Monday, November 21, 2016

A Quick Guide to Tokyo’s Major Districts

Guide to Tokyo's Major Districts

With more than thirty-eight million people, Tokyo is the largest city on the planet. While you could easily spend a lifetime exploring it, most of us only have a couple of weeks so it’s important to come with a strategy.

To get your bearings in this crazy city, it’s good to know the basic geography of the metro. The city of Tokyo has twenty-three wards, and each ward is made up of several districts.

When you are planning your daily adventures, you’ll want to figure out which wards have interesting districts, and then map out your route.

Map of Tokyo Districts

(source)

Here’s a quick outline of points of interest listed within Tokyo’s major districts!

Shibuya Crossing

– Shibuya District –

  • Shibuya Crossing

Shibuya Crossing is one of the busiest intersections in the world. During rush hour, you’ll find more than 1,000 people crossing this famous spot. When it comes to people watching, there is no better spot on earth.

  • Harajuku

Harajuku District is the center of Japanese fashion and youth culture. You’ll definitely want to spend a full day exploring here. Start by checking out the endless boutiques and vintage shops on Takeshita Street.

Once you’ve worked up an appetite, you’ve got to go to Kawaii Monster Café. This place offers a crazy, bright, once-in-a-lifetime experience. Grab a pretty cake or their famous rainbow pasta.

If you’re looking to get some of that iconic Harajuku style while in Tokyo, I got an awesome manicure from Jill & Lovers. It’s a local fave and full of trendy designs that you won’t find anywhere else.

For a souvenir you can hold onto forever, stop by one of the many purikura photo booths. Get some old-school selfies, and then decorate them with absurd and cute designs.

To finish off the ultimate day in Harajuku, go for karaoke. Singing skills are totally optional—you’ve just got to get up there and do it!

  • Ebisu

To check out some of the best food in Japan, head to Ebisu. From traditional Japanese eateries to cutting-edge foodie hot spots, they have got it all.

Pikkachu Tokyo

– Chiyoda District –

  • Akihabara

Famous for its endless lines of electric stores, Akihabara is a tech lover’s heaven. The district is known as electric town, and you can find anything and everything here. There are arcades and games galore alongside tons of anime and manga spots.

Another must-see is a maid café. The manga-style waitresses dress in traditional maids’ uniforms and call you master. There are a variety of different maid cafés, including some with guys waiting tables. You won’t find this anywhere else.

  • Imperial Palace

The Tokyo Imperial Palace, Kokyo, is the residence of the Japanese Head of State, also know as the Emperor of Japan. Walk around the beautiful grounds, and take in the stunning architecture. Fun fact, the Imperial Palace is built where the original Edo Castle once stood!

Fresh Sushi

– Chuo District –

  • Ginza

Tokyo’s answer to Manhattan, Ginza is famous for its insanely high rent and ten-dollar cups of coffee. This is the place to go when you want to spoil yourself with upmarket shops, restaurants, and galleries.

  • Tsujiki

Foodies will definitely want to get to the Tsujiki Market. This massive fish market is famous for its tuna auction and impressive array of ultrafresh fish.

Tokyo Tower

– Minato District –

  • Roppingi

Another amazing nightlight spot is Roppingi. Home to the Tokyo Tower, this area is incredibly popular with tourists. You can easily spend a full day exploring here. Spend the afternoon shopping, going for a world-class dinner, and having at least a sake or two.

  • Odaiba

Tokyo’s newest district, Odaiba, has the very futuristic architecture that you’d expect of Japan. This man-made island started being developed in the late 1990s and has since become a tourist fave.

Robot Restaurant

– Shinjuku District –

  • Robot Restaurant

Shinjuku is where locals go for nightlife. Spend at least one night hanging out there, and be sure to start your adventure at the Robot Restaurant. It’s the best spot for dinner and a show that you will truly never, ever forget.

  • Golden Gai

With more than 200 bars crammed into six ultra-narrow streets, Golden Gai is a very cool hangout. Every bar has its own unique theme and atmosphere. You’ll find a blend of business men, celebrities, tourists, and everyone else looking for a fun night out.

Senso-ji Temple

– Taito District –

  • Asakusa

At the heart of the Taito District is Asakusa with its impressive Senso-ji Temple. This beautiful seventh-century traditional temple is Tokyo’s most famous.

Asakusa has a fascinating history. If you are planning to do any walking tours, this is the place to do it. With a rich history of kabuki theaters and red light districts, you can spend hours wandering around and taking it all in.

READ NEXT: 10 Tips for Your First Trip to Tokyo

 

SHOP my favorite Tokyo-inspired styles!

A Quick Guide to Tokyo’s Major Districts is a post from: The Blonde Abroad



from The Blonde Abroad http://ift.tt/2fLlpN2

Sunday, November 20, 2016

10 Incredible Adventures to Have in North America

Adventures to Have in North America

You don’t need to travel far to have the adventure of a lifetime. With tropical islands, massive glaciers, dramatic canyons, world-class beer, and so much more, you can’t help but to fall in love with North America.

Whether you want to dive into the depths of the Caribbean Sea or get a view from above the Canadian Rockies, there is an adventure waiting for you.

Here are 10 incredible experiences to have in North America!

Helicopter Ride in Whistler

Scenic Helicopter in Whistler

Loved by the likes of yours truly and the Prince of Dubai, the helicopter rides over Whistler in British Columbia, Canada, are a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Get a bird’s-eye view of these gorgeous mountains, and then stop atop Rainbow Mountain for a view that will take your breath away.

Read More: A Scenic Helicopter Ride in Whistler

Denver in a Weekend

Brewery Hopping in Denver

With more craft breweries per capita than almost anywhere else in the country, Denver is the place place for beer lovers. Take in the crazy big Coors brewery, and then check out local faves like Great Divide Brewing Company and Wynkoop Brewing Company. They both have delicious beer flights and first-class pub grub.

Read More: The Ultimate Guide to Denver in a Weekend

Alaska Glacier

(source)

Trek a Glacier in Alaska

Love adventure? Alaska is the place for you. Trek the glaciers of the north to explore the crevasses, canyons, waterfalls, and caves of this remarkable landscape.

Whether you are a climbing pro or a total newbie, this is an opportunity you won’t want to pass up. Looking for a more laid-back getaway? Go on an Alaskan cruise. They are an unforgettable experience.

Ultimate Southern USA Road Trip

Southern USA Road Trip

The southern United States has some of the friendliest people you’ll ever meet and the best food you’ll ever try. After taking a whirlwind road trip through it all, I fell in love with this seriously underrated region.

If you’ve never experienced the south, grab your keys. From Texas to North Carolina, there is so much to see.

Read More: The Ultimate Southern USA Road Trip Itinerary

Dogsledding in Canada

Dogsledding in Canada

Forget skiing! For a true winter adventure, you have got to try dogsledding. Explore the valleys of the Canadian Rockies while relaxing under a blanket, and then try your hand at mushing the sled!

Read More: Top 10 Things to Do in Whistler During Winter

Scenic Train Rides Canada

(source)

Scenic Train Ride Through Canada

Ready to cross the second largest country on earth? Explore Vancouver, Halifax, and everyplace in between on the extensive train network of the Great White North.

Travel between Toronto, Montreal, and Quebec. Take the ocean line between Montreal and Halifax, or explore the area from Toronto to Edmonton to Winnipeg.

California Coast Road Trip

California Coast Road Trip

There is no better way to experience America than by exploring California’s golden coast from the Pacific Coast Highway. Rent a convertible, pack your bikini, and explore this iconic road.

You will want at least three days to see all of the gorgeous sites between Los Angeles and San Francisco, but you could easily spend a fun-filled three weeks on the road!

Read More: The Girl’s Guide to a California Coast Road Trip

Stairway to Heaven

Stairway to Heaven in Hawaii

The Ha’ikū Stairs, also known as the Stairway to Heaven, are one of the greatest attractions in Hawaii. Once a top secret military facility, this ultratall hiking trail on the island of Oahu has 3,922 steps to the top. From the summit of the Oahu Ko’olau mountain range, you can get an unforgettable view.

Read More: 20 Photos to Inspire You to Visit Oahu

Grand Canyon

(source)

Rafting Through the Grand Canyon

If you think the view from above is impressive, you have to see the Grand Canyon from below. Raft through one of the world’s most famous white water rivers while you take in the remarkable canyon walls and historical Indian ruins.

It’s another trip to add to your bucket list!

Puerto Rico

Discover Puerto Rico

There is so much to see and do in Puerto Rico, our often-forgotten neighbor to the south. With a diverse tropical landscape, white-sand beaches, and a fascinating history, this island nation is a true Caribbean treasure.

Explore Old San Juan, go diving, take in the beauty of Palomino Island, and kayak through the world-famous Bioluminescent Bay.

Read More: The Ultimate Guide to Puerto Rico in Three Days

READ NEXT: 5 All-American Road Trips to Take in 2016

 

SHOP my favorite travel essentials and gear!

10 Incredible Adventures to Have in North America is a post from: The Blonde Abroad



from The Blonde Abroad http://ift.tt/2fhjdMF

Thursday, November 17, 2016

The Best Time to Go to Montreal

Best Time to Go to Montreal

One of the most beautiful and fascinating cities in North America, Montreal is a must-see. I fell in love with the city’s European charm and Canadian hospitality. It’s a totally unique city that deserves a place on every traveler’s bucket list. With four distinct seasons, every month in Montreal has its own appeal.

Here’s the best time to go to Montreal, based on season!

Montreal Travel Guide

Summer in Montreal

  • Months: June – August

With temperatures consistently in the mid to high seventies, summer in Montreal is perfect. Tourists flock to the city to wander through the historic streets, lounge at the sidewalk cafés, and live it up at the world-class nightclubs.

Montreal’s summer festival calendar is truly epic.

Whatever you are into, there is a celebration for you. From the Formula One Grand Prix of Canada in June to the Montreal International Tango Festival in August, this is the best time of year to mingle with the locals.

Be sure to check out the Montreal International Jazz Festival and Montreal’s Just For Laughs Comedy Festival throughout June and July as well as Montreal Pride in August.

Montreal in Autumn

(source)

Autumn in Montreal

  • Months: September – November

Fall is another perfect time to visit Montreal. The crowds of tourists start to clear out in September and the weather remains fairly warm until November. You can expect overnight lows in the upper forties and afternoon highs in the upper sixties in September. The temps slowly lower to the upper twenties in November.

Grab a warm jacket and boots, and you’ll be set to go.

One of my favorite events of the year is POP Montreal in September. This festival is an impressive celebration of all things music, fashion, and art. Be sure to also check out the World Film Festival that takes place over August and September.

And, if you are in Montreal in October, don’t miss the Montreal Burlesque Festival!

Montreal in Winter

(source)

Winter in Montreal

  • Months: December – February

It’s well worth braving a bit of cold to see Montreal in the winter. From December to February, you can often expect to see temperatures in the single digits. If you are in the Great White North in late January or early February, check out the spectacular Quebec Winter Carnival.

Another gorgeous event is the Montréal En Lumière. Held throughout late February and early March, this is a local favourite. There are hundreds of food and wine tastings alongside endless live entertainment options. It all takes place in a beautiful setting in the heart of the Quartier. Best of all, the Montréal En Lumière is free every year!

Need a break from the cold?

Get to Montreal’s brilliant Underground City. This massive maze of passageways will take you all over downtown Montreal. Check out the countless shop, restaurants, and cinemas without ever having to touch the sidewalk. When it’s zero degrees and snowing, this is the perfect escape!

Montreal in Spring

Spring in Montreal

  • Months: March – May

I love visiting Montreal in the spring. The city comes alive from March to May when the snow clears and the gardens start to blossom. While temps are still hovering in the thirties during March, they will warm up to the midsixties by May.

You will still need a jacket, but it’s the perfect time to explore the city before the tourists arrive.

While it may be a French-influenced city, Montreal has an amazing Saint Patrick’s Day Parade. It’s the oldest Saint Patrick’s Day parade in Canada, and it’s always full of energy. Another great event is the Vue sur la Relève Festival in April.

With all of the best music, theatre, and dance from all over the French-speaking world, there are tons of up-and-coming acts you won’t want to miss.

READ NEXT: The Ultimate Montreal Travel Guide

 

SHOP my favorite Montreal-inspired style essentials!

The Best Time to Go to Montreal is a post from: The Blonde Abroad



from The Blonde Abroad http://ift.tt/2fJxeAW

Wednesday, November 16, 2016

10 Perfect Weekend Getaways for Couples

Weekend Getaways for Couples

Between long work days, taking care of yourself and your family, and making sure the house isn’t a complete and total mess, you and your love definitely need to take some time and get away from it all.

But it isn’t always easy to coordinate schedules and take days off of work. On top of that, planning a long trip can seem overwhelming and stressful.

The secret to getting some much needed alone time is… the weekend!

You and your partner can relax and explore a fun new city together without having to take any days off and still be able to see and do plenty.

Here is our list of 10 perfect weekend getaways for couples!

– – Charleston, South Carolina – –

Exploring Charleston will make you feel like you’re walking through the set of a Nicholas Sparks movie. And what’s more romantic than that?

From the cobblestone streets to the picture-perfect antebellum houses, you’ll be ready to transport yourself onto one of those classic porch swings with an iced tea in hand.

Everything about Charleston is simply charming.

To make the most of your weekend getaway in the city, sleep in a quaint B&B and grab a delicious southern brunch. Don’t forget the biscuits and gravy or chicken and waffles. After that, spend your day soaking it all in. Stroll along King Street, relax on Folly Beach or Isle of Palms, and take in the natural beauty at Magnolia Plantation and Gardens.

seattle troll

– – Seattle, Washington – –

Seattle isn’t a very big city, but it is packed full of fun things to do. You can visit the Space Needle, stroll through Pikes Place Market, go on a hike to Snoqualmie Falls, or play on a lake all in one weekend.

Seattle is full of eclectic art, gorgeous views of the city, and delicious restaurants. Speaking of delicious restaurants, be sure to get sushi in the city and finish the night off with honey lavender ice cream from Molly Moon’s.

Take a break from exploring and relax at Gas Works or Kerry Park.

Make sure to take the ferry over to Bainbridge Island and enjoy the views of Mount Rainier, and if you’re lucky, you might see orcas playing in the water like we did.

– – Havana, Cuba – –

Yes, Cuba! Cuba is just 90 miles from south Florida, making it is one of the closest international destinations to the United States. And with new laws, it is even easier for American travelers to make it there.

Havana is bright, colorful, and full of culture.

Try “guarapo” or sugarcane juice, jam out to the music of the local street performers, and finish your day off by taking a salsa lesson. Take a ride in a vintage car taxi or spend the night in a casa particular to spend some time with the locals and practice your spanish. Throw in a side trip to the beach, and you’ll have seen it all in a great weekend together.

selfie

– – Amsterdam, Netherlands – –

Even if you only have a day or two in Amsterdam, it is so worth it to go and explore the city. We just had a 24 hours layover in the city and can tell you that even if you can only fit a couple of hours in, you should definitely go!

Obviously a weekend getaway to Amsterdam is a bit easier for those of you in Europe, but everyone should definitely consider it even if it’s just for a short trip.

Between the museums, canals, bikes, boats, and floating flower market, you cannot go wrong. Check out our guide of what to do in the city once you’ve booked your tickets.

And make sure to eat a stroopwafel (or ten) and bring some back for us too!

– – Nashville, Tennessee – –

Nashville is the perfect place for any country music lover. From the Grand Ole Opry to The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, you’ll be singing Luke Bryan and Carrie Underwood songs all weekend.

Nashville is full of unique shops and restaurants, like Bluebird Cafe where you can sit and enjoy live music from rising stars. For a fun and random activity, head over to the full size replica of the Greek Parthenon. Roam the streets and enjoy the sweet southern hospitality the city has to offer.

If you’re lucky you might even run into Taylor Swift.

catalina island

– – Catalina Island, California – –

Catalina Island is a short one hour boat ride from Orange County or Long Beach. On the smooth ride over it’s not uncommon to cross a pod of dolphins or a pair of grey whales.

The main harbor, Avalon, can easily be explored in one weekend.

Rent a golf cart, go for a glass-bottom boat ride, and soak in the sun. If you and your date are feeling adventurous, you can grab a drink at descanso beach, go on a ziplining adventure, or search for bison leftover from when Hollywood used Catalina to film old western movies.

– – Las Vegas, Nevada – –

What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas. Or you can post about it on Instagram. Either way, we won’t judge. Las Vegas is full of life no matter what time of day it is.

Go shopping, hit the casinos, or dance the night away at a club.

Go to a Cirque du Soleil show together or enjoy a concert by some of the greatest artists of all time. Be a kid again and ride the roller coaster at the New York-New York or the Stratosphere.

Finish the weekend off watching the fountain show at the Bellagio together. Your bank account will probably thank you for only going for the weekend.

– – Austin, Texas – –

True to Austin’s unofficial motto, “Keep Austin Weird,” the city has a surprise on every corner. From funky boutiques to classic movie theatres and concert halls to delicious food, Austin has plenty to keep you entertained for a weekend.

Grab some famous breakfast tacos in the morning, treats from a farmer’s market for lunch, and enjoy some of the best barbecue in the world for dinner at Franklin Barbecue.

Visit Lake Austin for a double kayak or stand-up-paddleboard rental, jump into one of the city’s natural swimming pools at Hamilton Pool or Barton Springs Pool, and enjoy the incredible night-life by trying out one of the famous bars in the area.

jefferson memorial

– – Washington, D.C. – –

The United States Capitol is full of history and stunning architecture. Most of the city’s attractions are located around the National Mall, including dozens of free museums, monuments, and memorials!

Grab a bike from Capital Bike Share and ride around the mall or along the waterfront to make the most of your weekend getaway together. Insider tip: Be sure to check your bike in every 30 minutes to avoid paying extra fees.

For a more quaint D.C. experience, grab brunch in Eastern Market and go shopping in Georgetown.

Make sure to get reservations for the best restaurants as well, because the food in D.C. is top notch. Founding Farmers, Rasika, Good Stuff Eatery, Oyamel, and Georgetown Cupcake are some of our favorites!

Vancouver, British Columbia

Vancouver has it all! From hiking and biking to skiing and boating, Vancouver is the perfect place for a romantic getaway in the great outdoors.

Since the city is surrounded by both the beach and the mountains, it’s a great spot for just about anyone who enjoys being outside. Bike along the seawall at Stanley Park, hop on a boat and grab dinner on Granville Island, and if you’re feeling really adventurous, walk across the Capilano suspension bridge and take in the beauty of the Pacific Northwest.

Pack your bags, hop in the car, and make your getaway happen next weekend! Which city is at the top of your list?

READ NEXT: Top 10 Places to Visit When You’re In Love

 

SHOP these couples travel essentials!

10 Perfect Weekend Getaways for Couples is a post from: The Blonde Abroad



from The Blonde Abroad http://ift.tt/2fxn2xN

Tuesday, November 15, 2016

7 Unique Ways to Stay Entertained on a Flight

Stay Entertained on a Flight

Traveling doesn’t have to be downtime, but long travel days can be excruciating without some entertainment. I’ve learned a ton of skills and found a lot of ways to stay busy on planes, trains, and automobiles around the world. Got a flight coming up?

Check out these seven unique ways to stay entertained on a flight!

Enhance Your Skills

Flights are a perfect opportunity to focus on things you’ve been wanting to learn. I’ve been working on mastering Plotagraph Pro, Adobe Lightroom and a few video editing programs. I’m always amazed at how much I can accomplish in transit.

With just a few hours of my dedicated attention, I can work my way through a ton of info.

Feeling inspired? Just be sure to download any tutorials beforehand so you’ve got everything you need.

Coloring Books

Coloring and Workbooks

Coloring is for any age! I love the adult coloring trend, and it’s the perfect way to unwind. For those times when I have too much energy and just want to keep my hands busy, coloring books are the way to go. They’re also great to help you relax after a crazy day of travel.

My friend, Rachel, actually created these amazing coloring books– Botanical Wonderland: A Blissful Coloring Retreat and the Desert Wonderland: A Serene Coloring Retreat and I would highly recommend. They are both gorgeous books and full of low-tech fun.

Who says handwriting is a dying art?

I’ve been passionate about learning calligraphy and hand lettering. From invitations to wall hangings, you can make gorgeous creations when you have beautiful penmanship. If you want to create your own art from scratch, check out Creative Lettering and Beyond to master a new skill on your next flight.

Get Multilingual

It’s really handy to know the basics of the local language. Even just mastering simple things like “hello” and “thank you” can make your trip a lot easier. If you can, try to learn how to ask for directions and understand simple replies.

Before I go, I always download the Duolingo app in offline mode.

While a lot of people feel intimidated by the idea of learning a new language, you can really learn a lot during a flight. Just memorize some essential phrases and put them out with confidence! The locals are always impressed by the extra effort, so don’t be shy.

Podcasts

Listen to Podcasts or Audiobooks

I love binge listening to podcasts! I’m crazy about Freakonomics, Stuff You Should Know, and Serial. Download whatever series interests you, and the time will fly by. This is also really handy for bus and train trips if you get motion sick and can’t read on the go.

Just be sure to download each podcast or audiobook for offline access. If you’ve never used it offline before, test out the access in airplane mode before you go.

Catch Up on Reading

I can’t spare any luggage space for reading materials so I love the Pocket App. You can save online articles to read them offline.

Catch up on all those articles you see in your Facebook feed that you just don’t have time to peruse in day-to-day life. Having shorter reading material is handy for layovers and other times when you know you’ll have a lot of interruptions.

Travel Insurance

Rock Out

I create playlists before every trip and save the playlists offline on Spotify so I can listen to all sorts of music regardless of my Internet connection.

It’s good to keep adding new songs so you don’t get bored with your library.

Plan It Out

Attention, last minute planners: grab a travel guide at the bookstore, and plan your trip out on the flight. It might be the old fashioned way but it’s nice to have something tactile that you can highlight and dog ear.

Make a list of the highlights you want to hit, so you can start exploring the minute you arrive!

READ NEXT: The Ultimate Survival Guide for Long-Haul Flights

 

SHOP my favorite flight essentials!

7 Unique Ways to Stay Entertained on a Flight is a post from: The Blonde Abroad



from The Blonde Abroad http://ift.tt/2gdbOAg

Monday, November 14, 2016

10 Reasons You Should Live in Seoul

Reasons You Should Live in Seoul

Whether you’re looking to escape to a new destination, teach English abroad, or delve deep in South Korean culture, our Expat Travel Expert, Wailana, shares her highlights of moving abroad to Seoul.

Here are 10 reasons you should live in Seoul!

Seoul Food

(source)

– The Food –

The number one reason why you should live in Seoul: the food. I moved away from South Korea years ago, and what I miss most of all is the delicious and diverse cuisine. Nowhere can you find tastes like these—spicy, hearty meals that are fun and flavorful to eat.

Walk into the average restaurant anywhere in the city, and the food will likely be savory and satisfying stews, grilled meat, and soups.

Korea also does BBQ (galbi) like no one else—fresh, thin cuts of beef or pork are brought to you, and you’re left to grill your own dinner on the small bbq embedded in the table. Add a colorful array of side dishes and you’re set: fermented vegetables, soups, spicy sauces, sesame leaves.

That’s not even to mention kimchi, Korean’s staple fermented side dish, served at virtually every meal.

And kimchi is more than just cabbage here—it can be anything from radish, scallion, cucumber, green onion, the list goes on. There’s even a museum for kimchi showcasing more than 100 varieties.

– The Transportation –

Seoul has an impressive rail network system that’s guaranteed to get you just about anywhere. The public transit is one of the most used in the world.

From the moment you hop onto the express train from Incheon airport, transportation becomes a walk in the park. Everything can be paid with a rechargeable T-Money card, purchasable at any subway booth or kiosk.

In Seoul, most of the subways translate announcements into English. And if you want to visit the rest of the peninsula, it translates to just a few hours on a train or bus.

Expats in Seoul

(source)

– The Integration of Nature –

With such a fluid transport system, nature is just short train or bus ride away from downtown Seoul. Go from crazy skyscrapers to peaceful seclusion within an hour. Even Bukhansan National Park is just 2 hours’ hike up past mountain peaks and waterfalls.

Inside the city itself, you can find numerous large parks, palaces and Buddhist temple complexes for a quiet respite.

Climb Namsan Park, located on top of a hill smack-dab in the hubbub, for glittering panoramas and a view of the iconic N Seoul Tower. Seoul Forest attracts visitors from all walks of life; here you’ll find walking trails, bike routes, deer enclosures and an insect exhibition.

At Changdukgung Palace, the beautiful Secret Garden is a perfect spot for a relaxing stroll. One of the more loved getaways is Seonyudo Park, a charming green island with four parks, botanical garden, and walking paths where visitors can relax with delightful views of the Rainbow Bridge (lit up every evening).

– The Technology –

When it comes to electronics, Korea seems to be five years ahead of everyone. Tech nerds will be in heaven here! Everyone has top-of-the-line Samsung & LG products. Cellphones stream live on the subway.

Everywhere there are huge TV screens, neon lights, high tech cars.

The wifi speed is extremely fast and widespread, one of the best connected in the world. And in an additional effort to boost connectivity, the government announced a nationwide program for free, public wifi by 2017!

7764411814_ffdbfe7e58_k

(source)

– The Safety –

Seoul is extremely safe, especially for a capital city. Taxis run at all hours and it’s not uncommon to see kids as young as five riding the subway by themselves.

The worst you might encounter is some drunken rudeness or minor theft, but in general, you can walk the streets at night without worry.

– The Saunas –

If you haven’t spent a full afternoon in a traditional sauna or jjimjilbang, you’re missing out! These multi-story complexes are a great place to chat with friends and family, and sweat out the stress.

A visit to a Korean bathhouse usually involves soaping up, rinsing, then steeping for hours in hot and cold tubs. The waters are often mixed with ginseng, salt, or other minerals to pamper your skin. Shy people never fear—all bathing rooms are segregated by sex.

Afterward soaking in the sauna, head to the common areas, where you can doze off, watch TV, get a massage, step into an ice room, enjoy some noraebang (karaoke), or grab a snack.

Some are even open 24 hours for overnight stays!

Cafes Seoul

(source)

– The Cafe Scene –

There is nothing like the wonder that is Seoul’s cafes. Koreans love coffee, so it’s no surprise to encounter the plethora of coffee shops, coffee chains, and cutely themed cafes.

Lattes and cappuccinos are all the rage, with occasionally a sweet Viennese coffee or green tea latte thrown in. Some cafes even have a special corner for your dog or cat. Also, I kid you not—you can even find a sheep cafe and a raccoon cafe!

– The Shopping –

Seoul is a shopper’s paradise, from high-end designer shops at Myeongdong to cute souvenir outlets in Insadong.

For a full day of shopping and sightseeing, head over to Coex, an underground mall full of stores, arcades, the Kimchi Museum and the massive COEX Aquarium.

Fall in Gyeongbokgung

(source)

– The UNESCO World Heritage Sites –

Korea is so jam-packed with historical centers that you need years to see it all. There are eleven Cultural Heritage sites and one Natural Heritage site in Seoul alone, as well as numerous cultural centers that share traditions like old shaman practices, music, martial arts, lyrical folk songs, medieval games and ancestral rituals.

– And, You Can Save Money –

Yes, South Korea can be expensive, but chances are you’re moving to teach ESL, and if that’s the case, you’ll find a lot of normal expenses—rent, healthcare, utilities, transportation—will be comped by your school or greatly reduced from what you’re used to at home.

I saved more in 6 months than I did in 2 years in the USA.

If you’re recently graduated from university and coming away with a lot of loans, it’s a great first-stop: you can pay back your loans while you see the world.

Seoul is so big and sprawling that whatever you like, you’re sure to find it somewhere in Seoul.

READ NEXT: The Ultimate Guide to Moving to Seoul

 

10 Reasons You Should Live in Seoul is a post from: The Blonde Abroad



from The Blonde Abroad http://ift.tt/2gaAzMU