Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
you're involved in an accident or your wallet goes missing. No vaccinations are required to
enter South Korea, but many doctors recommend signing up for the standard shots for trav-
elers to Asia—and hepatitis A and B inoculations in particular—before departure. If you
have to take prescription medication into South Korea, be sure to bring along copies of your
prescriptions to fend off any questions from curious customs officials, and to show doctors
or pharmacists if you need to replenish your supply.
Clothing
The rules here are to bring as little clothing as possible, and pack whatever makes you com-
fortable. With the exception of the depths of winter, South Korea's climate is relatively
mild, so there's little point in stuffing suitcases full of sweaters, and any extra clothing you
need will be easy enough to find locally, at least in Seoul. Remember, South Korea is a
fairly conservative place, and the locals put great stock in appearances, so err on the side of
formality in selecting what outfits to bring. If you're planning on meeting any future busi-
ness associates, pack at least one suit. A comfortable pair of shoes will be needed to walk
South Korea's often uneven streets and to tackle walking in the hills.
Miscellaneous
Again, try not to cram your bags with supplies to prepare for every eventuality—there are
very few things you won't be able to pick up locally if needed. If you're strict in your choice
of toothpaste, soap, or other toiletries, bring enough to last through your trip as some brands
will no doubt be unavailable, and you're unlikely to be familiar with the local versions. A
travel guide and phrasebook are recommended to assist in getting around and interacting
with non-English speakers. In South Korea you don't exist without a business card, and
even if you don't have one, it's worth getting a few printed up and bringing them with you,
especially if you're going to be doing a lot of socializing. A camera and journal will make
it easier to record your impressions and share them with friends and relatives back home.
Money
Setting a budget for your trip is a highly personal choice—South Korea can be just about as
dirt-cheap or stratospherically expensive as you want it to be. If you're prepared to stay at
small inns (
yeogwan
) or hostels, stick to public transport, and survive on relatively simple
local dishes—rice rolls, noodles, and the like—you could survive on US$70 or so per day.
On the other hand, if you're sticking to higher-end hotel chains, eating in nicer Korean and
foreign restaurants, and taking cabs everywhere, each day will cost you US$300 or more.
Most people find themselves somewhere between these two extremes. Remember to bring
