South Korea stories: K-pop, kimchi and hanoks

The time has finally come. You're standing in the airport, and your night flight to adventure begins! You close your eyes and can already see the rising sun pointing the way to South Korea as you fly towards its beautiful, bright red gleam – the perfect way to kick off your trip!

The clouds slowly thin out, and before you know it, you're on the approach to your new adventure. The vibrant metropolis beneath you spreads out further and further with every passing second, and then it's 'Hello, Seoul!' Just the sight of the glittering megacity immediately makes you want to explore as many of its exciting corners and districts as possible.  

Where to now? To the city centre with its sea of gleaming skyscrapers, or to the famous Gangnam entertainment district, where between the colourful billboards and huge shop windows, you won't know where to look first?! After experiencing so many new things, you spend the rest of the day just taking it easy. You quickly check into your new accommodation then head off in search of a place for tonight's dinner – you've been looking forward to South Korea's huge selection of food for days! 

It's time to jump into the 'Seoul' of the Joseon dynasty! Changdeokgung Palace was the number one spot for many Joseon kings, so you head over to this royal hangout to find out why. Pro tip: Everyone dressed in a hanbok gets free admission! These traditional garments are available for hire at loads of places in the city (optional, payable on site), and they also make the journey back in time to medieval Korea all the more authentic! At the Donhwamun Gate, you pass the guards and scope out the palace in awe until you reach Injeongjeon Hall, the main throne room. Here, you can join a guided tour of the interior (optional, payable on site) or wander along the magnificent pavilions on your own. Whichever you choose, you have to hit up the Huwon Secret Garden. This is where the former rulers took a breather from their government business – so take a deep breath and feel your own stress melt away as you stroll through the beautiful grounds.

New day, new spot! Up next: Bukchon Hanok Village! The narrow streets are lined with over 900 hanoks, aka traditional Korean houses, with wooden gates, tiled roofs and plenty of history. You stroll silently between the old houses and realise that the city suddenly feels completely different here. Next up, it's time for a change of perspective – this time, from above. The N Seoul Tower takes you up to 774 feet above ground (for a fee, payable on site), and the view is absolutely next-level! Between the city skyline, monumental mountains and twinkling lights, you're already scoping out your next stop. Once the sun sets and your feet are firmly back on solid ground, why not check out one of the many speakeasies or hidden bars in Itaewon or Hongdoe? You'll have to look carefully, as their entrances are hidden behind bookshelves, cellar doors and telephone boxes! Or you can stay down to earth and grab a plastic chair at a pocha – neon lights, spicy snacks and cold beer are the vibe here. Whichever you choose, Seoul nights just hit different!