Goodbye Seoul

We had an early flight back to Beijing. We woke up at 4:00AM to get ready to the airport. The hotel concierge told us it’s too early to call for a cab. So, we had to walk to the main road to try to catch a cab. Fortunately, we did not have to wait long to get one.

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The cab fare was KRW46,000 (about CAD46) which included a toll charge of KRW8,000 (CAD8). The ride took 45 minutes. It is much cheaper to take the subway if it’s not for such an early flight.

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The airport was relatively quiet at the early hour. (more…)

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Seoul Day 8: More Street Food from Namdaemun Market

On our last day in Seoul, we revisited Namdaemun Market for more street food.

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We went to a popular donut stall which we had seen line-up the last time we walked past it.

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We bought two type of donuts to try. They are just KRW1,000 (about CAD1) each.

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The above is a savory donut with wild vegetables. (more…)

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Seoul Day 7: Lunch and Lotte World

After the tour of the Secret Garden, we went for a late lunch.

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This restaurant is awesome. Look at the number of banchans offered.

Seafood Pancake

Ben and I shared a Seafood Pancake. It was fried to crispy on the outside with lots of chives. I love it.

Stone bowl Bibimbap

We also shared a Stoned Bowl Bibimbap. Our meal came to KRW21,000 (about CAD21). (more…)

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Seoul Day 7: Secret Garden Tour

Ben and I joined a guided tour to the Secret Garden of Changdeokgung. The entrance to Changdeokgung plus the Secret Garden guided tour came to KRW16,000 (about CAD16) per person.

Start of Secret Garden Tour
Start of Secret Garden Tour

The Secret Garden is the recreational area and retreat of the royal family.

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This is the heart of the Secret Garden.  The rectangular pond is known as Buyongji. Juhamnu Pavilion which stands on the high ground commands a fine view of the pond.

Lotus shape pavillion
Lotus shape pavillion

Buyongjeong Pavilion in the shape of a lotus flower is designated as a treasure in 2012 (Treasure no. 1763). (more…)

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Seoul Day 7: Changdeokgung Palace

Our itinerary for day 7 is to visit Changdeokgung Palace. Changdeokgung was built as a secondary palace of the Joseon Dynasty. It was left in ruins after the Japanese invasion during 1592-1598. It was rebuilt in 1610 and served as the main palace for 270 years.

Cinnamon Sugar Pancake

On the way to the palace, we grabbed some street snacks. The above was Cinnamon Sugar Pancake.

Traditional Cake

A traditional cake that was sold in stalls in the subway station.

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The Main Gate of Changdeokgung, Donhwamun. The raised stone terrace gives the gate an imposing dignity. (more…)

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