South Korean Expert - Rich History + K-POP

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Lori Borders www.travel2borders.com, Travel Agent in Beaverton, OR

Lori Borders www.travel2borders.com

Beaverton, OR Travel Agent
Super Agent

Lori Borders www.travel2borders.com

Beaverton, OR · 18 Years of Experience

Travel 2Borders, LLC, an independent agent with Travel Leaders Maple Grove, MN
4.9
(36)
100% Recommended
This is our 2nd trip planned by Kylie and Lori Borders. All I can say is Wow! Everything went remarkably well and the level... Read More >
About
Reviews
My Places

Areas of expertise

Destinations:

Seoul, South Korea

Interests:

Architecture, Cruises, Couples & Romance, Food & Wine, Family Vacations

Suppliers:

Hilton Worldwide, Explora Journeys, National Geographic Expeditions, Qantas Vacations

About Me

South Korea is a fascinating blend of ancient history, cutting-edge technology, and natural beauty, making it a captivating destination for travelers seeking a unique cultural experience.Rich historical and cultural heritage can be found throughout South Korea, particularly in cities like Seoul and Gyeongju.

Seoul, the vibrant capital, seamlessly integrates its ancient palaces and temples with modern skyscrapers. Gyeongbokgung Palace in Seoul, with its stunning architecture and daily changing of the guard ceremony, offers a window into the history of the Joseon Dynasty. Bukchon Hanok Village, a preserved neighborhood filled with traditional Korean houses, allows travelers to step back in time and get a feel for Korea’s traditional architectural style.

Seoul’s neighborhoods like Insadong are known for their arts, crafts, and teahouses, creating an immersive cultural experience.For a truly historic adventure, Gyeongju, often called “the museum without walls,” is a must-see. Once the capital of the ancient Silla Kingdom, Gyeongju is filled with well-preserved relics and ancient structures, such as the Bulguksa Temple and the Seokguram Grotto, both of which are UNESCO World Heritage sites.Gyeongju’s ancient tombs, royal palaces, and historic pagodas provide a deep dive into Korea’s heritage and serve as a living museum of the country’s past.

Modern attractions and high-tech experiences also make South Korea a thrilling place to explore. Seoul is a leading global hub for technology and fashion, offering experiences like the Dongdaemun Design Plaza and COEX Mall for those interested in futuristic architecture and K-culture. In Gangnam, visitors can explore the world of K-pop, from entertainment agencies to K-pop merchandise stores, and even visit hologram concerts at places like SMTOWN.For nature lovers, South Korea’s stunning landscapes are a major draw. Jeju Island is a popular escape for locals and tourists alike, known for its scenic beaches, lava tubes, and the picturesque Hallasan Mountain. The island’s unique combination of volcanic landscapes and lush greenery makes it a nature lover’s paradise and is one of South Korea’s most beloved destinations. Seoraksan National Park, known for its dramatic mountain peaks and lush forests, is another beautiful spot, offering hiking trails, waterfalls, and a breathtaking view of Korea’s eastern coast.

Korean cuisine is another major highlight for travelers. South Korea is a culinary haven where street food, traditional markets, and fine dining blend together to offer a taste of Korean flavors. Street food hubs like Myeongdong in Seoul are known for mouthwatering bites such as tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), hotteok (sweet pancakes), and kimbap (rice rolls). Traditional markets like Gwangjang Market offer a more authentic, local food experience where visitors can try dishes like bibimbap, kimchi, and savory pancakes. For foodies, sampling the unique flavors of Korean barbecue and exploring the variety of banchan (side dishes) make dining in South Korea a memorable experience.Shopping and K-culture are huge parts of the South Korean experience. Seoul’s shopping districts like Myeongdong, Hongdae, and Garosu-gil cater to every style and budget, from luxury brands to quirky, independent boutiques.

For K-pop fans, South Korea is the ultimate destination to dive into the world of Korean entertainment, where music, fashion, and pop culture converge. Fans can visit K-pop cafes, check out themed merchandise, and even tour entertainment company buildings in Seoul.

Safe and visitor-friendly areas abound in South Korea, where the crime rate is relatively low, and public transport is efficient and easy to navigate. Cities like Seoul, Busan, and Jeju offer well-developed infrastructure and extensive transportation networks that make exploring South Korea comfortable and convenient. Busan, South Korea’s second-largest city, is known for its relaxed seaside vibe, beautiful beaches, and popular landmarks like the Gamcheon Culture Village and the Haedong Yonggungsa Temple.

Overall, South Korea’s blend of ancient history, cutting-edge technology, scenic landscapes, and vibrant food culture makes it a destination with something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in historic sites, modern attractions, scenic hikes, or diving into K-culture, South Korea offers an immersive, rich experience that stays with travelers long after they leave. 

REVIEWS

Rating: 4.9
36 reviews
100% Recommended
Your trust is our priority. Every review is submitted by verified travelers after they have booked and completed their trips. Learn more about our review guidelines.
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Showing 36 reviews

Wonderful Trip to Andalucia Spain
Reviewed By Davey Boy - Seattle, WA | Traveled to Spain | Europe
This is our 2nd trip planned by Kylie and Lori Borders. All I can say is Wow! Everything went remarkably well and the level of detailed planning was amazing. We appreciated the itinerary variety that included ticketed attractions, small group and private tours, and free time. It was a perfect balance! We received updates during the trip that were timely and useful. We used trains, a bus and private drivers to get around. It all worked exceeding well. We did a 2.5-week circle trip through Andalucia in southern Spain. There were plenty of things to see and do without having to travel north to Madrid or Barcelona. Some of our favorite places were true under the radar finds. The hotels we stayed at were very comfortable and unique. All had great locations for exploring. We used to plan our own trips. It became too much work. We wish we started using a travel agent sooner. Kylie and Lori will take care of you and make your trip memorable.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
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Peru/Ecuador Extravaganza
Reviewed By Davey Boy - Seattle, WA | Traveled to South America
First time using a travel agent in over 30 years. I got tired of planning my own trips. Lori and Kylie were wonderful to work with. They were very patient with numerous changes and provided excellent recommendations. They are good listeners and understand when we might need to go in another direction. This was the longest trip of our lives. 26 days, 9 flights, 10.5 hotels, 2 trains, 1 ferry and countless activities and restaurants. Everyday we had lunch and dinner recommendations and numerous activity suggestions. We had a minor hiccup over a weekend and they jumped into action to help us out. 95% of their recommendations were winners. Everything was amazing and I still can't believe how flawlessly everything went. I am working with them on my second trip for next month. Highly recommend this dynamic duo!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
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Like planning your travel experience with a friend
Reviewed By TravelNewbiesZH - Tigard, OR | Traveled to London | England | Europe
Lori helped us plan our honeymoon. My husband and I were a feeling lost and mentally drained from planning our wedding, and Lori took that kind of planning stress off our plates. This was our first time traveling internationally and we had a vague idea in what we were interested in doing, which we shared over an email questionnaire. We later meet up in person for a planning and trip proposal, and we were put at ease knowing Lori instinctively picked up on our vibes as a couple and what our travel itinerary style/needs would be. We felt like we were meeting with a dear friend, and felt confident in her professional skills as a travel agent. We didn't have to worry about event bookings, and our trip went without a hitch. We had tours with reputable, local, and knowledgeable guides that weren't large-group, not personable, or tourist-tacky. Lori was available for prompt communications before, during, and after our trip. The itinerary was easy to follow with facts and history, and was ver
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
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Travelers for Travelers
Reviewed By Doug P. - Salem, OR | Traveled to Japan | East and Southeast Asia
We just returned from our first trip to Japan that Lori meticulously planned for my wife’s 60th birthday. We had a fantastic time from Tokyo to Hiroshima. Every flight, hotel and train reservation seamlessly stitched together. Her local knowledge about taxis, cashless apps and transportation really saved us a huge learning curve. My wife had so much fun she is diligently studying Japanese in the hopes to return soon. We already have Lori and Kylie planning a trip for us next winter to Vietnam with 2 adult children. We can’t say enough good things about their patience, communication and persistence. Planning with them is almost as much fun as the trip itself!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
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My first Japan trip
Reviewed By XNavyman503 - Oregon | Traveled to Tokyo | Japan | East and Southeast Asia
Lori was super helpful with all aspects of planning my first trip to Japan. She had extensive knowledge of Japan and gave me so many recommendations of things to do I wish I had more time in country. She asked about my likes and what I possibly wanted to see on my trip and she planned everything. She got me a very reasonably priced hotel within a 5 minute walk of a train station which made my excursions super easy. For all my long flights she was able to get me exit row seating which made the long flights comfortable. I plan on using Lori services again for my next trip to Japan.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
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My Places

When it comes to travel planning, real-world experience makes a huge difference. Check out the map below to see all the places I have personally visited or booked for my clients. I know these destinations well and can give you reliable guidance.
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