Solo-ish South Korea
Solo-ish South Korea
$3779
Tour Overview
Embark on the "Solo-ish South Korea" adventure, a cultural journey through the heart of South Korea designed for solo travelers seeking camaraderie. Begin in vibrant Seoul, where you'll dive into local culture with a cooking class and a taekwondo session. Explore the historic Gyeongju, donning traditional Hanboks in a picturesque Hanok village. Discover Busan's coastal beauty with a trek on Dongbaek Island and a visit to the Haedong Yonggungsa Temple. Travel seamlessly via private vehicles, subways, and bullet trains, staying in comfortable hotels and a traditional Hanok. With a mix of guided tours and free time, this trip offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, culminating in a farewell dinner with newfound friends. ...more ...less
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Dinner Party: Seoul
Location: Seoul
Accommodation Name: Hotel Prince
Meals Included: Dinner
Welcome to South Korea! Meet your included arrival transfer at the airport and join your other Solo-ish travellers for a welcome breifing. Then with your new travel mates, head out to get your first impression of Seoul with a cooking class. We'll make some of South Korea's most famous dishes like Bulgolgi or Bibimbap. Cook, eat and get to know your fellow travellers with a hands on experience making sone of the yummiest food you'll ever cook.Make sure to arrive for your Welcome meeting at 3:00 pm, followed by your local cooking class.ACTIVITY: Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.ACTIVITY: Food is a universal language, and there's no better way to get to know a new friend, or a new community, than by breaking bread together and digging in to a delicious meal. Korean culture is widely focused on food so what better way to start your time in South Korea! Make famous and delicious dishes like bulgolgi, tender flavorful beef, and bibimbap, a Korean rice dish. Then sit down together to enjoy the meal. ...more ...less
Day 2: We Day: Seoul
Location: Seoul
Accommodation Name: Hotel Prince
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Get ready to practice the art of kicking and punching in a local taekwando class. This Korean Martial art will get your body moving and connect you with the culture. Then head to one of South Korea's most famous markets, Gwangjang Market. Try some local street food and shop some local handicrafts along side your Solo-ish travellers. This afternoon, learn from your CEO about the famous Confucian royal ancient shrine, Jongmyo Shrine. A quintessential Seoul day to connect with your group and CEO.
ACTIVITY: With your incredible CEO at the helm, get to know the local community and your Solo-ish travel mates on a day packed full of interesting and engaging adventures. Enjoy a day connecting with Korean culture, starting the day with a Taekwondo Class. Then continue to Gwangjang Market where we'll have a local lunch. Finish the day with a tour of the famous Jongmyo Shrine led by your CEO.
Day 3: G Day: Seoul
Location: Gyeongju
Accommodation Name: Hwangnamgwan Hanok stay
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning, head to the train station and travel to Gyochon Hanok Village where it feels like you've traveled back in time. This picturesque hanok village will have you and your fellow Solo-ish travellers gushing at Korean culture. To start your historic Korean adventure, visit Daerungwon Tumuli Park and explore the tombs of barried kings. Then we're off to the Cheomseongdae Observatory, the oldest in all of Asia. This evening, we'll put on our Hanboks (traditional Korean wear) when we arrive to our Hanok stay, traditional Korean inn. Then prepare for a surprise with your group!
ACTIVITY: With your Solo-ish travel mates and CEO, explore some of the worlds coolest activities alongside new friends. It's not just an epic day of fun, its chock full of incredible experiences and a surprise G element along the way to take your day to 11. Immerse yourself into historic Korean life when we travel to Gyochon Hanok Village. Visit Daereungwon Tumuli Park and Cheomseongdae Observatory. This evening, try on a traditional Korean Hanbok at your Hanok stay.
Day 4: Gyeongju-Si
Location: Gyeongju-si
Accommodation Name: Swiss Rosen Hotel Gyeongju
Today we'll visit the iconic stops in Gyeongju-si. Stopping at Gyeongju Tower, a visit ot Bulguksa Temple, Seokgura Grotto and the Gyeongju National Museum. We'll enjoy the best that this Hanok village has to offer.
ACTIVITY: Visit the six national treasures at the Bulguksa Temple. This UNESCO World Heritage site, from the 8th century, is considered the essence of Korean Buddhist culture.
ACTIVITY: Perched on Mount Toham, the Seokguram Grotto is a beautiful example of enlightened Buddha and Buddhist art from the 8th century.
ACTIVITY: Visit the Gyeongju National Museum and learn about Korean culture and history during the Silla Dynasty, from 57 BCE to 935 CE.
Day 5: Gyeongju-Si To Busan
Location: Gyeongju-si, Busan
Accommodation Name: Felix Hotel by STX
Meals Included: Breakfast
We're off to the next city, as we hop on a bus for Busan. On the way we'll visit the colorful Gamcheon Culture Village for a tour. Snap a photo of this picturesque town with your new Solo-ish bestie and enjoy the artistic side of Korea. This afternoon after arrival in Busan, we'll admire the beautiful coastline view from the Songdo Cable Car and Observatory deck. Then we'll go market hopping. Starting from Gukje Market, we'll peruse through local street food vendors, handicrafts and spices. Then to Jagalchi Market, full of fresh seafood like giant crabs, lobsters and squid, this is the largest seafood market in all of South Korea.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Explore the pastel-coloured village of Gamcheon, nestled in the side of a mountain, with uniquely painted houses, murals, cafes, and shops.
ACTIVITY: Ride the mile long gondola up to Songo Sky Park for an amazing view of the Busan coast. Visit the Observatory deck and then take the Cable car back down.
ACTIVITY: Gukjesijang or Gukje Market is nestled near Biff Square, a well-known modern movie district in Busan. The market once was a place for refugees to earn a living over the period of the Korean War. Now, it's a bustling international market where loads of food, home goods, clothes, souvenirs and more can be found.
ACTIVITY: Discover this market and major attraction at Nampo Port. Wander through the rows of stalls selling everything you can dream of from the sea. Watch as locals haggle for the best price and fishmongers hawk their wares.
Day 6: Busan
Location: Busan
Accommodation Name: Felix Hotel by STX
Meals Included: Breakfast
Experience the natural side of Busan with your fellow Solo-ish friends this morning on the Dongbaek Island Coastal Trek. Just under 1 km, this easy trail will take you beneath the endemic trees, by the lighthouse, a famous mermaid statue and through the historic APEC House. We'll stay by the coast as we head to the Haedong Yonggungsa seaside temple and explore this beautiful Buddhist temple built into the cliffs. Then in the evening, opt to join your Solo-ish mates and climb aboard for a night yacht ride along the Busan coast.
ACTIVITY: Visit Haeundae Beach, one of Korea's most beautiful beaches. Enjoy a walk along the shore, or take a swim (don't forget your suit!) And see the famed APEC House built to host the Asia-Pacific Economic Corporation (APEC) summit meeting in 2005 on Dongbaek Island.
ACTIVITY: Originally built in 1376, this picturesque, cliffside Buddhist temple overlooks the East China Sea. Opt to grab a bizarre local snack at the traditional market. Legend foretells that should you pray here, at least one of your wishes will come true.
Day 7: Busan To Seoul
Location: Busan, Seoul
Accommodation Name: Hotel Prince
Meals Included: Breakfast
Catch a fast train back to Seoul this morning and get ready to explore. Heyyyyy sexy lady, we'll explore the famous Gangnam neighborhood checking out the popular Coex Mall and Gangnam CBD. This evening we'll walk along the Han River Park, taking in spectacular city views and checking out the floating island. Opt to rent a swan boat or bicycles for a cute ride with your Solo-ish buddies.
TRANSPORT: Get to your next destination faster than the speed of light (ok maybe not that fast) aboard a high-speed train.
ACTIVITY: Gangnam has plenty to do and see in this historically rich, fast-developing neighbourhood. Gangnam Station is the busiest subway station in Seoul and has a huge underground shopping centre, so feel free to shop until you drop. Visit the Gangnam Coex Mall, the largest underground shopping mall in Asia. And explore the best of the Gangnam CBD.
ACTIVITY: Visit the riverside park that lights up at night. Walk along the floating island, watch the fountain show and opt to rent a bicycle or swan boat.
Day 8: Me Day: Seoul
Location: Seoul, Demilitarized Zone (DMZ)
Accommodation Name: Hotel Prince
Meals Included: Dinner
Your Me Day is all about... well, You! You get to decide how you want to spend your last day in Korea! Interested in a solo adventure? Go for it! Or maybe opt to join your CEO for the day and take a day trip to the border of North and South Korea at the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) and then to the famed Deoksugung Palace. Or plan a friend date with your new Solo-ish best friends. However you choose to spend it, this evening we'll all come together for one last farewell dinner together. I'm not crying... I got gochujang in my eyes.
ACTIVITY: Traveling solo alongside your new Solo-ish travel mates means there's always something fun to do and new friends to explore with. But the joy of travel can also be about taking time to yourself to recharge, refresh and reflect on the journey. Today, choose to join your CEO for an incredible activity, or take the time to yourself to enjoy your own company in one of the most incredible places on our planet.
Day 9: Seoul
Location: Seoul
Meals Included: Breakfast
You arrived a solo traveller and are leaving with many new friends. Say goodbye to your fellow Solo-ish travellers and depart at any time.
What's Included
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Accommodation
Hotel (7 nts), Hanok stay (1 nt) on a twinshare basis. If you are interested in purchasing your own room, please see below for the My Own Room option. -
Meals
6 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 2 dinners -
Welcome Moment
Meet your CEO and group for a welcome moment.
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Dinner Party
Enjoy a dinner party in Seoul.
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Taekwondo Class & Seoul Highlights Tour
Participate in a Taekwondo class and explore Seoul's highlights.
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Gyochon Hanok Village Experience
Experience the Gyochon Hanok Village.
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Seoul Me Day
Enjoy a free day in Seoul to explore on your own.
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Complimentary Arrival Transfer
Receive a complimentary transfer upon arrival.
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Bukchon Hanok Village Visit
Visit the Bukchon Hanok Village.
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Taekwondo Class
Participate in a Taekwondo class.
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Gwangjang Market Visit
Visit the Gwangjang Market.
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Jongmyo Shrine
Visit the Jongmyo Shrine.
What's Not Included
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Personal Expenses
Any personal expenses are not included in the tour package.
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Optional Activities
Optional activities and excursions are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended.
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International Flights
International flights to and from South Korea are not included.
Accommodation
Enjoy a comfortable stay in South Korea with 7 nights in hotels and 1 night in a traditional Hanok stay, all on a twin-share basis. For those seeking privacy, a 'My Own Room' option is available.
Transport
Private vehicle, subway, bullet train, cable car, monorail, walking.
Meals Included
6 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 2 dinners
Group Size
Maximum 16, avg 14
Solo Travellers
We believe solo travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and solo travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price. ...more ...less
Mode of Transport
Travel through South Korea using a variety of transport modes including private vehicles, subways, bullet trains, cable cars, monorails, and walking, ensuring a seamless and diverse travel experience.
Local Dress
In Asia the dress standard is more conservative than it is back home. When packing try to pick loose, lightweight, long clothing that will keep you cool in the usually hot and humid climate of Asian summers. In predominately Buddhist countries we ask that you dress respectfully and avoid very short shorts/skirts and singlets/tanktops when visiting temples or other holy sites. ...more ...less
Group Leader
All G Adventures group trips are accompanied by one of our Chief Experience Officers (CEO). The aim of the CEO is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting - we think it's the best of both worlds. ...more ...less
About Accommodation
On Solo-ish Adventures, it's all about making new friends. Accommodation for Solo-ish Adventures is in twin-share rooms. No booking or rooming requests will be taken, and matrimonial bedding is not offered on Solo-ish Adventures.
Spending Money
Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip. ...more ...less
Check out our Q&As
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What types of transportation are used during the tour?
The tour uses a variety of transportation methods including private vehicles, subways, bullet trains, cable cars, monorails, and walking.
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What kind of accommodation is provided on this tour?
Accommodation includes 7 nights in hotels and 1 night in a traditional Hanok stay, all on a twin-share basis. There is an option to purchase your own room if desired.
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Are there any cultural activities included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes several cultural activities such as a Taekwondo class, a visit to Bukchon Hanok Village, and trying on traditional Hanboks during a Hanok stay.
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Is there a welcome event at the start of the tour?
Yes, there is a welcome moment where you meet your Chief Experience Officer (CEO) and fellow travelers, followed by a dinner party in Seoul.
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What is the focus of the 'Me Day' in Seoul?
The 'Me Day' in Seoul is designed for personal exploration. You can choose to explore on your own, join the CEO for a day trip to the DMZ and Deoksugung Palace, or spend time with new friends from the tour.
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What is the maximum group size for this tour?
The maximum group size for this tour is 16 people, with an average of 14 participants.
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Is there a farewell event at the end of the tour?
Yes, there is a farewell dinner on the last evening of the tour where you can gather with your fellow travelers one last time.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
G Adventures was established in 1990
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Most of our trips do not have a single supplement. This means that the accommodation is on a twin share basis and, if travelling on your own, you will be sharing a room with another G Adventures traveller of the same sex. Some tours have an optional single supplement. An optional service that may be available is called "My Own Room". This service allows solo travellers to request their own room.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
It's extremely difficult if not impossible to join a tour after it has begun. It is possible to leave a tour early however you will be responsible for your own arrangements from the moment you decide to leave the tour. You would also be responsible for all costs associated with joining a tour late or leaving one early. If you feel this may be necessary, please consult us before you book.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
https://www.gadventures.com/travel-with-confidence/
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
https://www.gadventures.com/about-us/core-values/
Reviews of this operator
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Book with Confidence
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Free Date Changes
G Adventures allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 0 days before the start of the tour.
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Low Deposit
G Adventures requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of g adventures charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions
Solo-ish South Korea
9 Days Starting and ending in Seoul, South Korea
Visiting: Seoul, Gyeongju, Gyeongju-si, Busan, Demilitarized Zone (DMZ)
Tour operator:
Tour code:
26236
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 16
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians, Vegans