We are pleased to present a new Solo Travel Destination Post from Stephanie, a member of the Solo Travel Society on Facebook. Stephanie is from the United States, and submitted the following report about Busan. Do you have a solo travel destination that you would like to recommend? Submit your description here, along with a few photos, and share it with fellow travelers!
Solo travel rating: 1.5 (1 is easiest, 4 is most difficult. Please see chart below)
Languages spoken: Korean
Gwangali Beach and the Diamond Bridge.
Reasons to Visit Busan
Often ignored in the shadows of its big brother, Seoul, this second largest city of Korea is one that should not be missed. If your travel time allows for a visit to both, I would highly recommend it. After living in Korea for nearly two years I've been to Busan at least 10 times and I fall in love all over again each time I visit. There's a more relaxed, laid-back feel compared to Seoul and there's always something to do. Temperatures will be hot in summer but the ocean breeze does provide a bit of a reprieve. I've traveled the city both alone and with friends and never had a problem. Transportation is easy, people are friendly, and the city is safe.
Beaches
Haeundae is the most “famous” beach in Korea but also the most overcrowded. WARNING: If you plan to visit in the summer be prepared for crowds. The view of the beach is basically just the tops of sun umbrellas. Gwangali is around the harbor from Haeundae and a little less crowded, although quickly becoming just as popular. The main attraction here is the “Diamond Bridge” which offers a spectacular view at night. Songjeong is recommended for a ‘beach day' as you can avoid some of the crowds but it is also harder to get to (take the #180 bus from Haeundae or Jangsan station).
Temples
Haeundae Yongungsa is the most impressive temple in Busan, in my opinion. It's a 30-40 minute bus ride (#180) from Haeundae beach but well worth the effort. Beomeosa is further from the city, up in the mountains, but is one of the most famous temples in Korea.
Shopping
Shinsegae is the “world’s largest department store” and worth checking out. I would recommend ‘eye shopping' as they call it in Korea as prices here will be on the high side. Jagalchi, a fish market, and Gukje, an international market, are both located in Nampo-dong. Jagalchi provides more sights than actual shopping opportunities while the international market offers clothes, shoes, souvenirs, and traditional goods.
Other
Spa Land is located inside Shinsegae department store. Here you can enjoy up to four hours of pure relaxation for a mere 13,000 won, or about $13.
Dongbaek Island is located west of Haeundae beach beside the Westin hotel. It features a beautiful park and coastal walk, and is home to the APEC house and mermaid statue.
Yongdu Park in Nampo-dong is a great place to spend the afternoon. You must pay for entrance to Busan Tower, but for only 3,000 won it provides some spectacular views of the city.
Food
Raw Fish (Hway) is plentiful as you're only steps away from the ocean. Hotteok is street food found all over. The best is near BIFF square in the international market. It is a sweet dough filled with brown sugar and syrup. There are restaurants on every corner – test your luck or ask a local which one is the best. Don't be afraid of the street food!
Transportation
The entire country has an impressive transportation system so Busan is no different. The subway is easy to navigate and will get you to most locations around town. The bus is slightly harder to figure out but still easy and cheap. It is my recommendation for travel as it's like a free city tour as well as a mode of transportation. Taxis are not terribly expensive but fares can add up quickly while winding through busy streets and lots of traffic.
I recommend buying a transit card (T-Money, Cash Bee) available at most convenience stores (7/11 or C for U) which can be recharged in the subway stations. Maps and bus routes are available with English translations.
Accommodation
Hostels and Motels are available in just about every corner of Busan. If you prefer to book ahead, Hostelworld or Agoda could be of help. If you're the more adventurous type, just show up and test your luck. Motels with flashing signs line the streets of Haeundae, Seomyeon and many other neighborhoods.
Don't be afraid to try the street food.
Haedong Yonggungsa, a most impressive temple.
Solo Travel Destination Rating System
Safety – 1 (1 very safe, 2 safe in most areas, 3 be cautious at all times.)
Language – 2 (1 English is first language, 2 English speakers easy to find, 3 English speakers rare)
Navigation – 1 (1 easy to navigate by transit or car, 2 poor transit, car necessary, 3 not easy to get around)
Culture – 2 (1 Similar to North America or Western Europe, 2 Different from above but relaxed and easy, 3 Challenging)
Average Rating – 1.5 (1 is easiest, 4 is most difficult)
