Seoul

Seoul, the ultra modern capital of South Korea, is a glittering metropolis home to more than 10 million people. Located in the central west of the Korean Peninsula, and with a history dating back more than 600 years, Seoul is the economic, political and cultural hub of the country.

Due to the effects of war over its long and varied history, most of the cityscape is quite modern and that means lots of soulless concrete and 12 lane freeways. However, huge urban renewal works are underway to give the city a 21st century facelift with parklands and modern art.

Incheon Airport, voted the world's best multiple times, is the main entry point for travellers. One look at the airport design and it's easy to see why it's won awards. Opened in 2001, it has a golf course, spa, a casino, indoor gardens and even a Museum of Korean Culture.

The city of Seoul has its fair share of attractions, retaining a hidden history of centuries-old temples, palaces, pagodas and pleasure gardens. Points of interest include Gyeongbok-gung, a grand royal palace; Jongmyo Shrine; and Everland, the local version of Disneyland.