It is fast becoming one of the most popular destinations with cruise lines such as Cunard, Celebrity Cruises, Holland America Line and Regent Seven Seas Cruises calling at destinations in South Korea. The capital, Seoul, is a sprawling metropolis with hyper-modern skyscrapers and high-tech subways where pop culture meets Buddhist temples, palaces and street markets. Visit the futuristic Dongdaeumun Design Plaza, a convention hall with curved architecture and a rooftop park. Seoul is also the best place to catch some K-Pop artists who are gaining popularity even in Western countries. Seoul is also known for it’s amazing food – from high-end restaurants to food trucks, you can get an array of local delicacies. Gwangjang Market is Seoul’s largest food alley. If you’re after a bit of culture, visit the National Folk Museum of Korea which covers the Korean culture and way of life. The Leeum Samsung Museum of Art showcases modern, traditional and international artists. To escape the hustle and bustle of the city, visit Jeju, which is known for its beautiful beaches, lush countryside and seaside hotels designed for relaxation.
PLACES TO STAY
The Shilla is a large luxury hotel with a Korean twist and sits beside the beautifully landscaped Jangchungdan Park. It also features one of the only outdoor pools in the capital and a fantastic spa by Guerlain. The W is the hippest hotel in town, all minimalist chic, cool cocktail bars and raised platform beds. Mid-range hotels tend towards the bland but are generally affordable, clean and modern. The Lotte resort in Jeju is a huge complex with hotel rooms, cool freestanding villas, shopping and even a volcano fountain.
WHERE CAN YOU CRUISE?
Click here for a full list of South Korean cruise ports.
