Korea Travel Guide
What to Expect in Seoul & Beyond
South Korea is vastly under-visited compared to some of its neighbours, but I don’t think this will be the situation for much longer. The huge influx of tourists lately is staggering!
Read on to to find out everything you need to know about visiting one of the world’s most underrated tourist destinations.
Explore South Korea
Want a FREE Korea Bucket List?
Subscribe and get all my best local tips, detailed travel guides, and wonderful hidden gems, so you can have the most authentic trip ever.
The Spotlight
Travel Essentials
-
Lotus Lantern Festival in Seoul 2026 | 7 Inspiring Things to See at YeonDeungHoe
Buddhist or not, the Lotus Lantern Festival and Parade is one of Seoul’s most inspiring events, bringing together people from all denominations and faiths, in a wondrous celebration of light. Buddhist or not, the Lotus Lantern Festival is one of Seoul’s BEST events. Also known as YeonDeungHoe, it’s a weeks…
READ MORE about Lotus Lantern Festival in Seoul 2026 | 7 Inspiring Things to See at YeonDeungHoe
-
I Tried Ear Seeding in Seoul: Here’s My Honest Take on Ri& Clinic in Myeongdong
I couldn’t escape ear seeding in Korea — it was literally everywhere online. So after weeks of curiosity, I finally decided to find out what the hype was actually about. I’ll be honest — when a tiny metal seed was carefully pressed onto my ear with tweezers, I wasn’t quite…
READ MORE about I Tried Ear Seeding in Seoul: Here’s My Honest Take on Ri& Clinic in Myeongdong
-
Samgwangsa Temple | A Captivating Lotus Lantern Festival in Busan with 40,000 Lanterns
I’ve long drooled over pictures of the Samgwangsa Temple Lotus Lantern Festival, without actually making the easy trip from Seoul to Busan to see it in person. Shameful, isn’t it? With 40,000 lanterns gloriously illuminating the temple, you can just imagine how breathtaking it is. Just a fraction of the…
-
Changdeokgung Palace Moonlight Tour 2026 | How to Get Tickets to this Exclusive Event
Moonlight tours at Changdeokgung Palace are back for a 17th year, and it’s something you definitely don’t want to miss. I had the privilege of attending in spring, and the experience was so remarkable, it’s STILL imprinted on my memory. Just imagine wandering Changdeokgung Palace by lantern light alone, admiring…
-
How to See the Sublime Gyeongbokgung Palace at Night 2026 | Guide for Tourists
Wandering the hushed stillness of Gyeongbokgung Palace at night, clad in a traditional Korean hanbok, you can’t help but be transported back in time. With its graceful buildings brilliantly lit against the night sky, this is a magical event that not everyone gets access to. Gyeongbokgung at night is simply…
READ MORE about How to See the Sublime Gyeongbokgung Palace at Night 2026 | Guide for Tourists
-
The Dazzling Banpo Bridge Rainbow Fountain | Current Schedule 2026 + How to Get There
At last count, there were 31 bridges spanning the mighty Han River in Seoul’s capital area. But Banpo Bridge is undoubtedly the most famous… and not just in Korea. Why, you may ask? Well, attached to the edges of the bridge is the Banpo Bridge Moonlight Rainbow Fountain. This is…
-
11 Secret Spots to See Cherry Blossoms in Seoul in Total Peace
Come spring in Korea, what’s an introvert to do? Hiding at home simply isn’t an option when the cherry blossoms in Seoul are bursting spectacularly into life. Don’t fret though, quiet soul. I’ve got you covered. Here are 11 secret spots to check out Seoul’s cherry blossoms with the peace…
READ MORE about 11 Secret Spots to See Cherry Blossoms in Seoul in Total Peace
-
2026 Cherry Blossoms in Korea Forecast | Best Festivals in Seoul, Jinhae, Busan and More
The annual appearance of cherry blossoms in Korea is the most eagerly anticipated spring event of the year. It’s something you absolutely don’t want to miss. Cherry blossom season in Korea is peak travel time. This wave of fairy tale gorgeousness sweeps its way up the country, starting from Jeju…
-
Jeongwol Daeboreum Fire Festival | 7 Places to Celebrate the Great Full Moon in South Korea
Jeongwol Daeboreum is a centuries old tradition, dating way back to the Three Kingdoms Period in Korea. It celebrates the first full moon after Seollal with a number of ancient rituals designed to bring good luck and great health in the coming year. I went to a Daeboreum festival for…
-
Exploring Korea in March 2026 | A Local’s Insider Guide
After the deep freeze of Korea in January, and February, Korea in March brings a milder climate, bright flowers, and an optimistic vibe. It’s time to shed the heavy parkas and step lightly into the season of freshness and new life. March is the first month of spring in Korea….
READ MORE about Exploring Korea in March 2026 | A Local’s Insider Guide
-
Seollal in Seoul 2026 | 11 Fabulous Things to do for Korean Lunar New Year
Traveling to Seoul during Korean Lunar New Year? Don’t worry! Seollal in Seoul is actually one of the best times to explore the city, with peaceful streets, and a ton of special events and activities to enjoy. You won’t have trouble finding things to do during Seollal in Seoul 2026….
READ MORE about Seollal in Seoul 2026 | 11 Fabulous Things to do for Korean Lunar New Year
-
How to Save on Skin Treatments in Korea: Insights From Trying Over 20 Seoul Beauty Clinics Myself
When it comes to skincare, dermatology, and other health and beauty treatments, it’s safe to say that South Korea is solidly on the map. Every year, people travel to Seoul, not just for sightseeing and food, but also to experience innovative and affordable skin treatments in Korea firsthand. I’ve called…
안녕! I'm Shelley!
It’s my mission to explore off-the-beaten places in my South Korea, and share them with you. Come with me on a journey to hidden gems and amazing places in Seoul and beyond. Be sure to connect if you have questions!
