Five Weeks in Seoul: From Sightseeing to Volunteering

Cassandra took a break from life at home in America to immerse herself in South Korean culture for five weeks with her host, Veronica. After trying almost everything quintessentially Seoul, she got creative. I caught up with Cassandra to hear all about her experience. From donning a traditional Hanbok, to hand-making scarves and everything in between.

Tell us about your homestay experience.

It was my first experience at a homestay. I was a little bit nervous before my arrival because of living at a stranger's home. But once I arrived, my hosts were so welcoming and made my stay very comfortable. Not only that, it was fun talking to my hosts about their culture. They were always there when I had questions or needed any help. It made my trip go so smoothly.

After my trip, I felt like I not only learned so much about Seoul but I also made new friends! The experience was absolutely priceless!

What did you do in Seoul?

This was my first time visiting Seoul. I stayed there for five weeks. Thanks to my hosts who provided me a map & tourist guide of Seoul. Super helpful! I basically visited places page by page.

Cassandra out sightseeing with her hosts

They categorize by areas so once I exit the subway station, I could visit several tourist attractions on the same day. They list all the must see, go, and eat places in Seoul. It enhanced my experience in Seoul.

What was your favourite thing about the area?

The street food definitely! It's super affordable and something we can't find in the USA. Street food vendors are everywhere and they were great snacks while I was exploring the city. Besides sightseeing in Seoul, I also took one day to volunteer with the local people at the homeless shelter. It was very meaningful.

Cassandra volunteering at a local homeless shelter

Any tips or advice for other travellers?

Have an open mind when travelling in Seoul. Try the local food, attend the festivals and even learn a few words of the languages. You will learn so much more about their cultures. The experience will be unforgettable!

I love music so I saw a Korean musical, visited their TV station and saw 7 K-POP concerts! Not a very "typical" tourist itinerary but I enjoyed them so much. So other travellers should try that too!

At the local music TV station

How was your experience with your host?

My hosts were super welcoming. They picked me up from the subway station and introduced me to their neighborhood. They knew it was a long flight from Los Angeles to Seoul so Veronica prepared a quick meal for me right away. I really appreciated it!

Cassandra in a traditional Hanbok

Veronica and her husband really treated me as their family guest. We shared many meals together. They gave me suggestions of sightseeing places and taught me how to navigate the subway system in Seoul. They even took me sightseeing one day. We had a wonderful time together! To show my appreciation for my wonderful stay at Veronica's home, I handmade a scarf for her. It was nice to see that she was very surprised and touched. She loves it!

Would you stay in a homestay again? And would you recommend it?

Cassandra with host Veroinca

I will definitely stay in a homestay again! I highly recommended it to other travelers out there!

Planning a trip to Seoul?

Make it a homestay