Spring Break in Seoul, South Korea for families with kids age 10-18.
April 11-19, 2025
This Spring Break, forget the beaches and staycations—embark on a life-changing journey to Seoul, South Korea!
While most families settle for national parks or a cruise with tens of thousands of tourists on their Spring Break, we’re offering something extraordinary—a transformative adventure that will make you healthier, wealthier and wise as well as redefine your shopping habits, wardrobe choices, and skincare routines forever.
More Than Just Fun—It’s a Learning Expedition:
This trip is designed to stretch comfort zones and broaden horizons.
It’s about giving your family —and yourself—a head start in navigating life’s complexities during crucial teenage years.
It’s perfect for:
Anyone eager to witness the marvels of a top Asian metropolis.
Families looking to delve into K-beauty, skincare and medical tourism.
Food lovers wanting to explore fun culinary surprises as well as rich Korean cuisine.
Those seeking a Spring Break that’s as educational as it is exhilarating.
Anyone tired of mundane vacations and longing for a trip planned with precision and passion.
It’s a holiday and pivotal life experience that will leave you and your family with newfound knowledge, confidence, and memories to last a lifetime.
No kids? No problem.
We have an adult-only trip to Seoul here.
Highlights/Trip Summary
Seoul is one of the fastest-growing economies in the world and a marvel to see.
If you’re between the age of 50 and 60 today, then when you were born, South Korea was a poor country. Today, they’re the thriving epicenter of high-tech computers, gaming, fashion, skincare, and medical technology.
In a single trip, you can get outdoor activities from river walks to ziplining… discover historical treasures like fortress walls and palatial hanoks… trial high-tech gaming options and see what’s new in the way of gaming peripherals… and dive into a culinary scene that's as vibrant as it is delicious.
And if you want, you can take advantage of their state-of-the-art, medical-grade beauty and spa treatments at the same time!
Transformative Experiences for Every Family Member:
On the beauty side, every person on this trip will get a professional Korean color and skeletal analysis to revolutionize the way you view personal style.
You’ll dive into the world of K-beauty with tailored acne treatments and skincare routines, using the best technology at prices unimaginable in the U.S.
There’s top-tier, less painful laser hair removal at a fraction of U.S. prices—perfect for teens and adults alike. (Men can consider their back, neck and shoulders. Woman and teen girls may prefer legs, underarms and bikini.)
For the gaming enthusiasts in your family, you’ll get hands-on with the latest gadgets and games not yet available in the U.S.
And then on the education side, this trip offers a unique opportunity for your family to immerse in the rich history and culture of a country that’s gaining so fast in popularity that it’s creeping into nearly every aspect of our lives — from music and skincare… to medical-grade machines and games.
This dramatic rise from a war-torn nation to a medical and art powerhouse is a profound lesson in resilience, innovation, and possibility.
The cost of this tour is just $2,900/person.
Families should budget between $8,000 and $19,000 depending on the size of your family when you add your flights, treatments and personal expenses.
Teen trips are GREAT!
One of the best parts of our teen trips is the social aspect! Having other teenagers along gives your teen a chance to bond, laugh, and enjoy experiences that only other teens can fully appreciate.
It also gives you some valuable downtime.
The energy, shared moments, and inside jokes create a unique and vibrant atmosphere that makes the experience ten times better for everyone.
Plus, Seoul is considered one of the safest cities in the world. The city has a low crime rate, is highly walkable, and the streets are safe, even at night.
Here’s what you can expect…*
*always subject to change based on weather and other circumstances
April 11/April 12, 2025 – Leave the U.S.
You’ll schedule your flight to leave the U.S. on this Friday or Saturday.
Nonstop flights from the East Coast take about 13-15 hours on Korean Air/Delta and can leave on Saturday, April 12. Cheaper, 1-stop flights on Turkish take 22-28 hours with a layover so they must leave on Friday night, April 11.
The airport code for arrival is: ICN.
The cost per ticket that you will need to book on your own is between $1,000 and $1,800 at the time of this writing.
Day 1, April 13, 2025 – Arrival and accommodation check in
Arrive at the Incheon International Airport (ICN) and check into our hotel.
Most flights arrive in the evening so this day is simply an arrival day. You don’t need to arrive any earlier than this.
Room choices include: 2 queen beds, 3 double beds, or 1 queen bed and 1 single. If you prefer to book a second room for your teens, the cost is roughly $200/night.
Meals: All meals are on your own on this day if you arrive in time for meals. Street food is good, safe and plentiful in this area. An egg drop sandwich will cost you about $2. Steak tips $3. Korean hot pot $3-$6. If your kids are picky, street food also includes: waffles, fried cheese, chicken skewers, noodles, fruit, shrimp, dumplings and ice cream. It’s a child’s dream food location.
Day 2, April 14, 2025 –
We’ll begin our day at Bukchon Hanok Village, where you'll step back in time through traditional Korean houses that line the quaint streets.
We’ll embrace the full cultural experience by donning hanboks (traditional Korean attire), which we'll rent for you. And then dressed in these beautiful garments, you'll visit a historic palace, allowing for a truly immersive journey through Korea's rich history and heritage.
For lunch, you’ll explore Seoul's vibrant café scene on your own. The city's eateries are not just places to eat but experiences to remember forever.
There’s a rainy day cafe, for example, where it rains all day every day. Art cafes where the pastries look like sculptures. Scribble cafes where everything looks like you walked into someone’s black and white sketch pad.
You can spend multiple days eating and drinking in these cafes. They’re very Instagram-able and part of the Seoul experience. You’ll want to try them all.
In the afternoon, we’ll enjoy the famous river walk.
And as evening sets in, we’ll prepare for a kid-friendly behind-the-scenes food tour.
You’ll learn about traditional Korean food preparations, including how kimchi is made, and adults will have the opportunity to taste Korean rice wine. This interactive dinner is not only a meal but an engaging activity that deepens your understanding of Korean culture.
Meals: Dinner is included on this day but lunch is on your own. It’s very easy to eat cheaply in the city.
Day 3, April 15, 2025 – Your own personalized style
Start the day with a personalized color and skeletal analysis session, a unique experience where you and your family will discover the colors and styles that best enhance your natural beauty. Dressed in snug clothing for precise measurements—from hip to knee, ear to ear, and face to chest—you'll undergo a thorough assessment using advanced technology and the principles of geometry to analyze your skin tone and body shape.
Professionals will drape you in various fabrics, helping identify the shades, tones, and patterns that compliment you most. You'll also receive tailored recommendations for eyeglasses, hair colors, and even hairstyles if you're considering a new look.
Before leaving, each participant will receive custom color sample cards—your new palette for clothes, eyeshadows, lipsticks, and more, along with sketches illustrating ideal necklines, pants, jackets, and accessory styles.
Afternoon: Optional Hair and Scalp Treatments
This afternoon offers the perfect opportunity to enhance your hair based on the morning's color analysis. Opt for a haircut, digital perm, or a keratin straightening treatment. Korea's renowned scalp treatments and analysis might be especially beneficial if you're interested in hair health or growth—perfect for both adults and teens.
These expenses are your own but if you decide to book something, you’ll take advantage of the no-tipping culture in Korea, enjoying these premium services at prices generally 15-20% less than in the States. We'll assist in scheduling any desired appointments to ensure you receive the best care possible.
Evening: Professional Portrait Session
Looking your best, it’s time for a professional portrait session. We’ve arranged for a top photographer to capture stunning, stylish photos of you and your family. These photos will not only commemorate your trip but also showcase the new looks and styles you've embraced in Seoul.
If hair treatments aren't on your agenda today, dive into Korea’s cutting-edge virtual reality at a premier gaming center. Test out the latest VR games and immersive experiences that are ahead of the curve in technology and fun.
For those less inclined towards gaming, an indoor sports arena offers a plethora of activities. Families can safely split up to engage in climbing, archery, ziplining, and more—activities designed for all ages and skill levels. This is a perfect opportunity to burn off some energy and try something new in a safe, controlled environment.
Meals: Lunch and dinner are on your own today. Explore local eateries or indulge in street food, giving everyone the chance to choose what they love.
Day 4, April 16, 2025 – Tech and gaming tours, lasers + Kpop concert
We’ll continue exploring Seoul’s tech landscape today with visits to top gaming stores to shop for the latest gaming gear.
Alternatively, you can delve further into the world of Korean beauty and medical treatments and experience advanced procedures like laser treatments for the face, spider vein and mole removal, or body contouring. Options also include Botox, fillers, micro needling, acne treatments, and cosmetic dental services like teeth whitening or same-day veneers—all at prices significantly lower than in the States. (See price chart below.)
Teens may want to try acne treatments using state of the art machines, laser hair removal or lash tinting.
We'll facilitate your appointments and provide a translator if necessary, ensuring a seamless and comfortable experience.
We should have enough people in the group to split up if families want to try different things at the same time.
Evening: Live K-Pop Experience
Even if you're new to K-pop, experiencing it live can be transformative. We’ve included tickets to a K-pop concert, complete with transportation and good seats. If the Spring concert schedule doesn’t align with our visit, we will refund this part of your package.
Meals: For a unique dining experience, grab some ramen from a local 7-11 and enjoy it by the river, just like in Korean dramas. This simple pleasure is a fun and memorable way to enjoy a meal in Seoul—hot water and bowls provided at scenic spots along the water!
Day 5, April 17, 2025 - Shopping and maybe the DMZ
Korean fashion is not just trendy—it's a window into a vibrant culture known for its unique styles. Here in Seoul, you'll discover clothes that are often tailored and customizable, offering a personal touch that's rare elsewhere. For teens and pre-teens, especially those who find sizing a challenge in the US, Seoul's fashion scene offers a plethora of chic, trendy options tailored for petite frames, all at good prices.
For those who wear sizes above the standard range in Korea, or if you’re particularly tall, don’t worry! If this is something you really want, we can arrange for a personal shopper to assist you. They'll guide you to specialty boutiques catering to larger or taller sizes, ensuring everyone experiences the best of Korean fashion.
Afternoon: DMZ Tour
After a morning of shopping, we’ll embark on a tour to the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), a significant site marking the tensions and historical divide between North and South Korea.
Here, you'll witness the stark realities of the ongoing conflict and see North Korean troops from a safe distance. This tour is not just informative; it's a rare opportunity to grasp the complexities of geopolitical issues in this region. While North Korea remains inaccessible to American tourists, this visit will offer a profound glimpse across the border, providing both a memorable and educational experience for your family.
Why This Matters: This day combines the lighter experience of exploring fashion with the profound insights of historical and geopolitical realities, offering a balanced perspective of South Korea's cultural richness and complex history.
This unique blend ensures that your trip is not only enjoyable but also enriching, providing your family with stories and memories that are both unique and impactful.
Day 6, April 18, 2025 – Extended treatments, palaces, night market
This last day is yours to spend as you wish. Some families will prefer more shopping while others prefer more historical sites and or re-visits to the gaming, high-tech stores.
Any new obsessions with K-pop may encourage K-pop t-shirts, backpacks or sticker buying.
Similarly, Korean pharmacies are a goldmine for skincare at great prices with high-quality ingredients. You might stock up on make up, Korean sunscreen (which is some of the best in the world), pimple patches ($2/box instead of $9-$11 in the U.S.), face moisturizers, eye drops, acne care, etc.
Day 7, April 19, 2025 - Depart
Some flights leave at 9am. Others don’t leave until after 6pm. The 19th is a Saturday so if you choose to leave in the morning (or you take a nonstop flight), you’ll have all day Sunday to recover at home before school starts on Monday. If you leave at night, you will likely arrive around noon or 2pm on Sunday and still have a nice evening to recover.
Sample Korean treatment prices at the time of this writing…
Gratuities in Korea are not the norm.
You will save an additional 15-20% on each service (including all hair care, cuts, perms, etc) by not needing to tip.
You can spend as much as $5,000 to get everything done — hair, lashes, lasers, Botox, skin tightening, body contouring, hair removal, hair growth, teeth, etc. Or as little as $100 to get barely anything done and just enjoy the tour and your color analysis and it’ll still be life-changing.
FAQs
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Everything is easy -- the metro, the bus, the appointments, the food.
The city is clean, the water is drinkable, the streets are safe, the airport and transportation options are all modern.
If you can walk around your hometown and get on and off of metro or a bus as a family, then you can do this tour.
The hardest part is the long flight.
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You’re gonna save a lot of money on this tour.
All participants get a color and skeletal analysis which will change how you buy (and what is bought for you) forever.
You will no longer buy clothes that are the wrong color season and fit for your body.
You will no longer make impulse purchases without first, considering what has already been calculated for you to be the best fit for your skin, your hair, your body type, your skeletal dimensions, your face shape, and your coloring.
And you will also save money on tips because tipping is not a part of their culture.
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Some of the best in the world!! And cheap, too.
The night markets have everything from fried cheese to fried crabs. Waffles to ice cream. Fried dumplings to steak on a stick.
It’s all safe to eat and the water is safe to drink.
Asian countries aren't typically big on dairy products so a lot of drinks are made with Oatly.
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Our standard cancellation policy applies to this trip. We do have payment options available and
are happy to discuss this with you. -
Absolutely. You can’t do anything in life without risk.
Travel and any procedures you add all have risks.
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South Korea is another level of safe than what is probably on your radar.
It has North Korea as a neighbor so that’s a risk (and some jobs will not allow you go to South Korea for its proximity to North Korea and China), but outside of that, it’s probably one of the safest cities you can travel.
We left our camera bags out and open in busy alleys and never worried about people taking anything. If you drop your wallet, it will likely still be there when you go back to get it.
Korean people leave their phones and wallets in dressing rooms when other people are in and out to try on clothes.
There are surveillance cameras everywhere so everybody knows if they do something, they will be caught on camera and the punishment is likely severe.
We never one time saw a pickpocket or felt unsafe in an alley or worried about our cameras, phones or wallets sitting on a table. It's a level of safe that is beyond typical tourist travel.
Activity Level: Medium
Seoul is a city and we will make good use of their transportation options including buses, taxis and the underground metro.
You should be comfortable walking 1-2 miles at a time on city streets and through alleyways, getting in and out of buses and cabs. And walking up/down stairs to take the metro.
One famously photogenic (and touristy) area is the Bukchon hanok village. This area is built on hills so it’s a bit of uphill/downhill walking. If you struggle with this, you may choose to only walk the beginning and then duck into a coffee shop. Or skip this part of the tour all together.
You always have the option of opting out of an activity if you’re not feeling well or you just want rest. We encourage you to monitor your own personal limits.
Price:
Our tour package is just $2,900 per person and it includes…
Family-style Accommodations in the best area of Seoul: Stay in a centrally-located hotel known for its spacious rooms that can fit up to four people — a rarity in Seoul. (Talk to us if you prefer to have two rooms instead of one large family room.)
Essential Transportation: Includes most in-city transport and select transfers.
Selected Meals: Enjoy several pre-arranged meals that showcase Korean cuisine.
Exclusive Activities: Entry to sports and gaming arenas, K-pop concert tickets, and professional color and skeletal analysis.
Personalized Assistance: From acne treatments to shopping and cultural tours, we handle the logistics so you can immerse yourself in the experience.
To our $2,900/person price you must add:
Airfare: $1,000-$1,800 per flight. While flights to Seoul are a significant part of the budget, the experiences awaiting you are worth every penny.
Extra Meals: Estimate roughly $150 per person for extra food and snacks while out and about.
Local transport: Estimate another $50/person for extra taxis, metro cards, bus tickets, airport transfers, etc.
Personal expenses: Plan for at least $1,000-$2,000 per family for shopping, beauty and hair, treatments, gaming, souvenirs and other discretionary spending.
Value Beyond Price:
While the initial cost of this tour may appear high, the value you receive transcends the financial investment.
School clothes, hair cuts, skincare, eating out, gaming — these are all expenses you have at home regardless of this tour. You’re just now investing in them in a country renowned globally for its excellence in each of these areas.
Plus, without this tour, you’ll spend years buying clothes that don’t flatter… falling for persuasive advertisements about what you should do with your skin… buying gifts for your kids that they don’t even want.
This tour will save you a ton of money in the long run — helping you avoid these traps and spend your money more wisely.
It’s not just a vacation; it's a comprehensive cultural, educational, and recreational experience that offers profound insights and personal/family growth.
Each aspect of the tour is crafted to ensure that you and your family have a memorable, stress-free time in one of the world's most vibrant cities.
Your registration includes:
6 nights accommodation (Note: There is a $950 single supplement fee if there are less than 2 people in a room).
Pre-trip guidance including what to expect, what to pack, travel tips, and more
Pre-trip guidance on how to pick the right treatments and where to book them
Itinerary design that helps you get everything in
Korean insiders who help us with transportation and translation where needed
All participants (even men) get a standard beauty package. This comes with color, skeletal and face shape analysis.
All participants get a base tour package that includes access and transport to all our favorite sights and meals. Outside of our favorite things, all other activities are on you.
Cool Seoul portrait
Kpop concert ticket
Trip to the DMZ
We’ve included our favorite dining experiences so we don’t miss those. All other meals are on you. Food can be very cheap, easy (and good) and is in abundant supply.
Your registration fee does NOT include:
Your roundtrip international flight. The airport code for your arrival and departure is ICN (Incheon International Airport).
Your individual treatments (lasers, facials, hair appointments, skin care, teeth). You might allow a few hundred to $2,000 for this.
Equipment—you must bring your own camera and accessories (e.g. memory cards, tripod, etc.)
Travel insurance (highly recommended)
Covid-related expenses
Any other incidentals or purchases you may want to make along the way
Travelling with your teen is important because…
Quality Family Time: It strengthens bonds and creates lasting memories.
Cultural Exposure: It broadens horizons with new cultural experiences.
Personal Growth: It boosts confidence with new skills and self-care habits.
Educational Value: It enriches learning outside the classroom.
Our Commitment to Affordability
We pledge to offer expeditions at the best possible price.
We create tours for travelers, not tourists. Folks who want unique experience they wouldn’t likely find on their own. And we strive to make each and every expedition better than the last.
Many other tour companies use a simple formula, designed to shuffle tourists from one place to the next. They’ll use the same itinerary year after year, without making modifications. And that’s not who we are.
To keep our prices low, and our itineraries fresh, we stay on top of the trends, deals, and best-value opportunities that we can get our hands on. Often times $2,000-$3,000 less than what you’ll find elsewhere!