Having returned from a business trip to Seoul, Jered Anglin recently described his lavish adventure. From what he told me about the city, the nightlife and a visit to a local casino, Seoul is now at the top of my bucket list.
Located on the banks of the Han River, in the northwest region of South Korea, Seoul is approximately 605.25 square kilometres. The Han River separates the city into southern and northern halves. The River originally served as a Chinese trading route. However, since the inlet is situated between North and South Korea, it is no longer used as a civilian port. Nevertheless, the city has been a thriving metropolis for over two millennia. It was one of the original three Korean Kingdoms and today it continues to draw international travellers. Surrounded by eight mountains, including majestic Mt. Bukhan (with some breath-taking hiking trails), Seoul is amongst the most frequently visited regions of the world.
Seoul – Globally Rising
After the Korean War, the city sprang back to life following an economic surge labelled the “Miracle on the Han River.” Next in line after Tokyo, NYC, and Los Angeles, Seoul enjoys its reputation for having the fourth strongest economy of any metropolitan area on the planet. A centre for leading technological development, it hosts a variety of conferences, including the one that Jered attended. It ranks at the top of the list as a city with great potential.
The transportation system is also one the best, providing easy access to the Incheon International Airport. The Lotte World skyscraper is slated to become the tallest skyscraper this year. The observation deck, art gallery and the cinema promise to add to any holiday adventure. Seoul has also earned a reputation as a leading host city. In 2010, the city was designated as the “UNESCO City of Design.” It has hosted a variety of sporting events, including the Asian Games, in 1986. In 1988, the city hosted the Summer Olympics. More recently, in 2002 they hosted the FIFA World Cup, followed by the Summit G-20 Seoul, in 2010, as well as world-place poker events.
World Class Poker
This spring Seoul is hosting one of the world’s largest Poker Tournaments, the Asia Pacific Poker Tour, which will return to the capital of South Korea for the 9th Season from April 6 through the 12th. This year, Seoul welcomes international poker players to the APPT. The KRW three million “buy-in” main events are scheduled to occur within the lavish Paradise Walkerhill. Jered said that he is already planning another luxury holiday and make his return to Paradise.
Welcome to Paradise
In Jered’s opinion the visit to the casino was one of the highlights of the trip. He explained that the Paradise is situated a short distance from downtown Seoul. He pointed out how guests who arrive in the early evening can receive a refund on their taxi receipt by simply checking in at the poker desk. Apparently refunds may aren’t available later on, for whatever reason. From the way he described it, the casino sits on top of a steep grade so taking the subway or walking could be difficult. Jered also mentioned that the casino and the poker area are quite small. Those who are bothered by tight spaces and enjoy the comfort of their own hotel room where they can play the same games on a laptop while sipping on glass of champagne are advised to save themselves the hassle of taking the trip to the casino. These same people might be happy to hear that two very valid accommodation options are within walking distance from the Paradise, that is, the W Seoul Walkerhill and the Sheraton Grande.
Going back to the Paradise, its poker room consists of some tables in the very corner of the WH casino. Typically, the room is open to tourists and foreign visitors, and to Koreans who have foreign residency or foreign citizenship. Smoking is permitted in some areas. My friend appreciated the fact that the cocktail servers and dealers are professional and fast. Drinks were readily available and free, and the place draws in serious as well as more occasional players. All in all, a great atmosphere!
From the way that Jered described his adventures, the sightseeing, gorgeous hiking trails, the Han River, the metropolis, as well as the excitement at the poker table, Seoul sounds like the ideal getaway. This spring, why not plan a luxury holiday to Seoul and discover first-hand just how amazing the city really is!
