gangwondo

Highlights of the Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival

Every year, over a million people flock to the sleepy town of Hwacheon to participate in the Sancheoneo Ice Festival. The festival, which takes place annually, is consistently voted one of the best local festivals in Korea and was even named one of the “Seven Wonders of Winter” by Lonely Planet. I participated in the …

Cheorwan: Tranquility on the DMZ

With all the recent media attention suggesting that the Koreas are on the brink of nuclear war, the world might be surprised to learn that the cities dotting the DMZ, or demilitarized zone between the two counties, are as peaceful and quiet as ever. Sure, there are signs of a military presence and a slight …

Budget Travel Tip: Gangwon Shuttle Service

Traveling in Korea doesn’t have to break the bank. It’s also easier than one might imagine, even for foreigners. Especially for foreigners. In an effort to increase tourism in their regions, many provincial governments have begun to offer special services to international guests. Lucky us! One such example is the Gangwon Shuttle Service sponsored by Gangwon …

Railbikin’ It in Samcheok

Not many would know what to do with a set of abandoned railroad tracks, useless mountain tunnels, and a stretch of coastal scenery.  Yet, the folks in Samcheok, a city located on the eastern coast of Korea, found themselves with these seemingly purposeless components and turned them into a clever tourist destination.  Leave it to …