Exploring Solo Travel in South Korea: Essential Guidance for Women Travelers
South Korea, known for its vibrant cities, rich culture, and modern amenities, is a popular destination for solo female travelers. In this guide, we'll share tips and recommendations to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.
Preparing for Your Journey
Before you set off, it's recommended to download a few essential apps to enhance your travel experience. The XE Currency app offers on-the-go currency conversions, while Naver Maps will serve as your navigation tool in South Korea. For those planning to use Uber, it's essential to set up safety functions before the trip, as Uber is only available in major cities.
An eSIM may prove more convenient and potentially cheaper, depending on the length of your stay. Prepaid LG SIM cards can be purchased at Seoul airport for around £3.50 / $4.50 for 24 hours, and 10-day SIM cards with unlimited data cost around £19 / $24. Alternatively, you can consider services like Airalo (code EMILY9237 for a discount) and Holafly (use code EMILYLUXTON for a 5% off), which offer unlimited data for 10 days for £26.50 / $32 and £6 / $6.90 for 1 day, respectively.
Staying Connected and Getting Around
A local SIM or eSIM is crucial for a smooth travel experience, as it allows for easy navigation using Naver Maps, calling Ubers, and using translation apps. In addition, it's recommended to get a travel card (T-Money or EZL) for convenience and cost savings while using public transportation in South Korea. The country's public transportation system is highly efficient, making getting around a breeze.
Safety Tips for Solo Female Travelers
While South Korea is generally a safe country, safety precautions should still be taken. Use a secure bag, preferably cross-body or worn under clothes, to keep valuables safe and reduce the risk of theft. Research neighborhoods carefully, especially distinguishing good and bad areas in advance by using online resources or asking local accommodation staff. Know when and how to travel safely, such as preferring public transport or registered taxis/Ubers rather than walking alone at night.
Be aware of common scams and cultural norms, including dress codes that respect local customs. Practice cyber security by using VPNs on public Wi-Fi to protect banking and personal details. Consider staying with local women hosts via women-only hospitality exchanges, which can both enhance cultural experience and add an extra layer of personal safety.
When feeling overwhelmed or insecure, plan itineraries to avoid traveling alone late at night and prepare apps, contacts, and maps in advance to reduce travel anxiety. Connect with other solo female travelers through social or travel-specific apps and communities to build companionship and enhance safety through shared experiences and advice.
Accommodation and Activities
Female-only guesthouses are a budget-friendly accommodation option for solo female travelers. Hostels are also a good place to meet fellow travelers and make friends, especially those that host tours, events, and classes.
Booking tours is another way to meet travelers, as they often group solo travelers together for activities like food tours and cooking classes. South Korea is the safest and easiest Asian country for solo female travel, according to our author, who has been traveling solo for nearly a decade.
Getting the Most Out of Your Trip
Klook is recommended as a website for finding and booking tours in South Korea. The "scruffy backpacker" look may not be well-received in South Korea, and at least one "dressy" outfit is recommended for nice bars and restaurants. Showing cleavage is frowned upon, and it's recommended to bring a scarf or shawl to cover shoulders when wearing sleeveless tops.
The author suggests Gwanganli Hotel 1 in Busan for capsule hotels, with a video review available. Remember, South Korea is generally a modern and liberal country, and it's essential to respect local customs while enjoying the vibrant culture and attractions this beautiful country has to offer.
Safe travels, and enjoy your journey in South Korea!
- Downloading the XE Currency app and Naver Maps will provide on-the-go currency conversions and navigation services for your trip to South Korea.
- Consider purchasing an eSIM or a prepaid LG SIM card at Seoul airport for a smooth and cost-effective connection to the internet during your stay.
- A local SIM or eSIM is useful for using translation apps, calling Ubers, and navigating with Naver Maps during your solo travel in South Korea.
- Utilize a travel card (T-Money or EZL) for added convenience and cost savings when using the efficient public transportation system in South Korea.
- Before visiting, study neighborhoods and cultural norms to ensure safety, and research women-only hospitality exchanges to enhance your cultural experience and personal safety.
- To get the most out of your solo travel in South Korea, book tours through Klook, consider staying at female-only guesthouses, and respect local customs while enjoying the beauty and rich culture of South Korea.
