I didn't know what to expect from my first girl's trip to Seoul. But I knew that I could rely on my friend to help me take pictures for the gram and that I'd also be able to do my fair share of shopping overseas. But at the end of our trip, I felt that Seoul was underrated and is a great location for girl's trips. If you're planning to travel overseas with your girls, Seoul might blow your mind. Here're some of the things that stood out for me.

You Can Shop 'til You Drop

Attention fashionistas! Besides k-pop, Seoul is well-known for its fashion and beauty. The city is a shopping paradise and where merchandisers source the latest trends. Myeong-Dong, Dongdaemun, Hongdae are some of the popular districts for shoppers. You could find countless stylish boutiques and beauty shops with affordable pricing. Even if you're not a big shopper, it's hard to resist from all the pretty displays, promotions and free samples. There're even underground shopping malls inside the subway stations!

Check out these popular shopping districts and underground shopping malls in Seoul:

Myeong-Dong Shopping District

Shopping fanatics who travel to Seoul know Myeong-Dong is a terrific spot for discount Korean skincare and cosmetics. In this area, you can also find popular apparel brands and souvenirs to bring home.

Address: Myeongdong-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul

How to get there: Myeong-Dong Station (Seoul Subway Line 4), Exits 6.

Photo credit

Ewha Woman's University Shopping Street 

Believe it or not, Ewha Woman's University is actually a tourist attraction. Besides being a famous Korean landmark, most people come here to shop as well. And that's because there're plenty of affordable and trendy boutiques in the area. You can find pieces for as low as 5000 won ($6 CDN)! Start with a visit at the campus complex and walk your way to the surrounding streets of Ewha Woman's University Station.

Address: 03766 10, Ewhayeodae 1-gil, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul
How to get there: Seoul Subway Line 2, exit at Ehwa Woman's University Station, Exit 2

Ewha Woman's University Campus

Photo credit

Hongdae Shopping District

If shopping is your forte, then you cannot miss the Hongdae Shopping District. Hongdae is near Hongik University and is known for its youthful and artistic vibe. Shopping in Hongdae appeals to those who are fashion-forward but don't want to break the bank. Mural art, galleries, markets, quirky cafes, nightclubs and bars make this a great spot to hang out with your girls.

Address: Hongik-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul

How to get there: Hongik University Station (Subway Line 2, Gyeongui-Jungang, AREX), Exit 9.

Photo Credit

Photo Credit

Dongdaemun Market

Dongdaemun is one of South Korea's famous markets. This is the place where you can find wholesale suppliers and get bargains on everything from apparel to fabrics and toys. It's opened all day long until late at night. While you're browsing your way through, be sure to try out local delicacies in street stalls nearby.

Address: 266, Jong-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul

How to get there: Dongdaemun Station (Seoul Subway Line 1,4) Exit 8 or 9

Photo credit

Photo credit

You Can Glam Up With the Hottest Make Up Trends

Korean skincare and beauty brands are taking up the world by storm. They not only do wonders to the skin but they also don't cost a lot. If you want flawless looking complexion, you wouldn't want to miss out! Top Korean brands like Etude House, Innisfree, VDL, Missha, Tony Moly, Holika Holika, Skin Food and many more can be found in popular shopping district like Myeong-Dong. Plan ahead and splurge on items at the same shop with your friends to enjoy tax saving benefits!

Photo credit

You Eat, Drink, Dance Repeat

Besides fashion and cosmetics, you cannot go home without trying Korean cuisine. From stone grill barbecues to spicy stews, not to mention their fried chickens, there's a lot to love about the Korean food scene. Drinks are also affordable. A bottle of Soju in Seoul costs $2 CDN! Whether you want a night out at a club or eating out, restaurants, bars and clubs are usually within footsteps in popular districts like Hongdae. Fun night outs can't get as convenient as this!

Check out some of my favourite places to eat in Seoul:

Piggy Bank Stone Grill Barbecue

When in Seoul, it's common to see people barbecuing and chatting away with a bottle of soju while indulging delicious grilled meats. And Piggy Bank is popular for its unique stone grill barbecues. That means you cook the meat over natural stones! What's good about cooking over natural stones is that the stones would absorb all the oil from the meats. In other words, meats are less greasy and less likely to get burnt. Each order of meat comes with lettuce leaves, cloves of garlic and sauces. Just wrap the meat inside a leaf and eat them like a burrito! It's a fun and authentic way of experiencing Korean cuisine.

Address: 146-1 Eoulmadang-ro, Seogyo-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea
How to get there: Subway Line 2, Hongik University Station Exit 8, Walk 3 minutes

Piggy Bank Natural Stone Grill Barbecue

Piggy Bank Natural Stone Grill Barbecue

Jinokhwa Halmae Wonjo Dakhanmari

Jinokhwa is known for its chicken and the restaurant has a long history for its famous chicken stew. And this is the only thing they served as well. You know when a restaurant only serves one thing on their menu, it usually means it's specialized. An entire chicken is served inside a pot with a clear broth with ginseng, onions, garlic and potatoes. Compared to other Korean dishes like GamJa Tang (pork bone soup) and Soon Tofu (spicy tofu stew), this chicken stew is blander in taste. But, the meat, to my surprise was super moist and juicy. You can also choose to add in rice cakes, green onions, noodles or rice to go with your chicken stew. And of course, kimchis are great with it.

Address: 18 Jong-ro 40ga-gil, Jongno 5(o).6(yuk)ga-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Jinokhwa Halmae Wonjo Dakhanmari Original Chicken Stew

Kyochon Fried Chicken

This is by far the best fried chicken I've had! Our Airbnb host recommended Kyochon to us during our stay in Hongdae area. Kyochon fills up with locals quickly in the evening. And for a good reason. There're many flavours and options to choose from and the price ranged between 15,000 to 18,000 won ($17-21 CDN). The portion is reasonable and good for sharing. Please do yourself a favour and try them yourself.

Address: 362-15, Seogyo-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Photo credit

Daege Jaldoneneun Jib (All You Can Eat Crabs)

Seafood is good in Seoul, especially crabs! In Daege Jaldoneneun Jib, you get unlimited orders of full-sized steamed crabs for around $40 CDN! And these crabs are fresh, meaty and larger than the size of my palm.

Address: 203 Mullae-ro, Yeongdeungpo-dong, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Daege Jaldoneneun Jib (All You Can Eat Crabs)

Daege Jaldoneneun Jib (All You Can Eat Crabs)

You Can Rent an Oppa For a Tour

Oppa is a Korean term that girls use to call someone who's like an older brother. Here in Seoul, you can rent an Oppa to take you out on a tour! If you're into Korean dramas like my friend,  this will definitely be attractive. Each Oppa has his own tours and destinations to bring you. Tours are approximately 2 and a half hour long starting from $70 USD and up. You can also customize your own itinerary with the Oppa starting at $100 USD. This also makes a great bachelorette activity all while experiencing the city's culture.

Check out ohmyoppa.com

Photo credit

You Can Have a Photoshoot Wearing Traditional Hanbok Dress

In a city that is also so rich in culture, taking pictures of historic palaces and temples is inevitable. Girls also like to take advantage of these surroundings and rent Hanbok dresses to wear. Hanbok rentals can be found in most tourist attractions, like Bukchon Hanok Village and Gyeongbokgung Palace. Rental costs about 20,000 won for 4 hours or 28,000 won for a full day. We knew we had to rent Hanbok dresses while we were there. The scenery and palaces were perfect backdrops. And I think we looked pretty cute in them. Don't you agree?

Check out 7 Best Hanbok Rentals in Seoul Near Gyeongbokgung Palace

You Can Enjoy Tea in Cute Cafes

Cafes may be common. But cafes in Seoul are the cutest and Insta-worthy. A lot of thoughts and details went into the decors and menus.  Take a break from the hustle and bustle and enjoy an afternoon tea with friends. You also have tons of Instagrammable shots with lovely backgrounds and pretty pastries.

Check out some of the cutest cafes in Seoul:

943 King's Cross Harry Potter Cafe

Harry Potter fans, board the Hogwarts Express from Platform 9 3/4! It's a 4-storey Harry Potter themed cafe with Hogwarts Express replica, wooden staircase, a wall filled with wands, suspended owl cages and robes to rent for a magical experience. 

Address: Mapo-Gu Seogyo-Dong 417, Hongdae, Seoul
How to get there: Hongik University, Exit 9, Located near Trick Eye Museum

Photo credit

Photo credit

Radio M 라디오엠

Radio M is not a typical cafe. The basement of the cafe is actually the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art of Seoul. And in Korean drama, What's Wrong With Secretary Kim, stars, Park Seo-Joon and Park Min-Young had a romantic scene in front of this cafe. You can enjoy a cup of joe beneath the whimsical cherry blossom tree on comfy nooks and retro chairs.

Address: 37-2 Samcheong-ro 2-gil, Samcheong-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul
How to get there: Subway Line 3, Anguk station, Exit 1 or Subway Line 3, Gyeongbokgung station, Exit 2.

Cha-teul

Cha-teul is a "tea-drinking garden" located on a hilltop in Samcheong-dong. Pastries and teas are served in traditional ceramic tableware. Imagine enjoying fine teas with your girls overlooking a spectacular view of the neighbourhood amongst a garden of flowers. Life is as good as it gets.

Address: 26, Bukchon-ro 11na-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul
How to get there: Subway Line 3, Anguk Station, exit 1

 Photo credit

Get Pampered Together in Jjimjilbang (Korean Bathhouse & Sauna)

Visiting a Korean bathhouse, Jjimjilbang is one of the must-dos when travelling to Korea. And locals treat it like an R&R getaway. A typical Korean bathhouse comes with a lot of amenities. Besides having a communal bathing area and sauna rooms, it is also equipped with therapeutic tubs, fitness room, lounging area, sleeping rooms, entertainment room and a cafeteria. A visit to the Jjimjilbang is a fun and unique way of experiencing Korean culture first-hand while getting pampered at the same time. It's more comfortable going with your girls and trying it out for the first time together.

Check out my guide to the Jjimjilbang experience here.

Let me know what's your favourite girl's trip destination?

Pin for later~

Check out my other travel guide for Seoul!

A Guide to Korean Bath and Sauna (Jimjilbang) Experience 

For those with a passion for culinary exploration, there are certain cities around the globe that stand as beacons of gastronomic excellence. Recent data analysis by Audley Travel, utilizing Tripadvisor ratings, has unveiled the top five cities worldwide that are a must-visit for any self-proclaimed foodie. This article takes you on a journey through these epicurean capitals, revealing why each is a pinnacle of dining delight for American travelers.

Seoul, South Korea

Seoul, topping the list with its diverse and expansive culinary scene, offers an immersive experience into the heart of Korean cuisine. Audley Travel’s insights highlight the city’s unique blend of traditional and contemporary flavors. From bustling street food markets to elegant fine dining, Seoul presents a culinary landscape as varied as the country’s history. Dishes like kimchi, sundubu jjigae, and Korean barbecue not only offer a feast for the taste buds but also provide a glimpse into the communal and vibrant nature of Korean dining culture.

Tokyo, Japan

In second place, Tokyo’s rich culinary culture is a reflection of Japan’s deep respect for gastronomy. The city’s dining scene, ranging from tiny sushi joints to luxurious restaurants, is marked by meticulous attention to detail and quality. As noted by Audley Travel experts, Tokyo offers a unique dining experience where even the simplest meals are transformed into art. This city is a dream destination for those who appreciate the subtleties of flavor and the art of presentation.

London, UK

London’s position as a global culinary hub is well-earned, offering a vast spectrum of gastronomic experiences. They are also leading in the rise of plant-based options. The city’s dining scene is as diverse as its population, providing an array of cuisines from traditional British fare to exotic international dishes. Audley Travel highlights the city’s ability to cater to every palate, making it an ideal destination for American food enthusiasts who enjoy a taste of the world on a single platter.

Paris, France

Paris, synonymous with luxury and fine dining, is a staple on any food lover’s travel list. The city’s reputation for culinary finesse is unparalleled, with an array of bistros, cafes, and Michelin-starred restaurants offering the pinnacle of French cuisine. As the epitome of gastronomic indulgence, Paris provides an elegant backdrop for those seeking to immerse themselves in a world of exquisite flavors and sophisticated dining.

Bangkok, Thailand

Bangkok concludes the list with its dynamic and flavorful culinary offerings. Thai cuisine, known for its bold spices and aromatic herbs, offers a sensory experience that is both exhilarating and deeply satisfying. The city’s street food scene, in particular, is a highlight, offering an authentic taste of Thailand’s culinary heritage. From spicy curries to sweet and savory snacks, Bangkok’s food landscape is a treasure trove for those seeking to explore the complexities of Thai flavors.

A Journey of Culinary Discovery

These five cities, as revealed by Audley Travel’s analysis of Tripadvisor data, represent the pinnacle of global dining excellence. Each offers a unique window into the culinary heart of its culture, making them must-visit destinations for American food enthusiasts. As travelers from the United States look to expand their culinary horizons, these cities stand as the ultimate destinations for a gastronomic adventure that is as rich in culture as it is in flavor. Whether it’s the spicy heat of Bangkok, the refined elegance of Paris, or t

he innovative spirit of Seoul, these cities promise an unforgettable journey for the palate and the soul.

Continue Reading

Share |

Have you ever felt exhausted while traveling? Perhaps you're trying to hit as many tourist spots as possible within a short time frame that all your muscles start to hurt? That was me on a jam-packed 3-day trip in Seoul. Thankfully, I was able to squeeze in time to visit a Jjimjibang before my departure. If you're planning a visit to Jjimjilbang, here's a guide for this popular Korean bath and sauna experience.

What is a Jjimjilbang?

Jjimjilbang is a Korean bathhouse that is usually furnished with a communal shower area, hot and cold therapeutic tubs, ice room, heated salt rooms, sauna rooms, fitness room, lounging area, entertainment area, massage rooms, sleeping rooms, and a cafeteria. Most of them are opened for 24-hours so you could choose to stay overnight after relaxation. Visiting a Jjimjilbang is considered one of the must-dos to experience Korean culture.

A Korean R&R Getaway

You might think that a 24-hr bathhouse with so many amenities to offer would be extravagant and costly. In fact, they're actually very economical and down to earth. People there are laid back and Korean families love spending a weekend here as a getaway.

Siloam Sauna at Seoul Station

Jjimjilbang can be found everywhere in Seoul. And Siloam Sauna is conveniently located approximately 8-minute walking distance away from Seoul Station, making visits extremely easy for travellers. A full experience of bath, sauna, and jjimjil (heating) only costs 11,000 won and that's about $12 CDN! If you choose to stay overnight or check-in after 8 pm, the price is slightly higher at 17,000 won ($20 CDN) and that's still a pretty great deal! No wonder why jjimjilbang is sometimes used as an alternative to hotels for budget travelers or for those laying over. Although the cost is low, the place is huge and well maintained. I'm surprised that a bathhouse can be as large as a 5-story!

Source

The Full Sauna, Bath, Jjimjil Experience

After you've paid for your admission, you'd be given a ticket to the female and male change area. The staff would then take your ticket and lead you to a small locker where you'd store your shoes away. The key for the shoe locker is then exchanged for their smocks (usually t-shirt and shorts), a towel and another key to store your belongings.

Don't be alarmed if you see other guests walking around and drying hair butt naked inside the change area. Because you'd have to strip your clothes off before heading to the bathing area downstairs as well. Luckily, the males are separated from the females. Directions and signs can be seen everywhere on the walls and floors. So you won't get lost even if you don't speak the language.

The bathing area is huge. The therapeutic baths and sauna rooms are on the other side of the room. You'll need to take a shower before dipping into the baths or going into saunas. Each bath varies in temperature and offers different medicinal effects.

Here are the several baths that they offer:

Giok Bath - This bath is created by submerging the jade stone deep underground to collect its energy.
Salt Bath - Releases stress and muscle pains. It also kills fungi on your skin, making it brighter and more elastic.
Loess Bath - Loess is living soil with medicinal properties that we energize the body.
Mugwort Bath - Known for its vitamin and calcium. It's especially beneficial for females to heal irregular menstruation and cramps. 

At this point, you could also get someone to exfoliate your body. Experienced body scrubbers are available for an extra cost. They massage your body to improve circulation and help remove dead skins. After your time at the bathing area, you could go back to your locker, get dressed and enjoy other amenities offered at the Jjimjilbang.

Me wearing their smocks after bathing. Do I look cute in them?

Giok Bath

Rest area in the bathing area

Get Pampered at Beauty Salon

Ladies could also get pampered at the beauty salon on the first floor. You could enjoy services like getting a haircut, a shave, nail art, lash extensions, foot care and trimming eyebrows. Just keep in mind that these cost extra on top of your admission. For a more budget-friendly option, you might consider DIY lash extensions at home, which can provide similar results without the additional cost.

On the 2nd floor is a lounge area, a place where you could hang out with your friends, watch tv or sleep. I especially enjoyed the hot stone foot therapy when I was there. It helped relax my muscles and release tension from walking.

Hot stone foot therapy

Many people like to relax and hang out freely in the open area after bathing and sauna

Play Area for Your Children

Jjimjilbang is a family-friendly activity in Korea. And that's why some larger bathhouses like Siloam Sauna even has a designated area for Children. Parents could relax and escape knowing their children are safe and occupied in proximity.  

Lots of Amenities at Your Disposal 

What amazed me while experiencing a Jjimjilbang is that there was a peck more to do then just bathing and saunas. At Siloam Sauna, you could exercise at their fitness center, sing karaoke, play chess and table tennis, use their computers, host seminars/meetings, and play arcade games! All of these amenities could be found on the 3rd floor and are included with your admission.

De-stress and Escape in Fomentation Rooms

Fomentation rooms are what made Jjimjilbang unique. These heated or cool cave-like rooms are formed by natural materials to provide therapeutic effects to your body. At Siloam Sauna, there're so many rooms to choose from, such as the Oxygen room, Hard Charcoal Cold Room, Ice Room, Grotto Room, Blue Jade Room, Loess Sauna, Salt Sauna, Fire-based Sauna, and Jade Sauna. To detox and improve blood circulation, you could choose the high-temperature rooms like the Salt Sauna or Jade Sauna. These rooms can be found on the 4th floor of Siloam Sauna and are usually shared with all genders. They are definitely worth a try if you're new to the Korean Bathhouse experience.

Fire-based sauna

Jade sauna

Salt sauna

Ice room

Charcoal cold room

Take a Power Nap

The bathhouse also has designated sleeping rooms for those of you who need to catch some sleep or stay overnight. Snorers are also encouraged to nap in their designated room so everyone can enjoy a comfortable and quiet time. 

Fuel Up With Traditional Korean Food

After you're well rested, it's time to fuel up with food! A large cafeteria-like restaurant is available on the 5th floor. Everyone could enjoy delicious Korean cuisine without leaving the bathhouse. Koreans like to snack on a smoked egg with a cup of Shikhae after Jijimjilbang. Shikhae is a traditional sweet Korean rice beverage that is usually served cold and is super refreshing to cool your body down. If you're down for a meal, a variety of stews, noodles and rice dishes are also available. The restaurant accepts credit cards.

What do you think about the Korean bath experience? Would you give Jjimjilbang a try?

Let me know in the comments below.

Until next time!

Pin this for later!

Check out my posts of other bath experience!

Hot Springs of a Lifetime in Kinosaki Onsen (Japan Travel)

My Turkish Bath Experience in Istanbul