Gyeonggi Do, South Korea
Chronological Planning Timeline: Follow these steps to prepare for your trip.
Check passport validity (6+ months). Research and apply for visa or K-ETA if needed. This process takes time.
Book international flights to Incheon (ICN) or Gimpo (GMP) airports.
Start researching your itinerary and potential activities.
Book accommodation in Suwon and any other cities you plan to visit. Plan your itinerary.
Purchase World Nomads travel insurance. Consult a travel doctor for recommended vaccinations and any health precautions.
Verify all flight, accommodation, and tour reservations. Inform your bank and credit card companies of your travel dates and destination. Exchange some local currency (KRW) or secure ATM access.
Pack your bags, considering Suwon's climate and planned activities. Print or save digital copies of confirmations.
Download relevant apps like KakaoMap, Naver Map, Papago, and Kakao T. Consider an eSIM or plan for a local SIM card upon arrival.
Arrange for pet care, plant watering, and mail collection. Secure your home. Notify trusted neighbors of your absence. Pay any outstanding bills.
Ensure everything is set at home for your absence.
Gather necessary travel documents and helpful tools.
Stay connected while in Suwon and beyond.
Diligent preparation aids in a carefree and rewarding travel experience.
A smooth transition upon reaching Suwon.
Clear immigration and customs. Possess your passport and K-ETA or visa. A streamlined entry sets the tone.
Activate your eSIM or purchase a local SIM card for immediate connectivity. Withdraw local currency from an ATM or exchange money.
Acquire a T-Money card for convenient and discounted public transportation. Locate the airport limousine bus stop or subway station for your transfer to Suwon.
Signs are typically in English and Korean. Use your navigation app, KakaoMap or Naver Map, to locate your accommodation.
Ensure you hold enough Korean Won for immediate expenses, like transportation from the airport and your first meal.
Allow time for last-minute souvenir shopping. Consider purchases for friends and family.
If shipping items, inquire at post offices or large department stores about international shipping services.
Look for "Tax Free" (택스프리) signs in participating stores. For purchases over a certain amount, typically KRW 30,000, you obtain a tax refund.
Fill out the necessary forms at the store. Refund counters gain availability at ICN and GMP airports for processing.
Arrive at ICN 2-3 hours before your international flight. Factor in potential traffic from Suwon to the airport.
For GMP, 1.5-2 hours is usually sufficient for domestic flights.
Careful attention to arrival and departure details brings a stress-free travel flow.
Efficient packing and travel management contribute to a better trip.
Use Eagle Creek packing organizers for efficiency.
Print or save digital copies.
Avoid transaction issues.
Or secure ATM access for cash.
for navigation.
Bridges language gaps.
Facilitates ride-hailing.
Secures mobile data.
Manage your finances effectively for a worry-free trip.
Reviewing these preparations makes you ready for a memorable journey.
Do not forget your passport!
