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South Korea

From Seoul nights to temple mornings – say annyeong to adventure


K culture, history and everyone’s favourite street food

Since Psy bounced onto our screens with Gangnam Style, the world’s been hooked on Korean culture. From K-dramas and K-pop to K-beauty and street eats, we’re officially obsessed. But a trip to South Korea offers all of that plus centuries of rich tradition and deep history – it’s the best of both worlds.

Wander the buzzing streets of Seoul, where high-tech towers hide hanok villages and secret teahouses. Shop everything from designer labels to quirky underground finds. Head south to Busan for sun-soaked beaches, street markets and seaside museums. Or hop on a slow train through the countryside and discover peaceful temples, UNESCO-listed villages and fields of cherry blossoms in spring.

And then there’s the food. From sizzling bulgogi and pillowy mandu dumplings to sweet-hot tteokbokki and crispy Korean fried chicken, good food – and good times – are never far away.

Chat to our South Korea travel specialists and plan your perfect K-adventure today.

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Flight time

The flight from Auckland to South Korea takes roughly 12 hours nonstop. It's not short but once you get your K-culture fix you'll forget all about it.

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Best time to go

The best time to visit South Korea is from March to May, when mild weather, cherry blossoms, and colourful festivals fill the Land. September to November is also pretty great.

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Time difference

South Korea is 3-4 hours behind New Zealand depending on Daylight Saving here. You won't take long to adjust.

Meet our Asia specialists

Nicky Aitken

Nicky Aitken

House of Travel Papamoa

I have had a lifelong love affair for exploring the world. Raised in a family that prioritised travel, I inherited a passion for all things travel. I have lived in different countries (London, USA, Argentina) and I am fascinated with the rich tapestry of culture, people, religion and food in new places. 

My love for travel has taken me to some of the world’s most amazing places!

From Mauritius to Bahamas and all in between, I have been privileged to experience the world and being able to speak and understand 5 languages English, Afrikaans, Dutch, German and Greek) certainly comes in helpful.

I have grown up in South Africa, spending most of my adult life there, being able to show my clients what makes this region so unique is a privilege. Africa was my backyard after all and even after living in NZ for almost 12 years, my heart still beats to the African Drum.

For me, choosing a favourite destination is impossible. But .. Bali has literally captivated my heart, and even though I have been there 20+ times, I still always find new things to uncover. As does the Maldives, Mauritius and Seychelles, these islands just have the “it” factor

I also love ocean cruising, especially Mediterranean and the Caribbean. Cruising offers such a great variety and a chance to see multiple destinations and experiencing iconic landmarks and locations from your hotel on the sea. 

I WOULD SAY MY PASSION IS MAKING MY CLIENTS DREAM HOLIDAYS COME TRUE AND I PRIDE MYSELF ON MY EFFICIENT SERVICE AT ALL TIMES.

Nicky
Andy Gosnell

Andy Gosnell

House of Travel Christchurch City

There is nothing like having an outgoing and versatile member on a team and Andy is ours! His easy and honest approach makes for an enjoyable relationship and experience for clients, suppliers and all the team. 

Travel has always been a constant in Andy's life. 

Andy first developed a love for travel early, living in the USA for 3 years from the age of 5. After this he has taken every opportunity, travelling the world to some of its most remote spots. Whether he is trekking in the Patagonian Andes, strolling the piazzas of Italy, or visiting family spread across USA, Asia, Europe and the Pacific, Andy's in his element. 

Being in the travel industry for almost 7 years has given Andy a great opportunity to visit amazing places and diversify his knowledge, so no matter where you want to go, he will have some expert advice to make your trip unforgettable. 

"I can help you visit anywhere and experience anything, your only limited by how far your imagination can stretch."

Years in the industry:
No. of countries visited: 10 
Favourite place to visit: Amalfi Coast
Nest place on the list to visit: Yosemite, California

Not all those who wander are lost - J.R.R. Tolkien. 


Why I love travel: 

The places I see and the people I meet, travel really is the best way to broaden the mind. It allows you to experience and learn from all cultures and walks of life. Remember life is short, travel often. 


My travel tips: 

  • If you are always early, you are never late. 
  • Prebook as much as possible before you go and schedule rest days on long trips.
  • Live courageously - you miss 100% of the opportunities you don't take. 


My top 3 favourite destinations: 

  • Italy - The food, the history, the people, the stunning coastlines, and mountains. Italy should be on everyone's bucket list. 
  • USA - With a multitude of cultures to experience and adventures to be had, you could spend your life just in the USA and not see everything. 
  • Patagonia - A challenge to reach, the landscapes that will great you make every minute of the journey worth the effort. 


What's in my suitcase: 

  • Kindle/E-reader - it is easy to pack, light to carry, and has a long battery life; this is an essential on all my trips. 
  • Noise cancelling headphones - perfect for noisy flights and airports. 
  • Travel plug adapter - easy to forget but a must have.

Andy

Laura Simpson

Laura Simpson

House of Travel Taupo

When I first started in the travel industry, I didn’t even have a passport! Fast forward a few months, and that had all changed – I hit the ground running on my first overseas adventure, and I haven’t stopped since. Whether it’s getting immersed in the local culture, or ticking off bucket list moments, travel has a unique magic that stays with you forever. 

I love using my own travel experience to bring that personal, unique touch to your dream holiday, making a seamless experience from the planning stages right through to your return home. From navigating the bustling metropolis of Hong Kong to exploring the USA on a road trip, there’s a world out there just waiting to be discovered. 

Let’s have a chat, and make your travel dreams a reality!


Laura

Jazmin Pudney

Jazmin Pudney

House of Travel Tauranga: The Crossing

Travel creates happiness and I love to make people happy! I love all aspects of travel-adventure, food, culture, relaxation and most importantly making life long memories. 

I pride myself on my organization skills and I have extensive knowledge of travel world. I love creating clients special holidays and will always ensure they have everything they need to have the best holiday!

Jazmin

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