Dream Destinations: Korea and Japan

Once again I find myself dreaming of faraway destinations as the rain starts to fall and my wardrobe is being lured by the siren song of overseas shopping, partly fuelled by perusing the Woman’s Day celebrity travel style gallery.

I know I am not the only one who likes to meticulously plan out details of trips I definitely can’t afford. One of my all time favourite places to do this for is Asia _ in particular Korea and Japan (as you may already know), as if I am not visiting with my family, funding is pretty tight and I have to stint on all the good things!

If I were to be whisked away on a dream vacation, these are my top tips and picks for all things Japan and Korea:

1. A lesser known tip when travelling to Korea or Japan is that these are untapped havens for vintage lovers. J’Antiques in Tokyo is one of the best vintage stores around and there are several like Romiwa vintage in the youthful Hongdae district in Seoul that are full of delicious goodies!

2. My number one rule for travelling in my eyes is having as many good books and your fave glossy women’s magazines on hand for train rides, lazy coffee breaks or plane trips. I would love to hear what some of your hard and fast must pack items are when travelling

3. Kyubey-Tokyo, Japan. This is one splurge that is a must, with the most delicious and fresh sushi around. It’s no surprise the rich and famous flavour establishment has a rich and famous price tag which sets you back around $360 for the kaiseki lunch or dinner menu.

4. Mt Fuji Day Trip-Japan. It is a must to visit the breathtaking Mt Fuji, along with Lake Ashi and the cableway at Mount Komagatake. There are guided tours that cost upwards from $130, but this is recommended if you can’t speak Japanese well!

5. Seoul Folk Flea Market-Seoul, Korea. It’s not luxe but it’s definitely a to do. A two storey building that houses everything from vintage artwork to collectables and more.

6. Myeong-dong Fashion District- Seoul, Korea. The fashion hub to hit in Korea which stocks high-end and high street brands, including some of Korea’s own like Codes Combine, as well as H&M, Topshop, Zara and more!

What are your dream destinations or tips for places to visit?

This article is sponsored by MagShop magazines.