Beyond Seoul: From Alpacas to Blissful Gardens

On our fourth day in Korea, we decided to step outside the bustling city of Seoul and embark on a journey to explore the serene and enchanting wonders that lay beyond. Equipped with a rented van, we set off on an exciting day-long adventure through picturesque landscapes, encountering delightful experiences at Alpaca World, Nami Island, and the Garden of Morning Calm.

To ensure maximum flexibility and convenience throughout our journey, we opted to rent a van for 12 hours. The rental cost of KRW 46,000 (PHP 20,000) included the driver fee, gas, and tolls. This gave us a personalized itinerary, allowing us to explore these destinations at our own pace.

Our first stop was Alpaca World, which took us approximately two hours away from Seoul. Entrance fees to Alpaca World are priced at KRW 15,000 (PHP 650) for individuals aged 3 to 64, with a discounted rate of KRW 12,000 for those aged 65 and above.

We arrived just in time for the morning opening ceremonies, where a herd of fluffy alpacas was called down the hill to receive their breakfast. Seeing these gentle creatures running towards the enclosure filled our hearts with joy.

The picturesque surroundings, including rolling green hills and a serene lake, enhanced the charm of this unique destination. We couldn't resist the opportunity to feed and pet these lovely alpacas, their soft and fluffy coats leaving us delighted and at ease. The experience was complemented by the presence of other endearing animals, creating lasting memories.

Continuing our expedition, we made our way to Nami Island, a small yet mesmerizing oasis nestled in the heart of the Han River. Renowned for being the filming location of the iconic Korean drama "Winter Sonata," the island surpassed our expectations.

Before boarding the ferry to the island, we indulged in the local Chuncheon spicy chicken at a restaurant near the pier. This must-try local delicacy satisfied our taste buds. With our appetites satiated, we explored the tree-lined pathways that transported us into a fairytale world. The island's vibrant autumn colors, serene lake, and breathtaking natural beauty provided the perfect backdrop for leisure exploration. We couldn't resist capturing countless pictures and selfies amidst the beautiful scenery, relishing every moment of our unforgettable walk.

Entrance to Nami Island, known as the Naminara Republic VISA Fees, is priced at KRW 16,000 (PHP 690) for adults and KRW 13,000 (PHP 560) for seniors and students.

As dusk approached, we headed to our final destination for the day – the Garden of Morning Calm. This horticultural masterpiece is renowned for its year-round beauty. As we entered the garden, we were immediately captivated by a vibrant kaleidoscope of colors and mesmerizing fragrances.

Admission fees for the Garden of Morning Calm are as follows: KRW 11,000 (PHP 475) for adults, KRW 8,500 (PHP 365) for youth, and KRW 7,500 (PHP 323) for children. We found ourselves wandering through various themed gardens, each offering a unique ambiance and rich floral displays. From the enchanting Rose of Sharon Garden to the vibrant Maple Garden, we were surrounded by a tapestry of blossoms and foliage, leaving us in awe of nature's artistry.

Unfortunately, our visit to the Garden of Morning Calm was cut short by heavy rain. Nonetheless, our time spent exploring Alpaca World, Nami Island, and the Garden of Morning Calm left an indelible impression on us. 

Comments

  1. AnonymousNovember 10, 2023 at 3:20 PM

    As if I was on this trip reading your blog, Doc. SoKor tourism should advertise in your blog!

    ReplyDelete

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