Those that want to see the world without breaking the bank often stay in youth hostels. They are not as private as a hotel room but many times they offer great amenities for a fraction of the price one would pay at even the cheapest hotel. Staying in a hostel allows the traveler to save money to spend on seeing the sights and enjoying native dining experiences.

Seoul Hostels

Located in the heart of Seoul is Ulji-Ro CO-OP Residence. There is no curfew so you will never be locked out. There is a kitchen for the use of guests and a restaurant on site. For your comfort there are air conditioning and security lockers for valuables. Also provided is a guest laundry and internet access.

Stay Korea is located by the university quarter. Breakfast and bed linens are included in the price and there is a guest kitchen for preparing the rest of the day’s meals. Air conditioning is provided as well as a TV, library and common room. WiFi and internet access are offered as well. There is parking for your vehicle or a bicycle and a tour desk is on site to help plan excursions.

At Kim’s Guest House, a family run hostel, businesspeople, backpackers and all types of travelers are welcome. Air conditioning will keep you cool and breakfast is included in the price. For those that want to look spiffy an iron and ironing board will permit guests to always look their best.

Staying in a hostel is not only a cheap alternative for lodging but allows guests to mingle and get to know people from around the world. Evenings can be spent in the common areas discussing the day’s experiences and chatting about their home country. Before you book your accommodations in a conventional lodging facility, check out what a hostel can offer the traveler on a tight budget.

The South Korean people are said to be a culture that is obsessed with the natural world. The country is green and her people are sage. When visiting South Korea there are a few sights you must see.

Gyeongbokgung

This grand palace can be found in the city of Seoul.  For almost three hundred years this castle sat in ruins until Heungseon Daewongun began its renovation in 1865. It was the principal residence of the Royal Family until its destruction during the war with Japan called Imjaewaran. Tours are conducted for free in English except for Tuesdays and you can also see the changing of the guard which takes place six times a day.

Korean Folk Village

This tranquil village can also be found in Seoul. It is nestled along a quite river and houses a Confucian school, a temple and various other buildings that are necessary for daily living. The unique element of this village is that is not just a tourist attraction. The people that are seen working also live there full time. Plan to spend the better part of a day looking around this authentic South Korean rural village and see artisans at work. For children, they can enjoy the amusement park next door and parents can wander the art gallery also on site.

Dadohae Haesang National Park

In keeping with the South Koreans love of the natural world, this national park is dedicated to marine life. Hongdo or the Red Island is just one of 1700 islands that populate the area and the park covers most of the coastal waters and shoreline of Jeollanan-do. July and August is when visitors flock to the area to partake of the cool breezes.

These are just three of the sites that visitors won’t want to miss on a visit to South Korea. There are many others that are just waiting for your exploration on your trip to this beautiful country.