Seeing the sights

For shopaholics, Seoul is a wonderland. Lovers of knickknacks can purchase souvenirs such as traditional Korean chopsticks and artwork to their hearts content at Insadong market. Gadget aficionados can buy state-of-the- art cameras and cell phones on the cheap at Namdaemun Camera Market. And fashionistas? Look no further than Myeong-dong Market, the Korean epicenter of all things style. However, those into beauty products beware – Myeong-dong has cosmetic stores on every corner, and once you're inside prepare to spend at least an hour gawking at walls showcasing an eclectic array of nail polish colors and choosing from a smorgasbord of face masks made by the best ingredients that nature has to offer (I went for the rice and aloe vera masks). However, there's more to Seoul than conspicuous consumption. Hopeless romantics can take a stroll along Cheonggyecheon Stream. Despite being under one of the most traffic-heavy streets of Seoul, the almost six-kilometer stream is surprisingly quiet and peaceful and a great place to take a stroll with a special someone. History buffs will also enjoy a trip to Gyeongbok Palace. The palace, which means “Palace Greatly Blessed by Heaven” in Korean, is truly an epic sight to behold. Originally built by Joseon dynasty head King Taejo, visitors can walk through the pavilions where kings hosted foreign dignitaries centuries ago. The palace also offers a changing-of- the-guard ceremony (where guards are dressed in imperial Joseon Dynasty garb) three times a day.

Seeing the sights

Myeong-dong has cosmetic stores on every corner and lovers of knickknacks can purchase souvenirs at Insadong market

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Seeing the sights

Myeong-dong has cosmetic stores on every corner and lovers of knickknacks can purchase souvenirs at Insadong market

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