A Journey to the Heart of Korea Mid Cruise Overnight (single occupancy)
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Port
Busan (Pusan), South Korea
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Activity Level
Moderate Activity
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Excursion Type
Information Not Currently Available
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At (prices in USD)
$3500
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
2 Days/1 Night
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Meals Included
Meals not included
Discover Seoul -- the beating heart of Korea -- on this multi-faceted overnight trip to the capital.
Day 1 (L/D) Busan - Seoul
Hop on a bullet train headed for Seoul and enjoy the 2.5-hour ride that is a sightseeing experience in itself. Once in the capital, you'll head to lunch at a local restaurant specializing in Bulgogi -- one of Korea's famous traditional dishes.
Set out on a guided tour of Gangnam District -- Seoul's upscale, modern city center that is home to numerous gleaming skyscrapers. Gangnam literally means south of the river, and this district in South Korea's capital lies along the banks of the Han -- one of the country's largest bodies of water. There's plenty to do and see in this historically rich, fast-developing neighborhood.
The Starfield Coex Mall Library ranks among the most captivating libraries in Seoul. It features an enormous 13-meter-tall bookshelf ensconced in a 2,800-square-meter atrium -- very photogenic indeed. Enjoy some free time to stroll about and photograph the Statue of Gangnam Style, dedicated to K-pop.
Don't miss Bongeunsa -- a mesmerizing, historic Buddhist temple in the center of Gangnam, oddly juxtaposed within a busy metropolitan area. Move from the hustle of the city to the serenity of Buddhist mantras and peaceful landscapes in mere moments.
The world's fifth-tallest building is Seoul Sky Tower, whose observatory offers a panoramic view of the entire capital city.
Finally, check in at the hotel, centrally located in the heart of Seoul, and end the evening with a delightful Hanjeongsik dinner -- a Korean multi-course meal.
Hotel: Lotte Hotel (or similar)
Day 2 (B/L) Seoul - Busan
Following breakfast at the hotel, you will check out and take a guided visit to spectacular Gyeongbokgung Palace. This is Seoul's foremost attraction, built during the Joseon Dynasty and revered for its size and beauty. Watch the royal Changing-of-the-Guard ceremony -- a fabulously traditional scene reenacted exactly as it has always been, with guards wearing royal uniforms, carrying traditional weapons, and playing traditional instruments.
You will visit Bukchon Hanok Village, home to hundreds of traditional Hanok houses that make it a living museum dating back about 600 years. Today, it is a study in this unique and highly practical architecture.
A Korean barbcue lunch is served on Insadong Antique Street, with some free time for shopping afterward.
Take the high-speed KTX train back to Busan to conclude your amazing introduction to metropolitan Seoul.
Please note:
Bring sturdy non-skid walking shoes. The tour is guided; an escort from the ship's staff may or may not also accompany the group. You must book this mid-cruise overnight PRIOR to sailing. Tour operates subject to meeting a minimum number of participants. The cut-off date is 61 days before the ship's call at Busan. Due to the popularity of this tour and strict booking conditions, cancellation fees start 60 days prior to the call at Busan. Accommodation is included (hotels are subject to change). Transfers, transportation by air-conditioned coach, any flights and entrance fees indicated in the itinerary, an English-speaking guide (unless otherwise noted), water on the vehicle, and meals (as indicated) are also included. Gratuities and personal expenses are not included. Bring your passport with you on tour.
Important information regarding visa requirements: It is solely each participant's responsibility to obtain any necessary visas, tourist cards and vaccinations, if required, to participate in Mid-Cruise Journeys or Overnights and to keep apprised of any policy changes. Visas may be required for any/all countries your tour departs from and travels through and for the country where you will re-join the ship. Passports must be valid for at least six months beyond the completion of the cruise. Your travel agent can assist you with your visa needs. If you require further assistance, Seabourn's preferred visa service is CIBTvisas. US and Canadian citizens can reach them by phone or email: US citizens: 866 788 1100 or email
customerservice@cibtvisa.com. Canadian citizens: 866 935 8472 or email customerservice@cibtvisas.ca. CIBTvisas phone numbers and email addresses for Dutch, German, Australian, United Kingdom, Belgian, Singapore, Spanish, Swiss and French citizens can be found in the Frequently Asked Questions section of Seabourn's website, in the Cruise Preparation area. Applications and additional information can be downloaded from the CIBTvisas website at https://CIBTvisas.com/seabourn. You must advise CIBTvisas of your Mid-Cruise Journeys or Overnights, as the visa requirements for these vacation enhancements may vary from those required for your cruise.