SEOUL IN 12 HOURS
This year, I wanted to go on a big adventure. The perfect place that came to mind was Japan during the Cherry Blossom festivals. It's a place I've always wanted to go and there's no better place than peak sakura season. More to come on Japan but for now, this post will be on my 12 hour whirlwind experience in Seoul.
During the booking process (SFO -> Tokyo), I found a flight that conveniently included a 12 hour layover option in Seoul (thank you Korean Air for being amazing as always). So I figured why not? It's a perk to be able to travel to multiple places in one trip.
When we arrived, we took a free Seoul transit tour from the airport. I've never seen that before at any other airport, so it was great to be able to experience some of the highlights of Seoul with a tour guide, food, and direct transportation to and from the airport! Because the tour we took was 5 hours long and we had 12, we split from the group early and explored on our own. I highly encourage anyone to take one of these tours in case you have some free time during a layover.
What an adventure indeed! Some of my highlights are below (seeing Gyeongbokgung Palace in the middle of Seoul, checking out the famous street markets, and having Korean BBQ). Not to say that this trip was without any mishaps (almost losing a passport before the trip began, arriving hours before the tour started, trying to navigate the Seoul public transportation system), but now I can call myself an experienced traveler right?
Comment below if you have been to these places or have any other suggestions for future visits!
Not pictured: thigh high boots because that's so practical for an international trip
Changed out of my thigh high boots - for some reason I thought I should travel with them
Incheon International Airport was great to explore while we waited for our tour to begin. Pictured here is Paris Baguette, a popular "western" bakery chain throughout Asia.
Convenience store at the airport was great too! We got lots of tasty treats here while we waited
First stop was a visit to Gyeongbokgung Palace in the heart of Seoul
For my comfort travel wear: Kanye West Pablo SF hoodie, Zara coat, Zella live-in leggings, Prive Revaux sunglasses, Dolce Vita thigh high boots (actually Vans in these photos)
After the palace, we headed to the shopping area called Insadong, about a 15 min walk away
Stumbled upon a church on our way to Myeongdong Market
Namdaemun Market
People waiting in the alley famous for its fish and stews
Back to the airport - look how amazing the Gucci store is!