What the travel trade said...

Abdul Jaleel M
Tours Manager, Al Jammaz Travel

As producers of trusted brands like Hyundai, Samsung and LG, my impression was that Korea is a country for business and nothing more. But that changed forever by the time we said goodbye to Seoul.

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It’s a fabulous destination for families and I am wondering why it was not marketed earlier. I am sure the destination will become quite popular among the Arab community, because Arab travellers like to explore new destinations and for those who would like to explore a new destination, Korea is the best.

What impressed me most was the cleanliness, safety and privacy on one hand and beautiful landscape and facilities for children on the other. Be it museums, theme parks, entertainments or shows, everything is oriented towards children.

Zahid Hussein
Supervisor, ITC Travel

Korea is a nice, clean country with beautiful landscapes covered by mountains and water. The thing I loved most is its people — so friendly and respectful.

It’s absolutely a safe destination for tourists and will definitely become popular because there are many interesting things for tourists from Jeddah to enjoy like 24-hour shopping, theme parks, educational museums for children, technology centres and many more.

Jeju Island could be a perfect place for relaxation, while Seoul and Busan are for entertainment and nightlife. Activities for children include visits to Everland theme park (the fourth most popular theme park in the world), Zoo safari, Teddy Bear Museum, Chocolate museum and Riplley’s Believe it or not museum.

Majed I Redwan
Travel Consultant, Zahid Travel, Jeddah

This destination is simply amazing. I should have been here a long time ago. The country is so disciplined and everything runs on time. The people are friendly; the city is absolutely clean and treats foreigners with dignity and respect.

The destination has everything to offer for a Saudi client like shopping, theme parks, countryside, beaches, a multi-national atmosphere, international restaurants and above all, excellent weather.

Upon arriving and departing from Incheon Intl Airport, I realised why it has been rated as ‘Best Airport in the World’ for four consecutive years. The shopping areas in Seoul are well organised for families and kids. The Nanta show was amazing and highly recommended to all tourists visiting Korea.

Mohammed Abdul
regional manager, Al Rajhi Aviation

Korea is a fantastic destination which I believe will be the next big thing in our region. The scenic beauty is amazing, the cities are modern and dynamic.

It is a destination just waiting to be discovered. Apart from the stunning natural beauty, there are great opportunities for shopping with great shopping malls as well as street markets.

Korean culture and traditions will also be a big draw. The accommodation was first-rate and on a par with the finest hotels in the world.

For me Jeju Island was the highlight. This is a beautiful volcanic island not far from the mainland. It has fabulous walking trails and is especially known for its flowers. I was in time to see the flowers bloom, but missed the Cherry Blossom which is due in April.

Omar Jameel
Director, Al Shareef Travel

The destination is unique. Development is restricted in terms of actual land space as the country is 70% mountainous, but impressive. The climate was good and the environment is well taken care of. It has all types of attractions.

Our clients like to be spoilt for choice and South Korea has this, along with outstanding hospitality to compliment its attractions. The highlight of the trip was visiting the various resorts and natural sites.

To me as a travel seller, I need to know that my clients will be comfortable during their stay and I was left quite impressed at the quality of the facilities and attractions available.

I would sell the destination to family groups and businessmen along with medical tourists.

Syed Hafeez
tours manager, STTB

Korea has clean air, it’s well-organised, friendly and disciplined. This is a destination for all ages.

For example, families could visit Seoul which has exciting theme parks and endless shopping facilities, singles could go to Busan for jet skiing and nightlife and I would sell Jeju Island to couples.

The highlight was discovering that there were Muslims and Mosques, halal food, and an Arab market there. Experiencing a new culture was something I never thought about in Korea.

The accommodation was simply the best or a step ahead in terms of quality, technology and hygiene. All the hotels that I had stayed in Seoul, Busan and Jeju were equipped with electronic bidets.