After showering and taking lunch, we're ready to explore Seoul. Our first destination was Gyeongbokgung Palace (www.royalpalace.go.kr). This is one of iconic place in Seoul. Most tourist insert this place in their itinerary. Under the summer heat and many local people (it's summer holiday !!), Gyeongbokgung Palace was quite crowded that time. The entrance fee was 3000 KRW/person. Fortunately, we arrived when the changing of the Royal Guards ceremony was held. In my opinion, it wasn't very special, but the most interesting thing is how Korea has organized their tourism successfully. All spots in the tourist area are packaged nicely, beautifully and culturally.
Gyeongbokgung Palace area is very huge and full of historical sites. I did't even remember the names ( you can read in their website ). My favorite spot is the Pond in the middle of the palace. I was imagining if we visit Korea in autumn, maybe the scenery will be more beautiful, because in summer it looked like Kebun Raya Bogor in the cleaner version :P
Finished with all cultural things in Gyeongbukgung, we left that palace and found out that Korea's government was very successful in conserving their cultural heritage. We're amazed that in the middle of busy and modern Seoul, there are still many preserved cultural sites.
Across the Gyeongbokgung Palace, there's Gwanghwamun Square, a public area which Jakarta's residents desire to have. Near the King Sejong's statue, there was an orchestra performed which members are oldies, and we could watch them for free. Just a minute walking, we found some kids were so happy playing in the water fountain.
We found Deoksugung Palace and Seoul Plaza on the way to Myeongdong and Nanta Theatre. Thanks to Mr Lee from Residence EO, we got discount 20% for Nanta's ticket just by showing the name card. The receptionist said because Residence EO is categorized as a hostel ( you won't get discount if you stay at hotel :P ). We bought the cheapest ticket ( 32.000 KRW/person after discount ) for the seats at the balcony. For overall, Nanta's Show is unique and interesting, but you have to buy the VIP ticket if you want to get awake through the show, because there were many interactions between the players and the VIP audiences. Yeah...what money can't buy :)
On the way to hotel, we passed the Myeongdong area, which is a very Hip area in Seoul. Shops, restaurants, boutiques, cafes, entertainment center are lined up. We didn't want to visit any shop on the first day in Korea, so we're looking for food. We prefer to tasting the Korea street snack to restaurant. And guess what....Korean street snacks were delicious...We tried the sausage, fish meat like otak-otak, tteokboki and finished with Banana Milk..yummy....
