Going on business to Seoul for the first time. Can you guys recommend places to go for a run and must see places?
Running depends greatly on where you are staying. Many of the American style hotels are near Namsan (the hill with the big tower). There is a paved road up both sides and good roads leading to the hill. It is pretty steep! Also, there is a good paved bike trail along the Han river, mostly on the south bank I think (opposite side from Itaewon). It crosses most of the city. See if you can hook up with the hash house harriers at the Samgokchi (sp?) miltary base for a run and beer.
Places to see:
- Take the subway, it is marvelous…get a map. There are no “dangerous places” anywhere.
- Itaewon is the nightclub and american district, some amount of good shopping and more english spoken.
- Nearby is Namdemun (south gate), good open market, Dongdemun is more upscale. Yongson electronics market is interesting also.
- There is a large palace and grounds (the secret garden) near the north city center and near some of the museums. Great place for photos and a tour.
- The War Museum (near Samgokchi) is pretty cool.
If you’re up for a weekend run, and willing to take the train a little north to Uijongbu, I’ll show you the sights.
For a kick ass workout run the stairs up the “hill” to the base of the Seoul Tower.
Look both ways, twice, before crossing the street.
Thanks for the offer. I don’t know my schdule yet. I may have to work on the weekend, depending on how it goes on Friday and Saturday. I will let you know.