Put aside your preconceptions and head to a land that's as much about wild open spaces and traditional ways as it is about high tech and glittering skyscrapers. Anchored by round-the-clock capital city Seoul, the country's diminutive size and top-notch transport links mean that it's easy to go from urban sprawl to tranquil spaces in a short amount of time. Visit densely forested national parks, beautiful islands dotted with fishing villages, and craggy mountains that transform into ski slopes in the winter season. To the north is the Korean Demilitarized Zone, a no-man's land forming a border between South Korea and mysterious neighbor North Korea.
Whether you're after a big-city thrill or soothing serenity, you'll be perfectly placed to find it from South Korea vacation rentals. Head for mega metropolis Seoul or the seaside city of Busan to fill up your senses with the rush of busy markets, restaurants, nightlife, and culture. Or, head to the countryside for an adrenalin hit of a different kind. South Korea has a great collection of hills for both skiers and hikers, but its most famous is the Olle Trail on Jeju Island, which allows you to work up a sweat as well as take a peek at rural Korean life.
South Korea is part of the Korean Peninsula and shares one of the world's most heavily militarized borders with North Korea. Mountains, green hills, and streams are the dominant characteristics of Korean terrain, though there are farmable lowlands and river valleys further south. The country also has coastal fishing villages and hundreds of sub-tropical islands off its coast. The highest Korean mountain is Paektu (No Head) Mountain, a vast volcanic landmark. The Korean Peninsula forms a nearly complete land bridge from China in the north to Japan in the east. Its southern tip is only about 20 miles from Japanese territory.
Boasting oodles of character and cultural appeal, the residential city of Sang-dong is an ideal place for a whirlwind escape. Rent a house for a night or two in South Korea's top city and surround yourself with all the conveniences and comforts of home.