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This month, Travis (@mrdavids1, on Instagram) joined The Dragon Trip on our amazing 12-day adventure across South Korea. We caught up with him to discover his favourite moments from the tour, what he adored about South Korea, and some top travel tips for fellow adventurers.
Why did you choose to visit South Korea?
I’m the type of person to travel primarily for outdoor trekking and cultural experiences, but I wanted to visit South Korea mainly for the food. Yes! This is a dream destination for foodies and I already accepted the fact that I would be going home heavier. South Korea is blessed with an abundance of amazing opportunities to enjoy all sorts of delicious food. In Seoul, I frequented Myeongdong Street and Gyeongdong Market to stuff my face with all sorts of delicious food. From tteokbokki, Korean BBQ, gimbap and dakgalbi, my tastebuds went on a culinary adventure.
Of course, the cultural aspects of South Korea were amazing as well, and I was fascinated to stroll around century old temples from the Joseon Dynasty in Seoul, like Gyeongbokgung Palace. I also rented a hanbok (traditional Korean attire) during my tour with The Dragon Trip. South Korea also did not disappoint with its incredible views. I love hiking and Jeju Island was heaven for me, since the entirety of the island is one massive hiking trail and you’re constantly blessed with beautiful cliffside views and waterfalls.
What was your favourite thing that you learned about South Korea on your trip?
Koreans are very friendly and are always willing to teach you more about their language and culture. I honestly met some of the kindest street vendors and tour guides while I was there.
What was the best experience you had on the trip?
The entire trip was a highlight, it’s really difficult to narrow it down. I honestly enjoyed my entire journey in South Korea. It’s an amazing country!
Where was your favourite place to visit in South Korea?
Seoul! There is just so much to do in Seoul, but if I had more time in Busan I think my opinion would change because Busan is basically Seoul, with a beach. So you get the hustle and bustle with some tropical vibes as well. I’m a big fan of cities.
I also experienced the best spa of my entire life in Busan, I highly recommend it! Jeju Island is also a close contender because it’s completely different to every other place we visited during the tour. It’s your escape from the noise. It’s quiet and peaceful and I can see why Koreans go to Jeju Island for a vacation.
Do you have a favourite story or moment from your trip?
Hahaha, well, I have two. I honestly never thought in my entire life that I would be breaking a wooden board with my bare fist – and I did exactly that during our Taekwondo class. This was also our first activity on the tour and probably the most unique way I’ve ever had to break the ice on a group tour. Luckily, only wooden boards got broken during the class and not any faces! Something else I’ll never forget is memorising dance choreography during a K-pop class. Every time I hear ‘God of Music’ by Seventeen now, I’ll bust out into the choreography we practiced during our class. I’m probably going to get the strangest stares in public – but it is now my life’s purpose to dance every time I hear this song.
What was the best food you ate in South Korea?
Tteokbokki! Hands down! It’s delicious chewy rice cakes in spicy gochujang sauce and I love my spice! I ate so much tteokbokki in South Korea that I think if you could analyze my body composition, I’m essentially half tteokbokki now. I identify as a spicy rice cake.
What surprised you the most about how people live in South Korea?
I had visited Japan recently, and didn’t really encounter any new culture shocks in South Korea in terms of how people live, it’s quite similar in my opinion. I think for most people visiting South Korea for the first time, something like taking off your shoes to enter certain establishments will be something new to adapt to. Clean public bathrooms can be a culture shock. Keeping quiet on metros might also be a culture shock. Although I must say, during a kimchi making class that I organised during my free time, I went into a hanok (traditional Korean home) and I thought they looked absolutely stunning with all of the wooden interiors. You’re essentially venturing into the past.
Were you able to pick up some of the local language?
Ne! (Which means ‘yes’ in Korean – I still remember that). I remember a couple of phrases, and I always think it’s important to at least learn a few. It shows that you’re invested in the culture and you’ll get some interesting and sometimes astonished interactions with the locals, especially if you can hold a basic conversation. Obviously, language translation apps make communication effortless nowadays, but actually taking the time to learn a couple phrases in a new language is always fun and the locals appreciate it.
Any top tips for travellers going to South Korea?
- Buy a T-Money card. This card can be used at metros, buses, and even certain convenience stores (7-Eleven, GS25, CU), so it’s a very useful card to have with you.
- Be open minded, you’re in a new country with their own traditions, food and language, be respectful but also be open to trying new things.
- Probably the most important tip… eat and then eat some more! The food is gooooooooood – wait, did I mention that already? Of course I did… eat, eat, eat!
Where’s next on your travel bucket list?
I was travelling for 2 and half years, so now I’m taking a break and getting back into some sort of routine… until I see a travel deal, and then the travel bug will keep nagging me to book another flight. That darn travel bug, it’s making me go broke – send help, please! Although I am planning on visiting more off the beaten path destinations in the future like Mauritania, Uzbekistan, and Yemen.
A final note from Travis…
Live more and explore more! Take that trip! Even if you’re a solo traveler (like myself), go on a group tour. The Dragon Trip is the perfect way to explore a new destination and meet some awesome people as well 🙂 I highly recommend South Korea if you’re looking for a blend of amazing food, culture, and breathtaking views. The itinerary is jam packed with things to see and do. You will love it!
To find out more about Travis, follow him on Instagram or check out his travel eBook – Our World – Beyond Borders – a collection of his photos, captured from all over the world.
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