Flight
1. Check your passport expiration date 2. Check to see if you need a visa 3. Exchange a little bit of currency for safety 4. Make sure to download KakaoTalk BEFORE your flight takes off
Travel Note
Korea's public transportation system is one of the best in the world, so we recommend you take advantage of it while here! You can purchase t-money cards from any major convenience store (CU, 7-Eleven, GS) for 5,000 won, and they can be used for most Korean transportation systems such as subways, buses, and taxis. The cost is for the card only. There is also a transportation and travel card that is exclusively for foreign visitors called the KOREA TOUR CARD. It is also the only card with discounts to major tourist events/places. We've shared a link to the mobile version for convenience (and it's cheaper): https://www.koreatourcard.kr/bbs/content.php?co_id=mobilecardinfo&info=mobilecardinfo&me_code=10&num=0&lang=en You must pay in cash if you are purchasing in person. You can also only reload with cash. However, unlike most countries, whatever you don't use, you can ask for a refund of the remaining amount!
Travel Note
Initially, our plan was to arrange a block of rooms at a designated hotel for our out-of-town guests. However, after receiving feedback expressing a preference for choosing accommodations independently, we've decided that a hotel block might not be necessary. Nevertheless, finding the perfect place to rest your head during our celebrations is as important to us as it is to you. And although some prefer the freedom to choose their lodgings, others have requested recommendations for a seamless stay. So with this in mind, we've curated a selection of hotels within a budget-friendly range of approximately $200.00 a night.
Travel Note
1. InterContinental Seoul COEX: A luxurious 5-star hotel located in the heart of Gangnam, offering elegant rooms, exceptional dining experiences, and direct access to COEX Mall, making it an ideal choice for our guests. https://seoul.intercontinental.com/iccoex/m/eng/ 2. AC Hotel by Marriott Seoul Gangnam: Situated in the heart of Gangnam, this 4-star hotel offers sleek, modern rooms, a contemporary design, and convenient access to the city's biggest attractions, making it a great option for our guests seeking style and convenience. https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/selag-ac-hotel-seoul-gangnam/overview/ 3. L7 Gangnam: Boasting a trendy atmosphere, this 4-star hotel combines comfort with modern design. Located in Gangnam, it offers chic rooms, fantastic dining options, and a prime location for exploring the lively surroundings. https://www.lottehotel.com/gangnam-l7/en.html 4. Four Points by Sheraton Seoul, Gangnam: With its convenient location and comfortable accommodations, this 4-star hotel provides a relaxing quiet stay near Apgujeong and Garosugil. The hotel has well-appointed rooms, good amenities, and easy access to the city's entertainment and business districts. Also has a decent buffet. https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/selfg-four-points-seoul-gangnam/overview/ 5. Fairfield by Marriott Seoul: This 4-star hotel is nestled in Yeongdeungpo-Gu. Its proximity to major businesses caters perfectly to corporate guests while offering easy access to Seoul's vibrant cultural hubs like Myeongdong, Itaewon, and Hongdae for travelers seeking immersion. Additionally, the hotel's vicinity to multiple malls, including the award-winning The Hyundai, adds a touch of architectural marvel and retail therapy to your stay. Notably, it's situated in an area resembling the Financial District and close to our apartment. https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/selfi-fairfield-seoul/overview/
Travel Note
1. RISE Autograph: A luxurious 5-star hotel in Hongdae offering sophistication and charm. With beautifully designed rooms, exquisite dining, and a focus on personalized service, it's an ideal choice for those seeking a refined experience in this vibrant area. https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/selsa-ryse-autograph-collection/overview/ 2. L7 Hongdae: Nestled in the heart of Hongdae, this 4-star hotel boasts a trendy ambiance, stylish rooms, and a dynamic location near popular attractions, making it a perfect base for exploring the artistic and cultural scenes of the neighborhood. https://www.lottehotel.com/hongdae-l7/ko.html
Travel Note
We'd like to also share these additional recommendations as alternative upscale choices that go beyond the $200 budget range initially outlined. Please consider these options as excellent alternatives, ideal for those seeking a more luxurious experience during their stay. 1. Grand InterContinental Seoul Parnas: Nestled in the heart of Gangnam, Grand InterContinental Seoul Parnas is a 5-star hotel that offers an indulgent stay with spacious rooms, diverse dining options, and easy access to premier shopping centers and entertainment hubs. This is Margaret's go-to recommendation for family and friends. 2. Park Hyatt Seoul: Experience elevated luxury and unparalleled views of Seoul at Park Hyatt. Renowned for its sophisticated design, impeccable service, and convenient location in the vibrant Chungdam area, it's an oasis of comfort and style. 3. Signiel: A pinnacle of luxury nestled in the vibrant cityscape of Seoul, Signiel stands tall as an epitome of elegance and sophistication. As part of the landmark Lotte World Tower, this 5-star hotel offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city, sumptuous accommodations, world-class dining options, and an unparalleled level of service, setting a new standard for opulence and refinement in Seoul's hospitality scene. 4. Four Seasons Hotel Seoul: A bastion of luxury in the heart of Seoul, the Four Seasons Hotel exudes sophistication and refinement. Boasting lavish accommodations, impeccable service, and a prime location near major attractions like Gyeongbokgung Palace and shopping districts, this 5-star hotel offers an unparalleled experience. Additionally, for those seeking a more unique and personalized experience, Airbnb in Korea offers an array of charming abodes that may align with your preferences. Should you have any queries or seek further recommendations, please don't hesitate to reach out.