Bus tour program for foreign tourists kicks off

By Chung Ah-young

The Visit Korea Committee has launched the K-Travel Bus, a one-night, two-day bus tour program connecting Seoul to provincial tourist attractions exclusively for foreign tourists.

To mark the Visit Korea Years 2016-2018, the program will start with a three-month trial run in four regions ― Chungcheong, South Jeolla, North Gyeongsang and Gangwon provinces.

After the trial run, the program will be expanded to more provinces in March next year after consulting with different municipalities.

“On occasion of Visit Korea Years 2016-2018, we will diversify local tourism products to expand the inbound tourism market and boost the regional tourism industry,” a committee official said.

In past Visit Korea Years events, the committee provided free shuttle buses for foreigners to Jeonju, Busan and Gyeongju for one-day tours, but tourists could not fully enjoy the regions because of the short time and limited tour programs.

The new bus programs will offer two-day programs, allowing tourists more time to look around.

The Chungcheong course begins in Seoul and travels to Buyeo, Gongju, Daejeon, Sejong, Cheongju and back to Seoul. The South Jeolla course begins at Seoul the travels to Damyang, Gokseong, Yeosu, Suncheon and then back to Seoul. The North Gyeongsang course includes a route from Seoul to Yecheon, Andong, Mungyeong and back to Seoul.

In Gangwon Province, however, buses will connect Seoul to festival venues in the province for a one-day trip during the trial run. Starting in March, buses to the province will also offer two-day trips.

The program costs $170-180 in accordance with the region, including transportation, fees for local guides, accommodations and charges for admission to events. At least 15 people are required for a program. If the minimum number is not met, the tour will likely be canceled. For more information and reservations, visit www.k-travelbus.com.