Glamping Under the Stars at Raventree in Gapyeong

Fall has officially arrived in Korea. The season may not be the longest, but it is, without a doubt, the most beautiful. The country’s autumn colors, crisp air and cool temperatures beckon its inhabitants to don their sweaters and head outdoors for festivals, mountain hikes and danpoong noryi, excursions to see the fall foliage. Yet …

10 Ways to Stay Warm During Winter in Korea

Let me just make one thing clear. I am not a fan of Korean winters. Sure, the snow can be beautiful and the holiday decorations do make me all fuzzy on the inside but on any given day from December to March, the last place you’ll find me is outside. Coincidentally, many Koreans share my …

Final Fall Encounters at Seoraksan National Park

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again.  Korea in fall is a sight to be seen.  There are plenty of places to experience all the wonderful things about the season, but there is one special destination that allows visitors to experience autumn in all its glory: Seoraksan National Park. I had traveled to …

An Impromptu Hike on Dobongsan

“Serendipity.  Look for something, find something else, and realize that what you’ve found is more suited to your needs than what you thought you were looking for.” – Lawrence Block Earlier this week, I felt the need to get out my apartment and take advantage of the beautiful weather.  A friend had told me about …

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 …

The Colors of Korea: Orange

Orange may not be the first color that comes to mind when thinking of Korea.  In fact, the more obvious icons that represent the nation exclude orange all together.  It isn’t until one looks beyond the surface that the color’s significance in the country’s culture and history becomes apparent. Autumn Leaves Fall is arguably the …

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 …

The Sinister Side of Seoul

Halloween is just around the corner and though it may not be a traditional holiday here in Korea, there’s still plenty to do to get in the spirit.  Kindergartners carve pumpkins, dance clubs hold costume parties and local amusement parks host haunted houses. But for those of us who need a bit more horror in …

Who’s Who: Korean Ghosts, Goblins, and Gumiho

With Halloween festivities in full swing here in Seoul, it’s hard not to be in the spirit. Jack-o-lantern cutouts plaster the windows of restaurants, costumes have been donned, and posters in the city’s nightlife districts advertise Halloween-themed dance parties. Vampires, zombies, and mad scientists wander the streets, snapping photos with other cleverly costumed folks. And …