One Journeys Retold traveller recently returned to New Zealand after having the time of her life in Seoul. She was not the first, and she won't be the last.
What is it about Korea that makes it so special?
April is the peak month for Kiwis visiting Korea. Of the 40,000 New Zealanders that visit each year, we tend to favour the spring. The climate in April and May is about as good as it gets, and the cherry blossom doesn't hurt either.
We like the history, the culture and heritage, the food is fantastic, and we've grown to appreciate K-pop and Korean film and television in a way that would have surprised us ten years ago.
Plus, Kiwis and South Koreans share a mutual appreciation for keeping a close eye on the neighbours.
The cherry blossom on the cake: New Zealand passport holders are exempt from getting a visa. Just a simple e-arrival card a few days before landing, and you're in.
If you've experienced Japan and South-East Asia, now is the time for Korea. It has the energy of Tokyo, the food culture of Vietnam, and a history that most Western travellers know almost nothing about. That's a good combination.
Pictured above: Seoul. Interesting, safe, historic. What's not to love?