Seoul, the capital of South Korea, is emerging as a popular tourist destination in Asia. Recently, I had the opportunity to visit Seoul for an exclusive interview with Hollywood stars Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman. My trip to Seoul was somewhat spontaneous, as I only learned about it a week before departure, leaving me unsure of what to expect upon arrival.
Upon landing in Seoul, I was immediately struck by the vibrant energy of the city. The bustling streets, rich in culture, presented me with a blend of excitement and culture shock. Exploring Seoul for three days, I found myself captivated by its charm and diversity, despite initially feeling overwhelmed by the new environment.
One of the first challenges I encountered in Seoul was the limited functionality of Google Maps. Unlike in many other countries, Google Maps is not extensively reliable in South Korea. To navigate the city effectively, I had to switch to alternative mapping apps like Naver Map or KakaoMap, which proved to be accurate and user-friendly, even for non-Korean speakers.
Another aspect that caught me off guard was the local business hours. Unlike Australian cities where establishments open early, Seoul’s shops and eateries typically operate from late morning, with only a few convenience stores and cafes available before 11 am. Adjusting to this schedule required a shift in my routine, ensuring I made the most of the city’s vibrant nightlife.
One ubiquitous sight in Seoul is the presence of Starbucks outlets on almost every street corner. The popularity of Starbucks in South Korea is remarkable, with an extensive network of stores throughout the country, offering visitors a familiar taste of home amidst the bustling cityscape.
Despite the language barrier, I found that many locals in Seoul could communicate in English to some extent. This made navigating the city and interacting with service staff relatively easy, alleviating my initial concerns about language difficulties. For more complex conversations, AI translator apps like Naver Papago proved to be valuable tools.
During my stay in Seoul, I was pleasantly surprised by the abundance of free public WiFi in the city. This convenient amenity made it unnecessary for me to purchase roaming data, allowing me to stay connected and navigate the city effortlessly. While WiFi access is readily available in urban areas, it may be less reliable in rural or remote locations.
Seoul’s blend of tradition and modernity, coupled with its welcoming atmosphere and technological advancements, left a lasting impression on me. As South Korea continues to attract a growing number of tourists, Seoul stands out as a dynamic city that offers a unique travel experience blending history, culture, and innovation.
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