We are looking at a trip to Seoul in April and I would like suggestions for resources to help prepare us. We have relied pretty heavily on Rick Steves to plan our European trips. What guides and resources would you suggest for South Korea? We are looking for sites to see, as well as something to introduce us to the cultural and ensure that we are being respectful. This will be our first trip to Asia.
Posted by
Ontario, Canada
4573 posts
Are you near a physical library? Have a library card? When I look for travel guides, I start by ordering (we have multiple branches to request from) and reviewing recent editions. I don't rely on one publisher for every destination, and I will admit I like DK EyeWitness for early research - because it has a lot of photos, and good maps for districts within cities. But the books are heavy - too heavy to take as a 'on the ground' guide book. Bradt Guides are great for travel to Africa, or more DIY nature trips (don't know if they publish for Asia). I am more a Lonely Planet budget traveler (though not a backpacker or into hostels), and Frommer's, for me, recommends hotels and restaurants outside my budget - also misses a lot of the things I am interested in.
So, you need to shop around for the guide that fits you as much as you have to shop around for the actual trip. Once you have found a guide that seems to suit, then buy the current edition. If just Seoul, some guides have just city guides which can be useful on the ground. Starting with the library is free other than the investment of time. If library has current guides, then photocopy relevant details, or make notes...or check it out for the time of travel and save a few dollars.
Alternative (but sort of cheating), is visit your nearest big box book store with a few hours to spare and read through parts of the available guides to see what suits you.
Posted by
Colorado Springs
2822 posts
All good advice from Maria. We too prefer the DK Eyewitness guides but do check your local library and bookstores to test drive a few to see which format you prefer.
The "things to do" feature on Trip Advisor can be handy for seeing what the local attractions are, and there's also a section that shows day trip companies, with reviews, that might be helpful to you. Some of the very popular trips (am thinking in particular about a trip up to the DMZ) sell out early so you may need to book ahead to ensure a spot.
If you have any military connections know that all of the bases in the vicinity of Seoul have terrific deals on day trips and tours via their ITT ticket offices.
And when arranging your tours pay attention to the details to ensure that you book an English language trip .
Posted by
Central Indiana, USA
357 posts
I took a couple of tours through here: http://english.visitseoul.net/walking-tour
I like the Rough Guide to Seoul and the Lonely Planet Guide as well.