Planning Your Trip to Cheju Island
Planning is the key to an enjoyable vacation anywhere, and Cheju Island is no exception. Far removed from the Korean mainland, Cheju Island has a unique culture and climate, and access is limited to plane or ship, so a little advanced planning can make your trip more convenient and enjoyable.
Tourists generally stay on the island for at least two nights and three days, although a longer visit can be even more rewarding. Spend you first day relaxing and getting acquainted, discussing your plans with knowledgeable local people. Try to divide your time between Cheju City in the north and Sogwipo City on the southern shore, so you can get a true taste of Cheju Island's variety.
Camping on Cheju is one way to really enjoy the island's natural beauty. Campgrounds located around the island are convenient for hikers and cyclists, and there is no reason why those traveling by private vehicle can't enjoy them as well. Since sudden rain showers are common, be sure to arrange for a tent site. Tents and cooking equipment are available for rent at most campgrounds.
The bulk of your expenses will go to transportation, lodgings and food. Recent tour and guide publications give a full breakdown of most of these costs, while the individual will have to decide how much he or she wants to spend on souvenirs. Emergency funds should be considered just in case the weather causes a delayed departure.
Staying in a private home is a great way to learn more about Cheju's unique customs. At these private residences, lodgers can prepare their own meals or share meals with the owner's family. Private residential lodgings are available almost everywhere on the island, but it is hard to find rooms near popular beaches during the summer months if you don't have reservations. During the peak seasons, advanced booking is a good idea.
By plane : While it is the most expensive way to get to Cheju Island, air travel is definitely a time saver. Airlines to Cheju are busy all year around, but it is especially hard to get a ticket during the peak seasons and peak days (From mid-March to the end of June, summer vacation from mid-July to mid-August, and every Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday) when round-trip tickets should be reserved at least three months in advance. These tickets must be used within six months of the date of purchase. Two domestic airlines, Korean Air and Asiana, serve Cheju Island. Tickets for children from 3 to 12 years of age are discounted 50 percent, and a 20 percent discount is applied to children from 13 years of age to university age.
By ship : For those with a little extra time on their hands, a trip by ship to Cheju Island is a real treat, especially for people hoping to escape the hustle of urban life. As with the airlines, it is hard to get tickets during the peak seasons. Reservations can be made directly with the shipping company, its branch offices or through tourist agencies.
Information obtained from Chejudo Tourist Association, Cheju Tour Guide.
Last updated by Chun HyongJun on March 23, 1997.