My husband and I try to go on a big trip once a year overseas to explore the world together. This years trip was picked for us with the life event of his brother, Troy, getting married in South Korea!
I haven’t traveled much in my life and that is one of the reasons why we are setting a goal as a couple to see the world together. With that said, I was nervous about going to South Korea and experience a completely different culture on the other side of the world. I didn’t know what to expect or what really we were doing day to day. So, I packed as versatile as I could went with an open mind with a 13 hour plane ride ahead of us we set off to explore another part of the world!
My carry on packing list coming soon!
The plane ride was honestly not as bad as I had imagined and stressed over. And let me tell you I stressed. Thankfully Delta had tons of movies. Travel tip * be sure to keep moving* I stood up after every movie we watched and walked/tried to use the restroom. Another great way to keep blood moving is using compression socks which I know Chad wished he wore on the trip out lol. Swollen ankles anyone?
Our trip started in Seoul! The city is huge and full of side streets and markets to explore. One of my favorite things that we did in the city is rent mopeds. It was such a great time and a easy way to get around. The traffic in the city was crazy and being able to move in and out of the cars saved a ton of time. We rode up to to this great lookout point and, of course, had some great craft beer.
We also visited Bukchon Traditional Korean Village of History. This village was one of my favorite places. All of the history and colors and amazing doorways. I was in love. I’, such a nerd when it comes to these historical places. Yes, I am the lady reading every single plaque and story behind everything.
More street exploring in Seoul!
We also explored the DMZ. It was an eye opening experience and even walked in one of the tunnels that North Korea built in attempt to invade South Korea. It was a trek up there but it was very interesting to hear the history (again history nerd) and everything behind the separation of states.
If you decide to visit the DMZ I would suggest to bring a packed lunch/snacks and drinks. We had a little bit of a problem finding some edible food to snack on while we were on our excursion. We were on the bus from 9am till 7pm. Yeah..it was a long day lol. Be prepared my friend, be prepared.
Off to Busan!
The second half of the trip we spent in Busan which is on the opposite coast and the Southern end of the country. We took the train which was actually so incredibly easy and smooth. The 3 hours train ride definitely beats a 5 hours car ride..no thanks. Just download a movie or bring a book and you will be set!
We were so lucky to have been in South Korea while the cherry blossoms bloomed. It made the whole country more beautiful. We made sure to make it a stop to see a Buddhist Temple. It was amazing to see this sitting right one the edge of the water like this.
Another must see while in Busan is the fish market! It was full of crazy creatures under the sea. Want to do something adventurous while you’re there? One word – sondashi. It is a small octopus that you eat alive! It is quite the experience to have and is considered very lucky to eat. And lets be honest we can all need to take the luck we can get.
The Wedding!
Oh, did I forget to tell you that we went to South Korea for a wedding?!? Yes! My brother-in-law got married! The difference between a South Korean wedding and a US wedding have some considerable differences but one thing remains the same, the love between the bride and groom.
I always keep in mind that I am beyond blessed to visit these places with my husband and family. I can’t wait to see where our life takes us next!
Cheers!
P.S. we celebrated TWO birthdays while visiting South Korea. Happy Birthday to my sister-in-law Lisa and my niece Avery!
