Explore Seoul, Escape Explore Excite. Outside of Seoul and. Jeju to excite your senses!

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1 Issue No. 2 Oct 2011 Escape Explore Excite by Explore Seoul, Outside of Seoul and Jeju to excite your senses! Hotel Lucky Draw Encore Find out how to win a FREE hotel stay in Bangkok!

2 Visit newshan.com Irresistible airfares & hotel deals Wide variety of packages Latest updates on promos & contests Escape, Explore & Excite with our online travel magazine Visit sinchungtours.com Wide spectrum of travel services Worldwide ticketing In-house & airline packaged tours Hotel bookings Your Preferred Choice of Travel! Your Preferred Specialist in China tours! A subsidiary of New Shan Group

3 Editor s Note Annyeonghaseyo! Are you pondering where to go for your year-end holiday? Imagine yourself immersed in mesmerizing sceneries that are postcard-worthy, being brought back to the past amidst historical monuments, or trotting through the streets to your next shopping destination, indulging in yummy Korean cuisine, or simply enjoying fun moments in snow-capped mountains! This month, we bring you to South Korea, a country rich in culture and heritage. You won t want to miss Jeju, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its magnificent panorama. Behind the modern cityscape of Seoul is a capital that still preserves its historical assets and traditions. We also venture out of the norm and explore cities Outside Seoul. Follow Andy Wong, a globetrotter, on his journey to Seoul. You will feel as if you are there too! We have also included great hotel deals and recommended tour packages just for you! A list of travel tips will also aid you in better planning for your trip. Be prepared to be captivated by this beautiful country! Ready, Jet Set, Go! A fellow avid traveler, Joe Contents 2 A Soulful Experience Adventures of a globetrotter in Seoul Jeju Be awed by Korea s southernmost volcanic island getaway! Seoul Be surprised by new discoveries within the popular city! Outside Seoul Venture out of Seoul for new surprises! Windows to Korea Visit Korea through our colorful scrapbook Our Recommendations Embark on a Seoul Fun journey with us! Hotel Deals Fabulous hotel deals just for you! Hotel Lucky Draw Encore Response to our previous hotel lucky draw was so good we re doing an encore! Cover Photo: Yongpyong Resort Picture courtesy of KNTO E 3 is the Online Travel Magazine of New Shan Travel Service Pte Ltd. Copyright 2011 All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without permission is prohibited. 1

4 Shopfront of Seo Seo Galbi. No seats! Notice the queue in the rain. Sinchon Street by night. 2 Who can forget that timeless scene of Jun-Sang kissing Yu-Jin in Winter Sonata? Who can ignore the superhuman performances of Park Ji-sung with Manchester United in sweeping away their opponents in the British Premier League? Who can neglect the wave of K-pop and Korean culture sweeping the world contagiously? It does make one curious about the enigma of South Korea, doesn t it? Contributed by Andy Wong, a globetrotter A SOULFUL EXPERIENCE IN SEOUL One fine day in July, on a sudden whim, I decided to visit the country I have always wanted to, and which almost everyone else had already visited. I took a Singapore Airlines midnight flight and arrived on a summer Saturday morning at Incheon International Airport. My friend picked me up and the first stop was to hit the Korean version of spa called Jimjilbang, the perfect cure for an overnight flight. There, I showered and slept till noon. What is a real holiday without sufficient rest? DAY 1. My friend told me I have not been to Seoul if I were not to try the Best Beef BBQ in South Korea. A long queue had formed by the time we reached at 5.30pm. Luckily, my friend knew the service staff and we were quickly accommodated. This shop is called Seo Seo Galbi. It is located near Sinchon Street, a famous university area bustling with youthful energy. No reservations can be made at Seo Seo Galbi, and when the ingredient runs out, it closes shop. There is no seat either; you have to stand around a BBQ cylinder to do the grilling. The cooking process is simple. Just pour the secret sauce with garlic onto the marinated beef, and whilst waiting for the beef to be cooked, you can chomp on the non-spicy green chilli. Once done, you dip it into the secret sauce again. I must confess that this was by far my most satisfied meal in Seoul! After dinner, we took a short walk to Sinchon Street for coffee. Sinchon Street is surrounded by three universities, and thus you can feel the vibrancy of the area. There are many cafes, restaurants, pubs, shops, Hyundai Department Store and Internet cafes (called PC Bang ). It is a place for young people to chill out. DAY 2. Being an avid history fan, one of the main objectives of this trip was to visit the Demilitarized Zone or DMZ. I have long been fascinated by the origin and history of the 38th parallel that separates DPR Korea and South Korea. It is one of

5 Yummy, isn t it? Combination of high-quality charcoal, expertly-marinated beef, secret sauce and the standing-whilebarbecuing process makes for an unforgettable experience! the last remnants of the Cold War. The journey from Seoul to Panmunjom took 45 minutes. When I got off the car, the realization that I was less than five kilometers away from DPR Korea hit me. I visited the Freedom Bridge, the only bridge over the Imjingak River connecting DPR Korea and South Korea. The bridge got its name when 13,000 war prisoners shouted "Hurray Freedom!" as they returned home crossing the bridge following the Armistice Agreement in The Third Tunnel is a tunnel under the border between DPR Korea and South Korea. It was the third tunnel to be discovered running under the border between the two Koreas. Only 44km from Seoul, the tunnel was discovered in October 1978 based on information provided by a defector. It is 1.7km long, 2m high and 2m wide. Its depth is about 73m below ground. We left Panmunjom for Seoul to have a late lunch. My friend introduced me to a special dish called Andong Jjimdak. The name literally means Across the bridge lies DPR Korea. This sculpture symbolizes the wishes of the people on both sides for reconciliation. Andong Jjimdak Original Chicken version. Andong Jjimdak Seafood combination version. steamed chicken of Andong. It originated in Gyeongsangbukdo, Andong. According to a source, in 1980 at Andong Market s Chicken Town, chefs began adding a variety of ingredients into their roasted chicken, and Andong Jjimdak was born. It is a large-plated dish that is ideally eaten in a big group. Other than generous portions of chicken, I saw potatoes, crab meat, mussels, mushrooms, onions, vegetables and Chinese flat rice noodles. The brown sauce was sweet and flavourful. You can literally taste the goodness of the ingredients in the sauce. A bullet-riddled train used in the Korean War. 3A SOULFUL EXPERIENCE IN SEOUL

6 N Seoul Tower is the tallest point in South Korea. It is a communication and observation tower located on Namsan Mountain in central Seoul. Namsan Mountain is 243m high, and N Seoul Tower is 236.7m tall, so the tower tops out at 479.7m above ground. I took a bus up and walked approximately 60m up a steep slope to the base. For a fee, you can go up to the four levels of observation decks at the top, where you enjoy breathtaking views of Seoul. There are numerous cafes where you can enjoy your coffee and the panoramic views. If you are tired of walking, you can choose to take a cable car down the mountain. Famished, we headed for a Korean seafood dinner. A SOULFUL EXPERIENCE IN SEOUL On the right of the picture is a dish of live squid. Live squid is considered a Korean delicacy. The dish in the middle is raw fish. DAY 3. Today is Myeongdong day! Myeongdong is a name associated with shopping, chilling out, mingling with the youth of Seoul, and checking out the latest fashion. I took the subway and stopped right in front of Myeongdong. This place reminded me very much of Harajuku of Tokyo. You see Starbucks, Coffee Bean, Krispy Kreme, Adidas, The Body Shop and so forth (which are all international brands), and you see a high ratio of local eateries and shops. The majority of the shops are selling facial and skin care products. It takes at least half a day to fully explore the area. Luckily for me, there were many cafes for me to chill out at every now and then. 4 TOP: From N Seoul Tower, it is only 193.6km away from Pyongyang. BOTTOM: Singapore is 4,651.9km away. Assuming a constant driving speed of 100km/h, you will take 47 hours. Not that unachievable, isn t it? TOP RIGHT: Across the Han River stands the 63 Building. At 249m high, it became the tallest building outside North America when completed in 1985, but a few months later, the title went to OUB Centre in Singapore. Now it is the 3rd tallest building in South Korea. Its attraction lies in the fact its golden facade shimmers during sunrise and sunset. Shops galore! Myeongdong is a place people keep going back to, for shopping, eating, chilling out, or simply to see and be seen! If you like shopping at wholesale rates, you need to head down to Dongdaemun. Spread over a wide

7 8 stories of shops in the building complex. Outdoor Pasar Malam and eateries. area, you can choose from the over 30,000 specialty shops. You can shop in an air-conditioned building with floors and floors of small proprietor stalls selling silk, fabric, shoes, leather goods, electronic goods, accessories, beads, curtains etc, or you can shop outdoors à la Pasar Malam style. After a hectic day of shopping, it is time to wind down at the romantic Cheonggyecheon Stream. It is a stream that cuts through the middle of the busy business district, from Gyeongbokgung Palace past Seoul Plaza, Namdaemun, Dongdaemum, Insadong Street and so forth. I was at Changdeokgung Palace (which was also near the stream) and wanted to go to Namdaemum, so I took the subway to a transit station for the train to Namdaemum, taking 45 minutes in total. When I got out of the station, I realized I was just beside the Cheonggyecheon Stream that led to Changdeokgung Palace. I could have easily walked 15 minutes to my destination instead of taking the subway! That was when I realised that the stream was really connected to many attractions. Cheonggyecheon Stream attracts many couples at night. Walking down the stream, you can see murals on the walls, dip your feet in the cool stream, or climb out of the stream to chill out at the numerous cafes and pubs that line the stream. DAY 4. Insadong represents the focal point of Korean traditional culture and crafts. Stores in Insadong specialize in a wide variety of goods that are uniquely Korean: hanbok (traditional clothing), hanji (traditional paper), traditional teas, pottery, and folk crafts. You can find painters, craftsmen, and art lovers setting up shop along the narrow alleys, making it a unique place full of folk crafts, No less than five couples asked me to take photographs of them as I walked down the stream! You can find a wide variety of traditional Korean craft and culture at Insadong. You can also try traditional snacks alongside modern cafes. The entrance of Gyeongbokgung Palace. Known as Injeongjeon Hall, it was used for major state affairs, including the coronation of a new king and receiving foreign envoys. 5A SOULFUL EXPERIENCE IN SEOUL

8 Vast expanse of Changdeokgung Palace grounds. on display. It is a two-storey building with a basement, and all three stories contain historical records such as royal symbols and records, ancestral rites, palace architecture, ancient science instruments and life in the palace. A SOULFUL EXPERIENCE IN SEOUL 6 Interior of one of the many halls. pottery, and paintings. Various art events and festivals are regularly held along the street. No visit is complete without visiting Gyeongbokgung Palace and Changdeokgung Palace. Built in 1395 and reconstructed in 1867, Gyeongbokgung Palace, otherwise known as Palace of Shining Happiness, is located in northern Seoul and is arguably the grandest and largest of all five palaces built by the Joseon Dynasty. Changdeokgung Palace, otherwise known as Palace of Prospering Virtue, was the second royal villa built in 1405 following the construction of Gyeongbokgung Palace. It was the principal palace for many of the Joseon Kings and is the most well-preserved of the five remaining royal palaces. Changdeokgung was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in The palace was used to film part of the hugely popular Korean drama Dae Jang Geum ( ). The National Palace Museum of Korea is located next to Gyeongbokgung Palace and was opened in 1992 to display relics from the Joseon Dynasty (1392 to 1910). Over 20,000 royal relics from Gyeongbokgung Palace, Changdeokgung Palace, Changgyeonggung Palace and Jongmyo Shrine are TOP LEFT: Entrance to The National Palace Museum of Korea. TOP & BOTTOM RIGHT: Depictions of the life of a royalty. BOTTOM LEFT: These two majestic cars were used by the Royal Family in the early 20th century. Night fell. It was time for the Bibap show! The 80-minute performance was about two chefs vying for honours. In doing so, the audience was treated a spectacular of break-dancing, beat-box, martial arts and comical manoeuvres. Each of the 8 performers possessed a unique skill-set: 2 actors were the best B-boy dancers I have witnessed; 2 actors had the ability to mimic any sound, noise, beat and rhythm possible; 2 actresses had soprano-like singing abilities; the 2 lead actors had such comical acting skills that it was practically impossible to avoid laughing and falling off your seat. The show was interactive and involved the audience. I commend them for putting together such a highly entertaining act. (Note: For the ladies, one of the B-boys was very cute and athletic. Besides his boyish looks, he could actually grab a

9 For more pictures and information on the Bibap show, see page 19 pole and hanged himself horizontally for a good 5 seconds. What fitness!) TOP LEFT: National Folk Museum of Korea. TOP RIGHT: An inscription that describes how King Sejong, who felt compassion towards the illiterate, invented the Korean language in December The Korean language is the only language in the world with a clear purpose, known inventor and known time of creation. BOTTOM LEFT & RIGHT: Transcripts of Chinese alphabets being translated to Korean alphabets. were used in the daily lives of ordinary Korean people were on display. Here, you can learn about Korea s traditional domestic and agricultural lifestyles, and cultural beliefs. DAY 5. Namdaemun, which literally means South Gate, was once the southern gate of the ancient walls that protected Seoul. Now, it is one of the busiest markets in the country. Whether you are looking for traditional medicine, leather goods or clothing, Namdaemun is the place to go. You can also find lots of stalls selling Korean seafood and local delicacies. It is located in central Seoul and you can easily reach there by subway. After taking pictures of the Jokbal, I met another friend for dinner. Never did I expect that he would treat me to a Jokbal dinner! It was a cosy and small A SOULFUL EXPERIENCE IN SEOUL Street teeming with shoppers and stall owners. Displays explaining the origins and different types of kimchi. Kimchi is a wonder dish. It can be made into a soup, enhance the flavour of other dishes, or be eaten raw. Returning to the grounds of Gyeongbokgung Palace, I went to the National Folk Museum of Korea where over 4,000 historical artifacts that Korean seafood hawker-style. 7

10 Jokbal is a Korean dish consisting of pigs' feet cooked with soy sauce and spices. Usually eaten wrapped in lettuce. Numerous cafes and pubs lining the streets in Hongdae. One is spoilt for choice here. A SOULFUL EXPERIENCE IN SEOUL 8 The gate at the main thoroughfare of Namdaemun. restaurant and packed to the brim with office executives in suits. From their looks, it was obvious that the locals enjoy eating this dish very much. After dinner, my friend recommended me to visit Hongdae area near Hongik University. This place was packed with clubs, pubs, restaurants and cafes. At 1am, the area was still bustling with party-goers and supper addicts. 90% of the crowd were university students, and the area is well-known for its nocturnal activities. I spotted a TV crew filming an amateur student rock band performing in the street, and although the performance was average, the student crowd simply threw in their support and rocked hard with the band. Certainly an area not to be missed if you are a night owl. DAY 6. I watched the afternoon NANTA show in Myeongdong. The musical was about three cooks attempting to prepare a wedding banquet within a strict time limit while the manager installed his incompetent nephew among the kitchen staff. The show involved acrobatics, magic tricks, comedy, catchy beats and audience participation. Most of the sounds created were derived from cutting boards, water canisters and kitchen knives. The Taken at 1am on an early Thursday morning, a TV crew was filming a student rock band performing. performance was almost completely non-verbal. NANTA is the longest-running show in Korean history. In the evening, I took a stroll along Hangang Park located by the Han River. It was a very relaxing place where couples strolled hand in hand, families had their picnics and people jogged or were on roller-blades. The imposing structure of the 63 Building loomed in the background, with its golden façade reflecting the shimmering rays of the sunset. Imposing structure of the 63 Building.

11 A relaxing riverfront avenue for all walks of life at Hangang Park. Supper beckoned and I went to Myeongdong in search of food. I chanced upon an alley full of people apparently ordering from the same restaurant, and thus I assumed the food must be excellent. I ordered the dish that was common on all tables. It is a wonderful combination of vegetables (sliced cucumber, leeks etc.) and fresh seafood (mussels, abalone etc.), topped with a refreshing clear sauce. I still have not figured out the name of the dish, but if you know Korean, you can see the name in the picture. DAY 7. It is time to say Annyong-hi kashipshio ( Good bye in Korean) to Seoul. I will be back for sure. E 3 Facade of the supper restaurant in Myeongdong. The alley was packed full of customers and office executives who knocked off late at night, typical of the Korean corporate culture. The restaurant s famous seafood-vegetables dish that has a very delightful taste. One serving feeds 2-3 people. Goes wonderfully well with beer. Dish s name is as below. Hotel Capital was where I put up. Located in Itaewon, an area famous for its night scenes and frequented by foreign tourists, it is a four-star hotel located near the Noksapyeong subway station. There is a Starbucks outlet and convenience shop just outside the hotel. Note: Please bring along your own toiletries. Seoul is dedicated to its environmental-friendly initiatives. Korea Fiesta C A L E N D A R April Yeouido Spring Flowers Festival: Hundreds of King Cherry Trees lining along Yeouido s roads by the Han-River give out a sweet scent of cherry blossoms. A series of street performances and art exhibitions will be lined up for this festive celebration. May Lotus Lantern Festival: Be amazed by this spectacular annual lantern parade held in Seoul. A celebration for Buddha s birthday, enrich yourself with Buddhist cultures through the performance and traditional lantern exhibition along the Buddhist Culture Street fair and participate in the lantern-making too. August Photos credit to KNTO, SICAF South Korea has a great variety of festivals and events celebrated throughout the year. Mark down on your calendar and immerse yourself in these joyous celebrations. Seoul International Cartoon and Animation Festival: This annual event held in COEX showcases animation and cartoon, an exhibition of international animation film festival, digital cartoon competition and animation. Indulge yourself in the world of animation. October Seoul Performing Arts Festival: An art fiesta held in Seoul featuring artists from all over the world, local as well as international. Covering all genres from theater, dance, musicals and multi-genre art. Be impressed by the talents and join in the fun of performing arts. 9

12 Get away from the hustle of city and be enthralled by what Jeju has to offer you! Termed as Korea s southernmost volcanic island getaway, you will be surrounded by magnificent landscapes, bright cheery flowers in spring and beautiful snow-capped mountains in winter. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007, Jeju is a must-visit island in Korea! YONGDUAM ROCK, shaped like a dragon s head and juts out from the sea. It was created by strong winds and waves over thousands of years. However, legend has it that a dragon stealing precious jade from Mt. Hallasan was shot by an arrow and fell upon Yongduam, with his head turning into rock and extended beyond the sea surface. Witness for yourself the wonders of Nature (or myth if you believe in the legend!). For sightseeing, head to JUSANGJEOLLI CLIFF along Daepo Coast. It was formed when the lava from Mt. Hallasan erupted into the sea of Jungmun. Rock pillars shaped like hexagons are piled up along the coast and the cliff is a designated cultural monument. Enjoy the breathtaking view when the rough waves crash against the cliff or serenity when the waters are calm. 10 Photos credit to KNTO

13 Ever seen a car roll uphill when the engine is turned off? Witness this illusion at Dokebi Road, or better known as MYSTERIOUS ROAD in Jeju! Another sight not to be missed is the SEONGSAN SUNRISE PEAK. It is the most famous place for watching sunrise on Jeju Island and attracts a large crowd of tourists throughout the year. A variety of festive programs await visitors who flock over to see the first sunrise to reflect on the past year and make wishes for the coming year. 11

14 12 Curious about the Korean culture and history? Visit SEONGEUP FOLK VILLAGE to learn more about the traditions of the natives. Travel back in time as ancient government offices, fortress ruins and monuments surround you. The people of Seongeup-ri still live in the traditional houses that are maintained by the village community to serve as an educational attraction to visitors. HAENYEO MUSEUM showcases the activities and culture of Hanenyeo, female divers who dive into the ocean water to gather various shellfish, seaweed, etc, without using any underwater diving equipment. You will be able to gain an insight of the lives of Hanenyeo through exhibits of their equipments, outfits and their lifestyle.

15 Visit the JEJU GLASS CASTLE and be intrigued by its magical atmosphere. It is a theme park featuring an exhibition hall, garden and models all made entirely out of glass. Your visit to the theme park will be an eye-opener with exhibits like the world s first all-glass labyrinth, the world s largest glass ball and largest glass diamond, a glass stonewall, a mirror lake, and a glass bridge. If you want to relive the inner child in you, the TEDDY BEAR MUSEUM is a must-visit in Jeju! Visitors of all ages will definitely enjoy touring the museum with displays of teddy bears as famous characters. Buy souvenirs in the shop, take a break in the café and restaurant, or view the spectacular Jungmun Sea at the outdoor park. Teddy Bear Museum photos by: Annama thecurlybackpacker.wordpress.com Photos credit to KNTO 13

16 4 Seoul Are you crazy over romantic Korean dramas? Interested to learn more about Korea? The language, culture and history? Follow us to Seoul and be inspired by Korea.

17 Photos credit to KNTO Gyeongbok Palace The Palace was built in 1395 and considered the most beautiful and biggest of the five palaces in Seoul. Unfortunately, most of the premises were being destroyed by fire during the Japanese Occupation of Korea ( ). It was later restored in 1865 under the leadership of Heungseondaewongun. Take a trail of the palace to major attractions such as Geujeongjeon (main hall of the palace), Gyeonghoeru pavilion, Hyangwonjeong pavilion and the Amisan chimneys, which reflect the valuable cultural and historical assets illustrating the essence of the traditional architectural design of the Joseon Dynasty. 15

18 16 Lotte World This theme park is filled with thrilling rides, an ice rink, different kinds of parades as well as folk museum, a lake and more. It is a perfect place for entertainment and sightseeing. The park turns into a fairy tale-like place in the evening where rides and European-styled buildings are lighted up with LED lights. Don t forget to catch the performance before leaving the park. Ice Gallery Ice Gallery presents to you the first indoor ice sculpture gallery that operates all year round. Ice Gallery offers visitors two types of experiences. Firstly, visitors get to enjoy the cool winter ice exhibition and secondly, be amazed by the process of ice carving. Don t just look, join in the fun by making your own sculpture!

19 Photos credit to KNTO 17

20 Korean fashion trends are receiving raving reviews in the m grab your shopping bag and get ready for your shopping Yeoju Premium Outlet Korea s first and only authentic premium designer outlet operated by Shinsegae Chelsea. The outlet houses over 140 popular luxury brands including Gucci, Hugo Boss, Ferragamo, Burberry and also Korean designer brands such as Kuho, Kim Young Joo and Hazzys. Experience the exotic shopping atmosphere in Yeoju Premium Outlet where shoppers can enjoy the beautiful outdoor landscape while shopping. Dongdaemun Market Another great shopping place that is a must-go will be Dongdaemun Market. It is the largest wholesale and retail shopping district that has 26 shopping malls, 30,000 specialty shops and 50,000 manufacturers. A full range of fashion items can be found in Dongdaemun Market at inexpensive prices. A shopping trip that is sure to be unforgettable. Namdaemun Market Located in the heart of Seoul, is one of the biggest traditional markets. Wandering around the market, you will find a great variety of foods, clothes, toys and other daily necessities at affordable prices. Definitely a must to include in your shopping destinations in Seoul! Travel Tips in Korea Myeong-dong A shopper s heaven with its wide variety of choices! From the megastores of Migliore, Lotte Department Store, Avatar and High Harriet to the cozy, charming shops lining the streets, Myeong-dong has something for everyone. It is a stunning shopping district with countless shops and restaurants not to be missed. Wear appropriate dressings at Panmunjeom and Buddhist temples (no shorts, jeans, sandals). Use both hands when giving something to a Korean, especially the elderly or authorities. Bring your own fork if you are not used to chop sticks, which is a common utensil. Pour drinks for others and allow them to pour for you - it's impolite to pour your own drink. Out of deference to an elderly or a senior, it is advisable to initiate the pouring of drinks with the free hand guiding your pouring hand. Do be cautious if what you're eating is covered with green peppers. Some of the peppers are so hot they will make your insides burn for hours if you are not used to them. Not everybody speaks English. Be patient and try to communicate in another way such as hand gestures. In line with South Korea s recycling efforts, many hotels do not stock toiletries in the bathroom, such as toothpaste and toothbrush. Please bring your own. 18 Required Clothing Lightweight cottons and linens are worn during summer, with light- to medium-weights in spring and autumn. Medium to heavy-weights are advised during the winter.

21 arket. Shopaholics, spree! // Bibap Show Sinchon Ladies Street is a favorite hangout place for young and energetic youngsters. This street is filled with restaurants and bars, side streets with cozy little restaurants, Hyundai Department Store and countless of discount marts and trendy stores. In the evening, the street of Sinchon is lighted up with glowing neon signs for night clubs, bars and noraebang (karaoke rooms). Visit some of these popular hotspots such as noraebang, DVD cafes and PC cafes that youngsters often patronize to relax and have fun. Photos credit to KNTO Big fan of Korean stage performance? Various stage shows such as NANTA Cookin, Break Out, Jump etc., are performing in Korea and all over the world. Be Eatertained by Bibap, a combination of Eat and Entertainment stage performance. Bibap created an amazing performance based on the Korean popular food Bibimbap. Bibap satisfies all your five senses by engaging them in the performance. Bibap uses the cooking sound of bibimbap which includes rinsing, chopping, pan-frying, and eating that beautifully turns into a melody through beatbox and a cappella. Also, movements and processes of making bibimbap turn into martial art through b-boy and acrobatic. Audiences also get to taste bibimbap during the performances. INFORMATION Location: Cecil Theater in Hanwha General Insurance Building (Near Doksu Palace) Schedule: Tue-Fri 8pm / Sat 4pm, 8pm / Sun & Holiday 3pm Price: R seat - KRW50,000 (approx. SGD55)/ S seat - KRW40,000 (approx. SGD44) Duration: 80min Never leave chopsticks in your rice. Never beckon anyone with palm up using one finger, as this is the way Koreans call their dogs. Writing someone's name in red is taboo as this symbolises death. Don't expect apologies when pushed or jostled in the street. It may be disconcerting to visitors, but Koreans view this as unavoidable living in a densely populated country. Don't forget to remove shoes prior to entering private homes or even your own hotel room if you're staying in a traditional lodging. Don't leave your camera or anything that's heatsensitive on the floor if you're staying in traditional housing or hotels with floor heating. Koreans heat their buildings via pipes embedded in the concrete floor. Weather Moderate climate with four seasons. The hottest part of the year is during the rainy season between July and August, and the coldest is December to February. Occasional typhoons bring high winds and floods. Spring and Autumn are mild and mainly dry and are generally considered the best times to visit. 19

22 There s more to Korea than the usual Outside tourist attractions in Seoul. Venture out of the norm and discover the beauty of cities outside Seoul with a more in-depth experience of Korea culture and history. Below are some of the must-visits to your Seoul Fun trip! Seoulcomplete 20 Mount Sorak, a UNESCO heritage. If you are a nature lover, be sure to visit MOUNT SORAK, the third highest mountain in the country. Selected as a conservation area by UNESCO in 1982, it will be an eye-opener with its variety of plants and animals. Be surrounded by never-ending green pastures at Daegwallyeong Samyang Ranch. Another scenic area is the D A E G W A L L Y E O N G SAMYANG RANCH, Asia s largest green pasture on a plateau. Witness the sunrise from the East Sea beyond the peaks of Mt. Odaesan, or take a car or bicycle ride around the vast meadow. Learn about the impact of division between North and South Korea at Imjingak and Bridge of Freedom. The Demilitarized Zone between North & South Korea (DMZ) For the history lovers, stop by IMJINGAK to learn more about the impact of the country s division. It was built in 1972 with the hope that someday unification would be a reality. Three-storied Imjingak is surrounded by several monuments, Unification Park and North Korea Center. 400 kinds of photos and documents showing the stark reality of North Korea are displayed in the North Korea Center of Unification Board. Outside Imjingak, there are 12 kinds of tanks and crafts on display that were used during the Korean Conflict. Stroll on the BRIDGE OF FREEDOM where the repatriated South Korean soldiers and POWs crossed when they returned from the North. Korea Traditional Cultural Experience Center You can learn about the making of kimchi and sample them, and learn about ginseng and try the ginseng juice. Feel like a Korean by wearing a Hanbok, the traditional costume! Wear a Hanbok, make kimchi and drink ginseng juice at Korea Traditional Cultural Experience Center.

23 Besides kimchi, ginseng and Hanbok, hot sauna is another signature representative of Korea s culture. JJIMJILBANGS are large, gender-segregated public bathhouses in Korea, complete with hot tubs, showers, Finnish-style saunas, and massage tables. The locals love to spend the day relaxing at the bathhouses, chatting and bonding with one another. Visiting a Jjimjilbang will not only leave you feeling revitalized, you may even interact with the friendly locals and make friends with them! Come join us in the magical world of Everland and reminisce happy childhood memories! The largest theme park in South Korea since 1976, it has over 40 heart-pounding rides and attractions. The park is divided into 5 distinct zones Global Fair, Zoo-Topia, European Adventure, Magic Land and American Adventure. Take a stroll down the garden of Everland for sightseeing and picture-taking. It is well known for its beautiful and gorgeous flower arrangements. Discover the magical world of Everland! Enjoy skiing at Yongpyong Resort Ski &Snowboard. Relive the romantic moments in Winter Sonata at Nami Island. Fans of Korea dramas will definitely visit filming locations to relive the romantic moments in the shows. NAMI ISLAND is one such popular attraction where "Winter Sonata" was filmed. The forest path is surrounded by white birches and Korean white pines all year round. Don t forget to capture the mesmerizing scenery for memories sake! What is a trip to Korea without visiting its ski resorts? YONGPYONG RESORT SKI & SNOWBOARD is an excellent choice with its impressive 28 ski slopes, 15 ski lifts, 45-hole golf course, gondolas, swimming pool and more! You will be guaranteed an unforgettable experience at the ski resort which hosted the World Cup Ski Competition and the Asian Winter Games! Photos credit to KNTO 21

24 Windows What s for lunch? Eat Drink & Be Merry 22

25 23 to Korea Ga Ga over K-pop & dramas! All work and no play is no FUN!

26 24 Moments to remember Enchanted

27 Sights around Korea Photos credit to KNTO, Eve Lim, Wallis Lee, Josephine Ong & Annama Cañete 25

28 26 8 Day 6 Night Fun in Korea & Jeju Island Highlights Haenyeo Museum Yongduam Rock Mysterious Road Tap-dong Street Seongsan Sunrise Peak Seongeup Folk Village Oedolgae Jeju Glass Castle Teddy Bear Museum Nami Island Chuncheon Myeongdong Jjimjilbang Birthplace of Empress Myeongseong DIY Bibimbap & Rice Cake Yeoju Premium Outlet Everland Bibap Show Ice Gallery Myeong-dong Street Dongdaemun Market Sinchon Ladies Street Our Recommendations Accommodations Neighborhood Hotel or similar class x 2N Gapyeong Sorak or similar class x 1N Yongin Yangji Pine or similar class x 1N Seoul Capital Hotel or similar class x 2N 2011 Departures on Oct 16, 23, 30 Nov 06, 13 froms$1,288* 8 Day 6 Night Winter Serenity of Korea and Jeju Highlights Yongduam Rock Tap-dong Street Seongsan Sunrise Peak Seongeup Folk Village Jusangjeolli Jeju Glass Castle Teddy Bear Museum Nami Island Chuncheon Myeongdong Jjimjilbang Mt. Sorak National Park Kwon Kum Seong Fortress Shinheungsa Temple Great Unification Buddha Ski Resort Yeoju Premium Outlet Lotte World Ice Gallery Myeong-dong Street NANTA Cookin Show Dongdaemun Market Accommodations Neighborhood Hotel or similar class x 2N Gapyeong Sorak or similar class x 1N Yongin Yangji Pine or similar class x 1N Seoul Capital Hotel or similar class x 2N 2011 Departures on Nov 20, 27 Dec 04, 11, 18, 19, 25 from S$1,588* SEE MORE DETAILS SEE MORE DETAILS *Prices quoted exclude all applicable taxes. T&Cs apply.

29 7 Day 4 Night Korea Touches of Winter Highlights DIY Kimchi Daegwallyeong Samyang Ranch Sheep Feeding DIY Cheese making Ski Resort Yeoju Premium Outlet Everland Dongdaemun Ice Gallery Ginseng Centre Skin Care Lesson 40mins Amethyst Factory Myeongdong Street NANTA Cookin show Gyeongbokgung Blue House War Memorial of Korea Natural Health Showroom Seaweed Museum Sincheon Ladies Street 7 Day Korea New Discoveries Highlights Bibap Show Demilitarised Zone Imjingak Bridge of Freedom Bell of Peace Odusan Unification Observatory Nami Island Jjimjilbang Birthplace of Empress Myseongseong Korean Bibimbap DIY Rice Wine & Traditional Wedding Ceremony Yeoju Premium Outlet Water Fountain Show Yongin Everland Dondaemun Ice Gallery Ginseng Monopoly Showroom Amethyst Factory Myeongdong Street Natural Health Showroom Our Recommendations Accommodations Ski Resort (Yongpyong or Alpensia) x 2N Seoul Hotel Capital 5* or similar class x 2N 2011 Departures on Nov 17, 24 Dec 06, 11, 13, 19, Departures on Jan 06, 13, 20, 21, 22, 27 Feb 03, 10, 17, 24 from S$1,248* Accommodations Incheon Beach Hotel or similar class x 1N Gapyeong Sorak or similar classx 1N High1 Resort or similar class x 1N Seoul Capital Hotel or similar class x 2N 2011 Departures on Oct 18, 25 Nov 01, 08, 15 from S$938* SEE MORE DETAILS SEE MORE DETAILS >Didn t find what you were looking for? There are more Korea tour options on our website. Click HERE! 27

30 Hotel Deals Seoul, South Korea Eastgate Tower Hotel from S$254* Daegu, South Korea Gyeongju Hilton Hotel from S$178* MORE The hotel is located in Bomun Lake Resort area, one of the 10 historic sites in the world. In addition, it is 15 minutes away from downtown, approximately 87 km from the Gimhae international airport and approximately 70 km from the Daegu airport. Concorde Hotel from S$97* MORE The hotel is located in the center of Dongdaemun Market and just 5 minutes walking distance from the Dongdaemun stadium station. The hotel offers easy access to the Namdaemun Market and the Myeong-dong business & shopping districts that are just within 10 minutes by subway. Grand Intercontinental Hotel from S$410* Located ideally in the heart of the business and entertainment district in Gangnam, the hotel is part of the World Trade Center complex and linked to COEX Convention and Exhibition Center, the City Air Terminal, which provides immigration service, luggage check-in service and transportation to the airport, and the Samseong Subway Station. President Hotel from S$335* This hotel is located on City Hall Plaza, in the heart of Seoul and surrounded by famed department stores, foreign trade companies, airline offices, and entertainment areas and easily accessible to subway stations. This luxurious-designed hotel, situated on Bomun Lake, is within 15 minutes from downtown area. The waterfront location made it ideal for guests to unwind amidst the beautiful surroundings. Busan, South Korea Novotel Ambassador Busan from S$242* Incheon, South Korea Best Western Songdo Park Hotel from S$159* The hotel is ideally located in the center of international business complex in Incheon Free Economic Zone. It is about 3 minutes walk from the convention & exhibition center and 100 meters away from the subway station of Incheon University Entrance. Paradise Hotel Incheon from S$143* MORE The hotel is located at Haeundae Beach and around 10 minute drive to Busan Exhibition & Convention Center. Lotte Hotel from S$207* The hotel is easily accessible to Busan Station, Kimhae International airport, and Changwon Industrial complex. With its state-of-the-art facilities and relaxing feel of home, Lotte Hotel Busan is widely popular among leisure and business travelers. Haeundae Centum Hotel from S$192* The hotel is located in front of the BEXCO, Busan Exhibition and Convention Center, in the Haeundae area. Several department stores, yachting race place and Haeundae Beach are nearby. MORE The hotel stands on a hill overlooking the West Sea in the port city of Incheon. It takes about 20 minutes from Incheon International Airport and about 40 minutes from Seoul. Commodore Chosun Hotel from S$132* Situated along the scenic Bomun Lake, it offers an ideal location with a great range of facilities. Its convenient location is also a major attraction to guests. Ramada Songdo Hotel from S$116* The hotel is ideally located close by Songdo Resort in Incheon City, and it is about 25 minutes away from Incheon International Airport. The hotel offers pickup services with some charge. 28 *Prices quoted are average per room per night. Find more hotels at

31 Located in the heart of Bangkok and within walking distance to some of the best night spots and a train station, its sleek design and comfy rooms enable guests to enjoy a total experience. The futuristic-designed hotel also houses Nest, one of Bangkok s most popular rooftop lounge bars, and an indoor pool with floor-to-ceiling windows that offer panoramic views of the city. Tempted to rejuvenate and immerse yourself in the exciting city of Bangkok? Le Fenix Sukhumvit Bangkok is the ideal accommodation to complete your trip. What s more, we are giving away 2 Nights Free Stay!* Click to find out how you can participate in our lucky draw! P.S. Are you a Citibank Credit Card Holder? Book a hotel with us and you will stand 10 chances of winning! *Terms & Conditions apply. Contest ends on 16 October ^ Pictures are for reference only. Credit to Le Fenix Sukhumvit by Accor.

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