due to the darkness.

They'll break up soon. What are they clinging to each other for?

Tonight, we had to change our accommodation to the "PRIME in SEOUL HOTEL". I don't know how many stars it has, but I know it has a huge bathtub. Let's see how it is. But in the end, we didn't use the bathtub for anything other than washing our feet. Look how much we missed! 555

We will be staying here for two nights, which is not bad at all. Everything seems okay, not luxurious but not ordinary either. Plus, it's close to the train station. Well, not that close, we have to walk amidst the daily wind blowing in our faces.

Tonight, we're venturing out to explore the exciting nightlife scene in Korea. Our destination is NB1, a renowned club that consistently ranks among the hottest spots in the country. To gain entry, patrons must be under 35 years of age and present a valid passport for identification.

Please bring the hotel's business card or take a picture of it, as it is essential for communication.

We opened Google Maps to teleport ourselves to the nearest train station and then went to Hongik University Station. Once we got off, we opened the map and started walking.

**Common warnings received**

Female patrons of Korean nightclubs should be prepared for the possibility of Korean men physically touching them in a manner that may be considered overly familiar or even aggressive. While some women may enjoy this attention, others may find it uncomfortable or even intimidating. It is important to be assertive and to clearly communicate your boundaries if you are not comfortable with being touched. If you are approached by a man who is being overly persistent, it is best to politely but firmly decline his advances and to avoid engaging in further conversation. It is also important to be aware of your surroundings and to take precautions to protect yourself from unwanted attention. If you are concerned about your safety, it is always best to leave the club and to seek help from a trusted friend or family member.

The morning session arrived once again, and we jumped to the energetic beats of YG's songs. My friend, a devoted BigBang fan, dominated the dance floor with her enthusiasm.

The last train departs at midnight, and once again, I had to hail a taxi. The meter's rapid ascent made my heart race; it moved at an alarming pace, reflecting the city's high cost of living. :D

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Day 3

"If I don't step outside my comfort zone now, when will I ever experience new things?"

Good morning! Today is the third day of our trip, and we're starting the day by braving the two-degree weather. Our first stop is Changdeokgung Palace, the second-largest palace after Gyeongbokgung Palace. It was used as the residence for kings during that era. A fun fact I learned is that the number of monkeys on the roof of a palace indicates how often the king used it. This trip has been a great way to learn and absorb new information.

Another highlight is the "Grandma's Fish," a Korean dish whose name I can't recall. The combination of the crisp, cold air and this dish is simply divine. The stall is located outside the parking lot. To be precise, look into the lot, walk left, and exit through the tour bus parking area. You'll find Grandma's stall there. Trust me, it's delicious and affordable at only 1,000 won. A true culinary gem.

Despite the lingering presence of the old, we find ourselves drawn to the allure of the new. Our tour guide leads us to a restaurant renowned for its "Emperor's Stewed Chicken." Legend has it that this dish was once reserved for royalty. The flavors, reminiscent of our humble chicken rice, are subtle and understated. The chicken, meticulously stuffed with rice, is simmered in a vigorously boiling broth. The dish is served simply, accompanied by the familiar flavors of our local chicken dipping sauce (courtesy of our guide). While the experience may not be for everyone, it offers a unique and memorable culinary adventure. As the saying goes, "One must try to know."

The long-awaited moment for the tourists to raid the Duty Free shop has finally arrived. The building offers an extensive selection of goods, from the two large suitcases of cosmetics ordered by a neighbor to the gift shop items requested by a friend's partner. Despite the lack of personal shopping requests, the interior of the building is a shopper's paradise, leaving plenty of room for individual imagination. However, the true highlight lies outside, where a particular attraction has captured our attention.

Mojeongyo Bridge

The area around the bridge here seems to be another place to relax and forget about her for a while. Here you will see people sitting and chilling, walking their dogs, or maybe just passing by. But when we look out, we feel comfortable. We like to sit and watch things like this. It's a way to relax after a long journey. :D

And now, the long-awaited shopping leg has arrived: "Myeongdong Market," a shopping district where you can find anything you want to eat, from cosmetics to shoes. Let me tell you, the prices are about one-third cheaper than in Thailand, but not that much cheaper. However, we didn't come here to shop this time, but to eat! Let's see what we've been munching on.

- Extremely long ice cream

This ice cream is crazy! It's so long, but the most important thing is that it's delicious. It only costs 1,000 won, which is not too much. Another important thing is that we tried to shake it back and forth, and the ice cream was so dense that it didn't fall out.

The salesperson only spoke a few words of Thai, repeating "delicious, delicious" over and over again.

- Grilled shellfish

I'm not sure what it is, but I saw them blowtorch it and then sprinkle it with cheese. Like, "Oh, cheese!" I exclaimed softly. That's how it is. They'll take the oysters, sprinkle them with cheese, and then add something else I don't know. They'll cook it and mix it all together in their own way. Our job is to pay and eat the whole thing. The taste is a bit greasy, but overall it's okay. It ended up costing 8,000 won.

While the exterior may not be the most appealing, once you step inside, you'll be grinning from ear to ear.

- Thai fish-shaped pastry is not taiyaki because it is sold in Korea.

The fish-shaped pastry, pressed into a mold and transformed into a delightful treat, is a must-try. We opted for the banana flavor, and the first bite revealed a satisfying crunch from the sugar crystals embedded in the crispy dough. This delectable snack, priced at 1200 won, would be a welcome addition to any office pantry.

To conclude, the cold weather is the last thing to mention.

"I didn't burn it, it was already burnt."

The taste is nothing special, but it's good to eat in the cold weather when your hands need warmth but there's no one to hold. This roasted sweet potato is here to warm you up (what am I even saying?). I don't remember the price, but it was probably around 1,000 won.

After finishing shopping for snacks and cosmetics for the aunts and uncles, our stomachs were still not satisfied. Beer and chicken popped into our minds. "Let's go gnaw on some chicken," a simple, teasing sentence that had a powerful influence on our rumbling stomachs. So, we set out to find a chicken restaurant once again.

Enjoying a cold beer, savoring delicious fried chicken, and indulging in a sweet potato pancake – a truly authentic Korean experience. This restaurant is conveniently located near Hongik University. We left Myeongdong quite late, just as the subway was about to close. This was our first time using the subway in Seoul. Interestingly, fried chicken and beer restaurants are ubiquitous in every district, as are grilled pork restaurants. We encountered them everywhere we went, and the quality was consistently good.

Another night where we thought we wouldn't sleep until almost morning. We ended up sleeping very little again. This time, we had to use a taxi service (the meter runs very fast, don't be surprised). Of course, our initial expectation was that it wouldn't be like in Thailand. But it was the same. They wouldn't go, wouldn't accept us, wouldn't talk. They did everything. Whyyyyyyy? I don't understand. But in the end, we found a kind driver with excellent English who talked to us the whole way. I started to get sleepy and wondered if he was taking us on a detour. But before I knew it, we arrived.

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Day 4

"You only live once, so make the most of it."

Good morning on the 4th day with a hangover level of 18++. The beer I drank ran around in my little stomach. Enjoyable. For today, we ended the day with a small program. Back to Tricker eye and Ice city. This place is similar to Art in paradise in Pattaya. Inside, there are many things to see, such as ice houses, 3D, or Zone 18+, which is called Sex Museum. They also have an age limit, you know. And I didn't dare to post the pictures either. 555

This is a room of mirrors where you must walk around to find the exit. It can be confusing, as the mirrors reflect each other and create the illusion of multiple exits. However, these are just reflections, and the actual exit is located elsewhere. If you get lost, try feeling your way around the walls, similar to how you would find your way to your bed in the dark.

How's it going, friend? Sneaky, huh? 5555

Our final meal in the land of kimchi was a "non-black shabu" with a slightly sweet broth. We paired it with sukiyaki dipping sauce from home, and the combination was simply divine. Words can't fully express how well it all came together. It was truly exceptional. The overall experience was very similar to sukiyaki, the main difference being the broth and the overflowing amount of ingredients we added to the pot. The three of us easily devoured it all.

We're here on a big tour, joining in the fun!

Around noon, we had to head back to prepare for our return to Thailand. We were going to face reality and resume our normal lives. We came here to recharge and add new things to our lives. Now, it's time to go back and fight. We'll come back again when we have the chance, maybe for a month-long vacation (but who would give us that much time off?).

South Korea is another city worth experiencing. Not only is the city prosperous, but its diverse culture is also fascinating. The people are friendly, with a touch of youthful rawness. There are many things to experience here. Some come for the artists, some come for the experience, and some come for the good cosmetics. Everyone has their own reasons, and we can't judge. But one thing that might be the same is that "we want to experience something new."

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