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How to Book a Culinary Tour of South Korea

How to · Travel

How to Book a Culinary Tour of South Korea

Plan your trip to South Korea during shoulder season and manage the costs with a clear payment strategy.

VoAtlas editorial Updated · 3 min read
Typical cost $3,000 before anything else
Across the 0% window $166.67/mo 18 months, no interest

How we got that: $3,000 spread evenly across the 18-month introductory window on the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card. Checked · at the bank Carry a balance past the window and the standard APR applies to what is left.

South Korea is a paradise for food lovers, from the endless street food stalls of Gwangjang Market to the intricate temple cuisine of Seoul. Traveling during the shoulder season, typically spring or autumn, helps you avoid the worst crowds while scoring better flight prices and enjoying perfect weather for eating your way through the city.

A trip like this usually runs around $3000. To manage that cost, you can use the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card, which offers 0% for 18 months on purchases and balance transfers from date of account opening.

Remember that the 18-month window is a deadline, not free money. If you have a balance remaining after the 18 months are up, you will start paying interest on the remaining amount at the standard rate.

The steps

  1. 01

    Pin your dates

    Aim for April to May or September to October. These months offer mild weather, which is essential for walking between food spots. Flights are generally cheaper than in the peak summer months.

  2. 02

    Map your food stops

    Don't just wander aimlessly. Research specific regional specialties like bibimbap in Jeonju or fresh seafood in Busan. Book your transit between cities early to save money.

  3. 03

    Set up your payment

    If you pay with the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card, you have an 18-month window to pay off the $3000. You need to set aside $166.67 per month to clear the balance before the intro period expires.

  4. 04

    Book your stay

    Look for boutique hotels or guesthouses near major subway lines in Seoul. Staying central saves you time and taxi money. Booking through a site that lets you pay later can help match your cash flow.

  5. 05

    Track your daily spend

    Keep a separate budget for daily meals and snacks. Even with your flights and hotels covered, small street food purchases add up quickly. Use a simple app or note on your phone to watch your daily total.

  6. 06

    Check the card terms before you commit

    Every figure we publish for the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card carries the date a person verified it against Citi and a link to where they checked. Intro windows and APRs change without notice, so confirm the current terms before applying.

    See Citi Simplicity® Credit Card terms →

Common questions

Is it cheaper to book flights and hotels together?

Sometimes, but usually not. Booking them separately often gives you more flexibility to pick cheaper travel dates.

What happens if I miss a monthly payment?

Missing a payment can end your 0% offer early. It is best to set up an automatic payment for at least the minimum amount.

How much cash should I carry in South Korea?

Carry some won for street food stalls that don't take cards. Most shops and restaurants accept cards easily.

Will I get approved for this card?

Approval depends on your credit history and income. Check your credit score before you apply to see where you stand.