3 Things to Remember When You Arrive In Korea

Late last year, my friend and I had a chance to travel to South Korea.  This was my first time in Seoul, my first out of the country in 7 years and my first time to travel for leisure without my family.  And since we will be traveling on our own, the first thing I did immediately after purchasing plane tickets is to list down possible itineraries.  

With all the excitement, I couldn't make up my mind on where to go first.  I had a number of tourist spots in South Korea in my list including the palaces and film locations of Korean dramas like Full House, Secret Garden, Winter Sonata, He’s Beautiful and Love Rain. But we only had a few days to visit all these places so the problem is how to fit these in our tight schedule.  Of course, in spite all your preparations and anticipation for months, some things will not go according to plan.  But you shouldn't be sad about it.  You should always welcome such possibilities.  

And based on my experience, I would like to share some things you should know  if you will be traveling on your own - the tourism information booth, transportation card and South Korea’s subway system.

Korean Won

Once your plane landed on the Incheon International Airport, you will be transferred via shuttle train to the main area to claim your baggage.  When you leave the arrival area, be sure first to exchange your money with Korean won.  There is bank inside the arrival lounge but once you exit and enter the airport lobby, you will find more banks.  It’s up to you to check which bank has a cheaper exchange rate. 

Tourist Information Booth

Second, as a tourist, it is best to visit the tourist information booth where you can get some brochures of tourist destinations in South Korea.  You should not forget to get a copy of the 1330 brochure because aside from the fact that it is a hotline for traveler the brochure has the complete railway map you need to go around South Korea particularly in Seoul.  There is also a subway map in the Seoul map for tourists available at the tourism information booth but it is incomplete.  I can guarantee that the best one is the subway map included in the 1330 brochure. 

Tmoney

Third, you need to buy a transport card called Tmoney.  This is like the Philippines’ MRT card but way much better for it can be used in various means of transportation like train, cabs and buses.  It can also be used as money in purchasing some items in selected stores.  It is worth 2500 won and can be reloaded in any convenient stores such as 7-11, Family Mart and GS25.  It is recommended to load your Tmoney card with 20,000 won to let you reach your destination hassle-free on your first day.  

Now, it's time to go around and have fun!  Just don't forget to bring your passport with you wherever you go :)