Just as many other people dreaming of travelling to Korea, I used to spend hours watching videos and searching pictures of all the places I’d be able to see one day. The Dongdaemun Design Plaza, Han-river, Namsan Tower and Lotte World seemed like a dream when I first saw them but now, I keep passing by them every day without even noticing. As wonderful as the major tourist attractions all tourists visit, it is possible that within a year you will not visit them more than once, or more than once. You automatically end up in places you’ve never heard of day after day and create a whole new concept of what Seoul to you really is.
However, the one question I get the most from people coming to Korea for the first time is “Where should I go?” I never really know how to answer the question. I know where I’d take my mom, I know where I would take my dad and where to take my friends, but since Seoul has so much to offer, the answer depends on who is asking. But how does my Seoul look like? Where would I take myself if I was visiting Seoul for the first time again? I’m sure many people like me can feel a little out of place from time to time, especially when you’re suddenly put into a completely different environment in the middle of a concrete jungle with people moving in one direction as one big wave, life can feel very overwhelming. Coming from the country of a million lakes and forests is definitely different from the busy streets of my new home.
In these moments sometimes all I want is to just be surrounded by the familiar trees, birds, clean air and just peace. For this reason, parks, mountains and forests are where you’ll find me whenever I can spare the time. Haneulpark in the fall is guaranteed to give you the perfect Instagram picture with the most beautiful pink grass and blue skies, as for the Olympic Park, it works as a perfect picnic spot or even a place to go for a small run. The best spots near the Han-river are definitely Yeoeuido and Ttukseom where you can just lie down on a picnic mat and enjoy some chicken and beer, in a true Korean style. One of the reasons I ended up falling in love with Korea is the beautiful culture with a long fascinating history. In Seoul you’re guaranteed to see the big modern buildings surround the statuesque temples that hold many secrets not seen by just a passer-by. If you can spare a moment, you should definitely take a stroll at the Eungpyeong Hanok village and enjoy a cup of traditional tea and take a trip back in time.
One of my best memories from the time when I first came to Korea happened on the second day as I headed to Gyeongbokgung, being dressed up in the most beautiful blue and silver hanbok. I was instantly sweeped back into the Joseon dynasty and lived my childhood princess dream strolling through the massive palace. Even though there were several things that failed to meet the expectations I originally had about Seoul, there are a lot of happy surprises and gems I have ended up finding in the process of getting to know this place I have dreamed of for so long. And I can’t wait to see what I can still find.