Reaching the capital city of Seoul for the first time brings a number of questions. Is navigating a metropolis inhabited by more than 10 million residents simple? How delicious is the local cuisine? Are the markets affordable and is this area friendly towards foreign visitors? Observing a full day in the capital of South Korea sheds some light on these queries.
The first day begins in a riverside area full of excitement. There are people enjoying the picnics, bicycling, listening to music and resting in tents. Food kiosks in the area create an atmosphere one might find in the market, which makes the park feel like a gathering place rather than just another city unit.
One of the first food findings is meat cooked on grill. For 16,000 won you get fifteen cups (1kg) of the dish that is freshly cooked on the grill. The meat is juicy, soft and slightly sweet which makes it a wonderful Korean dish to taste. The portion is enough to share though it was possible to eat only half of the meal.
Getting Around in Seoul via Metro
One of the most remarkable features about Seoul is its well-planned subway network. Tourists need not worry since ticket machines provide English instructions. The cost of a trip is 1,500 won plus the 500-won refundable deposit.
Of course, the subway stations are quite big and sometimes very deep. There are signages and announcements for various stations even in English. Once reaching the destination, the deposit can be reclaimed at a vending machine.
Trying out Korean dumplings and jerseys
The street food market provides a great opportunity to experience Korean food. The small dumpling shop has various types of dumplings filled with mushrooms, vegetables, pork, and sometimes kimchi. The dumplings are steamed and served with dipping sauce, accompanied by hot fish-cake soup.
The dumpling with its meat stuffing emerges as the most favored food choice in comparison to a version of it that contains kimchi. Even though kimchi has its own spicy character, dumplings are still primarily classified as affordable local cuisine. Food selection of the day is reasonably priced.
Also planned for the day is a search for a football jersey. At the market, a popular player’s replica jersey is offered for 28,000 won. Once the traveler tries on an XL size shirt, a decision regarding making the purchase is made.
Aside from clothing and sportswear, at the market visitors can find many other items that range from military clothes and binoculars to bags and other goods sourced from the region. A small flag is also acquired by the visitor.
Exploring a Korean Supermarket
The local supermarket allows one to see the day-to-day life of Seoul differently. The product range includes local products along with international products, such as Haribo Goldbears. Instant food items, cold drinks, fresh meat and fruits, seaweed, and snacks have occupied most of the supermarket.
Some of the bills seem quite high; for instance, the price of a watermelon shockingly high. Nevertheless, it is necessarily to buy a bag of Haribo candy bars because this reminds one of a childhood.
Seoul has its own underground shopping centers extending under the busy streets.
Finishing the Day Over Seoul
The last stop is a viewpoint located on the top of a mountain which can be reached by a funicular. The short ride takes visitors to the place where they can view the whole skyline of Seoul.
As the sunset is approaching a small bar provides a nice opportunity to have a beer and enjoy the view. After a busy and eventful day spent on eating, shopping, using public transport, and sightseeing nothing else could be better than the beautiful sunset.
