Tourism in South Korea: reduced PCR test time for travelers
Almost all countries have now reopened to tourism. The situation is returning to normal, the desire to travel [...]
South Korea
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Almost all countries have now reopened to tourism. Things are returning to normal, the desire to travel is stronger than before, and hotels in the most popular resorts have been selling out for weeks.
However, the situation is still not stable. And, to prove it, are the new tourism rules in South Korea.
Tourism in South Korea, the latest rules
In response to the recent increase in Covid-19 cases, South Korean authorities have decided to change (again) entry rules. Or rather: they have reduced the testing time for travelers and recommended self-isolation after the entry test. The decision represents a small step backward for quarantine-free travel in the country, which saw the measures loosened incrementally until last July 25.
Until July 24, those arriving in South Korea for tourism were required to have a PCR test Within three days of arrival. As of Monday, July 25, 2022, the test must be taken within a single day of entering the country.
In addition, travelers are now being "Recommended to stay in their accommodations until they receive a negative PCR test result". Previously, one could safely go out and move around while waiting for the result. Where to take the test? The most convenient solution is to do it directly at the'Seoul-Incheon International Airport (book online is as simple as that), but a non-airport facility can also be approached (as long as the new timelines are met). Testing centers for Covid-19 are also available at Gimhae International Airport in Busan and at Jeju International Airport.
What happens if the PCR test is positive? You are in Quarantine for 7 days in a government-authorized facility.
Pre-departure test remains mandatory
Although the vaccine is no longer mandatory to enter South Korea, the requirement to submit a negative PCR test remains made 48 hours before departure or an antigenic test carried out in the laboratory no more than 24 hours before boarding. Only children under the age of 6 are exempt from the requirement. To enter the country, it is also necessary to complete the following forms before departure Q-Code e K-ETA.
In business for less than €1500
We are often asked where to look for the cheapest tickets to fly to Seoul, obviously the most convenient choice is to take Korean Air's direct flight from Rome or Milan. However, if you are prepared for a trip with an extra leg, my advice is to look for flights departing from Budapest and Sofia.
Just go to Google Flights and try to search on this route, very attractive business class fares often pop up for example with KLM, Lufthansa and LOT.
Tourism in South Korea, the experiences not to be missed
What to do once you arrive in South Korea? The experiences are uncountable. Some of the best, as also suggested by Lonely Planet, include:
- visit the Changdeokgung of Gyeongbukgung, the "palace of virtues," a UNESCO World Heritage Site with an extraordinary "secret garden."
- enjoy the splendor of Gyeongju, home to seven of Korea's national treasures;
- Venture along one of the 26 routes of the Jeju Olle Trail, all to be covered in half a day or one day, on Jejudo Island;
- stroll in the Cheong-gye-cheon, the river park in the heart of Seoul created by the demolition of an elevated road that has long hidden the river of the same name;
- experience the bibimbap, the traditional dish of rice, eggs and meat in a spicy sauce, originated in Jeonju village (which, despite the new buildings, retains the appearance of the traditional village);
- hopping from one street food stall to another overnight in the market of Gwangjang;
- sleep in the temple at Guinsa, waking up to do meditation at 3:30 a.m.
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