Introduction
North Korea, officially the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK), is a country located in East Asia. It is bordered by China and Russia to the north and South Korea to the south. Despite its hermit-like status, North Korea has become increasingly open to tourism over the years. However, there are still many restrictions in place that travelers need to be aware of before visiting.
This article will explore how to travel to North Korea from a practical standpoint. Specifically, we will discuss the current travel regulations, familiarizing yourself with the political system and culture, finding an authorized tour guide, preparing for language barriers, bringing enough cash, and exercising caution when taking photos or videos.
Research Current Travel Regulations
The first step in planning a trip to North Korea is to research the current travel regulations. According to the U.S. Department of State, all U.S. citizens are required to obtain a valid visa prior to entering North Korea. Tourists must also have a tourist card issued by the government. It is important to note that all visitors must travel with an authorized tour guide while in the country.
Familiarize Yourself with the Political System and Culture
The second step in planning a trip to North Korea is to familiarize yourself with the political system and culture. Understanding the political system will help you navigate the country more easily and make sure you do not accidentally break any laws. The DPRK is a one-party state led by the Workers’ Party of Korea. It has been ruled by the same family since its founding in 1948.
It is also important to learn about the culture of North Korea. This includes understanding the country’s customs, such as the practice of bowing to show respect and the use of honorific titles. Familiarizing yourself with the culture will help you avoid any potential cultural faux pas while in the country.
Find an Authorized Tour Guide
Once you have researched the current travel regulations and familiarized yourself with the political system and culture, the next step is to find an authorized tour guide. Having a knowledgeable guide can be beneficial in a number of ways. They can provide insight into the culture and history of the country, as well as help you navigate the various restrictions and regulations that exist in North Korea.
Finding a reputable tour guide can be done through various online sources. Many companies offer tours to North Korea, and they usually have experienced guides who can provide valuable information and advice.
Prepare for Language Barriers
The fourth step in planning a trip to North Korea is to prepare for language barriers. Although English is spoken by some people in North Korea, it is not widely used. Therefore, learning some basic Korean phrases can be helpful. There are a variety of resources available online that can help you learn the language.
In addition, it is also important to have a translator with you while in North Korea. A translator can help you communicate with locals and navigate the country more easily. Most tour companies provide translators, but it is always wise to double check before booking a tour.
Bring Enough Cash
The fifth step in planning a trip to North Korea is to make sure you bring enough cash. Credit cards are not accepted in the country, so you will need to bring enough cash to cover your expenses. It is recommended to bring at least $100 per day, although this amount can vary depending on your individual needs.
It is also important to note that the local currency is not widely accepted outside of the country. Therefore, it is best to exchange your money for euros or U.S. dollars before arriving in North Korea.
Exercise Caution When Taking Photos or Videos
The final step in planning a trip to North Korea is to exercise caution when taking photos or videos. The DPRK has strict laws regarding photography and video recording, so it is important to familiarize yourself with these laws before taking any photos or videos. Generally speaking, it is prohibited to take photos or videos of military installations, government buildings, and certain monuments.
Additionally, it is important to remember that photography and video recording of everyday life in North Korea is strictly prohibited. Taking photos or videos of people without their permission is also not allowed.
Conclusion
Traveling to North Korea can be a unique and rewarding experience, but it is important to research the current travel regulations, familiarize yourself with the political system and culture, find an authorized tour guide, prepare for language barriers, bring enough cash, and exercise caution when taking photos or videos.
By following these steps, you can ensure that your trip to North Korea is safe and enjoyable. With the right preparation, you can explore the mysterious Hermit Kingdom and discover its hidden wonders.
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