FrugalMonkey Discount Travel News

Category: South Korea

  • Stay in Seoul for Less – Budget Travel Tips for Korea

    Seoul, is regarded as one of the most expensive cities in the world, but don’t let that deter you from traveling to the South Korean capital.

    Frugal holidaymakers can still save money in this city by following our advice. Seoul's sticky summer heat is only exemplified by the many tourists that visit in June and July. Those crowds drive the prices of all services sky-high, so you're better traveling in fall or spring. You'll save money, and enjoy a more temperate climate. Seoul's public transport system is also relatively inexpensive, and an excellent way to explore the city. Westerners will find the subway system most useful as, unlike the bus network, all station names and transit signs are written in English. If you plan on spending some time in Seoul it's smart to buy a rechargeable transport card. The fare will be automatically deducted whenever the card is presented. Taxis are also not as pricey as you might imagine, so they're a good option if there isn't a subway station nearby. Expect to pay around $2.15 US for the first two kilometers you travel, and an extra 10c for every 114 meters thereafter. Seoul's inner-city hotels offer some great deals on weekends, but they're a bit expensive during the week when businessmen are in town. That's when mid-range chains downtown, such as the Novotel and Marriott, offer the best prices. You needn't go hungry while staying in Seoul, as traditional comfort food like noodle soups and stir fries are very cheap and filling. Dine with the college kids at Let’s Eat Alley, or grab a quick meal from a street vendor at Sinchon Street. Remember that tipping is not expected either; a thank you is all that's required for good service!south korea map Historical sites and museums are amongst Seoul's cheapest tourist attractions. You can easily spend a whole day at The National Museum of Korea, the sixth-largest museum on the planet. It's home to the world's oldest printed scripture, giant Buddha statues, ancient porcelain jars and paintings. And if you visit on the fourth Saturday of the month, it's free. The Gyeongbokgung Palace is one of the oldest in Korea, and one of the most beautiful buildings in Asia. It dates back to 1395, and the gate guard change and other daily ceremonies offer some insight into its history. You'll need at least three hours to explore the buildings and gardens. Admission to the palace equates to less than $5 US, and seniors and children under six can see it for free. If you have time, the National Folk Museum and National Palace Museum are also inside the palace grounds. So as you can see, it's possible to stay, eat, and play in Seoul without breaking the bank.

  • Awesome Architecture in Asia – The Most Beautiful Buildings in the East

    A visit to Asia wouldn’t be complete without taking in the breathtaking architecture of the continent’s palaces, temples, and castles.


    From holy places of worship to monuments made for royalty, here are some of the more beautiful buildings in the Orient. China's Summer Palace was first built in 1750 as the Garden of Clear Ripples. It suffered major attacks during the Anglo-French allied invasion and Boxer Rebellion, but was always restored to its former glory. The striking pavilions, halls, and temples of this World Heritage site are complemented by rolling hills and beautiful water features. The Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu must have been a lucky man. Japan's Kinkaku-ji, or the Golden Pavilion as English speakers call it, was built as his retirement home in 1397. He lived out his days in the magnificent gold-leaf adorned three-tier building. On his death the pavilion in Kyoto was converted to a Zen temple, according to Yoshimitsu's wishes. Looking at the clear reflection of the Golden Pavilion on the ground's mirror pond may be as close to enlightenment as most of us will get. [caption id="attachment_4485" align="alignright" width="150" caption="The Golden Pavilion in Kyoto, Japan"]The Golden Pavilion in Kyoto, Japan[/caption] Changeokgung Palace is one of South Korea's five grand palaces, but it's the one that most princes of the Joseon Dynasty liked the best. It's not hard to see why. Its secret garden was a favorite place for archery games and fireworks displays, with its lotus ponds and landscaped lawns. The building itself strives to blend in to its natural surrounds, a revolutionary idea for 1405. Sadly much of the palace was destroyed during the Japanese occupation of Korea, so only about a third of its structures remain. It may not have the rich history of the other buildings we’ve mentioned, but that's no reason to dismiss Coconut Palace in The Philippines. This palace was built under the order of former First Lady Imelda Marcos for Pope John Paul II's 1981 visit. The octagon-shaped building is an excellent example of Filipino design, with its body of hardwood and materials derived from the coconut. There are even more coconuts inside, with coconut chandeliers and furniture inlaid with coconut shells. This quirky building is easily accessible for tourists as it's part of Manila Bay's cultural center complex. So make sure you get out of the bustling cities while you're traveling around Asia; there are some stunning architectural marvels just waiting to be explored.

    [Image Source: Neepster/Flickr]

  • Dangerous Dishes in Asia – Deadly Foods for Brave Travelers

    Forget the fried rice and dim sum in Hong Kong. If you really want to live on the edge while visiting Asia, you’ll need to try some of the continent’s deadly dishes.

    Deadly may be overstating the point a little, but the following meals definitely have an element of danger that entices thrill seeking diners! Fugu, or puffer fish as it is commonly known, is a potentially deadly Japanese delicacy. The seafood contains tetrodotoxin, a poison which is almost 100 times more poisonous than cyanide! If it’s prepared well it'll contain just enough poison to numb your lips and tickle your nerves. If prepared incorrectly, you'll be paralyzed and die from heart failure or asphyxiation within hours. It sounds like a bit of a gamble, but so long as you dine in a restaurant licensed to sell the dish you should escape unscathed! [caption id="attachment_3627" align="alignright" width="150" caption="A puffer fish"]A puffer fish[/caption] Foodies in China willingly risk hepatitis, typhoid, and dysentery for a taste of blood clams. The danger comes from the bacteria the clams harbor which often survives the boiling process. Sadly there's no safe way to go about trying the treats as they're banned in the country, although you can buy them on the black market. If you're brave prepare to pay exorbitant prices and risk serious illness! The South Korean delicacy of sannakji is the tamest dish on this list, but it's certainly not for the faint hearted. It's actually raw baby octopus served up still squirming about on your plate! Seafood doesn't come much fresher than that! The danger comes from the octopus' suction caps, which can latch onto your mouth or throat and cause choking. Make sure you take small bites and chew each one thoroughly to minimize the risks.

    [Image Source: Cliff1066/Flickr]

  • Get Sexy in South Korea at Loveland Theme Park

    Asian culture might seem reserved, but a visit to Loveland in South Korea should correct that misconception. This very wicked destination is the country’s very own erotic theme park!

    Sculptures at Loveland
    Sculptures at Loveland

    The park features 140 permanent sexy sculptures alongside rotating monthly exhibitions. You could see a display of sex toys, some nude models, or some blue movies!

    Just like any good theme park, Loveland also has its mascots. You’ll meet the walking phallus Bulkkeuni and his lady love, the hat wearing vagina Ssaekkeuni. They’ll want to make your acquaintance, so make sure you say hello.

    Loveland is located on Jeju-do Island at the southern tip of South Korea. The tropical island is so popular with newlyweds that it’s been known as the Honeymoon Isle since the end of the Korean War.

    With so many South Koreans entering into arranged marriages and using their time on the island to discover their sexuality, Loveland couldn’t have found a better home. A visit is certainly an educational experience! Loveland is a 10-minute taxi ride from Jeju-do International Airport. Visitors should allow an hour to view the exhibits, although when films are showing it can easily take longer. It should go without saying that a visit to Loveland is no family outing, although there is a play area for children outside the park. It's also no place for modesty, so if you're shy about matters of the flesh I suggest you steer clear. But if you can see the silly side and embrace it, an hour or two spent at Loveland is a lot of fun.

    [Image Source: Sunxez/Flickr]

  • Visit Jeju-do, South Korea’s Island Paradise

    Arriving at the South Korean island of Jeju-do, tourists could be forgiven for thinking they’ve stepped onto another country entirely.


    The palm trees and volcanic landscape remind visitors of being in Hawaii. The sandy beaches look as if they belong in a Mediterranean travel brochure, while the festivals and circus shows are as close to Disneyland as you’ll find in these parts.

    While most international travelers explore energetic Seoul, historic Gyeongju, and the seaside port of Busan, the Koreans themselves head to Jeju-do when they’re looking for a little rest and relaxation.

    The island delivers, with a dozen beaches and lush golfing greens. If you’d prefer a little more activity, make sure you hike around Jeju-do’s famous volcanoes. Hallasan is the highest summit in all of South Korea, standing 1950 meters tall. Ilchulbong in the east is a stunning volcanic crater, while the island of Udo off the coast has incredible black lava cliffs. Scuba diving is also popular, with the area boasting colorful coral reefs and the warmest sea in Korea. The waters around Munseom Island off Seogwipo are considered one of Asia’s best diving destinations.

    south korea travel mapThe action heats up in summer, with sporting contests, outdoor concerts, and movies held on the beaches throughout the warmer months.

    Your stay in Jeju-do is set to be a luxurious one, with the island boasting world class resorts and motels including The Shilla Jeju and Lotte Hotel. If you’d prefer to save your cash consider a bunking down in a private home, known as a minbak. This is the Korean equivalent of a bed and breakfast, with its homely feel and welcoming hosts. Gomangnandol and Bluesung Minbak are popular choices amongst budget travelers. Alternatively you can camp on many local beaches, including Geumneung Beach and Jungmun Beach, for less than $20US.

  • Hit the Slopes at South Korea’s Ski Resorts

    It doesn’t have the global reputation of Aspen in the United States or Cerro Catedral in Argentina, but many tourists and locals flock to the ski resorts of South Korea every winter.


    The country’s snow season generally commences in the middle of November or early December, and lasts until March or April.

    A trip to the Korean snowfields is unlike any other skiing vacation. Rather than communing with nature and enjoying the wide open spaces as with many North American resorts, you’ll spend your time racing down the slopes to a throbbing K-pop soundtrack. The runs are groomed, and often packed with artificial snow and plenty of nervous yet enthusiastic Koreans.

    The country has 12 premier ski resorts, mostly located in the Gangwon-do Province. This area gets the greatest snowfall, but it takes some time for tourists to get to. While skiing enthusiasts never mind the trip, those looking for a quick weekend getaway are more likely to frequent the resorts found around the suburbs of Seoul. Some of the area’s most popular slopes are at Yangji Pine Resort, with its illuminated ski runs and mogul course, and Konjiam Resort, the largest ski resort near Seoul. These are accessible by the capital’s public transport, so can generally be reached in an hour or two.skilift

    It’s not necessary to take your own skiing equipment to South Korea, as most have rental facilities. Resorts commonly allow night skiing, and have designated areas for sledding. The resorts also have instructors for beginners, but international travelers should beware. Many speak very little English, so these lessons can be challenging.

    The heavy snowfalls of Gangwon-do see its ski season start before the others, and last longer. Some of the most popular skiing spots in the area include Yongpyong Resort, often referred to as The Alps of Korea, Daemyung Vivaldi Resort, the first in the country to offer all-night skiing and a haven for young skiers, and Phoenix Park Ski Resort, a popular spot for snowboarding. The province offers many mountains of various heights, perfect for skiers or snowboarders of all experience levels.

    When it’s not snow season, most resorts continue to operate as regular accommodation options.

  • How to Travel to South Korea

    Visitors to South Korea have a number of travel options to consider before embarking on a journey to the East Asian nation.


    There are no restrictions for foreign travelers visiting South Korea. In fact, most tourists won’t even need a visa to enter the country. However, all visitors should consult the visa-free list to confirm how long they can stay in South Korea without visa documentation.

    Airlines ticket prices vary depending on the time of year you wish to visit. Flights are at their most expensive in July and August, so it’s advisable to travel in other months if possible. Cathay Pacific and Malaysian Airlines fly from major New Zealand and Australian airports, while visitors from North America can fly with United Airlines and Air Canada. If you’re already in Asia you might try Air China, United, or NorthWest Airlines. Most international flights travel to Incheon, which is located approximately an hour from Seoul. Tourists can then catch connecting flights to one of the country’s six regional airports.

    South Korea airlineInternational ferries are another, less expensive option for tourists exploring Northern Asia. Ferries to Incheon leave from around 10 Chinese ports, while ferries from Russia travel to Sokcho in Gangwon-do province and ships from Japan travel to the international ferry terminal near Jungang subway station in Busan. Prices vary according to the quality of accommodation provided. The cheapest fare is likely to offer only a thin mattress in dormitory style lodging, while the most expensive tariffs might buy a small cabin with a television. Children and students often receive discounts, making ferry trips an economical traveling option for young people and families.

    Entering South Korea is generally a straightforward process, but travelers carrying more than US$10, 000 in cash and traveler’s checks are required to complete an additional form.