Countdown to South Korea: Our Journey Awaits!

The Thrill of Planning

Planning our trip has been nearly as exhilarating as the trip itself! Our group has been buzzing with ideas, swapping recommendations for must-see spots and hidden gems that we can't wait to visit. We've created a shared document that keeps growing with our bucket list items.

Some key highlights include:

• Gyeongbokgung Palace: We are eager to witness the changing of the guard ceremony at this iconic site. Did you know that the palace covers over 40 acres and was built in 1395?

• Myeongdong: We’re excited to stroll through this bustling district, famous for its variety of street food, such as tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) and hotteok (sweet pancakes).

• Namsan Tower: A hike to this tower will reward us with breathtaking panoramic views of Seoul. It stands at 480 meters and is particularly stunning at sunset.

  
  

Every checkbox we mark brings us closer to our adventure, and the enthusiasm is contagious! 🌟

Tying Up Loose Ends

As our departure nears, we are focusing on the practicalities of travel. One crucial item on our list is ensuring that our Global Entry cards are in order. This program allows approved travelers to skip long customs lines upon arriving in the U.S. Travelers using Global Entry often save about 50% of their average wait time, and this efficiency makes a significant difference when we return home.

Another important detail we are double-checking is our passports. It's critical to ensure they are valid for at least six months after our planned return. Neglecting this simple rule can lead to denied boarding or entry, ruining our trip before it even begins!

With all paperwork sorted, we can finally focus on the enjoyable parts of our travel preparations! 🎒

Navigating Airline Challenges

No travel experience comes without its challenges. Recently, we've closely followed news regarding airline cancellations and flight delays, which can be stressful. In August 2023 alone, more than 14,000 flights were canceled, impacting countless travelers.

Having a backup plan is vital, especially since we've already experienced the stress of flights getting canceled and scrambling to rebook. We know firsthand how unpredictable travel can be. One of our members had her connecting flight changed to an hour before she was supposed to arrive, which caused Expedia to cancel her entire trip. It took a full month to get a refund, and she had to quickly book a new flight directly with the airline.

Given these challenges, it is a must to have notifications enabled on your phone so you don't miss a platform's alert about a flight change. Staying adaptable and ready with a Plan B is essential when facing today's travel uncertainty! ✈️

Packing Essentials

With our travel documents finalized and flights confirmed, packing is next! We have shared tips and concluded that traveling light is the way to go, especially since South Korea boasts an efficient public transport system. This convenience allows us to navigate the cities without the burden of heavy luggage.

Since we'll be traveling in the middle of October through November, this time of year can bring cooler temperatures. So, we should prioritize packing items that will keep us comfortable as the weather changes.

Here are the packing essentials we've agreed on, with a few adjustments for the time of year:

• Comfortable Walking Shoes: Since we'll be doing a lot of exploring, comfortable and supportive footwear is essential.

• Layered Clothing: While we may have some warmer days, it's best to prepare for cooler weather by packing layers. Think versatile, lightweight pieces that you can easily put on or take off, such as long-sleeved shirts, sweaters, or a light jacket. This will keep you comfortable as temperatures fluctuate throughout the day.

• Portable Charger: A portable charger is a must-have for keeping our devices powered up, especially for capturing memories and staying connected on the go.

  
  

We're also bringing along a travel journal! Writing about our experiences helps preserve those special moments, and we look forward to reminiscing about our adventures later. 📖

Anticipating Cultural Experiences

One of the most thrilling aspects of our South Korea trip is immersing ourselves in a new culture! We’ve researched local customs and traditions and are eager to try authentic Korean dishes. We plan to sample favorites like:

• Kimchi: This fermented vegetable dish is a staple in every Korean meal. With six types of kimchi listed by the Food and Agriculture Organization, from spicy to sweet, there is plenty to explore.

• Bulgogi: This marinated beef dish is tender, flavorful, and a must-try for meat lovers.

  
  

Exploring Local Markets

Visiting local markets is a must! We can't wait to wander through vibrant stalls filled with fresh produce, unique snacks, and handmade crafts. The energy of these markets is infectious, and we’ll be sure to try everything from street food to traditional sweets.

Final Countdown

As the countdown to our trip to South Korea continues, we feel a mix of excitement and anticipation! Each day brings us closer to our adventure, and we can hardly contain our enthusiasm. Our group dynamic is already proving to be an asset, with some of us who are fluent in Korean helping those of us who are learning the language. We’ve been sharing Instagram clips of must-visit places, responding with Korean emoticons, discussing our favorite Korean dramas, and practicing a few basic Korean phrases together, which makes this journey feel all the more special! 🥳

The camaraderie among our group makes this planning process even more enjoyable. We are not just traveling to a new country; we’re creating lasting memories together that we will cherish forever.

Ready for Adventure

As we gear up for our South Korea trip, we’re reminded that travel is about more than just reaching a destination. It involves sharing unique experiences, overcoming challenges, and creating unforgettable memories along the way. Even if hurdles arise, our excitement for this adventure far outweighs any potential obstacles!

We can’t wait to explore the vibrant streets, indulge in incredible food, and immerse ourselves in the rich culture of South Korea. With our bucket list in hand and spirits high, we are ready to embark on this journey together. Here’s to the countdown and the adventures awaiting us! 🎊

A vibrant street market in Seoul filled with colorful stalls and people

A breathtaking view of Jeju Island's coastline with lush greenery

Our journey together has been a mix of planning, anticipation, and excitement, and I'm thrilled to see all our hard work come to fruition as we finally arrive in South Korea.

Should you or anyone you know need assistance with vacation or business travel, I'm here to help! You can contact me, Izzie, at Keys, Flavors, Destinations for personalized travel consulting. Additionally, if you find yourself traveling to San Antonio, Texas, and require corporate housing for a long or short stay, I can help with that as well. Feel free to book directly with me.

Until next time!

~Izzie

Thank you for sharing!!