Traveling Around The World: Incheon Airport, Korea

After travelling around the Asian region over the years, I have my own favourites when it comes to airport. South Korea's main international airport, the Incheon International Airport definitely tops my list. This airport is the closes to the capital city of Seoul. For your information, the international airport code is ICN.

Currently, there are many ways of getting to Seoul from the airport. You can choose to take a cab or to take the shuttle or limousine bus (costs about 10,000 won). There are various bus routes so if you have booked a specific hotel, it will be worthwhile to find out the correct bus route to take. Besides that, you can take the train, known as AREX (Airport Railroad Express). There is an express train which skips all the stations in between and brings you straight to Seoul station. However, the regular train does not take a lot more time and is cheaper, with stops at places like Hongdae.

For those who have an early flight the next day, you can consider spending a night at the spa located at B1 which is open daily, 24 hours. Do not expect a Western style spa here, rather you should expect its Korean version, the jimjilbang. Sauna, showers and private sleeping rooms are also available here.

Within the airport you will also find many beautiful gardens, which are located throughout the airport. For golfers, you can also take a short ride via a free shuttle to the nearby golf course. Using the same shuttle, you can also reach a casino which is open 24 hours.

Upon arrival, travelers can head straight to the Tourist Information Center to obtain information on how to get around Seoul and for itinerary ideas. If you have not booked your accommodation yet, they will be able to assist too.

Besides the Incheon International Airport, selected international flights also land at Gimpo International Airport where many travellers (both Koreans and foreigners) will take a domestic flight to Jeju Island from Gimpo. This is the most convenient and fastest method of reaching the beautiful island which is famous for its female divers.

Similar to Singapore's Changi Airport, the Incheon Airport is also a great place to do some last-minute shopping before leaving Korea. You can enjoy duty-free shopping at both Lotte and Shilla Duty Free Outlets. For luxury goods, you can have your pick from Louis Vuitton to Prada to Dior to Miu Miu. If you have forgotten to purchase Korean skincare products, you can choose from a variety of local skincare brands such as Skinfood, Tony Moly and Etude House. Indeed, if you are hungry and looking for a snack at late night or early morning, don't worry! 7-11 and Family Mart is open 24 hours a day. So as you wait for your flight at the airport, be rest assured that there will be lots to do and see.