I visited Seoul a few weeks ago with some co-workers and it was my first vacation since my decision to stop buying things. Going on vacation with the "no buying" rule stuck in your head of course makes you look even harder at the things that are on offer, and Seoul is a fantastic place for markets full of knick-knacks, souvenirs, key chains, stamps, magnets, silly t-shirts, local crafts, and all manner of things one doesn't really need -- it was so hard not to be tempted!
But the decision not to focus on the things you buy and take home with you also helped me focus on the there and then, the experiences and the moments I was having in Seoul. I have compiled a few tips for a purchase-free vacation and I really hope it helps those of you who wish to travel green and travel light, and avoid all buying all the silly knick-knacks and souvenirs, gifts, etc. we convince ourselves we need to purchase in order to immortalize our trip and impress our friends!
Tip #1: Indulge in Gastronomic Experiences and Local Flavors
As a foodie, this was an easy one for me -- I literally ate my way around Seoul. From the markets, the wonderful street food, snacks and back alley restaurants, I indulged my belly in all sorts of experiences and learned that Korean food goes way beyond kimchi pancakes and birimbop! Anywhere I saw a line, I ate! Not spending on souvenirs and other silly stuff also meant that my budget for food was larger, and I was also able to indulge in some fancier meals than I would usually eat while traveling.
Tip #2: Focus on Cultural Experiences
Instead of heading straight to the shopping districts, my trip focused on museums, palaces, historical neighborhoods... I even went to the theater to watch a Korean musical -- I didn't even know these were so big in Korea, and popular for young couples on dates! I came away with a much better understanding of Korea's cultural heritage and history, as well as contemporary culture.
Tip #3: Go Local
Through a mix of online research and a little help from a friendly expat currently living in Korea, I was able to learn a bit about how the average Korean spends time, what are popular hang-out spots and weekend activities, etc. This led to walks around artsy neighborhoods, a picnic near the old city wall, and people-watching/dessert eating at popular cafes I might otherwise have passed by! A truly authentic taste of the youth culture in Seoul!
But the decision not to focus on the things you buy and take home with you also helped me focus on the there and then, the experiences and the moments I was having in Seoul. I have compiled a few tips for a purchase-free vacation and I really hope it helps those of you who wish to travel green and travel light, and avoid all buying all the silly knick-knacks and souvenirs, gifts, etc. we convince ourselves we need to purchase in order to immortalize our trip and impress our friends!
Tip #1: Indulge in Gastronomic Experiences and Local Flavors
As a foodie, this was an easy one for me -- I literally ate my way around Seoul. From the markets, the wonderful street food, snacks and back alley restaurants, I indulged my belly in all sorts of experiences and learned that Korean food goes way beyond kimchi pancakes and birimbop! Anywhere I saw a line, I ate! Not spending on souvenirs and other silly stuff also meant that my budget for food was larger, and I was also able to indulge in some fancier meals than I would usually eat while traveling.
Tip #2: Focus on Cultural Experiences
Instead of heading straight to the shopping districts, my trip focused on museums, palaces, historical neighborhoods... I even went to the theater to watch a Korean musical -- I didn't even know these were so big in Korea, and popular for young couples on dates! I came away with a much better understanding of Korea's cultural heritage and history, as well as contemporary culture.
Tip #3: Go Local
Through a mix of online research and a little help from a friendly expat currently living in Korea, I was able to learn a bit about how the average Korean spends time, what are popular hang-out spots and weekend activities, etc. This led to walks around artsy neighborhoods, a picnic near the old city wall, and people-watching/dessert eating at popular cafes I might otherwise have passed by! A truly authentic taste of the youth culture in Seoul!
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