I live in Pohang, Korea and sometimes I just need a trip out. My girlfriend had to go to Seoul for a friend's wedding so I made plan to meet her the following day and spend the day touring with her in Seoul before coming back.

Pre-planning for my trip involved using the English version of Asiana Airlines and Barota (the train service). On one flight a day, both KAL and Asiana offer a 20% discount available on-line. Luckily it was the first flight of the day that offered the discount. Taking the train back, although slower, would be cheaper.

On Saturday, November 27th I arrived at KPO about 9:00 for my 9:30 flight. I was quickly issued a boarding pass. I was surprised that this was not a ticket stock, but more something from a cash register. It had my gate and seat number (7A) already listed on it. They also applied the mileage to my account (190 miles). This is a dissapointment because a year ago they would give a flat 500 miles for flights in Korea. I'll have to check to find out if I received my bonus for buying on-line. I was also able to have a permanent membership card issued.

The flight was on on of their 737-400s (They have 3). The first class section had been removed and replaced by more rows of coach. I am not sure when this change took place. The flight crew was very friendly. An English newspaper was available and I received a pen and postcards upon request. While the pitch was very tight, the time was short and bearable. Wheels were up at 9:35 and down at 10:14.

In flight there was a beverage service, no cans and served from plastic cups. Choices were coffee, juice, cola, and water. Take-off and arrival music was Christmas themed for the holidays. I believe there were 4 flight attendants on board. The flight was mostly full.

After meeting my girlfriend at the airport, we took the subway to Aiins World. This is a minatures theme park of famous places around the world. It was designed by a company that does special effects for movies. After spending some time here, we made it over to Insadong for art galleries and shopping.

On the trip home we decided for the KTX (Korea Express Train). Service on this has been good as it quickly cuts down on the amount of travel time. The reduced pitch and comfort of the seats is replaced by speed. Plus taking the KTX at 7pm allowed us to catch up with the Sameulho which left at 5pm. In East Daegu we caught up and switched to the Sameulho which would continue into Pohang. Although the train had a 13 minute delay, we did arrive on time at 10:47pm into Pohang Station. The Sameulho while slower than the KTX is much more comfortable. Maybe like the old seats upstairs on Northwests 747-200s.

I hope you enjoy my first trip report. If you would like me to expound on any details, please let me know.