Showing posts with label South Korea. Show all posts
Showing posts with label South Korea. Show all posts

Jan 4, 2012

DINING. SINSA DONG / APGUJEONG. SEOUL

As I am preparing to visit Seoul end of this month, it's only natural that I do some heavy duty research on where I would like to check out and eat.  So here is my preliminary list that I have compiled so far and perhaps, this perks your interest as well. When I am in Asia, I prefer the local or other Asian influence food. So do not expect to see Western/European influenced restaurants listed here.


Sinsa-dong Area 
South of Hannam Bridge. A cute upscale neighborhood for boutique shopping, latteing, and luncheons. It has an European vibe with Euro prices to match.
Taxi: Shin-sa Yuck = Station or Ga-row-sue-gil ( main street listed as "Garosugil" on above map)

Yum Thai
Authentic Thai


More infohttp://www.seouleats.com/2009/12/yum-thai-authentic-thai-food-in-seoul.html
Subway direction: Sinsa Station exit 1. Walk for 3 minutes and count to 4th street ( 1st - small street. 2nd - bigger street. 3rd & 4th - small street) and located 2nd building on your right side; just before S Oil Gas Station and across from J Tower)

Pro Con-jawng Gye-jawng
Specializes in soy sauce marinated fresh crab. Not one of the cheapest meals you'll have in Seoul.  Since the menu is written in Korean, point to 80,000 won item on the menu. I believe this price is for 4 persons. but for 2 persons, then point to 55,000 won which is listed below.  It's listed as #9 on above map.


Webwww.prosoycrab.com
More infohttp://www.seouleats.com/2011/12/soy-marinated-crab-pro-soy-crab.html
Subway direction: Sinsa Station exit 4. Count to 2nd street and turn right. Look for it on your left side.

Uri-gang-san
A traditional korean meal with 25 different side dishes. It's always packed during lunch and dinner hours. It's listed on the above map.


Subway direction: Sinsa Station exit 6. Turn right at 1st street. Turn left at the 1st street. Look for the sign on your right side.

Poong Worl
A Japanese izakaya restaurant specializing grilled dishes, sashimi, scallops, oyster, omelet, and more. Expect to pay about 25,000 - 30,000 won ( $30) including alcohol.




More infohttp://www.seouleats.com/search/label/insadong
Phone02-547-9923 (Most likely, they speak English)
Subway direction: Sinsa Station exit 8. Walk ahead and count to 3rd Street. At this major intersection street, turn left. This is the street, Ga-row-sue-gil. Count to 3rd street on your left side and turn left. At the 1st street, turn right. Start looking for " Paper Garden". Pass. Poong Worl is next to 7/11 store
Map: Link - the map shows the location of Paper Garden. 


Hyundai Department Store
If you have absolutely no idea what you are in the mood for, head over to Hyundai Department Store. You have the option of heading to the basement where there is a food court with a variety of Korean food and a grocery store section with a plenty of Korean snacks to choose from.  Or head to the top floor where there are plenty of restaurants to choose from as well.  I recommend Crystal Jade dim sum restaurant on the 5th floor. 
Subway direction: Apgujeong Station exit 6.


Sawore Boribap
A restaurant specializing boribap which is steam barley which comes with healthy vegetable toppings.  
Webwww.aprilbori.co.kr
More info: 
http://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/FO/FO_EN_6_4_4.jsp?category=&areaCode=1,1&recomm=&gotoPage=8&cid=349124#selectBox and map:
http://www.visitseoul.net/en/article/article.do?_method=view&m=0004001002002&p=01&art_id=33634&lang=en
Tip: if the menu is written in Korean, order the item with price 8,500 won. This is for boribap





Direction: Exit 2 of Line 3 Apgujeong Station, look to your left. There are a few steps leading down to the restaurant; by CGV Cinema. 


Gae-song House
An elderly woman from North Korea serves some great North Korean cuisine. 
More info: 
http://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/FO/FO_EN_6_4_4.jsp?category=&areaCode=1,1&recomm=&gotoPage=9&cid=398448#selectBox
Direction: 
Exit 4 or 5 of Apgujeong Station (Subway Line No. 3) >> Across the kwanglim Church. Look at the map above. 

Mok Ro Pyeong-yang Man-doo
Serves Mon-doo dumplings and soup Mon-doo guk.
More info and map: http://www.visitseoul.net/en/article/article.do?_method=view&m=0004001002002&p=01&art_id=33609&lang=en&tab=map


Mongnyeonsikdang
http://www.visitseoul.net/en/article/article.do?_method=view&m=0004001002002&p=01&art_id=33608&lang=en






Photos:
www.seouleats.com
www.koreataste.com

Jun 11, 2011

WESTERN HALF SIDE OF THE ISLAND OF JEJU

Click on it for a better view


Webhttp://jejulife.net and http://www.jejuweekly.com
Location: The western half side of the Island of Jeju from the western shore to 99 or 1139 highway (also known as 1100 Road ), South of the Korean Peninsula
Getting there:
* Daily direct flights from South Korean Peninsula / Japan / China with Korean Air, Asiana Air.
* Daily direct flight from South Korean Peninsula with Jeju Air and Jin Air
* Ferries from southern coastal cities of South Korea.
Getting around:
Car rental - only leased to those with a Korean license or an international driving license
Taxi - outside of the major cities, they are rarely seen
Bus - download the route schedule and information:
* http://www.jeju.go.kr/contents/index.php?mid=040502
* http://www.jeju.go.kr/etc/jejusibus(2009.9.7).htm
Tips:
1. At Jeju Airport, to go the Tourist Information Desk to learn about the local bus system, lodging options and its reservations, and pick up some  local maps.
2. If you don't speak Korean, I would advise to pick up a language guide book.
3. The summer is the peak tourist season. To avoid the crowds, I recommend visiting during late May and September into early October. The weather is still great for hanging out at the beaches.
4. If for some reason the bus you have been waiting for never arrives, then I suggest hitch-hiking. But use this method as a last option. Overall, Koreans are friendly to and intrigue by foreigners. Show the map to the driver where you need to go or to the nearest bus station.
5. For affordable accommodations, I recommend to stay at pensions, which is like a motel/inn usually with a small kitchenette or min-bauks, which is like a motel with a home-stay feel. Pensions are typically nicer than min-bauks.
6. Jeju(do = island) makes an ideal getaway for a few days during your visit on the mainland of South Korea. Not to get overwhelm during your visit, I have decided to only highlight the western half of the island for you to leisurely enjoy your island experience.

Map of the west half side of the island

* To learn about  public Shamen rituals and ceremonies held at various dates and locations throughout the island, read this article:http://jejulife.net/2008/11/11/jejus-shamans/ and then contact the writer: Brian Miller baraka49@yahoo.com to learn about the the upcoming events.

* Beach information: http://jejulife.net

Jeju(si = City ) Area
Sarabong Park
Located on the northern shore, east of the city with the best view of the sunset
Info: http://www.jejuweekly.com/news/articleView.html?idxno=212

Iho Tewoo Beach
West of the airport and also open during at nights
Info:http://www.jejuweekly.com/news/articleView.html?idxno=184

Dongmun Traditional Market

Lodging
1. Yeha Guesthouse
Web: www.yehaguesthouse.com
Conveniently located a block away from 1132 highway, 5min walk from Intercity Bus Terminal, and 5 mins drive away from the airport. It offers multi-language service: English, Japanese, Chinese, Spanish, and Korean.

2. Hotel Wind & Sand
Info: http://english.visitkorea.or.kr

3. Neulson Parktel
5 minute drive from the airport.
Info: http://english.visitkorea.or.kr

4. Nepadory (condo style min-bauk )
5 minute walk to Iho Beach
Info: http://english.visitkorea.or.kr
Web: www.nepadory.co.kr (Korean)

5. Hotel Hite


Aewol and  Aewol-eup Cities
Ollie Resort and Spa
About 20-25 minutes drive west along the coast from the airport in Aewol
Info: http://www.jejuweekly.com/news/articleView.html?idxno=396
A luxurious resort on the coast overlooking the Pacific

Jeju Polaris Pension
Out on the country side in Aewol-eup
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=2442796086&v=info
Web: www.jejupolaris.com (Korean)

Hallim City Area ( West Coast )
Hyeopjae Beach
Info: www.visitkorea.or.kr
A beautiful beach with turquoise blue water and white sandy beach located south of Hallim City center.

Geumleung Beach
South of Hyeopjea Beach and just as beautiful with turquoise water
Info: Info: http://english.tour2jeju.net

Biyando
An island just off the shore in-between Hyeopjae and Geumleung Beaches
Info: http://www.jejuweekly.com/news/articleView.html?idxno=211

Hallim Park
Botantical garden, cave, etc.
Info: http://www.jejuweekly.com/news/articleView.html?idxno=329

Spirited Garden Bunjae Park
An impressive bansai park created with a labor of love by one man, Mr. Sung Bum Young

Olle Nature Walking Trails
Trail routes 14 and 14-1
Info: http://english.visitkorea.or.kr

Lodging
1. Jeju Hyuang Namu Min-bauk
Info: http://www.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/SI/SI_EN_3_1_1_1.jsp?cid=351446

2. Sky Hotel
Right on Hyeopjae Beach
Info: http://english.tour2jeju.net/main/view.php?idno=10201&menu_id=33

3. Hae Jo Dae Pension
Located right on Hyeopjae Beach with a great view from your room. When you get off the bus, you will notice this place right away.
Info: http://www.tripadvisor.co.uk

4. Sam-seong Min-bauk
Adjacent to Hallim Park
Info:http://english.tour2jeju.net/main/view.php?idno=10204&menu_id=35

Jeoji Village Area ( Southeast from Hallim City )




Jeoji Orium or also known as Dakmoreu Orium
A beautiful wilderness area perfect for two hours of hike
Info: http://www.jejuweekly.com

Olli Nature Walking Trail
Trail route 13
Info:

Jeoji Art Village


Daejeong City Area ( Southwest Coast )
Sangbang Cave Buddhist Temple
A natural cave that has been transformed into a temple
Info: http://english.visitkorea.or.kr

Dan(san = mountain)
Hidden behind more famous Sangbangsan (Mountain)
Info: http://www.jejuweekly.com/news/articleView.html?idxno=104

Sangbangsan Hot Spring Spa
Info: http://www.jejuweekly.com/news/articleView.html?idxno=427

Hwasan Beach 
A beautiful view of the sunset behind the Sangbansan Mountain and it's not crowded.

Ollie Nature Walking Trails
Trail route 9
Info:


Lodging
1. Equus Motel
Near by major tourist attractions and on Ollie Nature Trail Route 9
Info: http://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/SI/SI_EN_3_1_1_1.jsp?cid=899655

2. Silver Star Hotel

Jung-mun Area ( where 1100 Road / 99 Baun deadends on the south )
Map of Jungmun Complex

* This is the area to stay if you are looking for the 5-star luxury hotel experience.
* Web:http://www.yeomiji.or.kr/eng/content/eng_tourguide005.jsp

Jusangjeoli
An unusual hexagonal rock formation created by an erosion of the ocean, wind, and waves.

Cheonjeyeon(pokpo = waterfall)
Quite an impressive site to see after a heavy rain.

Yeomiji Botantical Garden
The best botantical garden on the island
Web: http://www.yeomiji.or.kr/eng/content/eng_introduce001.jsp

Yakcheonsa Buddhist Temple
Although built recently in 1987 (entirely out of wood), it is still an impressive site to see. Climb to the 3rd floor to see 18,000 tiny Buddha figurines.
Info: http://jejulife.net/2008/07/16/yakcheon-temple-jeju-south-korea/

Ollie Nature Walking Trails

Lodging
1. Haila Pension
Info: http://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/SI/SI_EN_3_1_1_1.jsp?cid=351753
Web: www.hailapension.co.kr (Korean)

2. Gold Beach Pension
Info: http://english.visitkorea.or.kr
Web: www.goldbeach.co.kr (Korean)

3. Dream House Pension
Map: http://www.tripadvisor.com

4. Geckos Pension
Located north of the city out in the countryside.
Map: http://www.tripadvisor.com
Info: http://english.triptokorea.com

Mount Halla Area ( center of the island )
Seogwipo Forest Resort Area
A few kilometers southwest base of Mount Halla off of 1100 Road / 99 Baun
* Offers over-night accommodation and pension stay

Mount Halla Hiking Trails
Web: http://www.hallasan.go.kr/english/
 Trails on the west side:
1. Eorimok Trail: http://jejulife.net/2008/12/03/climbing-the-eorimok-trail/
2. Yeongsil Trail: http://www.jejuweekly.com/news/articleView.html?idxno=286
*  Chonja-am Temple: http://jejulife.net

Yeon-dong,  located south of the Airport off of northern 99/1139 Highway.
Love Land
A quirky and over-the-top sex themed park with sculptures in various positions
Info: http://www.jejuweekly.com/news/articleView.html?idxno=277

Lodging
1. December Hotel

2. Diamond Hotel


Photos:
http://m.wikitravel.org/en/Jeju
http://www.kspp.orghttp://www.worldmapfinder.com

Mar 21, 2011

SEOUL 101 & AFFORDABLE HOTELS



Web: http://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/index.kto
Informative bloghttp://budgettravel2korea.blogspot.com/
Planning:
1. The best time to travel to Seoul is in the months of late April, May, September, and early October when the weather is comfortably warm and not dry. The flights and hotels typically cost more during the Summer months.

2. No visa required for stay less than 30 days for the citizens of Canada, USA, Western Europe, Australia. But the passport is required for entry.

3. Search for a cheap flight. Check the special promotions with:

4. Affordable hotels:
Jung Gu District (Myeong-dong, Dongdaemun, Namdaemun Neighborhoods):
Web: http://tour.junggu.seoul.kr/tour/eng/h01_intro/h110_greeting_01.jsp
Metro: Myeongdong (line 4), Chungmuro (line 3), Chungjeongno (line 2 or 5), Euljiro 1(il) ga (line 2)

Centrally located in and around the downtown of Seoul, North of the Han River. Near by or walking distance to the shopping districts, restaurants.
Yongsan District (Itaewon, Hannam Neighborhoods):
Metro: Itaewon & Noksapyeong (line 6),  Namyeong & Yongsan (line 1), Samgakji (Line 4).

The "Foreigner District" which is centrally located just North of the Han River. Minutes away from great restaurants & shopping areas. Strategically, this is the best district to lodge if you are planning to visit throughout Seoul.  It is thoroughly covered by the mass transit and never too far from the northern districts like Jongno-gu and Jung-gu, south of the river districts like Gangnam and Apukgjeong, and popular neighborhoods on the west side, Hongdae and Sincheon.  
Jongno District ( Samcheongdong, Insadong Neighborhoods):
Metro: Anguk (line 3), Hyehwa (line 4)

Located just outside north of Jung-gu District.  
5. Korean Food:  http://www.maangchi.com



Arrival at Incheon International Airport / Gimpo International Airport:
1. If needed, rent a cell phone at one of following phone company's booths & make sure the "English" language is an optional feature on the phone
* Texting is much cheaper than dialing.
  • SK Telecom
  • KT Telecom
  • LG Telecom
2. Ask at the "Tourist Information Desk" about transportations into Seoul:
  • Airport bus - Costs about $12.00. Thoroughly covers the city of Seoul. Stops at international or major hotels. If you are staying at a small hotel, write down the address and names of the district/neighborhood/nearest subway station to determine which bus stops near-by. It takes about an hour to get into Seoul.
  • Regular subway train - Costs about $3.00.  Many stops and several transfers may be required.
  • Speed subway train - Costs about $12.00.  10 mins faster than the regular train.  It travels directly to Seoul Subway Station (Line 1).  If your hotel is not near-by, I don't recommend taking this train. 
  • Car rental - An international driving license is required.  I do not recommend it although all the major traffic signs are written in Korean and English.  Driving is a hassle with a heavy traffic and parking options being limited. 
  • Grab a map of Seoul written in Korean and English. Save yourself a trip to a tourist office later. 
3. Exchange some cash.



Arrival at Seoul:
1. Getting around/Transportation:
* Purchase public transit card at any subway kiosk. Start out with 10,000 won ($10.00 USD). Give the money to the booth personnel and ask for a "car-dd". It can be used for the subway and buses. Recharge as needed. Ask for a subway map. Just say "map" in English.
* Seoul's mass transit is very affordable. Bus and subway cost about $1.00 one way.
  • Subway system: Very extensive and well covers the city and some of the outskirted areas. Signs are in English and Korean. It is very easy to  navigate.  http://www.smrt.co.kr/Train/Subwaymap/Eng/Subwaymap.jsp
  • Buses: Very extensive but a little more challenging. Ask your hotel concierge about which bus to get on and where to get off. There are several different bus systems: inner city, outer districts, neighborhoods, etc. 5 minutes or less wait for most of the buses within in the city.                    http://bus.congnamul.com/SeoulRouteWebApp/view_english/map.jsp
  • Taxis: Plentiful but most expensive. Tips: Drivers do not navigate the city from the location's address. Instead, they use the neighborhood name and near-by well known landmarks such as department stores, universities = day-huck-gyo, museums, subway stations = yuck, hotels = ho-tel, parks = gong-won (as in "magic wand" but no "d"), tourist attractions, shopping districts, etc.  Pick up a copy of the city map with these places written in Korean and English. If you get lost, just show the map to your driver.   It is not customary to tip the drivers. 
2. Tourist offices or kiosks:
4. Money:
* All major banks exchange cash and travelers' cheques, but they prefer Euro, US, Canadian, Australian, and British currencies. 
* Credit cards are widely accepted, but hidden fees may be charged for overseas' usages. Check with the CC company for details.
* Most bank cash machines do not accept foreign cards.  If you absolutely need quick cash, try to find one at a subway station.  Instructions are in Korean.  
    5. Eating:
    * It is not customary to tip workers at restaurants/bars.
    * Learn to love Korean food and drinks. Affordable and a better value than the foreign food.
    * The best way to learn about Korean food is head down to the basement of the department stores or the grocery store "marts". They often have a food court with a variety of Korean food booths to choose from. Peak around and see what looks good.
    * Neighborhoods with a plenty affordable Korean restaurants & street food:
    • Locals' street-food favorites: Read
    • Day-hawk-no (Daehakno) - Hyehwa Station Exit 2. Light blue line 4. Info
    • Myeong-dong Shopping District: ( Myeongdong Station Exits 5, 6, 7 & 8. Light blue line 4)
    • Hong-day: Hongik Station Exits 4 or 5 Green line 2 . Exit 5 - Walk 1 block down and turn. Info
    • In-sa-dong: A designated neighborhood promoting traditional Korean food & tea. Anguk Station Exit 6. Orange line 3. Explore the main street and the alleys as well.  
    • Gawng-nam: Gangnam Station Exits 6 & 7 Green line 2. Explore the alleys.  
    • Sin-cheon:  Sinchon Station Exits 2 & 3 Green line 2. Explore the alleys. A college town. Info 
    • Dong-day-moon: Dongdaemun Stadium Line 4; Exits 8, 4, 9, 10 - Street food. 
    * Seoul has a plenty of international cuisines to choose from as well.  It is becoming quite the foodie connoisseur city, but those restaurants tend to be on the pricey side. Key is to explore the back alley streets to find better restaurants within these Neighborhoods: 
    • E-tay-won ("won" pronounced as in "magic wand" but no "d"):  Itaewon Station & Hangangjin Exit 3 Brown line 6 
    • Ga-roe-su-gee-il:  Sinsa Station, Orange line 3 Exit 8. Walk about 3 blocks. Turn left before the tallest building. Next door to Apgujeong Neighborhood.  Info 
    • Sam-cheong-dong ( Gyeongbukgung Palace Station Exit 3, Orange line 3) Walk 10-15 mins along the walls of the palace to the starting point of Samcheongdong Street and turn left or ( Anguk Station Exit 2, Orange line 3) walk straight for approx 700 meters. North of Insadong. 
    * Foodies' websites based in Seoul:

    6. Night-life: Seoul has a great nocturnal nightlife culture.
    * Web: http://www.seoulgrid.com
    * Imported liquor, wine or other beverages are extremely overpriced. 
    * Subway trains stop running by midnight and buses by 1am. Taxis are the only option afterward until the public transit is up and running around 5:30am.
    * Things to do:
    1. Urban Art/Music/Design events - http://www.kunsthalle.co
    2. No-ray-bawng: Korean style karoki. You rent a private singing room. It's very popular in Korea and fun with a group of family/friends. They are charged by hourly or a flat fee. These are often opened til 4-5am. Ask your hotel concierge for a recommendation in your area or in the area that you are planning to visit. Some can be very expensive particularly the ones in the areas Apgujeong and Cheongdahm. 
    3. Nan-sam Tower: Although open all day, I recommend visiting it at night for the great panorama view of the city.  Info
    4. Jjim-jil-bawngs (prounced: Jjim-jay-bawng) - Public bathhouses & saunas. Often open 24 hours   * birthday suit in the bathing room. Info.  Dragon Hill Lodge:  In Yongsan. Owned by the US army and caters more to the soldiers & their families and foreigners. Take a taxi. A little more complicated to find.  Tell the driver " Young-san, Dragon Hill Lodge Ho-tel"
    5. Midnight shopping:  Dong-day-moon Shopping district:  Fashion apparel, fabrics, etc. Some shops don't open til 10-11pm. Dongdaemun History & Cultural Station ( Exits 14 &2, Lines 2 & 4) Info. Noryangjin Fish Market: Noryangjin Station ( Line 1). Open all year. Info
    6. Casinos: Gambling is illegal for Koreans, but legal for foreigners and Koreans with foreign passports.  Make sure to bring your passport. There are 3 locations: http://www.7luck.com/en/Main.aspx: -  GangnamSubway Line 2 Samseong Station Exit #5, pass the Hyundai Department Store, then make a right and walk 100 meters to see the casino to your right). Millennium Seoul Hilton Hotel  (Line No. 4 to Hoehyeon Station and go out Exit 4, and then walk 200 meters in the direction of Daewoo Foundation Building and take the byway on the left in the direction of the entrance to the parking lot of Seoul Hilton Hotel) and Paradise Walker Hill Casino. < Click for direction. 
    7. Night food tourswww.ongofood.com
    8. Recommend the following neighborhoods' bars for foreigners: Most bars are open til 2-3 am from Mon-Thurs & Sundays and 3-4 am on Fri & Saturdays.  The clubs are open til 5-6am on Thurs, Fri & Saturdays. 
    • E-tay-won (Itaewon): There are a plenty of generic "pick-up" bars catering to the US army soldiers in this area. The following listed bars have a little more touch of class with character. A great place for bar hopping.  * E-tay-won ( pronounce "won" as in "magic wand" but no "d")
    • Club Volume: Night club which specializes in electronic music with guest international headliner DJs on the weekends.  Noksapyeong Station (Brown line 6 Exit 3). Walk for about 5-8 minutes heading down a hill and across the street to Capital Hotel. Club is at the next door. 
    • Queen: Intimate hole in the wall gay bar which attracts a mixed crowd. Great music & dance crowd. Itaewon Station (Brown line 6 Exit 3) - Walk ahead and pass a fire station, across from Helios Bar. Turn right at the following street. Turn left at the 2nd street and Queen is on the left with big windows.
    • Bricxx Bar: Chilled basement hook-ah lounge with a great vibe. Attracts ex-pat English teachers.  Itaewon Station ( Line 6 Exit 1) - Turn right into the first alley street from KFC and walk til it deadends. Turn right and look for the sign on your right.  
    • Berlin Bar: Cocktail bar with DJ's spinning on the weekends. Noksapyeong Station (line 6 Exit 1) - Across the street on the sky-walk bridge. Walk up the staircase along the rail. When it comes to a street, turn right. Look for the sign on your right. Info 
    • B-1 Bar: Gay bar but attracts a mixed crowd. Basement cocktail lounge with DJ's playing usually on Fri and/or Saturdays. Small dance floor. Itaewon Station (Line 6 Exit 1). Turn right at the first alley passing KFC. Look to your left.
    • Bliss: One of the classiest bars & restaurants with an outdoor patio. Info
    • Gecko's Garden: Beautiful outdoor terrace. Food is average & overpriced. Info  - Itaewon Station Exit 1. Turn right at first alley after KFC. Turn right when it dead-ends. Look for the sign on your left. 
    • Bungalow: It has a tiki bar vibe with a rooftop beach. Itaewon Station (Line 6 Exit 2) - Turn left at 1st alley street. Turn right when it deadends. Look for it on your left. 
    • The Loft ( Wine Bar): It has a great roof terrace with a chilled indoor decor.  Itaewon Station ( Line 6 Exit 3). Walk up and pass a gas station and fire station near the first street.  Pass Rocky Mountain Tavern and Sortino Restaurant ( look for an Italian flag hanging).  Start looking for the sign. It's on the 2nd floor.  note: There is another "drinking" bar called Loft in Itaewon. 
    • Luv Superlounge: Small night club with a fantastic line-up of oversea DJs performing on the weekends.  Facebook & Info.  Itaewon Station ( Line 6 Exit 1)- Turn right at 1st Street after KFC. Turn left when it deadends. It's on your right side. 
    • Mu: Trendiest rooftop bar. Itaewon Station ( Line 6, Exit 2): You will see Hamilton Hotel on your left. This bar is located behind the hotel in the alley street. 
    • Hong-day (Hongdae): It's located in Hong-ik University town, so it mostly attracts the college student crowds. But there are a few hidden worthy mentions that tend to draw older crowds.  A great area to walk around & explore and it has a plenty of bars with cheap drinks. 
    • Unknown:  Chilled basement hookah lounge with Morccocan decor and ambiance. Direction: Sangsu Station ( Exit 1 Brown line 6): Walk North bound for 3 blocks and turn left at 7/11 Store corner into the alley. Turn left at the 2nd street (Gr8 Hookah Bar). Pass aA Design Museum Cafe (map)on your right and Nabi Bar on your left (Another great hookah bar with a boho vibe. Head to the basement). Start looking for a building with an "Arabic" writing on your right. Head to the basement. ( This bar is such a hidden gem that there is no English or Korean sign on the building).
    • Vinyl Bar - Hongik Station ( Line 2 Exit 5) - Walk ahead and turn left at the 1st street. Walk up til it deadends at Hongik University building. Turn right and walk for 200 meters. Look for the sign. If you pass 7/11 store, you went too far.  A great place to enjoy a cocktail or two before heading to the clubs. 
    • Oversound - Info 
    • Club Cocoon - Night club with a mix of hip hop/R&B/pop  Info
    • Oi Bar - Hookah Bar which is uniquely designed with all white interior. Info 
    • Mansion - Cocktail lounge bar with Dj's providing the tunes on the weekends. Info 
    • Storm - Classy lounge bar. Info
    • Sin-cheon:  In Ewha University town which may appear rough and scruff but under the surface has a cool laid-back vibe with genuineness.  Next door to Hong-dae neighborhood.
    • Nori Bar: Eclectic music & dance crowd in this cozy bar. Location - Sinchon Station Exit 1 Green line 2.  Take your 2nd right after Hyundai Department Store. Walk straight and look for the bar on the left side, after passing your 4th left. Head to the basement of 'The Bar". Do not get here before midnight.  
    • Gawng-nam (Gang-nam): Hectic & buzzing with neon signs. Although foreigners do hang out here, this district has more Korean appeal than other areas like Itaewon and Hongdae. 
    • Rainbow: Hook-ah lounge with a great decor. Gangnam Station Line 2 Exit 6 - Walk 250 meters. Turn left at Giordano Store. Turn right at Dunkin Donuts and it's on your right. 
    • Club Eden: Upscale night club with tech-house and minimal electronic music. Shin-nonhyun Station (Line 9 Exit 4)- Walk straight ahead. Beside the Ritz-Carlton Hotel. 30,000 won cover.  Info 




    Photo:
    http://english.whatsonkorea.com/map_of_seoul.ph

    Feb 25, 2011

    PUBLIC SPACES. SEOUL

    Finding peace in public spaces and parks to escape the loud congested street noise of Seoul
    GREENERY IN A CONCRETE CITY. FINDING SOLITUDE IN A CITY OF MILLIONS. NATURE WALKS. PICNICS.
    1. Seonyudo Park: A former water treatment center in Seonyu Island on Han River transformed into a thriving diverse ecosystem park.
    * Hours:
    - 06:00 - 24:00 (Exhibit Hall: Summer Time 09:00 - 18:00/ Winter Time 09:00 - 17:00)
    * Getting there:
    - Take subway line 2 to Dangsan Station and go out of Exit # 1 >> Take bus #605, 6623, 6631, 6632, 6633 and get off at Hanshin Apt. >> Cross over Seonyudo Bridge
    OR
    - Take subway line 2 or 6 to Hapjeong Station, Exit # 8) >> Take bus #604, 5712, 6712, 6716 and get off at Hanshin Apt. >> Cross over Seonyudo Bridge



    2. Namsan Park: Hannam District Botanical Garden.
    * Web: http://parks.seoul.go.kr
    * Namsan Botanical Garden is open all year, with free entrance fee and located across the street from Hyatt Hotel
    * Getting there:
    - Taxi: Hyatt Hotel, Yong-san.
    - Bus: Subway Seoul station exit #4, take the highway blue bus 402 or local bus (smaller bus) 0014. Get off at Hyatt hotel
    - Local green bus 003: from Yongsan Station (Line 1), walk to E-Mart Store. Across the street. Turn left. Keeping walking til you see a booth island at E-mart parking ramp, turn right (You might see a well dressed female in the booth greeting the customers). Look for the bus stop (just around the corner) on your right. *Samgatchi Station (Line 4): Exit 1. Walk to the 1st stop sign and look behind for 2nd bus stop sign. or *Noksapyeong Station (line 6) Exit 1: Past the bus stop. Look for a staircase leading to the underground pedestrian bridge. Across the street. Look for a bus stop sign. Hyatt Hotel is the last stop.
    - Hangangjin Station (line 6): Exit 2 then take bus #0014 and get off at Hyatt Hotel (Bus comes every 10 minutes / takes about 10 minutes)


    3. Cheonggyecheon Stream: Once a neglected polluted stream, it has been revitalized as a walk-way path through the downtown of Seoul.
    * Getting there:
    - Subway Line 1: City Hall Station, Jonggak Station, Jongno 3-ga Station, Jongno 5-ga Station, Dongdaemun Station, Sinseoldong Station
    - Line 2: Euljiro 1-ga Station, Euljiro 3-ga Station, Euljiro 4-ga Station, Sindang Station, Sangwangsibni Station
    - Line 3: Jongno 3-ga Station
    - Line 4: Dongdaemun History & Culture Park Station
    - Line 5: Gwanghwamun Station
    - Exit towards Cheonggyecheon Stream
    * I recommend the starting point at City Hall Station (Line 2)
    * Best enjoyed in the evenings. Avoid during festivals or other events held in downtown
    * Web & Tour info: http://english.sisul.or.kr
    4. Yeouido Park: Although overcrowded, highly recommended during early spring for the celebration of Cherry Blossoms on Yunjunro Street stretching 6kms, behind the National Assembly Building.
    * Getting there:
    - Taxi: Yoi-e-dow Gong-wan (as in magic "wand" but no "d")
    - From Exit # 1 of Yeouinaru Subway Station (Subway Line 5):
    walk 10 minutes towards SBS TV Station.
    - From Exit # 3 of Yeouido Subway Station (Subway Line 5), walk 5 minutes
    towards the National Assembly building.

    Worthy mentions located just outside of Seoul:
    5. Bok-hansan: Mountain national park just North of Seoul. Streams, Buddhist temples, giant rock formation statues, and a great aerial view of Seoul. Many trails offered. Some can take you all the way to the top for about 7-9 hours of hike.
    * Web: english.knps.or.kr
    * Getting there:
    - Dobong Area: At Exit # 2 of Dobong Subway Station (Line 1) walk 15-20 minutes or take bus # 141. (5 minute intervals/ 10 minute ride)
    - Bukhansan Fortress: At Exit # 1 of Gupabal Subway Station (Seoul Subway Line 3) take Bus # 704. and get off at the entrance of Bukhansan Fortress. (10 minute intervals, 20 minute ride)
    - Ui Area : At Exit # 3 of Suyu Subway Station.(Subway Line 4) take City Bus # 130, 1217, 170. Get off at the Doseonsa Temple at Ui-dong. (10 minute intervals)

    Buddha statues at Choenchuksa Temple

    6. Hwaseong Fortress: A fortress 30 km South of Seoul in the city of Suwon which was built during the late 18th century in remembrance of murdered Crown Prince Sado. It is one of the best well preserved fortresses in South Korea and has been declared as an Unesco Heritage Site.
    * Web: http://ehs.suwon.ne.kr/ (Korean, English, Japanese, Chinese)
    * Activity Information:
    - Traditional Archery: 5 arrows = 1,000won (additional 5 arrows = 1,000won / max 20 arrows)
    * Operating Hours:
    - Summer season 09:00 - 18:00 / Winter season 09:00 - 17:00
    * Admission Fees:
    - Adults 1,000 won ($1.00) / Youth 700 won / Children 500 won
    - Group (over 30 people) - Adults 700 won / Youth 500 won / Children 300 won
    * Getting there:
    - From Yongsan Station in central Seoul (line 1): Ask the Information Desk about how to get on the faster subway train to Suwon Station (Line 1). Then take city bus No. 2, 7, 7-2, 8, or 13 and get off at Jongno 4-geori (intersection). Walk 5 min.
    - Bus: The following options may be a bit more challenging if you are not familiar with the Seoul bus transit system.
    1)Suwon~Jamsil:
    Take bus No. 1007 from Suwon Station, Whaseo-mun,Kyunggi province police agency,
    Suseo Station, Jamsil Station, Seokchon Station or Garak market and get off at Jongno.
    2)Suwon~Kangnam,Yangjae:
    Take bus No.3000 from Suwon Station, paldal-mun, Jangan-mun, Hanil town, Pajang-dong, Yangjae Station or Kangnam Station and get off at Jongno.




    Photos:
    http://sweetieroom.webs.com
    http://www.myspace.com/visitseoul
    http://hosgor.wordpress.com
    http://www.cabe.org.uk
    http://www.enjoyitaewon.com
    http://www.visitkorea.or.kr
    http://www.korea.ericfries.de
    http://www.cnngo.com
    http://www.travelpod.com

    Feb 18, 2011

    HEYRI ART VILLAGE. PAJU


    Bauhaus-inspired architecturally designed artist compound situated an hour North of Seoul
    EXPERIMENTAL AND MODERN ART EXHIBITIONS. COFFEE SHOPS. ARTIST MELTING POT.
    Location: City of Paju, South Korea
    Getting there from Seoul:
    * Hapjeong Station(line 2) Exit 2. Take red bus 2200. 45-50 mins later, get off at Hey-ri Art Valley.
    * Bus schedule: 07:00-23:20, every 15 minutes
    Web: http://www.heyri.net
    Info: * Businesses closed on Mondays
    * Museums and exhibitions are open from 10:00am to 7:00 pm.
    * Note that hours may vary slightly at each museum
    * Museums with cafes and restaurants are open later.
    * A perfect day trip
    * Buy a map when you first arrive at the information kiosk at Gate 4 for 500 won.
    * Getting around: By foot or rent a bicycle for 6,000 won for first two hours/4,000 won for each additional hour
    Further inquiries: Korea Travel Phone +82-31-1330 or in Korea: 031-1330

    Gallery TouchArt

    Bauhaus on the Imjin

    Music Space Camerata: Coffee & DJ plays classical/Jazz fusion on a quality soundsystem


    The Chocolate Design Gallery

    Hangil Bookhouse




    Photos:
    Brownpassports
    Englisvisitseoul.blogspot.com
    seoulselection.com
    cnngo.com

    Feb 13, 2011

    O'NGO FOOD COMMUNICATIONS. SEOUL


    Food experts based in Seoul. Experience local cuisines through consultations, tours or cooking classes.
    FOODIE'S PARADISE. KOREAN CONTEMPORARY AND TRADITIONAL CUISINES. WHERE/WHAT THE LOCALS EAT.
    Location: Seoul, Korea
    Web: http://www.ongofood.com/
    Contact: Ph. 02. 3446. 1607
    Emails: Jia Choi: jia.choi@ongofood.com
    ** Daniel Gray: seouleats@gmail.com
    Tours and classes: English or Japanese language

    Cooking class and demo:



    Photo Credit: Courtesy of Daniel Gray

    Feb 2, 2011

    HWAGYESA BUDDHIST TEMPLE STAY. SEOUL

    Buddhist monastery on the hills of Samgaksan Mountain in Seoul.
    TRANQUIL. NATURE. ESCAPE. SPIRITUAL. DISCIPLINED.
    Location: Gangbuk-gu, Seoul
    Link: http://hwagyesa.org [Korean]
    Info: Hwagyesa Temple
    Rate: 50,000 - 60,000WON ($50-$60USD: Meals included)
    For booking/info: Templestay
    * May 17, 2011: Buddah's birthday. Most important celebration in Buddhism religion and celebrated accordingly.
    * 1 or 2 day stay. Incorporate into your Seoul vacation itinerary.
    Getting there from central Seoul:
    - Take subway line No. 4 (Light blue line) heading the direction of "Danggogae". Get off at Suyu Station ( Count to 6th stop from the top on the map) and go out through exit # 3. Then transfer to the local bus No. 2 or city bus line 151 or 152 and it will take about 15 minutes to get to Hwagyesa. 10 minute walk up the hill following "Hansin University" sign. OR
    - Take a taxi.
    *** Tip: Have the following translate into Korean and show it to the bus driver or taxi driver:
    "Suyuri", "Hwaygesa Temple near Hansin University"




    Jan 31, 2011

    SAM-CHEONG-DONG, SEOUL



    A quaint charming and yet hip neighborhood like no others in Seoul.
    CUTTING-EDGE. ART. CAFES. GALLERIES. FOODIE DELIGHT.
    Interactive Map: Samcheong-dong [Landmarks: "Geonchunmun" Gate]
    Hotel: Hotel SunBee (near Anguk Station Exit 6)
    Rates: 88,000 - 120,000 WON ($88.00 - $120.00 USD)
    Info: Samcheong-dong
    Getting there: Gyeongbokgung Station (orange line) Exit 5 or Anguk Station Exit 1 or 2
    * Cab: tell the driver "Sam-cheong-doe+ng" . "doe" is pronounced more like doe the female deer.  Most likely, the driver will get on the main Samcheongdong-gil Street; where Gallery Hyundai is located off of (map above)
    Further Info: Jennyminsook@gmail.com
    Culinary Tour: O'ngo Food Communications
    Restaurants:
    http://www.koreataste.org/en/restaurant-en/hot-spots-en/f-bukchonsamcheong-dong-the-classic-style-of-a-traditional-korean-house/
    http://www.seouleats.com/search/label/samcheongdong
    Note:
    It's one of the cutest and most charming part of Seoul to leisurely enjoy the shops, cafes, galleries, and restaurants.  But it's also one of the wealthiest and most expensive part of town as well.  After 10 pm, it is very difficult to find a cab so you may be required to walk towards Anguk Station before spotting one.



    Coffee Shelf or Coffee Seonban (from Embassy of Poland, head north bound and pass Samcheongdong Police Substation. Turn immediate right into an alley-like street. Cafe will be on your right side )



    Jazz Story Bar ( north of  landmark #5 on map above. You will see small green city buses parked front of a large house-gate on your left side. The bar is located across the street. )