Trip to Korea with Whitney Bae!

Dates

Aug 19–25, 2024

Group Size

8–24 Travelers

Duration

7 days, 6 nights

Activity Level

Relaxation

About This Trip

Hi, my name is Whitney Bae! I lived in South Korea for 8 years as a YouTube vlogger, entertainer, and a lover of travel. I put together THE ULTIMATE inclusive trip that's jam-packed with all the must-see spots, tours, foods, shopping, and activities. Join me and other like-minded Travelers for a trip of a lifetime! Seoul Tower, Traditional Korean clothes experience, a table full of all-you-can-eat Korean food, great shopping deals, and so much more! We're going to have a blast and I would love for you to join the adventure!
$3,750USD
$3,850USD
Aug 19–25, 2024
7 days
Trip Closed

Meet Your Host

Whitney Bae
Whitney Bae

Hi, my name is Whitney Bae! I lived in South Korea for 8 years as a YouTube vlogger, entertainer, and a lover of travel. I have traveled all over Southeast Asia documenting the culture, sights, food, and entertainment as I went along. I've been to Japan, Hong Kong, Macau, Vietnam, Malaysia, Taiwan, and Singapore. Join me on my next adventure!

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Trip Activities

  • Seoul City Tour

  • Kimchi Making Class

  • Gwangjang Food Market Tour

  • Namsan Tower Visit

  • Korean Folk Village

  • Hanok Village and Street Food Tour

  • Chocopie Making Class

  • Sunchang Gochujang Village & Museum Visit

  • Juknokwon Bamboo Visit

  • Hanjeongsik Experience

  • Gyeongbokgung Palace Visit

  • Traditional Hanbok Fitting Experience

Optional Activities*

  • Korean Fried Chicken Cooking Course

*Add-ons available at checkout for an additional fee.

Included in Your Trip

  • Double occupancy in 3-star hotels (limited single rooms available)

  • Local Guide throughout trip

  • All city transfers

  • Arrival airport transfer (until 5 pm on first day)

  • Departure airport transfer (morning of last day)

Not Included

  • International flights

  • Food & alcohol (except as noted)

  • Visas & travel insurance

  • Airport transfers outside of designated times

  • Tips for Guides

What's included by Your Host

Street Shopping with Whitney

Informal Gathering
Let's explore the shopping areas nearby for clothes, skincare, makeup, souvenirs, etc. We'll grab some street food and take in the city for the first time!

Karaoke night with Whitney

Informal Gathering
Whitney will provide a private karaoke room for the group to sing their hearts out! Snacks and drinks will provided!

Souvenir Shopping with Whitney

Informal Gathering
Last stop for souvenirs! We'll go out and grab any last minute items before the trip home.

Itinerary

*All durations are approximate

Day 1

Info

Welcome to Seoul, the capital of South Korea, a huge metropolis where modern skyscrapers, high-tech subways, and pop culture meet Buddhist temples, palaces, and street markets. Settle in and get ready for an incredible week.

Airport Transfer

1 Hour

dinner

Included Korean BBQ welcome dinner

Street Shopping with Whitney

Let's explore the shopping areas nearby for clothes, skincare, makeup, souvenirs, etc. We'll grab some street food and take in the city for the first time!

Ibis Insadong (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 1/3

Overnight in Seoul

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Day 2

Info

This morning, your Guide will meet you for a full-day tour of this stunning city.

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included.

Seoul City Tour

3 Hours

Rise and shine to your first full day in Seoul! Fashion, technology, tradition, and K-pop all together in one city. This morning, your Guide will meet you for a full-day tour. Attractions you will visit include Gyeongbokgung Palace, Gwangjang Market, Insadong Antique Street, and Namsan Tower.

Kimchi Making Class

1 Hour

Your journey into traditional Korean culture continues as you take part in a kimchi-making class. Kimchi is a traditional Korean side dish of salted and fermented vegetables, such as napa cabbage and Korean radish. In the end, you will be served a snack of Korean pancakes to pair with your kimchi.

Gwangjang Food Market Tour

2 Hours

The Gwanjang Market, one of the oldest traditional markets in Seoul, is still thriving, with the bottom floor serving as a labyrinth of vendors and food stalls. Here you will sample some of the city’s iconic street food staples like bindaetteok, tteokbokki, mayak kimbap, and san-nakji.

lunch

Your lunch at Gwangjang Market is included.

Namsan Tower Visit

1 Hour

You will then cap off the day with the most stunning views of Seoul at Namsan Tower. Rising more than 700 feet above the city, you’ll have panoramic views of Seoul.

Ibis Insadong (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 2/3

Overnight in Seoul

Show DetailsHide Details
Day 3

Info

Your Guide will pick you up at the hotel for a morning tour to Korean Folk Village. In the afternoon, you will learn to make another Korean staple, fried chicken (optional).

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included.

Korean Folk Village

2 Hours

Korean Folk Village introduces traditional culture from the late Joseon period to both local and international visitors through cultural classes, shaman faith, seasonal customs, and more. It recreates the past through the restoration of houses from the Joseon dynasty. Performances, including nongak (farmer's music), martial arts on horseback, traditional wedding ceremonies, and other special events, are available seasonally. In particular, "Welcome to Joseon," an event held every May, transports visitors back in time. You can also enjoy various Korean foods at the market street.

lunch

Lunch at a local restaurant is included.

Korean Fried Chicken Cooking Course (optional)

2 Hours

In the evening, you will meet with a local chef for a Korean fried chicken cooking class. You will learn all the secret tips and tricks to making the perfect crispy chicken to impress your friends back home.

Karaoke night with Whitney

Whitney will provide a private karaoke room for the group to sing their hearts out! Snacks and drinks will provided!

Ibis Insadong (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 3/3

Overnight in Seoul

Show DetailsHide Details
Day 4

Info

This morning you will head to Jeonju, the provincial and cultural capital of Jeollabuk-do, and the birthplace of bibimbap.

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included.

lunch

Lunch at a local restaurant serving bibimbap is included.

Hanok Village and Street Food Tour

2 Hours

While the city of Jeonju has been industrialized, Hanok Village maintains its charm with its 735 traditional homes at the center. The village is also a great place to wander and sample some regional Jeonju street food.

Chocopie Making Class

1 Hour

After all the savory snacks and meals, you will have a break with some sweets. Another holdover from the war, the army left behind the chocopie, a snack cake made of two round layers of cake with marshmallow filling and chocolate covering. You will have a short and fun workshop and make your own chocopie to snack on.

Best Western Jeonju (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 1/1

Overnight in Jeonju

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Day 5

Info

This morning you will head to Sunchang Gochujang village, home to expert chili paste crafters, using traditional methods.

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included.

Sunchang Gochujang Village & Museum Visit

2 Hours

The tiny village of 149 people specializes in one thing, gochujang paste. As you enter the village, you will notice rows and rows of hang-a-ri or clay pots used to ferment the chili paste.

lunch

Lunch at a local restaurant is included.

Juknokwon Bamboo Visit

2 Hours

You might be a bit full from all the feasting, you will be guided to the Juknokwon Bamboo forest for a little stroll. A digestive walk is probably a good idea as the indulgence continues in the evening.

Hanjeongsik Experience

3 Hours

Dinner tonight is the Hanjeongsik, a full-course meal consisting of what seems like infinite small plates of banchan that surround various main dishes. The Hanjeongsik is a special meal served to royals and aristocrats.

dinner

Dinner at the Hanjeongsik experience is included.

Ramada Gwangju (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 1/1

Overnight in Gwanju.

Show DetailsHide Details
Day 6

Info

This morning you will be transferring to Seoul.

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included.

Gyeongbokgung Palace Visit

30 Mins

Constructed in 1395, Gyeongbokgung Palace, the main royal palace of the Joseon dynasty, is arguably the most beautiful and remains the largest of all palaces in Seoul.

Traditional Hanbok Fitting Experience

30 Mins

The hanbok has a history as colorful as each garment. It was worn daily up until about a century ago; however, it remains an important part of Korean culture, with people wearing it on special occasions and holidays. With your local Guide, you will be fitted into a traditional Hanbok and take classic photos.

dinner

Your farewell dinner with the group is included.

Souvenir Shopping with Whitney

Last stop for souvenirs! We'll go out and grab any last minute items before the trip home.

Ibis Insadong (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 1/1

Overnight in Seoul

Show DetailsHide Details
Day 7

Info

All good things must come to an end! You'll transfer to the airport and bid farewell for now.

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included.

Airport Transfer

1 Hour

Show DetailsHide Details

Physical Activity Level:Relaxation

These trips are designed to help you get into (and stay in) chill mode. Think hanging out, good food and good conversation. These trips won't make you break a sweat unless you want to.

Cancellation Policy

We get it—life happens. Here's how cancellations work depending on where you're at in the process:

Spot Pending

100% refundable
Not confirmed yet? No worries. You can cancel at any time for a full refund.

Spot Confirmed With 91 or More Days Before Your Trip

Partially refundable + credit towards a future trip
You'll receive a future trip credit for the amount of your down payment (minus a $100 cancellation fee per Traveler). This trip credit is valid for one year from the date it is issued. Additionally, any payments made beyond the original 25% down payment will be refunded to your original form of payment.

Spot Confirmed With 90 or Fewer Days Before Your Trip

Non-refundable
At this point, all payments are non-refundable because your experience is already in motion behind the scenes. By this time, our operating partners will be working with local businesses to secure your accommodations and finalize your activities.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: Protect Your Adventure-Invest in Peace of Mind

We strongly encourage purchasing travel insurance with trip cancellation coverage to safeguard your investment. With travel insurance, you're covered in case of unexpected events—from illness to emergencies—that could affect your plans. Life is unpredictable, but your dream trip doesn't have to be.

After booking, you'll receive a personalized recommendation for coverage tailored to your trip. For full details on our cancellation policy, please refer to our Terms & Conditions.

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Reserve your spot with just 25% down, pay in full, or apply for a payment plan at booking. Your dream trip, your way.

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FAQ

Traveling with TrovaTrip

What's it like to travel on a Trova Trip?

Trova Trips are curated group travel experiences designed to help you see the world, meet new people, and connect over shared interests. Each trip is hosted by a community leader you know and trust, and run by professional local Operators who handle the logistics. Expect meaningful experiences, authentic activities, and a like-minded group to share it all with.

What's the difference between the Host, the Operator, and Trova?

Great question! Each plays a key role in bringing your experience to life:

  • The Host is your community leader who brings the group together, fosters connection, and perhaps leads a workshop or two. They're there to bring the vibes, not the logistics. That's the Tour Operator's job.
  • The Operator is the professional travel company that runs the trip on the ground. They handle it all—accommodations, local Guides, activities, and safety. Every Operator we partner with is licensed, insured, and vetted to deliver high-quality group travel.
  • TrovaTrip is the platform who connects it all. We help design the trips, partner with Hosts with Operators, and support you before and during your journey to ensure everything runs smoothly.

In short: The Host brings the vibe, the Operator runs the trip, and we make it all happen. Read more about who does what here.

I'm nervous to book. How can I feel more confident?

First, let us say—it's totally understandable, and you're not alone! Travel can feel intimidating, but we built Trova to take the guesswork out of group travel and earn your trust every step of the way:

    • Every trip is run by licensed Tour Operators with vetted local Guides.
    • Hosts are there to foster connection, meaning you'll arrive solo but never feel alone.
    • Itineraries are clearly outlined so you know what to expect, including activity level, example accommodations, and what's included.
    • Our team is available to support you pre-departure, and Operators—plus your local Guide—are on the ground to assist during the trip. And rest assured, all our Operating partners are trained in crisis management.
    • We always recommend travel insurance for extra peace of mind, whether you're traveling with Trova or solo. It can cover medical issues, lost luggage, or even cancellations.

We know it takes trust to book a trip with new people, and we're here to make sure you feel ready, supported, and excited!”

Can I book solo?

Absolutely! As of 2025, almost 84% of TrovaTrip Travelers go solo. (And yes, we may be a little biased, but we think group travel is one of the best ways to meet new people!) You'll have your own bed and the option to book a private room on most trips. Plus you'll be traveling with others who are just as excited to explore and connect.

What if I need to cancel?

We understand that life happens. Our cancellation policy is designed to provide flexibility while balancing the logistics of group travel:

  • Spot pending100% refundable. Not confirmed yet? No worries. You can cancel at any time for a full refund.
  • Spot confirmed with 91 or more days before your tripPartially refundable + credit towards a future trip. You'll receive a future trip credit for the amount of your down payment (minus a $100 cancellation fee per Traveler). This trip credit is valid for one year from the date it is issued. Additionally, any payments made beyond the original 25% down payment will be refunded to your original form of payment. 
  • Spot confirmed with 90 days or fewer before your tripNon-refundable. At this point, all payments are non-refundable because your experience is already in motion behind the scenes. By this time, our operating partners will be working with local businesses to secure your accommodations and finalize your activities.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: Protect Your Adventure–Invest in Peace of Mind
We strongly encourage purchasing travel insurance with trip cancellation coverage to safeguard your investment. With travel insurance, you're covered in case of unexpected events–from illness to emergencies–that could affect your plans. Life is unpredictable, but your dream trip doesn't have to be.

After booking, you'll receive a personalized recommendation for coverage tailored to your trip. For full details on our cancellation policy, please refer to our Terms & Conditions.

What's included in the trip cost?

Most trips include accommodations, daily activities, ground transportation, some meals, and a dedicated local Guide. Because Travelers are coming from all around the world, flights to and from your destination are not included. Each trip page breaks it all down for you.

Will I have free time?

Yes! While we pack in incredible experiences, most itineraries include built-in free time so you can relax, wander, or check out personal must-sees.

What do the activity levels mean?

Every trip has a physical Activity Level from 1 to 5 so you can find the right fit for your travel style:

  • Level 1 – Relax + Unwind: Minimal movement (spa days, beach lounging, local markets)
  • Level 2 – Low-Key Movement: Light, easy-paced activity (snorkeling, boat tours, gentle hikes)
  • Level 3 – Moderate Activity: Ready to move (multi-day hikes, skiing, camping)
  • Level 4 – Get Your Heart Rate Up: More intense movement (long hikes, biking, active days)
  • Level 5 – Extreme Adventure: High-adrenaline travel (challenging hikes, dives, technical climbs – experience may be required)

You'll find the Activity Level clearly listed on each trip page, and a more in-depth explanation of each level here.

Who can I contact with more questions?

Our support team is here to help! Visit trovatrip.com/company/contact-us to reach out. You can expect to hear back within 2 business days, but probably sooner—our Trova elves are pretty speedy!

Accommodations

What does "or similar" mean next to the accommodations?

When we say “or similar,” it means the hotel listed is an example of what you can expect—not always the exact spot you'll be staying. Sometimes Operators adjust accommodations due to seasonal availability or group size. But rest assured: the quality and comfort will match what's shown.

Why would the accommodations change from time of booking?

Flexibility allows Operators to choose the best-fit accommodations closer to your trip—based on availability, logistics, and what works best for the group (like the number of Travelers and room configurations). This ensures a smooth experience without sacrificing comfort or quality.

Finalized hotel info is typically shared about 30 days before departure in your Traveler Portal, along with your final itinerary.

Trip Operations & Compliance

Who actually runs my trip, and how does Trova keep things safe?

Your trip is operated by licensed, certified Tour Operators who manage all trip logistics and safety—from accommodations and local Guides and day-to-day logistics. All trips comply with local legal and regulatory standards. We vet each Operating partner carefully so you can travel with confidence.

Who do I talk to if I have questions about safety or compliance?

If you have any questions about safety protocols or trip compliance, reach out to us at safety@trovatrip.com. We're here to help.

General Travel Questions

Do I need any documentation to travel?

It depends on where you're headed. Though it is not a universal requirement, many countries require that your passport be valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date. This ensures Travelers have sufficient time to return home even if their visas are extended or if unexpected circumstances arise. 

Some destinations may also require a visa. Check our visa page to consult your country's travel resources.

Do I need any vaccines?

It's always best to check with your healthcare provider or a travel doctor before your trip. You can also visit the CDC website (or your local government's travel health resource) for destination-specific vaccine guidance. Health and safety first!

Are flights included in the trip cost?

Because our Hosts and Travelers are coming from all around the world, flights to and from your destination are not included. Some trips include internal flights (like a short domestic hop), and those details will always be listed on the trip page if applicable.

Can you accommodate my dietary needs?

We’ll do our very best! Our Operators aim to accommodate dietary restrictions, though availability varies by destination. For example, some places offer plenty of vegan and vegetarian choices, while others might be quite limited. The earlier you let us know—through your trip form or by contacting our support team—the better we can prepare. Once you arrive, be sure to remind your local Guide about any allergies or restrictions so they can help you enjoy your meals safely and comfortably.