Traveling to Asia can be the adventure of a lifetime.
Some places are excellent gateways for first-time international travelers, while others may ignite sensory overload through stunning sites, unique cultural norms, and the tastes and aromas of savory food.
Summertime is upon us, so there’s no better time to take advantage of your PTO by hopping aboard a long-haul flight to one of the most captivating continents on the planet.
Problem being Asia has so many cool places to explore, so how do you pick one?
Well, according to the latest statistics, more and more Americans are visiting the incredible country of South Korea, and for good measure.
Home to a fascinating culture and mouthwatering food, Americans love visiting this bustling Asian destination.
A Trending Foodie Destination
Next stop you’re driving around your hometown, take time to look around. In all likelihood, you’ll spot a Korean restaurant, but this hasn’t always been the case.
Korean Barbecue, Hot Pots, and Bibimbap Bowls, and even Korean-style fried chicken are all the rage nowadays.
It’s no longer just classic Chinese takeout or inauthentic sushi as your go-to for your Asian food fix.
Korean cuisine is so flavorful and savory; who can blame someone for taking a foodie trip across the globe?
In fact, many locals rarely cook at home in large cities. Even yours truly is trying to master a Kimchi Bloody Mary concoction, and I live nowhere near Asia.
In major cities like Seoul, you can’t go wrong. Kimchi is a way of life, but when you go out for barbecue or hot pots, it’s a social gathering and makes for a more fun outing.
Whether it’s the latest restaurant everyone is talking about on TikTok or browsing the action-packed streets for cheap eats, South Korea is one of the best spots in Asia to indulge in one of the trendiest types of cuisine right now.
Who knows, maybe little soju and sake will level up your visit and have you singing the latest K-Pop hits at a karaoke bar – one of the most popular social activities here.
One Of The Most Fascinating Cultures in Asia
Most travelers visiting South Korea find themselves in Seoul, the country’s phenomenal capital city home to nearly 10 million people.
This bustling city is an endless playground for travelers who love delicious food, historic sites, and bustling markets.
While it seems every major city in the world has some form of an ‘Old Town’ or areas dedicated to its past, it’s hard to ignore what Seoul has become today – a major metropolis with the latest tech and futuristic amenities.
While there are no hotels with robotic dinosaurs checking you into your room like you’ll find in Tokyo, Seoul’s bright neon lights, high-speed metro system, and future plans to eliminate all bland gray structures and go figuratively and literally green,
Tourists will find a mix of old and new, both equally fun to explore from traditional markets, Buddhist temples to the latest gizmos and gadgets at tech shows and eSport matches, South Korea is a draw for everyone.
This includes budget travelers. A little-known fact about Seoul is how many attractions are free.
These 4 museums are free to enter:
- National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art
- Seoul Museum of History
- War Memorial
- National History Museum
South Korea Is Dipping Their Toes In The Digital Nomad Craze
First and foremost, South Korea has nearly 25,000 free Wi-Fi hotspots across the country, which benefits all travelers, not just digital nomads.
With the new launch of the country’s highly touted Digital Nomad Visa earlier this year, it didn’t hit the mark with your run-of-the-mill remote worker on the go.
Issuing digital nomad visas has become a new trend with countries trying to keep up with the digital nomad craze, but this one is harder to qualify for.
Not to say it’s not enticing, but it’s a far cry from, say, Colombia.
While more Americans are pouring into South Korea, not are all digital nomads. That being said, a trip here may coerce you into trying to nab the visa for a long-term stay.
Seoul is an awesome place to visit, but don’t skimp on other gems digital nomads would love to make their base.
Another large city filled with thrills, history, and even nice beaches is Busan. Better yet, South Korea is home to an island known as “the Hawaii of South Korea”.
Jeju Island is a popular tourist destination with stunning beaches, scenic mountains and lush forests, perfect for an exotic escape away from the hustle and bustle of Busan and Seoul.
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