Premium South Korea Immersion from Seoul to Jeju Island (Temple Stay & Meet the Celebrity Food Expert) 9D8N, Fully Guided

Eoseo oseyo! Welcome to the vibrant heart of Korea. Upon your arrival at the airport, a local representative will greet you and escort you to your hotel. Your journey begins in Seoul, a city where ancient palaces rest in the shadow of futuristic skyscrapers.

This evening, you will gather for a welcome meeting at 6 pm to acquaint yourself with your fellow travellers and your knowledgeable trip leader. Following this, embark on a captivating walking tour that will introduce you to the city's dynamic energy, leading you through the lively Gongdeok entertainment district, renowned for its bustling markets and culinary delights.

Later, you will be seated for an authentic group welcome dinner featuring Korean hot pot—a delectable medley of fresh vegetables, tender meats, and noodles, all simmered together in a flavourful broth right at your table. As you dine, your leader will share insights into the local cuisine and customs.

After dinner, you may wish to take a leisurely stroll along the Cheonggyecheon Stream, an urban oasis that flows gracefully through downtown Seoul, or perhaps immerse yourself in the vibrant chaos of the Gwangjang or Dongdaemun night markets, where the city truly comes alive after dark.

Retire for the evening to the elegant sanctuary of Lotte City Hotel Mapo, a haven of sophistication directly connected to the subway for effortless city exploration. Indulge in the hotel's superb facilities, from the tranquil indoor swimming pool to the state-of-the-art fitness centre, ensuring a stay that rejuvenates both body and spirit.

This morning, your journey through Seoul continues as you visit the majestic Gyeongbokgung Palace. Dating back to 1395, this was the main royal palace of the Joseon Dynasty, and its grand halls and serene gardens offer a profound glimpse into Korea's regal past. Following this, you will meander through the charming lanes of Bukchon Hanok Village, a historic residential area where hundreds of beautifully restored traditional Korean houses, known as hanoks, line the picturesque streets.

Your cultural and culinary exploration then leads you to the home of Daniel Gray, a renowned food expert featured on Netflix's ‘Street Food: Asia’. Here, you will be treated to a fascinating lecture on the rich history of Korean cuisine, followed by an intimate, home-cooked lunch. This is a unique opportunity to savour an array of local delicacies and drinks from across the country.

After an enriching afternoon, you will return to your hotel for a truly moving encounter. You will have the privilege of meeting a North Korean defector, who will share their harrowing, personal story of struggle and ultimate triumph.

The evening is yours to enjoy at your leisure, whether you wish to continue your exploration of Seoul's vibrant neighbourhoods or simply rest. You might consider a visit to Myeongdong, the city’s famed shopping district, where you can browse the countless boutiques and sample an exciting variety of Korean street food.

Note: Meetings with defectors are notoriously difficult to arrange. This meeting may take place on a different day or location to guarantee the best possible experience. The meeting will cover a number of sensitive topics including torture, abuse and human trafficking. You can very easily opt out of this activity, should you wish.

As dawn breaks, prepare for a thought-provoking morning with a visit to the South Korean side of the Demilitarised Zone (DMZ). After stopping for breakfast en route, you will gain a profound understanding of how the peninsula has remained divided since the Korean War. Your exploration will take you to key sites, including the Third Tunnel of Aggression, a clandestine passage dug by North Korea, and the Imjingak Peace Park, a poignant symbol of hope and reunification filled with monuments and memorials.

Following some free time for lunch, you will be whisked away by private transfer to the picturesque village of Jeonju, renowned for its beautifully preserved hanok houses. For dinner, you will be introduced to a local culinary masterpiece at a traditional bibimbap restaurant. Here, you will savour Jeonju's version of the dish, which is so iconic it is considered the representative bibimbap of all Korea.

Retreat for the evening to Shilla Stay Jeonju, a sanctuary of modern elegance nestled beside the enchanting Hanok Village. From its rooftop lounge, drink in the panoramic vistas of the historic rooftops, a perfect prelude to a restful night in your exquisitely appointed room.

Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.

Your day begins with a taste of a beloved local delicacy: Jeonju's famed beansprout rice soup. Once you have savoured this comforting breakfast, your private transfer will carry you to the tranquil landscapes of Damyang. Here, you will embark on a scenic walk through the Juknokwon Bamboo Forest, a serene world of towering green stalks that rustle in the gentle breeze. As you explore, you might choose to indulge in the popular bamboo-infused ice cream, a refreshing and unique treat.

For lunch, you will be introduced to another regional speciality, tteokgalbi, a dish of tender, marinated grilled beef patties that are a true testament to Korean culinary artistry. Following your meal, the afternoon offers a choice of experiences. You could continue your gastronomic journey with a visit to a celebrated local roastery cafe, renowned for its exceptional baked goods and aromatic coffee. Alternatively, you may prefer to stretch your legs with a leisurely walk around Damyang, pausing to browse the local shops or relax in its charming parks.

Later, you will return to Jeonju for an intimate cultural immersion. Visit a traditional brassware workshop, where the craftsman himself will share insights into this intricate and historic art form. Afterwards, take a stroll through the enchanting hanok village once more, this time delving deeper into Jeonju's rich artistic heritage. The evening is yours to spend as you wish back in Damyang, inviting you to forge your own path and create your own adventure.

Your travel time today will be approximately 2 hours.

Following a leisurely breakfast, you will journey to the serene expanse of Gayasan National Park, a realm of dramatic peaks and ancient forests. Here, nestled on the slopes of Mount Gaya, you will discover the magnificent Haeinsa Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site and your exclusive feature stay for the evening. As one of the Three Jewels Temples of Korea, Haeinsa stands as a sacred guardian of the Dharma, the Buddha's teachings, and houses the revered Tripitaka Koreana woodblocks.

Upon arrival, you will be welcomed with a private tea ceremony, sitting down with one of the resident monks to share conversation. Listen as he illuminates the history of this sacred place and offers a rare glimpse into the rhythms of monastic life. You will then align with the temple’s daily schedule, beginning with an afternoon orientation and a guided tour of the sprawling temple complex. As evening descends, join your group for a simple yet nourishing dinner, followed by a guided evening meditation, allowing the profound tranquillity of the temple to envelop you before retiring for the night.

Your travel time today will be approximately 2.5 hours.

Note: Haeinsa Temple is a National Temple, so if there is a holiday or special meeting on the day we are meant to visit, another temple will be arranged.

After bidding a serene farewell to the spiritual tranquillity of Haeinsa Temple, your journey continues south toward the shimmering waters of the Shinan archipelago. Upon arrival, you are invited into the home of a local family, offering an intimate and authentic glimpse into the daily life and enduring traditions of South Korea’s southern coastal communities./p>

Later, you will explore the historic port city of Mokpo, a vibrant city cradled by the sea and watched over by the majestic Mt. Yudal. As a city with a proud naval heritage, Mokpo’s maritime past is palpable in its bustling streets and historic waterfront. You will then ascend Mt. Yudal aboard South Korea’s longest and highest cable car, a breathtaking journey that unfolds into spectacular panoramic views of the city and the scattered islands dotting the archipelago.

Before settling into your hotel, you'll wander through the charming Manho village, a neighbourhood where time seems to slow down. Here, you can admire architectural landmarks from the early 20th century, browse quaint shops, and experience the lively atmosphere of the local fish market. The remainder of the evening is yours to explore Mokpo at your leisure, whether you choose to dine at one of the many local restaurants, soak in the lively atmosphere, or enjoy a tranquil stroll along the seafront promenade.

As twilight descends, you will retreat to the elegant Editions Hotel, a modern sanctuary offering stunning ocean and mountain views. Here, you can rejuvenate your senses in the healing sauna, take a refreshing dip in the rooftop infinity pool, or simply unwind in luxurious comfort, preparing for the adventures that await.

Your travel time today will be approximately 4.5 hours.

This morning, after a leisurely breakfast, you will journey to Mokpo Harbor to board a ferry bound for the enchanting Jeju Island, a volcanic jewel nestled in the Korea Strait. Upon arrival and after settling into your accommodation, your tour leader will guide you on an exploration of the island's picturesque eastern coast.

Your first stop will be a local orange farm, where you can immerse yourself in the sweet fragrance of Jeju's famous citrus groves and learn about the cultivation of this regional specialty. From there, you will proceed to the magnificent Seongsan Ilchulbong, also known as 'Sunrise Peak'. This dramatic tuff cone, formed by a volcanic eruption beneath the sea some 5,000 years ago, rises majestically from the ocean. As Korea's first UNESCO World Heritage site, it is a place of profound natural beauty and one of the country's most iconic destinations. Take your time to ascend to the crater's edge and absorb the breathtaking panoramic views, which sweep across the sparkling ocean, the nearby Udo Island, the commanding silhouette of Hallasan Mountain, and the island's volcanic terrain.

On your return journey, you will step back in time with a visit to a traditional Jeju folk village, offering a fascinating glimpse into the island's unique cultural heritage and historic way of life. The remainder of the evening is yours to enjoy at your leisure, providing the perfect opportunity to discover a local restaurant or simply relax and reflect on the day's adventures.

Retreat for the evening to the elegant 4 star Lotte City Hotel Jeju, ideally situated to command breathtaking views of Jeju's stunning coastline and the majestic Hallasan Mountain. Indulge in unparalleled comfort and sophistication, whether you are unwinding by the serene rooftop pool, rejuvenating at the spa, or savouring exquisite culinary creations at its acclaimed restaurant.

Your travel time today will be approximately 6 hours.

Today, your journey continues to the western shores of Jeju Island, where a tapestry of cultural and natural wonders awaits. Your first stop is the serene Jeju Green Tea Farm, a testament to the island's deep-rooted tea culture. Wander through the meticulously manicured, rolling green fields that stretch towards the horizon, offering not only a feast for the eyes but also perfect photographic moments.

This afternoon, you will stand before the impressive Sanbangsan Mountain, a colossal lava dome that dominates the landscape. Often wreathed in a soft halo of clouds, the mountain exudes a mystical and almost spiritual atmosphere. From there, your exploration of Jeju's natural splendours continues with a walk along a section of the famed Olle trail. Follow the path as it winds along the coast, revealing remarkable geological formations where layers of ancient, stacked sandstone create a surreal and otherworldly scene.

Finally, you will have the unique privilege of meeting a Haenyeo, one of Jeju's legendary female divers. These remarkable women, often in their elder years, free-dive into the ocean depths to harvest shellfish, embodying a centuries-old tradition recognized by UNESCO. Listen to her personal stories and gain an intimate understanding of this matriarchal society and the local fishing culture.

As evening descends, you will gather with your fellow travellers for a final celebratory dinner. Indulge in the island's most famous culinary delight at a local black pork BBQ restaurant, raising a glass to a journey well-travelled and the unforgettable experiences shared.

Savour one last final breakfast or a refreshing morning dip in the pool, a perfect time to reflect on your incredible adventure in South Korea before making your own arrangements for your onward journey. There are no activities planned for today and your trip comes to an end. If you’d like to extend your stay in South Korea, please contact us.

NOTE: This itinerary is provided as an example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation.