Introduction
Jeju Island, a beautiful spot off the coast of South Korea, attracts visitors with its amazing landscapes and unique culture. This volcanic island has become a popular destination for travelers looking for natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and a taste of Korean island life. As summer approaches, many tourists plan their trips to Jeju, drawn by its clean beaches, lush forests, and interesting geological formations.
To make the most of a visit to Jeju Island, it's important to understand the local customs and best practices. This blog provides essential tips for planning a trip, exploring natural attractions, understanding local culture, and handling practical matters. By following these recommendations, travelers can have a memorable and respectful experience on this lovely island, avoiding common mistakes and enjoying everything Jeju has to offer.
Planning Your Trip: Essential Pre-Departure Tips
Booking Flights and Accommodations
To find the best deals on flights, travelers can use comparison tools like Skyscanner or Google Flights. Booking flights from Monday to Thursday usually results in lower prices compared to weekend travel. It's best to avoid Korean holidays, such as Chuseok, when prices can spike significantly.
For accommodations, using Google Maps to compare prices across various travel websites can be effective. Some popular options include:
- Ramada Plaza Jeju: Offers an on-site seasonal pool and four restaurants with ocean views.
- Benikea I-Jin Hotel: Located in the lively Yeondong area, just a 5-minute drive from Jeju International Airport.
- Aster Hotel: Situated near Jeju Intercity Bus Terminal, featuring sauna facilities and a fitness center.
Packing Essentials for Jeju's Climate
Jeju's weather can be unpredictable, so it's crucial to pack accordingly:
- Rain gear: Bring rain boots and a light raincoat, especially if visiting from late July to mid-September when typhoons are likely.
- Summer essentials: Pack light clothing and a portable fan for the hot, humid summer months.
- Winter layers: For colder months, bring gloves, a hat, and warm layers.
- Mosquito repellent: Essential for spring visits when mosquitoes are prevalent.
- Versatile footwear: Include comfortable shoes for hiking and sandals for beach visits.
Jeju experiences more rain than the rest of South Korea, with an average of 1500mm in the north and 1900mm in the south and east annually. By planning ahead and packing appropriately, visitors can ensure a comfortable and enjoyable trip to Jeju Island.
Jeju's Natural Attractions: What Not to Miss
Do's:
Volcanic Wonders: Lava Tubes and Craters
Explore Jeju's extensive network of lava tubes, formed by volcanic activity over thousands of years. These underground marvels showcase intricate rock formations and offer a sense of adventure. The Geomunoreum lava tube system, considered the finest in the world, features multi-colored carbonate decorations on the roofs and floors, contrasting with dark-colored lava walls.
Waterfalls and Coastal Cliffs
Jeju boasts several stunning waterfalls that visitors should not miss. Cheonjiyeon Falls, with its 22-meter plunge into a serene pool, is a highlight. Cheonjeyeon Falls, near Jungmun beach, has a deep blue color and allows visitors to dip their feet in the refreshing water.
Jeju's Famous Beaches
Beach lovers should experience Jeju's diverse coastal offerings. Hamdeok Beach, closer to the airport, has an amazing color and is less crowded, making it a favorite among visitors. Jungmun Beach, while beautiful, can get crowded during summer. For a unique experience, travelers can visit Samyang Black Sand Beach, known for its dark volcanic sand believed to have skin benefits.
Don'ts:
- Don't limit beach visits to popular spots. Less crowded beaches often offer a more enjoyable experience.
- Avoid visiting Cheonjiyeon Waterfall, as it has a paved entrance and excessive lighting, detracting from its natural beauty.
- Don't expect the top of Ilchulbong to match promotional images. While the hike offers great views, the summit may not be as green or grassy as depicted.
Experiencing Local Culture
Do's:
Understanding Jeju's Unique History
Visitors should take the time to learn about Jeju's fascinating history and legends. The island has a rich cultural heritage that has been shaped by its volcanic origins and isolation from the mainland. Travelers can explore the "Legend of Jeju's Origin" to gain insight into the island's mythical past.
Interacting with Haenyeo (Female Divers)
One of the most unique aspects of Jeju's culture is the tradition of the Haenyeo, or female divers. These remarkable women, some in their 80s, dive up to 10 meters deep without oxygen masks to harvest shellfish and other sea life. Visitors should:
Don'ts:
- Don't disrespect the Haenyeo's work by interfering with their diving or harvesting activities.
- Avoid taking photos of the Haenyeo without permission, as it may disrupt their work.
- Don't expect all young women on Jeju to follow the Haenyeo tradition, as many are choosing different career paths.
- Practical Do's and Don'ts for Jeju Visitors
Respecting Local Customs
Do's:
- Remove shoes before entering Korean homes, places of worship, and some traditional establishments.
- When calling someone over, use a hand gesture with the palm down in a claw movement instead of pointing with the index finger.
- Be sociable during meals, as food and dining are important for building relationships in Korean culture.
Don'ts:
- Avoid touching or hugging unfamiliar Koreans, as it can be seen as insulting.
- Refrain from prolonged, direct eye contact, especially with those of higher social standing, as it can be interpreted as a challenge.
- Don't put feet on furniture or wear shoes in places where it's customary to remove them.
Transportation Tips
Do's:
- Use public buses for an affordable way to explore Jeju. The island has an extensive network of color-coded buses.
- Get a T-Money card for convenient bus travel, allowing for easy tap-on and tap-off.
- Consider using the Kakao T app for booking taxis, especially when traveling with luggage or to remote areas.
Don'ts:
- Don't rely solely on buses in remote areas where schedules may be infrequent.
- Avoid hauling large suitcases onto public buses during peak hours, as they can be quite narrow.
Dining Etiquette in Jeju
Do's:
- Say "잘 먹겠습니다" (jal meokgesseumnida) before eating, which means "I will eat well."
- Use a clean spoon when serving side dishes that are shared with others.
- Pour drinks for others first, especially for elders, and let someone else pour yours.
Don'ts:
- Don't lift your soup or rice bowl while eating; keep it on the table and use a spoon.
- Avoid sticking chopsticks straight into your rice bowl, as it resembles a funeral ceremony.
- Refrain from blowing your nose at the table.
- By following these practical do's and don'ts, visitors can show respect for Jeju's local customs, navigate transportation efficiently, and demonstrate proper dining etiquette during their stay on the island.
Conclusion
Jeju Island offers a mix of natural wonders and rich cultural experiences for travelers. By following the do's and don'ts outlined in this blog, you can have a respectful and memorable trip that showcases the best of what Jeju has to offer.
To make the most of a Jeju adventure, it's crucial to plan ahead, respect local customs, and enjoy the island's diverse attractions. Whether hiking through lava tubes, relaxing on black sand beaches, or trying fresh seafood caught by the Haenyeo, travelers will find Jeju to be a destination that leaves a lasting impression. With proper preparation and an open mind, visitors can look forward to a journey filled with breathtaking sights, cultural insights, and unforgettable experiences on this lovely Korean island.
Image Credits:
https://api.cdn.visitjeju.net/photomng/imgpath/202201/04/15784bdc-b7ce-41ed-930d-f1d0e9126889.jpg
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https://thisiskoreatours.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/Haenyeo-Woman-Divers.jpg
https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/6/61/Seongsan_Ilchulbong_from_the_air.jpg
https://insidejeju.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Jeongbang-Waterfall.jpeg
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https://cf.creatrip.com/original/blog/5090/15603103985700.jpg
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