DISCOVER THE SOUL OF SOUTH KOREA
SMALL GROUP TOUR TO KOREA WITH KERI + NICOLA
NOVEMBER 7-13th, 2027
Join the Worldy Girlies on an immersive journey through South Korea, where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with cutting-edge modern culture.
From the dynamic streets of Seoul to the timeless charm of Jeonju, this adventure offers a rich mix of history, food, beauty, and hands-on cultural experiences. Explore grand palaces dressed in traditional hanbok, wander atmospheric hanok villages, and dive into Korea’s world-famous cuisine through cooking classes, markets, and iconic regional dishes like Jeonju bibimbap.
This thoughtfully curated trip goes beyond sightseeing to offer a meaningful cultural connection. Enjoy K-beauty experiences such as personal colour analysis and head spa treatments, learn traditional crafts and makgeolli-making, and take in breathtaking city views from Seoul’s skyline. With UNESCO World Heritage sites, vibrant neighbourhoods like Hongdae, and shared meals that celebrate Korea’s warm hospitality, this journey is the perfect balance of culture, creativity, and connection—made even more special by travelling together to celebrate 10 years of the “Worldly Girlies.”
This trip is ideal for travellers who are excited to explore Korean culture, cuisine, and contemporary lifestyle.
DATES: NOVEMBER 7 – 13th, 2027
HIGHLIGHTS
PRICING FROM
USD Per Person in Dbl/Twin Accommodation
Day 1: WELCOME TO SEOUL
Welcome to South Korea! Upon arrival at Incheon International Airport, meet your English-speaking guide and driver and settle in for a private transfer into the vibrant capital of Seoul. After checking into your hotel, take some time to refresh before stepping out for your first taste of Korea.
*please note that arrival transfers are only included on the arrival day. If you arrive early, please check with us for pricing for a private transfer, or public transportation information.
This evening, gather for a welcoming Korean BBQ dinner at a restaurant within walking distance of the hotel. It is a delicious introduction to one of Korea’s most beloved dining traditions, where sizzling meats, colourful banchan and convivial tables set the tone for the journey ahead. The remainder of the evening is yours to relax and settle into the rhythm of Seoul.
Day 2: SEOUL HIGHLIGHTS & CULTURAL IMMERSION
Ancient Traditions, Market Flavours & Royal Seoul
After breakfast, set out with your guide to discover Seoul using the city’s efficient public transportation system. Begin at the K-Medi Center, where Korea’s centuries-old approach to wellness comes to life through a Bojewon healing experience and soothing herbal footbath.
Continue to bustling Gwangjang Market, one of the city’s great culinary landmarks. Wander between lively food stalls while enjoying an included street-food lunch before changing into colourful traditional hanbok attire.
Dressed for the occasion, step into the grandeur of Gyeongbokgung Palace, the principal royal palace of the Joseon Dynasty. Witness the colourful changing of the guard ceremony before visiting the National Folk Museum, offering a deeper glimpse into the traditions and daily life that have shaped Korean culture.
This evening, enjoy dinner at Ildossi Dakgalbi Restaurant before returning to the hotel for a relaxed evening at leisure.
Overnight: Gukdo Hotel, Seoul or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3: SEOUL IN STYLE
Colour, Fragrance & Contemporary Seoul
Following breakfast, meet your guide and travel by public transportation to Hongdae, one of Seoul’s most youthful and creative neighbourhoods. Known for its independent boutiques, cafés, street culture and trend-setting energy, Hongdae offers a fascinating contrast to yesterday’s historic Seoul.
Today is all about experiencing Korea’s contemporary beauty and lifestyle culture. Begin with a personal colour analysis at Image Ho, discovering the shades and tones best suited to you, before creating a signature scent during a hands-on perfume-making workshop.
Those who wish can continue exploring Hongdae with the guide, discovering more of the neighbourhood’s shopping and culinary scene. Return to the hotel in the afternoon, or linger a little longer and make your own way back using Seoul’s convenient bus or subway network.
The remainder of the day and evening are yours to enjoy at leisure.
Overnight: Gukdo Hotel, Seoul or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 4: TASTE OF KOREA + JEONJU
A Taste of Korea’s Culinary & Cultural Heritage
After breakfast, check out of your Seoul hotel and journey south to Jeonju, a city celebrated for its beautifully preserved traditions and one of Korea’s most distinctive culinary identities.
On arrival, roll up your sleeves for an immersive Korean cooking class, learning to prepare Jeonju bibimbap — the city’s colourful signature dish — before enjoying your creation for lunch.
This afternoon, wander through atmospheric Jeonju Hanok Village, where hundreds of traditional Korean houses create an evocative window into the country’s past. Your exploration includes visits to the Fan Museum, Royal Portrait Museum and Liquor Museum, revealing different facets of Jeonju’s artistic, royal and culinary heritage.
The evening is yours to discover Makgeolli Alley, famous for Korea’s traditional rice wine and generous spreads of accompanying dishes. Dinner and side dishes this evening are at your own expense, allowing you to choose what tempts you most.
Overnight: Gloucester Hotel, Jeonju, or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 5: FORTRESSES, CULTURE & LIVING TRADITIONS
Fortresses, Culture & Korea’s Living Traditions
Enjoy breakfast before leaving Jeonju and travelling north toward Suwon, where Korea’s history unfolds through impressive architecture and living traditions.
Explore the UNESCO-listed Hwaseong Fortress, an extraordinary late-18th-century complex whose fortified walls and gates weave through the heart of modern Suwon. From here, experience a strikingly different side of contemporary Korea at the spectacular Starfield Library.
Continue to the Korean Folk Village in Yongin, where traditional architecture, crafts and performances bring the customs of Korea’s past vividly to life. It is an engaging opportunity to see history not simply preserved, but performed and experienced.
Later, continue to Seoul and check into your hotel. The evening is at leisure to relax or head out and enjoy the city independently.
Overnight: Gukdo Hotel, Seoul, or similar
Meals: Breakfast
Day 6: KOREAN WELLNESS
A Day of Korean Wellness & Myeongdong Style
After breakfast, meet your guide and make your way to lively Myeongdong, either on foot or by public transportation. This energetic neighbourhood is one of Seoul’s best-known destinations for fashion, skincare, cafés and contemporary Korean beauty culture.
Settle in for a rejuvenating head spa treatment, a wonderfully restorative experience inspired by Korea’s celebrated approach to beauty and self-care. Afterwards, the afternoon is yours to explore Myeongdong independently — browse the shops, discover the latest Korean skincare trends or simply find a café and watch the neighbourhood unfold around you.
At 5:00 PM, regroup with your guide at the hotel before heading out for a special farewell dinner at Seolgaon Hanjeongsik Restaurant. Celebrate your final evening over a traditional Korean dining experience and reflect on a journey filled with flavours, traditions, creativity and unforgettable encounters.
Overnight: Gukdo Hotel, Seoul or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 7: DEPARTURE DAY OR EXTEND TO OTHER PARTS OF KOREA OR JAPAN
Departure from Seoul
Enjoy one final breakfast at the hotel before checking out. At the appropriate time, meet your English-speaking guide and driver for your private transfer to Incheon International Airport.
As you leave Seoul behind, take with you memories of royal palaces and bustling markets, traditional hanok and contemporary neighbourhoods, Korean wellness rituals and the flavours that make this country so memorable.
Arrive at the airport with plenty of time for check-in and your onward journey.
Overnight: —
Meals: Breakfast
OR, extend to other parts of Korea or Japan! Contact us for more info 
Please note that this trip is best for those with a moderate fitness level who are interested in immersing themselves in Japanese culture, cuisine, and way of life.
Tour Exclusions
Important Notes
PLEASE NOTE: This itinerary is subject to change. Although we always do our best to stick to the itinerary, due to the ever-changing nature of the world, activities, hotels, and visits are subject to change due to forces beyond our control.
FLIGHTS: Please do not purchase your flights until this tour is confirmed.
PASSPORTS: Must be valid for at least 6 months upon return date to your home country. Proper documentation is the responsibility of each traveller.
VISAS: Visas are the responsibility of the traveller (where applicable)
Travel Insurance
Cancellation, Travel, Flight, and Health insurance are required and are the responsibility of the participant to research and secure the appropriate coverage. Click HERE for a Travel Insurance Quote or please email nicola@finisterra.ca for a quote.
Waiver Form
All participants will be required to sign a Waiver Form prior to departure.
SAMPLE HOTELS (subject to change – confirmed 2 months prior to departure)
Seoul – Gukdo Hotel or similar
Who are the Worldly Girlies?
Keri Montgomery and Nicola Wilson are travel designers and adventure creators based in beautiful Vancouver, Canada. We created Finisterra Travel to share their passion for travel and expertise with like-minded travellers. We cannot wait to travel with you!
KERI MONTGOMERY – For 22 years, I’ve had the privilege of leading tours across the globe, from Tanzania’s sweeping plains to Greenland’s icy landscapes. Each destination has offered unique lessons, fueling my passion for exploration and connection.
In 2012, I founded Finisterra Travel to create more than just trips—our carefully curated experiences foster meaningful connections while supporting local communities. Whether engaging with indigenous groups in the Amazon or empowering artisans in remote regions, we ensure travel benefits both visitors and hosts.
I lived in Hokkaido, Japan, for two years and am very excited to return with you!
NICOLA WILSON – As co-owner of Finisterra Travel, I take pride in crafting unique travel experiences for niche markets. With a passion for exploration, I’ve visited over 80 countries, immersing myself in local cultures and uncovering authentic experiences beyond the usual tourist paths.
One of my greatest joys is discovering local cuisines—food offers a window into culture. From street markets in Southeast Asia to farm-to-table meals in Europe, I seek out flavours that tell a story.
TRAVEL INSURANCE
Even though we wish you a flawless trip, things can happen, especially nowadays. Make sure you are prepared with a Travel Insurance policy that is right for you. Finisterra recommends Manulife Insurance or John Hancock Please feel free to ask us about Trip Cancellation & Interruption Insurance, Cancel for Any Reason Policies, Travel Medical Insurance, or any other questions you may have.
TRAVEL INSURANCE FOR CANADIANS
Travel with confidence knowing that you’re covered with Manulife Insurance.
TRAVEL INSURANCE FOR AMERICANS – JOHN HANCOCK
Explore the world, stress-free, when you book travel insurance with John Hancock International.
WHY TRAVEL WITH US?
At Finisterra Travel we help you discover, push personal boundaries, and explore the unknown.
We are super passionate about sustainable, transformational, and adventure travel. Definitely not “armchair travellers”, we have firsthand experience of where you’ll be heading. No one wants to feel like a tourist which is why when we plan a custom travel experience for you, we strive to make your adventure as authentic as possible. We offer an array of Small Group Adventures & Custom Trips, and have something for every type of traveller.
Our unique itineraries are designed to best showcase some of our favourite destinations around Africa, Asia, Latin America, the Middle East, North America, and Europe. All itineraries are fully-customizable. Not your typical online travel agency, nor are we quite a tour operator, we are international travel designers with a flair for unique experiences. We’d love to hear from you!
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