Korea evolves as youth travel destination

NEW YORK - Youth travelers comprise more than 20% of the international travel population, accruing 200 million trips annually. According to UNWTO, that number is projected to climb to 300 million by 2020. Why the growth? Younger travelers set their travel sights on self-development, learning, and multicultural interactions – and Korea reflects this trend. Tourism to the country nearly doubled from 2004 to 2013, and the number of U.S. visitors is soaring, according to the Korea Tourism Organization (KTO). Through diverse landscapes and culture, Korea provides increasingly global youth with the fulfilling experiences they vividly imagine.

Carly Sjordal, 18, from Fairbanks, Alaska, exemplifies this new trend in travel. "It would be amazing to visit a smaller town like Joella or any of the other smaller areas in Korea, because I believe that Seoul does not represent Korea. I would love to do some English volunteering and experience the green tea fields at Boseong," she said.

Sjordal recently returned from a trip to South Korea, which she won as part of the KTO's Tour Imagination campaign. Elated with her experience, she plans to return in the future to work in the film and television industry. Though before she sets her goals on professional development, Sjordal wants to take advantage of the various volunteer opportunities available in the country, an emerging trend for youth travelers seeking a unique abroad experience.

Volunteering and homestays provide ample opportunity for cultural immersion alongside personal gratification. Long- and short-term volunteer programs are available through a variety of organizations in the areas of community development, language teaching, environmental work, and more.

Korea's world-class spas combine leisure with cultural immersion, as travelers can experience the beauty techniques of the natives. Chaum "TheraSpa," the world's first science spa, incorporates Ayurveda, Qi Gong Tui-Na Energy Healing, Herbal Pinda Infusion treatments, and more for a medically-based beauty experience.

While the majority of spas are located in the vibrant city of Seoul, Korea's lesser known regions offer additional opportunities to experience the county's unique culture. Sjordal attended the Zandari Festival, translating to "small bridge," a three-day music event in the indie town of Hongdae which showcases over 300 acts in a "genuine Korea town-type" manner. The festival encourages togetherness of musicians, athletes, artists, and the community.

Travelers can also tune into more remote locations. Many visitors seek the quieter lifestyle in the green tea fields of Boseong, surrounded by cedar trees and boasting worldwide recognition for tea leaf quality and purity. The same tranquility is found in the natural landscapes of the multiple island regions.

With her imagination fulfilled, a grateful Sjordal returned home to recommend Korea to her peers. Korea is destined to fulfill the hearts and souls of other youth travelers, also, through exploration of culture on unique and personal measures.

sourced:traveldailynews.asia