SEOUL FOR THE SOPHISTICATED TRAVELLER

Phillip Rodrigues went on a city break for two to Seoul in October 2009 courtesy of the Korea Tourism Organization after winning a competition. Having visited almost every country in Asia, some several times, he’d been meaning to go to Korea for a while. Here’s what he found, reports Jennifer Barclay.

They found a hotel easily through a tour operator online, and he and his Japanese friend found themselves staying at the ‘very clean and central’ Eastgate Tower, on the 15th floor of a building in the Dongdaemun Market area, with great views over the city. They opted to enjoy the long weekend in a relaxed way and took advantage of the fact that there was a 24-hour spa (jimjilbang) in the building.

Highlights of the weekend included a guided tour of the palace Changdeokgung with its secret garden and plenty of shopping for things like clothes and cosmetics – this was during the Seoul Grand Sale, and discounts were advertised everywhere. The great thing about shopping in Seoul is that everything’s open so late. ‘One night we went round the wholesale clothes market, which was fascinating – everything’s still open at twelve, one o’clock in the morning. I’ve read that Koreans don’t like to sleep much!’

They also found that eating and drinking was very cheap. ‘I’ve been to Japan three times but prefer Korean food as it’s got a bit of spice. I loved the spicy food. My friend went out one night for Japanese food but I went for Korean.’

The skies might have been a little hazy, but there was plenty to do and see. ‘I also like just people watching.’ Would he recommend Seoul to friends? ‘I would recommend it for more sophisticated travellers, and for people looking for something completely different, something unique. Also for people who might go to Hong Kong for the weekend to shop and experience a different culture at the same time. I’d go back and would love to explore some more.’

Thanks, Phillip - I hope you get chance to go back!