There's just so much to see in Seoul, it may take a few trips to the Korean capital before a traveler's mind turns to seeing places outside the city.
Apart from the terrible traffic on weekends, traveling around Korea is not as daunting as it may seem, with government-launched initiatives such a foreigner-only national bus tours, and convenient high-speed trains from central Seoul.
So when the city's fast pace and crowds get too overwhelming, some time away might be just the thing. Here are nine great day and weekend trips, according to season.
Fall1. Heyri Art Valley, Paju
The flowers are definitely a lovely respite from Seoul's steel and concrete. Just north of Seoul is a valley officially described as “the loveliest village on earth/all artists are dreaming.” It's an ambitious statement that seems believable once you’re actually there.