To have a trip to Korea in the middle of this year, I "put money in a piggy bank" to prepare finances, buy clothes and do the visa procedures myself. Before the flight, I connected with Ms. Yen - a former colleague who is married and living in Korea - to ask about many things and buy some things for her in Vietnam to bring over.
I arrived in Korea on Sunday and was taken to Seoul by Yen, who showed me how to use the subway. Since then, I have been able to travel everywhere using this modern and fast means of transportation. The subway system here is dense, and payment is convenient via transportation cards - similar to e-wallets.
The trip helped the author broaden his horizons and learn to listen to his body and soul better.
I took advantage of the time to go to every place I wanted: the giant Starfield Library (Gangnam-gu, Seoul); N Seoul Tower (also known as Namsan Tower); Gyeongbokgung Palace; Gwanghwamun Square... I also went to Nami Island - the Island of Love familiar to K-drama fans. When I got lost, I calmly found my way back and thanks to that, I realized my ability to adapt. Before that, I learned Korean for basic communication, downloaded useful applications such as Kakao Talk, Kakao Metro, Kakao Map... and learned information about the weather, the Vietnamese Embassy in Korea, and necessary behaviors in case of unexpected situations.
One memorable moment was when I wandered around Namsan Tower and met Mr. Lee Jong Hyung, who was also alone. The elderly man said he was returning to the tower after 40 years. Mr. Lee was excited to accompany me, telling stories and taking pictures for me. I invited him for coffee, and he took out Tteok (a type of Korean rice cake) to share.
To make your solo travel safe and meaningful, be well prepared.
The trip reinforced my belief that we can absolutely create a perfect vacation even if we are alone. In a relaxed, peaceful state, as if living slowly, my heart was filled with joy. I loved the beautiful green path at Namsan Tower. I smiled every moment with new friends such as trees, flowers, wind and clouds without feeling lonely or strange.
I remember the feeling of tears and snot when I ordered the spicy fish cake near the Star-field library. On Nami Island, I connected more deeply with nature and people. I am grateful to realize that one advantage of youth is being allowed to explore the four directions with full energy. Young people should proactively design their own trips. Traveling alone is not a selfish enjoyment but a way to turn inward, create a healing gift for themselves, and nurture the inspiration for self-development. Language and cultural differences will not be barriers when our souls are open, carefree and full of love.
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