Paula Barnes lived in Seoul 15 years ago — and honestly? It was hard. The language barrier was real, the taxis were brutal, and getting around without Korean felt nearly impossible. So when she went back, she wasn't expecting to fall in love with it. She did. In this episode, Paula goes solo to unpack everything that's changed, everything that's stayed beautifully the same, and every reason why Seoul should be at the top of your travel list. From the DMZ to Dongdaemun, Korean BBQ to Olive Young skincare halls, cherry blossom season to single-digit winter temps — this one covers it all. Whether you're planning your first trip or your fifth, this episode is your honest, no-fluff guide to Seoul.

• DMZ tour (respectful, highly recommended)
• Nanta Show — no Korean needed, funny and unmissable
• Myeongdong — street food, Olive Young skincare, boutique shopping
• Namdaemun Market — oldest market in Seoul, try the Hotteok!
• Bukchon Hanok Village — go early morning for sunrise
• Gangnam — upscale shopping mall, the iconic Gangnam statue
• Itaewon — boutique bars, restaurants & Vatos (Korean-Mexican fusion)
• Courtyard Marriott Namdaemun — central location, robot room service
• Gimpo Premium Factory Outlet — near the airport, worth the detour
• Bibimbap cooking class
• Traditional Korean feast restaurant in Myeongdong
• Temple stay information centre — free activities, monk conversations
• Olive Young — Korea's answer to Sephora, massive flagship in Myeongdong
• Best seasons to visit: cherry blossom (spring) and autumn
• Paula's full Seoul guides on her website: 5-day itinerary, where to stay,

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