My Favourite City In Asia?

Seoul effortlessly had me lost for words, it's amazing and apart from the DMZ, there is so much more to see, do and eat. Not only that but it also makes for an incredibly great night out. Itaewon is an area in the city full of restaurants, clubs and bars and it gives the Khao San Road a run for its money. But the best part for a great time is to go to Hongdae. The clubbing experience feels so different compared to anywhere else. If you're a solo backpacker I'd recommend staying at Seoul Forest Guesthouse, it's a very comfortable place to stay and great value for money. Good location as there are lots of great places to grab breakfast in that area.

One of the most iconic spots of the city is Gyeongbokgung palace, it's like a Korean version of the Forbidden City. There is a museum which is informative on the history of Korean just before the 20th century, but sadly most of the historic sites in Seoul seem like they are restored because I was told parts of the original buildings were destroyed during the war.


If you like Korean barbecue then this place will be perfect for you, for me there was nothing better than grilling some beef on the table and cracking open a Korean beer. I also got the chance to crack open some soju, the bestselling alcohol globally which is drunk with Korean barbecue. It is incredibly cheap and about half the strength of vodka.

The next day I felt a bit ropey so I had to drink a few powerades from the 7-11 before heading on the subway to go over to Bukchon Hanok village. It's one of the most iconic places in the city and it's just a collection of houses people live in. However, it does not feel like a tourist trap at all, the houses look very beautiful and you can even get a great view of the city. Makes for some great Instagram pictures and you can even wear the traditional clothes there.



Before heading over to the Seoul N Tower, I stopped by at Changdeokgung Palace, I think it's a very scenic place and it's much less crowded than the Gyeongbokgung Palace. Very good place for some pictures of what traditional Korean architecture looks like. Sadly these buildings have been destroyed and rebuilt over the years as well. 

The walk up to the Seoul N Tower is a challenge in the summer weather and it took me forty minutes, once I got to the top the view was amazing. You have to take into account that Seoul is a huge city with a population of more than Scotland 5 times over. Afterwards I felt that I needed to indulge myself in Korean barbecue once more and found an all you can eat in Hongdae in which I ate beef to my heart's content.




On the final day before heading off to Japan, I went to a dog cafe. It is such a fun experience, it's a must-do for any dog lover and it's amusing when they all start barking. When it comes to grabbing something to eat in Hongdae you are spoiled for choice, I found a restaurant which was recommended by Gordon Ramsay and the chicken dishes there are mouth-watering and delicious. 

Korea, I will be back...




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