As a park ranger and part-time schoolteacher, I spend most of my year surrounded by curious students and towering trees.
But this past November, I swapped lesson plans and hiking boots for hanbok and hotteok. I spent a crisp, colorful month in South Korea—a country that surprised me at every turn, from its ancient temples tucked into mountainsides to its efficient subways buzzing beneath neon-lit cities.
Chapter Trail
Seoul: History Meets High-Rise
I kicked off my trip in Seoul, where skyscrapers stand tall beside centuries-old palaces. As someone who teaches history and lives for a good walking tour, Gyeongbokgung Palace was a dream.
Dressed in a rented hanbok (yes, I went full tourist mode), I wandered through its sweeping courtyards, imagining the Joseon dynasty playing out before me. The National Folk Museum right next door was a bonus—I might’ve spent too long reading every panel, but hey, teacher habits die hard.
By evening, I found myself in Hongdae, surrounded by buskers and indie artists. Street performers jammed while couples in oversized sweaters sipped sweet potato lattes. It was quirky, youthful, and full of heart. I grabbed a kimchi pancake from a street stall and just soaked it all in.
Fall Foliage in Seoraksan
Now, as a ranger, I had to get my nature fix—and South Korea in November did not disappoint. I headed east to Seoraksan National Park, where the leaves were still clinging to their crimson glory. Hiking up Ulsanbawi Rock was both a challenge and a meditation. The granite ridges, the silent pine forests, the cloud-veiled peaks… It was like the Smoky Mountains met a Zen garden.
I even spotted some magpies and Korean water deer along the trails—wildlife nerd moment! At night, I stayed in a cozy guesthouse near Sokcho, sharing stories with fellow hikers from all over the world. One of them shared makgeolli (Korean rice wine) with me, and it’s safe to say I’m now a fan.
Jeonju and the Art of Slowing Down
Midway through my trip, I took a train to Jeonju, the food capital of Korea and the birthplace of bibimbap. As someone who teaches environmental science, I appreciated the city’s efforts to preserve its hanok village without sacrificing local culture. I took a calligraphy class, strolled down quiet lanes with wooden homes, and had the best bibimbap of my life served in a sizzling stone bowl.
More importantly, Jeonju slowed me down. No tight museum schedules, no fast-paced metros—just tea, conversation, and walks under yellow ginkgo trees.
Lessons from the Trip
I returned home with more than just souvenirs (though I did stock up on Korean skincare). November in Korea reminded me that good travel doesn’t have to be rushed or extravagant. It can be simple: a mountain hike, a conversation with a stranger, a warm bowl of something spicy on a chilly day.
For my students, I brought back stories—of how Korea blends tradition and innovation, how respect for elders is part of daily life, and how nature is integrated into even the most urban corners. For myself, I brought back a little more calm, a little more wonder, and a craving for tteokbokki that still hasn’t gone away.
Travel Tips from a Ranger-Teacher Hybrid
- Go in November. The weather is cool, the leaves are still gorgeous, and the crowds are smaller.
- Hike Seoraksan. But bring layers—it gets chilly fast, especially before sunrise.
- Take the train. Korea’s rail system is clean, fast, and stress-free.
- Ask questions. Koreans are kind and love sharing their culture—just be respectful and curious.
- Eat everything. Especially street food. Trust me.
Check out the free family trip itinerary to South Korea from Baboo Travel below:
Plan your next dream trip with one of our hand-picked, highly experienced, licensed, and insured Local In-destination Experts!
