A Korean Surprise
Korea is often an overlooked destination for a land tour. The reason for this is because so much of its popular culture has already found a home in the West. From K-pop and Korean dramas to cuisine and beauty, travelers may feel familiar with Korea before they ever arrive—yet that familiarity can overshadow the country’s deeper cultural richness, history, traditions, landscapes, and everyday experiences that are best discovered in person.
A little over two months ago, I had the opportunity to spend a week traveling through Korea on a trip hosted by Intrepid Travel, and the experience completely changed my impression of the country.
I had visited Korea a couple of times before, mainly Busan as a port of call on cruises. But seeing Korea by land was an entirely different experience.
Korea has more than 2,000 years of recorded history and a fascinating cultural heritage. You have probably heard of Korean BBQ, kimchi, japchae, bibimbap, and many other Korean dishes, but experiencing them in Korea gives you a much greater appreciation for the depth and variety of its food culture.
There is also an abundance of things to see and do—from visiting royal palaces and temples to exploring traditional towns and villages, where you can wander through small streets and lose yourself among the local shops. I even saw groups of cyclists in different cities doing their own “Tour de Korea.”
What impressed me most, however, was the people. I found them very friendly and helpful. One evening, I had ventured a little too far and became lost trying to find my way back to my hanok, a traditional Korean house where I was staying. I approached a local lady for help. Although she did not speak a word of English, she personally walked me all the way back to my hanok! That experience has stayed with me.
Intrepid Travel offers several different itineraries in Korea, with a focus on small-group travel, normally with no more than 12 travelers. I also think Korea is a wonderful multigenerational destination because there is something to interest almost every age group.
I am sharing a short video here that gives you just a glimpse of my trip and what Korea has to offer.
As for me, I am ready to go back—next time with my family!
Reach out to us if you are interested in learning more about traveling to Korea.
Blog under construction.
