What do you look for when deciding on a dream destination? Superb beaches, historical marvels, spiritual shrines, breath taking islands, majestic mountains, delicious local cuisine, and the list goes on. Well, we have one place that can satisfy all your travel wishes. South Korea. Here’s why. From an exciting Halal Restaurant Week to world-famous Korean pop culture coupled with spell-bounding natural and city favourite attractions to visit, we have here 5 amazing reasons why South Korea is your dream destination.
1. Breath Taking Natural Spots
Nature lovers out there, South Korea is a destination where you can witness rugged mountain ranges, beautiful islands, pleasant beaches, adventurous caves, and whatnot. With umpteen natural attractions, you can have a tranquil experience in the lap of nature.
UNESCO declared New 7 Wonders of Nature- Jeju Volcanic Island is home to a plethora of interesting natural sites like exotic rock formations, amazing beaches, and green pastures to name a few. You can visit the scenic Cheonjeyeon Waterfall here, cascading from a height of 22 meters or go on a trekking expedition with your gang to the 1915 m tall Jiri Mountain. You can even unleash the Indiana Jones in you by exploring the Manjanggul Lava Tube Cave in Jeju Island housing South Korea’s highest mountain, Hallasan. If that’s not enough to quench your travel desires, chill with your family at this gorgeous island by the coast.
Also Read: 7 Experiences You Have To Try In Seoul, South Korea
2. Historic And Cultural Attractions
Korean culture and heritage are well respected across the world. The Gyeongbuk Palace built-in 1395 during the Joseon Dynasty is one of the largest palaces and a harbinger of South Korean culture in Seoul. Get absorbed in the beauty of the intricate architecture and fascinating history of this palace. You can also witness the traditional royal guard changing ceremonies here.
And if you’re in the mood to engulf into traditional Korean culture then do visit the Bukchon Hanok Village which has around 800-900 Korean traditional houses. This village is still inhabited by residents and will give you the 600-year-old Joseon dynasty feels. When we talk about historical sites, your visit to South Korea would be incomplete without a trip to the historical city of Suwon. Hwaseong Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its intricate architecture and intelligent urban planning, is a lovely cultural sight-seeing spot.
3. Shopaholic’s Delight
Shopaholics out there, South Korea should be on your bucket list. From skincare products, streetwear, Korean handicrafts to couture you can get everything here. Visit Myeongdong to purchase the best cosmetic and skincare products in town from popular brands like Innisfree and Natural Republic. If you’re in the mood for a good bargain, then go shopping with your girlfriends at Gangnam Terminal Underground Shopping Centre. This 800-meter long underground shopping centre at Gangnam Terminal is an amazing place to get street fashion apparel and handbags at pocket-friendly prices.
For high-end fashionista clothes, a trip to Garosugil in Gangnam is a must. From art galleries to stylish designer shops this place has it all. And if you want to shop for souvenirs to take back home, then you can drop by at Samcheongdong. The traditional Korean houses (Bukchon Hanok), traditional craft shops, artsy accessories and the artisanal coffee here are some of the attractions at this bustling traditional shopping destination.
Also Read: Top 5 Reasons Why South Korea Should Be On Your Bucket List This Year
4. South Korea’s Favourite Sight-seeing Spots
Now that you know about South Korea’s natural attractions, let’s tell you about the amazing sight-seeing spots here. If you are a fan of the popular Korean drama ‘Boys Over Flowers’ then a visit to the N Seoul Tower is a must. You can use a cable car from Namsan Mountain to reach here. And that’s not all when you’re on top, enjoying the 360-degree view of Seoul, hold your bae’s hand and relive your favourite romantic scene. Since romance can also mean adventure, you and your bae can embark on an adventurous trip to the Lotte World Adventure, which holds the Guinness World Record for being the world’s largest indoor amusement park. Sit on heart-pumping roller coasters and enjoy the thrilling rides at this popular amusement park.
When you visit South Korea, don’t miss out on Busan. This rollicking port-town has sensational urban landscapes, hot springs, beautifully lit skyscrapers, the awaited Busan International Film Festival, gorgeous beaches, bustling Jagalchi Fish Market, hep nightlife spots, chic designer cafes, crazy casinos, huge breweries, vintage shopping spots that will leave you rubbing your eyes in utter bafflement. Roam around this second-largest city of South Korea, Busan and you will definitely be bitten by the travel bug.
5. Halal Restaurant Week Korea 2019
If the previous 4 reasons weren’t enough to pique your interest in South Korea, then this one surely will. Korea Tourism Organization is hosting its 4th edition of the annual Halal Restaurant Week. This is an amazing event to promote Muslim friendly restaurants for tourists all across the world. This event starting from 1st September 2019 to 31st October 2019 will give you the opportunity to experience Korean Halal food as well as Halal food from various international cuisines like Chinese, Turkish and Italian at more than 150 Muslim friendly restaurants around the country for 61 days.
Also Read: 5 Off Beat Experiences You Can’t Miss Out In South Korea
Special Benefits You Can Avail
Tourists and expats in Korea can avail special discount coupons available for Muslim friendly restaurants. There are also special offers for cultural activities and other exciting giveaways for you. These are the special benefits that you can happily avail at the Halal Restaurant Week Korea 2019.
3,000 KRW (₹176) Coupon- This coupon can be applied to all participating restaurants, excluding special menu.
10,000 KRW (₹585) Coupon- This coupon is redeemable only for Halal Restaurant Week special pre-fixed menu.
Shop & Play Offers- These are the various special benefits that companies offer on their cultural activities and programs.
So Sign up for Halal Restaurant Week Korea 2019. Check your coupons on MYPAGE. Go to the Restaurants page to find more coupons on your favourite restaurants. Present your coupon (1 coupon for 1 bill) to the restaurant staff at the time of payment at the Muslim friendly restaurant. Once the staff enters the key in the promo code, you can avail your offers and have a pocket-friendly Halal meal at your favourite Muslim restaurant.
For more information on the Halal Restaurant Week Korea 2019 click here
Muslim Friendly Facilities
And now that you’re already looking forward to the Halal Restaurant Week Korea 2019, know that if you’re a Muslim, you have access to significant Islamic attractions in Seoul. The Seoul Central Mosque located in Itaewon was established in 1976 as a place of worship for Muslims in the city, as well as tourists. And that’s not all, there are plenty of prayer halls located at some of the most popular areas of the city like Lotte World and Incheon Airport to name a few.
So, the Muslim friendly facilities in the city like the availability of prayer halls, mosques as well as the Halal Restaurant Week Korea 2019 makes South Korea a popular destination for travellers to plan their next trip. Satisfy your K-pop, K-drama dreams, visit the South Korean attractions of your choice, gorge on delicious Halal Korean food and get your Soul to Seoul.
Plan your next trip to Korea here