Best of South Korea - 8 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What are the main highlights of this tour?

  The main highlights include visiting the Demilitarized Zone between North and South Korea, experiencing an overnight temple stay in Gyeongju-si, and sampling the diverse cuisine of Korea.

• What type of accommodation is provided?

  The tour includes stays in standard hotels for 6 nights and a unique temple stay for 1 night. Please note that properties with only two stories may not have elevators.

• What meals are included in the tour?

  Seven breakfasts and one dinner are included in this trip.

• What is the typical group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size is 16 travelers, with an average group size of 12.

• Who will be leading the tour?

  The tour is accompanied by a Chief Experience Officer (CEO) throughout the trip, along with local guides at specific sites. The CEO will provide information, suggest activities, recommend local eateries, and introduce you to local culture.

• What are the physical requirements for this tour?

  This tour has a physical rating of 2 (light). Travelers should have an average level of fitness and mobility, able to walk without aid, climb 3-4 flights of stairs, step on and off small boats, and carry their own luggage through busy train stations and streets for most of the day.

• What is the minimum and maximum age to join this trip?

  You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied. For minors traveling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.

• Is travel insurance required?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory for all participants and must cover medical expenses, including emergency evacuation and repatriation, with a minimum coverage of USD200,000.

• Are international or local flights included?

  International flights are generally not included in the tour price. All local flights within the itinerary are included unless otherwise noted.

• What are the modes of transportation used during the tour?

  The tour utilizes a variety of transportation methods including private vans, trains, subways, and walking.

• What is the policy for solo travelers regarding accommodation?

  We believe solo travelers should not pay more, so our group trips offer shared accommodation with someone of the same sex without a single supplement. However, the temple stay (Night 3) is multi-share accommodation, even if you book a 'My Own Room' option for other nights.

• What are some optional activities available on this tour?

  Optional activities in Seoul include a Gwangjang Market visit, N Seoul Tower Observatory, a visit to the Gangnam District, a Kimchi & Hanbok Experience, Samsung Leeum Gallery, and exploring the Itaewon neighborhood. In Busan, you can opt for a Night Yacht Ride, Busan Tower Observatory, a Jjimjilbang experience, or Karaoke.

• What is the local dress code or cultural etiquette I should be aware of?

  In Asia, a more conservative dress code is common. Loose, lightweight, long clothing that keeps you cool is recommended. When visiting temples or other holy sites, please dress respectfully, avoiding very short shorts/skirts and singlets/tank tops. You will also learn about temple etiquette during your temple stay.

• Is tipping customary in South Korea?

  Tipping is generally not practiced in South Korea for services like restaurants or taxis. However, if you feel your Chief Experience Officer (CEO) did an outstanding job, tipping them is highly appreciated, with a guideline of $5-7 USD per person, per day.

• What should I know about currency, credit cards, and exchanging money while on this tour?

  ATMs are available in most places and typically accept Visa, Mastercard, and Debit Cards. However, not all machines may be compatible with your card. It's advisable to carry some USD cash for exchange when necessary, and a variety of payment options is recommended. Credit cards are not widely accepted for all purchases, except in some restaurants and department stores.

• What is an emergency fund, and how much should I have access to?

  It is recommended to have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund, to be used if circumstances outside our control (like a natural disaster) require a change to the planned route. This is a rare occurrence.

• What rules should I know before joining this trip regarding illegal drugs and sex workers?

  Illegal drugs are not tolerated on any trips, as they contravene local laws and put the group at risk. The exploitation of people in the sex trade is also completely contrary to our travel philosophy. Our CEOs have the right to expel any group member found violating these rules.

• What about laundry facilities during the trip?

  Laundry facilities are offered by some hotels but can be very expensive. Your leader can help you find self-service coin laundries in larger cities. Bringing non-polluting/biodegradable soap for personal hand-washing is suggested.

• What is Planeterra?

  Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization that helps local communities earn income from tourism by developing and supporting small community-owned businesses, fostering opportunities for Indigenous people, empowering women, and protecting the environment. The tour operator is Planeterra’s largest corporate donor, ensuring 100% of your donation directly supports these projects.

• What should LGBTQ+ travelers know about safety and travel considerations on this trip?

  The safety and well-being of all travelers, including those who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community, is a priority. We encourage you to visit our LGBTQ+ page for useful resources and tools, such as Equaldex, to ensure you feel safe and comfortable throughout your trip.

• Who should I contact in case of an emergency during the tour?

  For dire needs, it is best to first call the tour operator's Local Representative or Local Office in Korea. During office hours (Mon-Fri 9:30-18:00 Local Time), contact Derek Jeon (+82-10-8759-9367) or Tommy Na (+82-10-5514-5041). For after-hours emergencies, use the primary phone numbers: Derek +82-10-8759-9367 or Tommy +82-10-5514-5041. If unable to reach the local office, you can call the Sales team numbers (e.g., Toll-free, North America only: 1 888 800 4100).

• What should I know about airport transfers?

  If you have a pre-booked airport arrival transfer, it is based on your provided flight information. For flight schedule changes or cancellations within 48 hours of arrival, please call the emergency contact number to advise of your new details. If your transfer does not arrive within 30 minutes after clearing customs, please take a taxi to your starting hotel and seek a refund from your travel agent later. Important: for South Korea arrival transfers, pick-up schedule changes between 23:00-07:00 within 24 hours of arrival cannot be accepted, and you will need to take a taxi.

• Do I need visas or have specific entry requirements?

  All countries require a valid passport with a minimum of 6 months validity. It is your responsibility to contact your local embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date visa requirements, or consult your travel agent. Visa requirements vary depending on your nationality and destination.