Thursday, September 15, 2011

"The Soul of Asia!"

Being a city where the east meets the west; and history meets contemporary; Seoul is a truly explosive megacity with endless offerings.  From tranquil palaces, parks and temples; to bustling museums, art galleries, and world class shopping centers; it truly contains something for everyone. Its vibrant night life is also one to be reckoned with whether you are looking for the most happening dance clubs to the most chill basement bars.
In terms of a starting point in Seoul, the most beautiful place right in the heart of the city is Gyeoungbokgung Palace. This large expanse of open land is dotted with impressive palaces, ponds, and temples which give a glimpse into the cities grandeur of the past. Also nearby is the very informative Korean Folk Museum that explains life both past and present in Korea, as well as the War Memorial Museum that houses a wealth of information about conflict in Korea over the centuries. In addition to these nearby attractions is the primary government facilities’ of the R.O.K. including the “Blue House” where the president resides.
On this past visit I made my first trip to Seodaemun Prison History Hall, which proved to be an emotional stop amongst a chaotic trip. The prison was constructed during Japan’s rule over the Korean Peninsula over a century ago, used until the end of WWII. Its primary use was to detain freedom fighters, torture them for information, and in many cases exterminate them. The emptied cells stand a testament to the atrocities committed against the oppressed people of Korea in the not so distant past.
Of course no trip to Seoul is complete without making a trip to the top of N’Seoul Tower at night to get a 360 degree view of the expanse of flashing lights that comprise Greater Seoul. Finally a typical night in Seoul always ends in Itaewon or Hongdae for a night of fine food, friends, beers and soju shots. The plethora of bars leaves all genres untouched from the most exotic to the most relaxed.
Seoul is and will continue to be a city of immense proportions and a truly global melting pot in the East. It’s ever growing status as a financial and cultural superpower will continue to attract travelers and business people alike from around the world. The city continuously strives towards innovation and shows great promise to deliver even more in the years to come!


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