Korea Travel Guide

Korea has arisen from a sometimes turbulant past to take it's place as one of the most influential and exciting destinations in Asia and is becoming increasingly popular as a tourist destination. This is a nation that is proud of it's culture while at the same time has made the transition to modernity with spectacular success.

Seoul is the massive capital city of South Korea. It has been the centre of government since the thirteen hundreds, today it is a super modern metropolis but retains an ancient heart which is in evidence in aspects of everyday life here and of course with the numerous ancient sites that stand among the skyscrapers. Begin your exploring by visiting the original city entrance at the Namdaemun Gate and enjoy the popular Namdaemun markets located nearby. Take a look at the Presidents official residence known as the Cheong Wa Dae or Blue House and do not miss a visit to the Folklore Museum, which is in the grounds of the amazing Gyeongbok Palace, which has housed no less than 13 Korean kings over a 270 year period from the late 14th century.

Another must see is the Korean Folk Village a unique living museum which includes traditional Korean homes, street markets, folk performance art, an amusement park and art museum. As a particular treat it is worth trying to time your visit to coincide with one of Korea's annual festivals, perhaps the Hi Seoul Festival or the birthday of Buddha celebrations both of which occur in May annually. History enthusiasts will love Korea too, tour the magnificent landscapes which flow north to the DMZ (Demilitarised Zone) which still separates South and North Korea, as well as Panmunjeom village, where the armistice was signed that ended the Korean War. Throughout the country evidence of past civilisations are dotted among the landscaps, ancient tombs, Buddhist temples and some of the worlds best museums will keep you fascinated about one of the hottest emerging destinations in Asia.