South Korea Real Food Adventure
Departures throughout 2019 and 2020
From $2,287 per person in a twin share room
Single supplement from $600
From $2,287 per person in a twin share room
Single supplement from $600
Delve into the many flavours of Korean cuisine and cooking on this adventure totally dedicated to food
Long overshadowed by the gastronomy of its regional neighbours, Korean has been the cuisine on all foodies' lips in recent years. There's Korean BBQ for starters – what's not to like about sizzling your own strips of meat on a BBQ set up on your table? – but that's just the tip of the culinary iceberg. With a smorgasbord of sauces, garnishes and pickled side-dishes accompanying every meal, dining in Korea is all about crafting your meal to taste. And, despite the prevalence of beef and Korean fried chicken, it's not all meat based. Silky tofu, glass noodle salads, sushi-like kimbap, and, of course, kimchi – vegetarian options are plentiful. Learn how to make green onion pancakes, slurp up spicy seafood breakfast soups, tuck into Buddhist fare on an overnight monastery stay and delve into the intricacies of the country's signature dish bibimbap in Jeonju, arguably Korea's foodie capital.
Long overshadowed by the gastronomy of its regional neighbours, Korean has been the cuisine on all foodies' lips in recent years. There's Korean BBQ for starters – what's not to like about sizzling your own strips of meat on a BBQ set up on your table? – but that's just the tip of the culinary iceberg. With a smorgasbord of sauces, garnishes and pickled side-dishes accompanying every meal, dining in Korea is all about crafting your meal to taste. And, despite the prevalence of beef and Korean fried chicken, it's not all meat based. Silky tofu, glass noodle salads, sushi-like kimbap, and, of course, kimchi – vegetarian options are plentiful. Learn how to make green onion pancakes, slurp up spicy seafood breakfast soups, tuck into Buddhist fare on an overnight monastery stay and delve into the intricacies of the country's signature dish bibimbap in Jeonju, arguably Korea's foodie capital.
|
Start Seoul, South Korea
Finish Seoul, South Korea Destination South Korea Style Original Theme Food |
Code CJZK
Physical rating ⚫⚫⚫⚪⚪ Ages Min 15 Group size Min 1, Max 12 |
Why you'll love this trip
Is this trip right for you?
- Wash down the other version of KFC – Korean Fried Chicken – with a glass of Soju, Korea's national alcoholic beverage
- Savour bibimbap in Jeonju, Korea's foodie capital
- Share a traditional temple meal with Buddhist monks on an overnight stay in a monastery
- Get the inside sip on Busan's craft brew scene at one of the city's top breweries
Is this trip right for you?
- A good degree of fitness is recommended for this trip as there is a lot of walking involved. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
- We suggest packing light and smart for this trip as you'll be required to carry your own luggage between train stations and to hotels, which can include going up and down multiple flights of stairs in crowded areas. Elevators are however available in most stations.
- Traditionally Korean beds comprised a futon-like mattress placed on the floor, which could be folded up and placed in the cupboard in the morning. This trip includes two nights' accommodation with Korean-style floor bedding - on night 2 staying in a hanok (traditional house) in Jeonju and on night 4 staying at the monastery in Gyeongju. While floor bedding can seem firm compared with standard western mattresses, the floor in these accommodations is heated and provides for a comfortable and cosy nights' sleep.
- The monastery stay is a unique and special experience, providing an insight into monastic cuisine, rituals - even martial arts-style meditation! Conservative dress is required, although you will also be given pants and a tunic to wear during your stay. The monastery is located on a steep hill, which does require some aerobic fitness to ascend. The martial arts meditation session also requires reasonable fitness. All activities at the monastery are optional and you can opt-out at any time if you feel the activity level is too strenuous. One of the highlights of the monastery stay is an early morning Buddhist service. This does require rising by 4am, but it is definitely worth the effort.
Itinerary
For departures in 2019
DAY 1 Seoul
Welcome to Seoul, South Korea's vibrant capital of high-tech gadgetry, glittering skyscrapers and scrumptious eats.
Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6:00pm on Day 1. Look for a note in the hotel lobby or ask the hotel reception where this meeting will take place. Often it will take place in the 2nd floor Business Lounge. If you can't arrange a flight that will arrive in time, you may wish to arrive a day early so you're able to attend. We'll be happy to book additional accommodation for you (subject to availability). Your insurance details and next of kin information will be collected at this meeting, so please have these details to provide to your leader.
A modern Asian metropolis that blends bold futuristic intentions with strong links to the past, Seoul is one of Asia's great cities. After the welcome meeting, head out with your trip leader and be immersed in Seoul's sights, sounds, smells and, of course, tastes! Start your Food Adventure with a taste of the local KFC – Korean Fried Chicken – known locally as chi-maek, short for chicken plus maekju (the Korean word for beer). Don't pass up the opportunity to try Soju, Korea's national alcoholic beverage. Your leader will be able to verse you in the etiquette involved. After dinner we take a walk to a local market for a food insight tour plus a spot of dessert.
Accommodation
If you are delayed at all today and will not be able to make the pre-departure meeting, please contact our local operator on: +821067067769.
DAY 2 Jeonju
After breakfast, take the metro to Yongsan Station and take in the bustle of vendors selling everything from coffee and pastries to kimbap (Korean sushi rolls). Travel by train to Jeonju, then take a private bus to your hotel. For lunch head to a restaurant famous for its bibimbap and dozens of house specialty side dishes. In the afternoon, learn to prepare the iconic Korean side dish, kimchi. Afterwards, take a stroll around the town, where there are many hanoks (traditional houses) to admire. If you're keen for one more 'real food' experience, for dinner your leader will take you for locally brewed, cloudy rice beer which is served with yet another array of side dishes.
Note: On the October departure, the cooking class will be replaced by a visit to the Jeonju Bibimbap Festival.
Accommodation
Tonight's accommodation will be in a hanok guesthouse. Similar to a Japanese ryokan, the bedding in a hanok comprises a futon mattress on the floor, with a light covering. The floor of your room is heated and provides for a comfortable and cosy nights' sleep.
DAY 3 Sunchang to Gyeongju
This morning you'll have the opportunity to start your day with a breakfast of Kongnamul Gukbap – a hot soup of soybean and sprouts – in a local restaurant hidden in Nambu Traditional Market. From here, travel by bus to Sunchang Gochujang, a village famous for the production of gochujang (a traditional red chilli paste). Taste local varieties of soy sauce, bean paste, red chilli paste and Korean pickles, then see how the chilli paste is made during a demonstration. Enjoy lunch at a restaurant that specialises in fermented bean soup, then take a stroll around the base of Mt Gangcheon. Return to Jeonju, and catch a public bus to Gyeongju, arriving by early evening. Tonight is free for your own exploration, although your leader will have plenty of great dining tips.
Accommodation
DAY 4 Temple Stay
The city of Gyeongju is an area rich with temples, tombs, pagodas, and palace ruins (many of which are UNESCO World Heritage sites). Start your day with a stroll through the local market, learning about the ingredients and produce that form the building blocks of this amazing cuisine. There should also be time to explore some of the royal tombs - conspicuous grassy hills which punctuate the landscape around the city. Lunch will be a tasting of Korean comfort foods, including hotteok, tteokbokki, chicken on a stick - not to mention red bean bread, a specialty of this region. In the afternoon drive to the Golgulsa Temple for an overnight stay. The monks at this temple practice a specific type of martial arts known as sunmudo. Be treated to a sunmudo display, then enjoy time to wander around the tranquil temple surrounds. Dinner will be vegan, in line with monastic custom. In the evening, choose to be guided through a martial-arts style meditation and yoga session or simply settle in for an early night's sleep.
Accommodation
The monastery stay provides a unique and special experience, with an insight into monastic cuisine, rituals - even martial arts-style meditation! Conservative dress is required, although you will also be given pants and a tunic to wear during your stay. Please remember to bring socks, as bare feet are not allowed in the temple. At night, you will be sleeping on traditional futons on a heated floor. Blankets and sheets are provided, although you'll need to bring your own toiletries and towel. Alcohol and smoking are prohibited at the monastery stay.
Please note that rooms at the Temple Stay are multi-share, which means that you may be required to share with up to 3 other people (of the same gender) during busy times. Furthermore, couples are not able to share a room during at this accommodation as this is against Temple rules.
The monastery is located on a hill, which does require some aerobic fitness to ascend. The martial arts meditation session also requires reasonable fitness. Al
DAY 5 Busan
Your life as a monk continues today with a 4 am wake-up for a memorable morning meditation (you can opt out of it, though, if early mornings are not your thing!). Following breakfast, learn about the spiritual values and beliefs of Korean Buddhism over tea with a resident monk. Leaving the monastery, drive on to a local farm for an insight into agricultural life. After a walk around the farm, you'll be treated to some home-made snacks. In the afternoon we travel to Busan to visit the Haedong Temple by the Sea. Tonight we will head out to a restaurant to enjoy lamb skewers with eggplant and local greens. After dinner you may want to take in the local nightlife in the Seomyeon Entertainment District!
Note: In the case of bad weather, the farm visit will be replaced by an alternate activity.
Accommodation
DAY 6 Busan
This morning we will take a public bus to the Taejondae Lighthouse. Visit Jalgalchi Market (an enormous seafood market situated by Busan port), then savour a clam bake lunch overlooking the ocean. In the evening, head to a local craft brewery for a behind-the-scenes tour and a tasting.
South Korea’s craft beer scene is exploding all across the country after a rise to popularity in Seoul. Busan boasts a fairly formidable range of brewpubs itself, many of these offering a fantastic range of beers with delicious food to boot. Local IPAs such as the Doljianchi are crafted with special yeasts that give off delicious peach highlights, surprisingly lacking in punch for a beer with 9% alcohol content. Local sour beers also make for a fine drop, some of these coming with a sting that needs to be pushed past in order to truly appreciate the unique flavours.
Accommodation
DAY 7 Seoul
After breakfast at the hotel and a free morning to explore Busan, travel by Korea Train Express back to Seoul arriving late afternoon. There may be free time to wander around Gyeongbok Palace, marvel at the views from Namsan Tower or check out Seoul’s most eclectic neighbourhoods of Sinsadong and Gangnam. For your final feast, head to the Mangwon Market, a galleria food hall brimming with traditional street foods and Korean barbecue!
Accommodation
DAY 8 Seoul
Your South Korea Food Adventure comes to an end this morning. If you wish to extend your stay and explore more of Seoul, additional accommodation is available. Please contact your booking agent for further information.
Meals Included
There are no meals included on this day.
Special Information
If you would like to arrange a visit to the Demilitarised Zone (DMZ), a tour can be pre-booked (depending on the political atmosphere) at www.tourdmz.com. Alternatively, you can speak with your tour leader who will be able to assist with making a reservation. Please note that we are unable to pre-book this service for for you.
WHAT’S INCLUDED
🍴 Meals
3 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 3 dinners
🚊Transport
Private vehicle, Train, Public bus, Metro, Taxi
🛏 Accommodation
Hotel (5 nights), Hanok (1 night)
📷 Included activities
Welcome to Seoul, South Korea's vibrant capital of high-tech gadgetry, glittering skyscrapers and scrumptious eats.
Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6:00pm on Day 1. Look for a note in the hotel lobby or ask the hotel reception where this meeting will take place. Often it will take place in the 2nd floor Business Lounge. If you can't arrange a flight that will arrive in time, you may wish to arrive a day early so you're able to attend. We'll be happy to book additional accommodation for you (subject to availability). Your insurance details and next of kin information will be collected at this meeting, so please have these details to provide to your leader.
A modern Asian metropolis that blends bold futuristic intentions with strong links to the past, Seoul is one of Asia's great cities. After the welcome meeting, head out with your trip leader and be immersed in Seoul's sights, sounds, smells and, of course, tastes! Start your Food Adventure with a taste of the local KFC – Korean Fried Chicken – known locally as chi-maek, short for chicken plus maekju (the Korean word for beer). Don't pass up the opportunity to try Soju, Korea's national alcoholic beverage. Your leader will be able to verse you in the etiquette involved. After dinner we take a walk to a local market for a food insight tour plus a spot of dessert.
Accommodation
- Hotel (1 night)
- Seoul - Welcome Dinner
- Dinner
If you are delayed at all today and will not be able to make the pre-departure meeting, please contact our local operator on: +821067067769.
DAY 2 Jeonju
After breakfast, take the metro to Yongsan Station and take in the bustle of vendors selling everything from coffee and pastries to kimbap (Korean sushi rolls). Travel by train to Jeonju, then take a private bus to your hotel. For lunch head to a restaurant famous for its bibimbap and dozens of house specialty side dishes. In the afternoon, learn to prepare the iconic Korean side dish, kimchi. Afterwards, take a stroll around the town, where there are many hanoks (traditional houses) to admire. If you're keen for one more 'real food' experience, for dinner your leader will take you for locally brewed, cloudy rice beer which is served with yet another array of side dishes.
Note: On the October departure, the cooking class will be replaced by a visit to the Jeonju Bibimbap Festival.
Accommodation
- Hanok (1 night)
- Jeonju - Kimchi Cooking Class
- Jeonju - Hanok Village Visit
- Breakfast
- Lunch
Tonight's accommodation will be in a hanok guesthouse. Similar to a Japanese ryokan, the bedding in a hanok comprises a futon mattress on the floor, with a light covering. The floor of your room is heated and provides for a comfortable and cosy nights' sleep.
DAY 3 Sunchang to Gyeongju
This morning you'll have the opportunity to start your day with a breakfast of Kongnamul Gukbap – a hot soup of soybean and sprouts – in a local restaurant hidden in Nambu Traditional Market. From here, travel by bus to Sunchang Gochujang, a village famous for the production of gochujang (a traditional red chilli paste). Taste local varieties of soy sauce, bean paste, red chilli paste and Korean pickles, then see how the chilli paste is made during a demonstration. Enjoy lunch at a restaurant that specialises in fermented bean soup, then take a stroll around the base of Mt Gangcheon. Return to Jeonju, and catch a public bus to Gyeongju, arriving by early evening. Tonight is free for your own exploration, although your leader will have plenty of great dining tips.
Accommodation
- Hotel (1 night)
- Sunchang - Gochujang (traditional chilli paste) Cooking Demonstration
- Lunch
DAY 4 Temple Stay
The city of Gyeongju is an area rich with temples, tombs, pagodas, and palace ruins (many of which are UNESCO World Heritage sites). Start your day with a stroll through the local market, learning about the ingredients and produce that form the building blocks of this amazing cuisine. There should also be time to explore some of the royal tombs - conspicuous grassy hills which punctuate the landscape around the city. Lunch will be a tasting of Korean comfort foods, including hotteok, tteokbokki, chicken on a stick - not to mention red bean bread, a specialty of this region. In the afternoon drive to the Golgulsa Temple for an overnight stay. The monks at this temple practice a specific type of martial arts known as sunmudo. Be treated to a sunmudo display, then enjoy time to wander around the tranquil temple surrounds. Dinner will be vegan, in line with monastic custom. In the evening, choose to be guided through a martial-arts style meditation and yoga session or simply settle in for an early night's sleep.
Accommodation
- Temple Stay (1 night)
- Golgulsa Temple - Temple Stay Program with Sunmudo (Martial Arts) Training and Meditation
- Gyeongju - Korean Street Food Tour at a Traditional Market
- Lunch
- Dinner
The monastery stay provides a unique and special experience, with an insight into monastic cuisine, rituals - even martial arts-style meditation! Conservative dress is required, although you will also be given pants and a tunic to wear during your stay. Please remember to bring socks, as bare feet are not allowed in the temple. At night, you will be sleeping on traditional futons on a heated floor. Blankets and sheets are provided, although you'll need to bring your own toiletries and towel. Alcohol and smoking are prohibited at the monastery stay.
Please note that rooms at the Temple Stay are multi-share, which means that you may be required to share with up to 3 other people (of the same gender) during busy times. Furthermore, couples are not able to share a room during at this accommodation as this is against Temple rules.
The monastery is located on a hill, which does require some aerobic fitness to ascend. The martial arts meditation session also requires reasonable fitness. Al
DAY 5 Busan
Your life as a monk continues today with a 4 am wake-up for a memorable morning meditation (you can opt out of it, though, if early mornings are not your thing!). Following breakfast, learn about the spiritual values and beliefs of Korean Buddhism over tea with a resident monk. Leaving the monastery, drive on to a local farm for an insight into agricultural life. After a walk around the farm, you'll be treated to some home-made snacks. In the afternoon we travel to Busan to visit the Haedong Temple by the Sea. Tonight we will head out to a restaurant to enjoy lamb skewers with eggplant and local greens. After dinner you may want to take in the local nightlife in the Seomyeon Entertainment District!
Note: In the case of bad weather, the farm visit will be replaced by an alternate activity.
Accommodation
- Hotel (1 night)
- Gyeongju - Farm Visit
- Golgulsa Temple - Martial Arts Meditation Demonstration
- Breakfast
- Lunch
DAY 6 Busan
This morning we will take a public bus to the Taejondae Lighthouse. Visit Jalgalchi Market (an enormous seafood market situated by Busan port), then savour a clam bake lunch overlooking the ocean. In the evening, head to a local craft brewery for a behind-the-scenes tour and a tasting.
South Korea’s craft beer scene is exploding all across the country after a rise to popularity in Seoul. Busan boasts a fairly formidable range of brewpubs itself, many of these offering a fantastic range of beers with delicious food to boot. Local IPAs such as the Doljianchi are crafted with special yeasts that give off delicious peach highlights, surprisingly lacking in punch for a beer with 9% alcohol content. Local sour beers also make for a fine drop, some of these coming with a sting that needs to be pushed past in order to truly appreciate the unique flavours.
Accommodation
- Hotel (1 night)
- Busan - Lighthouse Visit
- Busan - Craft Brewery Tour
- Busan - Jalgachi Seafood Market Tour
- Busan - Clam Restaurant Lunch
- Lunch
DAY 7 Seoul
After breakfast at the hotel and a free morning to explore Busan, travel by Korea Train Express back to Seoul arriving late afternoon. There may be free time to wander around Gyeongbok Palace, marvel at the views from Namsan Tower or check out Seoul’s most eclectic neighbourhoods of Sinsadong and Gangnam. For your final feast, head to the Mangwon Market, a galleria food hall brimming with traditional street foods and Korean barbecue!
Accommodation
- Hotel (1 night)
- Seoul - Dinner at Mangwon Market
- Breakfast
- Dinner
DAY 8 Seoul
Your South Korea Food Adventure comes to an end this morning. If you wish to extend your stay and explore more of Seoul, additional accommodation is available. Please contact your booking agent for further information.
Meals Included
There are no meals included on this day.
Special Information
If you would like to arrange a visit to the Demilitarised Zone (DMZ), a tour can be pre-booked (depending on the political atmosphere) at www.tourdmz.com. Alternatively, you can speak with your tour leader who will be able to assist with making a reservation. Please note that we are unable to pre-book this service for for you.
WHAT’S INCLUDED
🍴 Meals
3 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 3 dinners
🚊Transport
Private vehicle, Train, Public bus, Metro, Taxi
🛏 Accommodation
Hotel (5 nights), Hanok (1 night)
📷 Included activities
- Seoul - Welcome Dinner
- Jeonju - Kimchi Cooking Class
- Jeonju - Hanok Village Visit
- Sunchang - Gochujang (traditional chilli paste) Cooking Demonstration
- Golgulsa Temple - Temple Stay Program with Sunmudo (Martial Arts) Training and Meditation
- Gyeongju - Korean Street Food Tour at a Traditional Market
- Gyeongju - Farm Visit
- Golgulsa Temple - Martial Arts Meditation Demonstration
- Busan - Lighthouse Visit
- Busan - Craft Brewery Tour
- Busan - Jalgachi Seafood Market Tour
- Busan - Clam Restaurant Lunch
- Seoul - Dinner at Mangwon Market
For Departures in 2020
DAY 1 Seoul
Welcome to Seoul, South Korea's vibrant capital of high-tech gadgetry, glittering skyscrapers and scrumptious eats. Your Real Food Adventure officially kicks off with a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight at your accommodation, where you will meet your leader and fellow travellers. With the formalities out of the way, it’s time to dive into South Korea’s food scene! Head to the Gwangang Market for an immersive introduction to the sights, smells and, of course, tastes of South Korean street food. Go deep into the gargantuan market featured in the Netflix series ‘Street Food’, following your leader to the best vendors for dinner and cultural experience like no other.
Accommodation
It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting as we will be collecting insurance details and next of kin information at this time. If you are going to be late please let your travel agent or hotel reception know. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place. If you are delayed at all today and will not be able to make the welcome meeting, please contact our local operator on +821067067769.
DAY 2 Jeonju
After breakfast, take the metro to Yongsan Station. Set off for Jeonju, a city that’s all about doing things slowly and doing them well – both in food and in life. The journey should take around 2.5 hours, arriving just in time for lunch at a renowned local bibimbap restaurant. The bibimbap here is so good, it’s been declared an intangible cultural asset. Seriously. Scoff down some of the classic rice dish topped with, well, lots of great stuff, then head to the hotel to settle in. In the afternoon, spend some time exploring the historical Hanok Village, wandering cobblestone streets between hundreds of traditional homes and further embracing the relaxed pace of the city. Later, learn the art of making kimchi – a Korean slow food poster dish – during a cooking class. You’ll also learn how to craft the perfect hangwa, a sugar cookie with a long and storied history.
Accommodation
On the October departure, the cooking class will be replaced by a visit to the Jeonju Bibimbap Festival.
Tonight's accommodation will be in a hanok guesthouse. Similar to a Japanese ryokan, the bedding in a hanok is a futon mattress on the floor with a light covering. The floor of your room is heated and provides a comfortable and cosy nights' sleep.
DAY 3 Jeonju
This morning you'll have the opportunity to start your day with a breakfast of kongnamul gukbap – a hot soup of soybean and sprouts – in a local restaurant hidden in Nambu Traditional Market. After breakfast you can choose to explore the market further during an optional tour that takes you on a hunt for more dishes, or simply strike out on your own for an hour or two. Chat to your leader about which works for you. From here, travel by bus to Sunchang Gochujang, a village famous for the production of gochujang (a traditional red chilli paste), for a tasting and demo on how it gets made. Grab lunch at a restaurant that specialises in fermented bean soup and a visit to the farm where they grow their produce. Later, take a stroll around the base of Mt Gangcheon, and choose whether to take work up your appetite by walking a little further to a nearby waterfall. For dinner tonight, sit down to slurp and chew some noodle soup and dumplings at another locally famous eatery, then wash it down with a couple of beers at a craft brewery. South Korea’s craft beer scene is exploding all across the country after a rise to popularity in Seoul, and tonight your belly will reap the benefits.
Accommodation
DAY 4 Temple Stay
Rise and shine for an early journey to Gyeongju, a city rich with temples, tombs and palace ruins (many of which are World Heritage sites). Start your day right on arrival, with a stroll through the local market and progressive tasting. Start with the building blocks of Korea cuisine, then taste how the ingredients come together to make beloved local dishes. Grab lunch at one of our favourite stalls, then drive to the Golgulsa Temple for an overnight stay. The monks at this temple practice a specific type of martial arts known as sunmudo. Be treated to a display of the fighting art, then enjoy time to wander around the tranquil temple surrounds. Dinner will be vegan, in line with monastic custom. In the evening, relax with a chanting and meditation service, then choose to be guided through a sunmodo training session or simply settle in for an early night's sleep.
Accommodation
The monastery stay provides a unique accommodation and cultural experience, offering insight into monastic cuisine and rituals. Part of travelling with Intrepid means respecting local cultures and sensibilities, including dress codes. You will also be given pants and a tunic to wear during your stay. Please remember to bring socks, as bare feet are not allowed in the temple.
Please note that rooms at the Temple Stay are multi-share, which means that you may be required to share with up to 3 other people (of the same gender) during busy times. Furthermore, couples are not able to share a room during at this accommodation as this is against internal monastery rules.
You will be sleeping on traditional futons on a heated floor. Blankets and sheets are provided, although you'll need to bring your own toiletries and towel. Alcohol and smoking are prohibited at the monastery.
The monastery is located on a hill which requires a moderate level of fitness to ascend. If you wish to partake
DAY 5 Busan
Your life as a monk continues today with a 4 am wake-up for a memorable morning meditation (you can opt out of it if early mornings are not your thing, but we highly recommend you partake in this unique experience). Following breakfast, learn about the spiritual values and beliefs of Korean Buddhism over tea with a resident monk. Enjoy another vegan lunch on the premises, then drive to a local farm for an insight into agricultural life. After a walk around the farm, you'll be treated to some home-made snacks. In the afternoon, enjoy a private transfer to Busan to visit the beautiful Haedong Temple, built into the rocks by the sea. In the afternoon choose whether to partake in an optional street food tasting. Still got an appetite? When night falls, you can decide whether to join in an optional dinner of Korean fried chicken. After dinner you may want to take in the local nightlife in the Seomyeon Entertainment District!
Accommodation
In the case of bad weather, the farm visit will be replaced by an alternate activity.
DAY 6 Busan
Today is all about the flavours of the sea. Begin this morning take a public bus to the Taejondae Lighthouse, from which there are great views over the ocean and of the surrounding cliffs. Visit Jalgalchi Market, an enormous seafood market situated by Busan port, and Tong Market for general produce and knick-knacks. Lunch today is at a restaurant overlooking the ocean for a clam bake with a view. Spend the evening at your leisure.
Accommodation
DAY 7 Seoul
After breakfast at the hotel and a free morning to explore Busan, travel by Korea Train Express back to Seoul, arriving late afternoon. There may be free time to wander around Gyeongbok Palace, marvel at the views from Namsan Tower or check out Seoul’s most eclectic neighbourhoods of Sinsadong and Gangnam. For your final feast, head to the Mangwon Market, a farmer’s market and galleria food hall brimming with traditional street foods! The beef sold here is top-notch, making for a succulent final barbecue experience. Try not to decorate this delicious beef with your tears as you savour your last bites of South Korean goodness!
Accommodation
DAY 8 Seoul
Your South Korea Food Adventure comes to an end this morning after breakfast. If you wish to extend your stay and explore more of Seoul, contact your booking agent for further information.
Meals Included
If you would like to arrange a visit to the Demilitarised Zone (DMZ), a tour can be pre-booked (depending on the political atmosphere) at www.tourdmz.com. Alternatively, you can speak with your tour leader who will be able to assist with making a reservation. Please note that we are unable to pre-book this service for you.
WHAT’S INCLUDED
🍴 Meals
5 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 4 dinners
🚊Transport
Private vehicle, Train, Public bus, Metro, Taxi
🛏 Accommodation
Hotel (5 nights), Hanok (1 night)
📷 Included activities
Welcome to Seoul, South Korea's vibrant capital of high-tech gadgetry, glittering skyscrapers and scrumptious eats. Your Real Food Adventure officially kicks off with a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight at your accommodation, where you will meet your leader and fellow travellers. With the formalities out of the way, it’s time to dive into South Korea’s food scene! Head to the Gwangang Market for an immersive introduction to the sights, smells and, of course, tastes of South Korean street food. Go deep into the gargantuan market featured in the Netflix series ‘Street Food’, following your leader to the best vendors for dinner and cultural experience like no other.
Accommodation
- Hotel (1 night)
- Seoul - Welcome Dinner
- Dinner
It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting as we will be collecting insurance details and next of kin information at this time. If you are going to be late please let your travel agent or hotel reception know. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place. If you are delayed at all today and will not be able to make the welcome meeting, please contact our local operator on +821067067769.
DAY 2 Jeonju
After breakfast, take the metro to Yongsan Station. Set off for Jeonju, a city that’s all about doing things slowly and doing them well – both in food and in life. The journey should take around 2.5 hours, arriving just in time for lunch at a renowned local bibimbap restaurant. The bibimbap here is so good, it’s been declared an intangible cultural asset. Seriously. Scoff down some of the classic rice dish topped with, well, lots of great stuff, then head to the hotel to settle in. In the afternoon, spend some time exploring the historical Hanok Village, wandering cobblestone streets between hundreds of traditional homes and further embracing the relaxed pace of the city. Later, learn the art of making kimchi – a Korean slow food poster dish – during a cooking class. You’ll also learn how to craft the perfect hangwa, a sugar cookie with a long and storied history.
Accommodation
- Hanok (1 night)
- Jeonju - Kimchi Cooking Class
- Jeonju - Hanok Village Visit
- Breakfast
- Lunch
On the October departure, the cooking class will be replaced by a visit to the Jeonju Bibimbap Festival.
Tonight's accommodation will be in a hanok guesthouse. Similar to a Japanese ryokan, the bedding in a hanok is a futon mattress on the floor with a light covering. The floor of your room is heated and provides a comfortable and cosy nights' sleep.
DAY 3 Jeonju
This morning you'll have the opportunity to start your day with a breakfast of kongnamul gukbap – a hot soup of soybean and sprouts – in a local restaurant hidden in Nambu Traditional Market. After breakfast you can choose to explore the market further during an optional tour that takes you on a hunt for more dishes, or simply strike out on your own for an hour or two. Chat to your leader about which works for you. From here, travel by bus to Sunchang Gochujang, a village famous for the production of gochujang (a traditional red chilli paste), for a tasting and demo on how it gets made. Grab lunch at a restaurant that specialises in fermented bean soup and a visit to the farm where they grow their produce. Later, take a stroll around the base of Mt Gangcheon, and choose whether to take work up your appetite by walking a little further to a nearby waterfall. For dinner tonight, sit down to slurp and chew some noodle soup and dumplings at another locally famous eatery, then wash it down with a couple of beers at a craft brewery. South Korea’s craft beer scene is exploding all across the country after a rise to popularity in Seoul, and tonight your belly will reap the benefits.
Accommodation
- Hotel (1 night)
- Sunchang - Gochujang (traditional chilli paste) Cooking Demonstration
- Jeonju - Craft Brewery Tour
- Lunch
- Dinner
DAY 4 Temple Stay
Rise and shine for an early journey to Gyeongju, a city rich with temples, tombs and palace ruins (many of which are World Heritage sites). Start your day right on arrival, with a stroll through the local market and progressive tasting. Start with the building blocks of Korea cuisine, then taste how the ingredients come together to make beloved local dishes. Grab lunch at one of our favourite stalls, then drive to the Golgulsa Temple for an overnight stay. The monks at this temple practice a specific type of martial arts known as sunmudo. Be treated to a display of the fighting art, then enjoy time to wander around the tranquil temple surrounds. Dinner will be vegan, in line with monastic custom. In the evening, relax with a chanting and meditation service, then choose to be guided through a sunmodo training session or simply settle in for an early night's sleep.
Accommodation
- Temple Stay (1 night)
- Golgulsa Temple - Temple Stay Program with Sunmudo (Martial Arts) Training and Meditation
- Gyeongju - Korean Street Food Tour at a Traditional Market
- Lunch
- Dinner
The monastery stay provides a unique accommodation and cultural experience, offering insight into monastic cuisine and rituals. Part of travelling with Intrepid means respecting local cultures and sensibilities, including dress codes. You will also be given pants and a tunic to wear during your stay. Please remember to bring socks, as bare feet are not allowed in the temple.
Please note that rooms at the Temple Stay are multi-share, which means that you may be required to share with up to 3 other people (of the same gender) during busy times. Furthermore, couples are not able to share a room during at this accommodation as this is against internal monastery rules.
You will be sleeping on traditional futons on a heated floor. Blankets and sheets are provided, although you'll need to bring your own toiletries and towel. Alcohol and smoking are prohibited at the monastery.
The monastery is located on a hill which requires a moderate level of fitness to ascend. If you wish to partake
DAY 5 Busan
Your life as a monk continues today with a 4 am wake-up for a memorable morning meditation (you can opt out of it if early mornings are not your thing, but we highly recommend you partake in this unique experience). Following breakfast, learn about the spiritual values and beliefs of Korean Buddhism over tea with a resident monk. Enjoy another vegan lunch on the premises, then drive to a local farm for an insight into agricultural life. After a walk around the farm, you'll be treated to some home-made snacks. In the afternoon, enjoy a private transfer to Busan to visit the beautiful Haedong Temple, built into the rocks by the sea. In the afternoon choose whether to partake in an optional street food tasting. Still got an appetite? When night falls, you can decide whether to join in an optional dinner of Korean fried chicken. After dinner you may want to take in the local nightlife in the Seomyeon Entertainment District!
Accommodation
- Hotel (1 night)
- Gyeongju - Farm Visit
- Golgulsa Temple - Martial Arts Meditation Demonstration
- Breakfast
- Lunch
In the case of bad weather, the farm visit will be replaced by an alternate activity.
DAY 6 Busan
Today is all about the flavours of the sea. Begin this morning take a public bus to the Taejondae Lighthouse, from which there are great views over the ocean and of the surrounding cliffs. Visit Jalgalchi Market, an enormous seafood market situated by Busan port, and Tong Market for general produce and knick-knacks. Lunch today is at a restaurant overlooking the ocean for a clam bake with a view. Spend the evening at your leisure.
Accommodation
- Hotel (1 night)
- Busan - Lighthouse Visit
- Busan - Jalgachi Seafood Market Tour
- Busan - Clam Restaurant Lunch
- Busan - Tong Market Visit
- Breakfast
- Lunch
DAY 7 Seoul
After breakfast at the hotel and a free morning to explore Busan, travel by Korea Train Express back to Seoul, arriving late afternoon. There may be free time to wander around Gyeongbok Palace, marvel at the views from Namsan Tower or check out Seoul’s most eclectic neighbourhoods of Sinsadong and Gangnam. For your final feast, head to the Mangwon Market, a farmer’s market and galleria food hall brimming with traditional street foods! The beef sold here is top-notch, making for a succulent final barbecue experience. Try not to decorate this delicious beef with your tears as you savour your last bites of South Korean goodness!
Accommodation
- Hotel (1 night)
- Seoul - Dinner at Mangwon Market
- Breakfast
- Dinner
DAY 8 Seoul
Your South Korea Food Adventure comes to an end this morning after breakfast. If you wish to extend your stay and explore more of Seoul, contact your booking agent for further information.
Meals Included
- Breakfast
If you would like to arrange a visit to the Demilitarised Zone (DMZ), a tour can be pre-booked (depending on the political atmosphere) at www.tourdmz.com. Alternatively, you can speak with your tour leader who will be able to assist with making a reservation. Please note that we are unable to pre-book this service for you.
WHAT’S INCLUDED
🍴 Meals
5 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 4 dinners
🚊Transport
Private vehicle, Train, Public bus, Metro, Taxi
🛏 Accommodation
Hotel (5 nights), Hanok (1 night)
📷 Included activities
- Seoul - Welcome Dinner
- Jeonju - Kimchi Cooking Class
- Jeonju - Hanok Village Visit
- Sunchang - Gochujang (traditional chilli paste) Cooking Demonstration
- Jeonju - Craft Brewery Tour
- Golgulsa Temple - Temple Stay Program with Sunmudo (Martial Arts) Training and Meditation
- Gyeongju - Korean Street Food Tour at a Traditional Market
- Gyeongju - Farm Visit
- Golgulsa Temple - Martial Arts Meditation Demonstration
- Busan - Lighthouse Visit
- Busan - Jalgachi Seafood Market Tour
- Busan - Clam Restaurant Lunch
- Busan - Tong Market Visit
- Seoul - Dinner at Mangwon Market
IMPORTANT NOTES
Temple Stay (Day 4)
Rooms at the Temple Stay are multi-share, which means that you may be required to share with up to 3 other people (of the same gender) during busy times. Furthermore, couples are not able to share a room during at this accommodation as this is against Temple rules.
Single Supplement:
A Single Supplement is available on this trip with the exception of Day 4 (Temple Stay)
Hotel rooms:
Many South Korean hotels have a limited supply of twin rooms. If you are a couple travelling, please advise at the time of booking if you would like double bedding.
Additional Accommodation:
While this trip begins and ends in Seoul, we have found that many travelers wish to spend more time in this vibrant, modern city than the trip itself provides. We encourage you to maximize your exploration by arriving a day or two early, or staying on for some time after the tour ends. Your local leader will be able to give you plenty of food and cultural recommendations following the tour! Please ask your booking agent for assistance securing additional accommodation.
Seoul Lantern Festival 2019:
Please note that the 07 November 2019 and 14 November 2019 departures of this trip may coincide with the Seoul Lantern Festival which will run approximately 01 - 17 November (dates to be confirmed). This festival takes place for 2 weeks every year and is an installation of lanterns alongside the Cheonggyecheon Stream in the centre of Seoul. The lanterns are a series of stationary illuminated sculptures. Passengers on this departure will either visit the festival site or take a walk along the river on night 1 or night 7 and it will be an optional activity.
2020 ITINERARY CHANGE
We consistently review traveller feedback to ensure that we are offering the best food experience possible. As a result, we have extended our stay in Jeonju for 2 nights (Days 2 & 3), increased the number of meals included from 11 to 14, and rearranged some of the activities. Please refer to the "2020" itinerary above.
Reviews
4.59 out of 5 based on 39 reviews
Trip rating
5 star 29
4 star 7
3 star 0
2 star 3
1 star 0
South Korea Real Food Adventure, June 2019
Josie
Korea is a fascinating country with a rich history, this Intrepid trip gives a good introduction to the complex cuisine of Korea. Book some extra days to make the most of your trip as Korea is fantastically easy to travel around and everyone is so welcoming.
Review submitted 15 Jun 2019
South Korea Real Food Adventure, June 2019
Catherine
A great introduction to the food and culture of South Korea. Loved it!
Review submitted 15 Jun 2019
South Korea Real Food Adventure, June 2019
Jessica
Well organised, whistle stop tour of Korea to get a good feel for the place. The food was amazing and so much of it. The accomodation was better than expected and transport was easy. Would have been nice to stay closer to the beach in Busan though.
Review submitted 14 Jun 2019
South Korea Real Food Adventure, June 2019
Victoria
What an fantastic trip - great sights, and amazing food. Won Ho was a brilliant tour leader, very organised so the rest of us could fully relax knowing he was taking care of everything, and very informative on everything from Korean culture and politics to food. Highlights - too many to mention!
Review submitted 24 Jun 2019
South Korea Real Food Adventure, May 2019
Jake
The South Korea Real Food Adventure was a wonderful trip. Every bite of food was delicious and the included meals and activities were all excellent. Would highly recommend for anyone who wants to travel, and eat their way through, the country.
Review submitted 15 Jun 2019
Temple Stay (Day 4)
Rooms at the Temple Stay are multi-share, which means that you may be required to share with up to 3 other people (of the same gender) during busy times. Furthermore, couples are not able to share a room during at this accommodation as this is against Temple rules.
Single Supplement:
A Single Supplement is available on this trip with the exception of Day 4 (Temple Stay)
Hotel rooms:
Many South Korean hotels have a limited supply of twin rooms. If you are a couple travelling, please advise at the time of booking if you would like double bedding.
Additional Accommodation:
While this trip begins and ends in Seoul, we have found that many travelers wish to spend more time in this vibrant, modern city than the trip itself provides. We encourage you to maximize your exploration by arriving a day or two early, or staying on for some time after the tour ends. Your local leader will be able to give you plenty of food and cultural recommendations following the tour! Please ask your booking agent for assistance securing additional accommodation.
Seoul Lantern Festival 2019:
Please note that the 07 November 2019 and 14 November 2019 departures of this trip may coincide with the Seoul Lantern Festival which will run approximately 01 - 17 November (dates to be confirmed). This festival takes place for 2 weeks every year and is an installation of lanterns alongside the Cheonggyecheon Stream in the centre of Seoul. The lanterns are a series of stationary illuminated sculptures. Passengers on this departure will either visit the festival site or take a walk along the river on night 1 or night 7 and it will be an optional activity.
2020 ITINERARY CHANGE
We consistently review traveller feedback to ensure that we are offering the best food experience possible. As a result, we have extended our stay in Jeonju for 2 nights (Days 2 & 3), increased the number of meals included from 11 to 14, and rearranged some of the activities. Please refer to the "2020" itinerary above.
Reviews
4.59 out of 5 based on 39 reviews
Trip rating
5 star 29
4 star 7
3 star 0
2 star 3
1 star 0
South Korea Real Food Adventure, June 2019
Josie
Korea is a fascinating country with a rich history, this Intrepid trip gives a good introduction to the complex cuisine of Korea. Book some extra days to make the most of your trip as Korea is fantastically easy to travel around and everyone is so welcoming.
Review submitted 15 Jun 2019
South Korea Real Food Adventure, June 2019
Catherine
A great introduction to the food and culture of South Korea. Loved it!
Review submitted 15 Jun 2019
South Korea Real Food Adventure, June 2019
Jessica
Well organised, whistle stop tour of Korea to get a good feel for the place. The food was amazing and so much of it. The accomodation was better than expected and transport was easy. Would have been nice to stay closer to the beach in Busan though.
Review submitted 14 Jun 2019
South Korea Real Food Adventure, June 2019
Victoria
What an fantastic trip - great sights, and amazing food. Won Ho was a brilliant tour leader, very organised so the rest of us could fully relax knowing he was taking care of everything, and very informative on everything from Korean culture and politics to food. Highlights - too many to mention!
Review submitted 24 Jun 2019
South Korea Real Food Adventure, May 2019
Jake
The South Korea Real Food Adventure was a wonderful trip. Every bite of food was delicious and the included meals and activities were all excellent. Would highly recommend for anyone who wants to travel, and eat their way through, the country.
Review submitted 15 Jun 2019
Contact Donna at Green Earth Travel for more information donna@greenearthtravel.com
or call 301 229-5666
or call 301 229-5666
Essential trip information
Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.
Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.
