What to Expect in South Korea: Transportation and Accommodations

South Korea is an exotic, mysterious country with a complicated past and an ever-present view towards the future. While some visit South Korea to experience its fast-paced culture, others travel to this Asian Mecca to take in its picturesque landscapes, unique cuisine and thriving metropolitan cities.

With such an array of charms to experience in South Korea, prospective travelers should do a bit of planning ahead of time to make sure they know which popular hotspots, as well as local treasures, they want to see during their trip. This preliminary research will greatly reduce the stress of traveling and help travelers make the most of their Korean vacation.

Korean Traveling Resources

If you are planning a Korean vacation and don't speak Korean well (or at all), bring a portable Korean language dictionary and a reliable travel guide with you wherever you go. These two resources will significantly facilitate your travel and communications throughout Korea.

For additional help getting around South Korea, consider hiring a Korean interpreter for the first few days of your trip. With the guidance of a Korean interpreter, you can thoroughly enjoy your Korean vacation without having the anxiety of trying to overcome the language barrier.

Getting Around in South Korea: Public and Private Transportation Options

South Korea has a number of transportation options to offer the adventurous tourist. Here is a brief look at some of the most popular transportation options in South Korea:

• Bus: Public buses are cheap and accessible, as they make frequent pickups in many South Korean cities, airports and major hotels. Keep in mind, however, that it might take extra time to travel by bus in South Korea, so avoid taking a public bus when you are in a hurry.
• Cab: Taxicabs are relatively cheap in South Korea (as compared to other tourist destinations). Two cab companies dominate the industry: black deluxe cab and silver cab. While black deluxe cabs are slightly pricier, they have standard rates. Silver cabs, instead, may refuse customers or alter their rates depending on the cab driver. Learn more about travelling by cab in Korea.
• Rental Cars: Travelers looking to see more of the countryside on their own may want to rent a car when visiting South Korea. The two primary rental car companies in South Korea are Kumho Rent a Car and AVIS.
  While you can rent a car at airports or car rental offices in South Korea, the best rates are available to those booking the rental in the U.S. in advance. Get more information on Korean car rentals.
• Train: Riding the train is an affordable, stress-free way to see the South Korean countryside, as a vast network of modern trains regularly travels throughout the country. Tourists who don't want to navigate directions or deal with getting an international driver's license are best suited for train travel in South Korea.
• Plane: If you are traveling to South Korea from further distances, you will likely need to fly into Busan or Seoul. Plan your flight around your chosen destination. Get more information on Korean airports.

South Korean Currency

The national currency of South Korea has been the Won since 1962. While some travelers may want to exchange their money for Won before arriving in Korea, currency exchange services are also available at airports, hotels and banks throughout South Korea.

Get an up-to-date calculation of Won exchange rates.

Best Places to Stay in South Korea

South Korea has a variety of inexpensive to luxurious accommodations to suit the needs of any traveler. The best accommodations for you will depend on your budget and preferences, as well as the budgets and preferences of your travel companions.

Here is a look at popular accommodation options in South Korea:

• Hostels: As an ideal option for students or budget-conscious travelers, hostels are affordable options that offer a more communal environment. View a comprehensive listing of Korean hostels.
• Hotels: Travelers looking for more comfort, privacy and/or luxury will want to stay in one of South Korea's hotels. While prices will vary according to season and location, the vast number of options means that tourists can usually find a deal on their hotel stay. Visit this page to research Korean hotel options and book your stay.

 Find out more about Foreign Translations, Inc., our translation, localization and globalization services.