Exploring South Korea on a Budget: Best Places to Visit and Save Money
South Korea is a fascinating country with a rich culture, bustling cities, and stunning natural scenery. But for budget travelers, it can seem like an expensive destination. However, with some careful planning and insider tips, it’s possible to explore South Korea without breaking the bank. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best places to visit in South Korea on a budget, and tips for saving money along the way.
Seoul
Seoul, the capital of South Korea, is a vibrant and exciting city with plenty to see and do. However, it can be expensive, particularly when it comes to accommodation. To save money, consider staying in a guesthouse or hostel in one of the city’s more affordable neighborhoods like Hongdae or Ewha, where you can find accommodation for as little as $10 per night. For food, street vendors offer tasty and cheap options like tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) and kimbap (rice rolls with fillings), which start at approximately $1.
When it comes to sightseeing, many of Seoul’s top attractions are free or low-cost. Some of the must-visit sights include Gyeongbokgung Palace, Bukchon Hanok Village, and the Namsan Tower. Visiting these attractions during the weekdays can help you save some money as the entrance fee is much lower than weekends.
Busan
Located on the south coast of South Korea, Busan is a dynamic city known for its beautiful beaches, seafood markets, and colourful festivals. While it’s slightly less expensive than Seoul, it’s still possible to keep costs low by staying in a budget guesthouse or hostel, which start at $10 per night.
For sightseeing, check out the Busan Tower, Gwangalli Beach or the famous Haeundae Beach. Busan has fantastic outdoor markets like Jagalchi Fish Market. Once again, simple street food in these markets is very affordable.
Jeju Island
Jeju Island is a popular tourist destination located off the south coast of South Korea. The island is known for its stunning beaches, dramatic landscapes, and unique cultural attractions. It is very accessible due to the significant airport on the island.
While Jeju Island has a reputation for being expensive, it’s still possible to explore on a budget. Hostel beds are available for as little as $9 per night. It is also possible to take local buses to visit some popular tourist sites like Seongsan Ilchulbong and Manjanggul Lava Tube UNESCO Global Geopark. Exploring these places would be cheaper, compared to booking tours from private companies.
Conclusion
Overall, South Korea is an exciting destination to visit, even on a budget. By choosing affordable accommodation, eating street food, and visiting free or low-cost attractions, it’s possible to see the best of what this fascinating country has to offer without breaking the bank.
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