Situated south of the mainland in the Korea Strait, Jeju is the largest island of South Korea. With its distinctive cultures, white sand beaches, swaying palm trees and unique cuisine, Jeju has long been a favored destination of travelers. Translating to a ‘village across the sea', Jeju Island houses modern Jeju City in the north and a resort town in the south.
Before you travel to Jeju, be sure to purchase travel medical insurance. Travel insurance can be your financial safety net in case of an unexpected turn of events. Don't let a sudden illness, injury or trip cancellation impact your finances. Purchase the right travel medical insurance or travel insurance policy for additional peace of mind.
Travel Medical Insurance for Travelers in Jeju – FAQs
With its impressive natural spectacles and distinctive culture, Jeju attracts millions of travelers every year from across the world. While it's perfectly safe for to travel to Jeju, medical emergencies can happen anywhere. Thus, getting travel medical insurance is prudent.
Why should I get travel medical insurance for my trip to Jeju?
You can't predict the uncertainties when you're traveling. Most of the time they come in the form of injuries and illness. But you can be prepared from a financial aspect. While quality medical facilities in Jeju are expensive, travel medical insurance can protect you from large hospital bills should the need arise.
What should I look for in my Jeju travel medical insurance?
Your insurer can provide financial coverage for the treatment of injury or illness should you get sick or take a fall that leaves you in need of medical treatment. If your injury is untreatable on the island, you may need to be transported to mainland South Korea. If such a situation does arise, your insurer could arrange and pay for emergency evacuation.
Top Tourist Destinations in Jeju
Udo Island
Udo Island, which translates to Cow Island, gets its name from its resemblance to a cow that's lying down. This splendid island is a short boat ride away from Seongsan-ri village in the east of Jeju. Blessed with natural beauty and pristine white beaches, Udo is a holiday destination for locals and foreigners alike. Check out its lighthouses and visit its museum featuring local marine and insect life.
Seongsan Ilchulbong
Also known as Sunrise Peak, Seongsan Ilchulbong is a bowl-shaped volcanic crater near the village of Seongsan. Visit this place in the early morning to witness picturesque sunrises. If you're traveling to Jeju in spring, you shouldn't miss the marvelous sight of yellow rapeseed flowers blanketing the crater.
Jeju Folk Village Museum
With more than 100 traditional houses and thousands of artifacts, Jeju Folk Village is an educational immersion in Korean culture. Admire the intricately carved traditional wood and get your fortune told at the fortune teller's house. You can also find country-styled restaurants outside the museum serving delicious noodles and rice dishes.
Hallim Park
Consisting of nine differently themed gardens, Hallim Park offers the perfect blend of culture and nature. Enjoy its serene vibe and wander in the beautiful gardens. The park offers lots of fun activities for children as well. Hallim Park also features caves that are part of a 17-km lava tube system. Don't miss a chance to visit this rare natural wonder if you're in Jeju.
Spirited Garden
Spirited Garden is a fascinating mix of art, nature, and philosophy. Citizens from mainland South Korea visit this garden for a peaceful retreat from city life. The garden is believed to provide its visitors with a new outlook on life. Stroll through its impressive stone bridges and rambling hills while the gentle gurgling of a waterfall soothes your spirit. Don't forget to collect souvenirs from the gift shop inside the garden.
Key Guidelines for Travelers in Jeju
Best Time to Visit Jeju
April to June and September to October are the best months to visit Jeju. The weather during these months is warm and dry with little rainfall.
If you're planning to witness beautiful cherry blossoms, visit Jeju from April to June. You'll also get a chance to attend the Spring Festival around this time. During September and October you can behold the beautiful scenery of autumn.
Getting Around Jeju
Buses and taxis are the favored mode of transportation for travelers. Buy a T-money card to pay for the buses. It's available at any convenience store.
Taxi fares are reasonable for short distances. Most taxi drivers don't speak English. So be sure to have your hotel write down an important address for you. Cycling your way around Jeju is another good option. Due to sparse traffic and wide roads, it's easy to travel by bicycle.
Safety Concerns
Jeju has low crime rates compared to mainland South Korea. The locals here are very friendly and helpful. Nonetheless, practicing precaution is a must. Here are a few safety tips for you:
- Typhoon season in Jeju lasts from June to September. Make your travel plans according to the weather forecasts if you're visiting around this time.
- When you go hiking, make sure you return to the trailhead before the daily closure time. It becomes difficult to find your way back once the sun goes down.
- If you're out enjoying a cocktail, be mindful of your drink and do not leave it unattended.
- Koreans are very respectful of their culture. Practice this same respect at temples, and try to dress as modestly as possible.
Health Concerns
Catching tick-borne diseases like encephalitis is possible when you travel to Jeju. Cover your arms and legs properly when you venture into nature. Make sure you're up-to-date with your vaccination shots for diseases like measles, mumps, rubella, and diphtheria.
Before You Go to Jeju – Do This
- If you're planning to hike in Jeju, pack sunscreen, bug repellent, and long-sleeved clothes.
- Learn some common Korean words: Hello = Annyonghasheyo; Thank You = Ghamshahamnida; Please = Budi. They may come in handy.
- Buy travel insurance coverage that suits the needs of yourself and your travel companions. It's your safety net in case of unexpected turns of events.