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North Korea Travel
Communist Choreography in North Korea
February 25, 2008 at 11:05 AM | 1 Comment
You might've thought that when Bush called North Korea a member of the "Axis of Evil" that he killed your chances to ever visit the world's most reclusive country. But every year between August and October the so-called Democratic People's Republic of Korea will grant visas to US citizens so they can attend the Mass Games--a colorful, tightly choreographed gymnastics display involving almost 100,000 performers.
Unfortunately, tours of the DPRK are just about as choreographed. Regime-approved guides keep a close eye on what travelers do, say and take photos of, and they certainly won't break from the party line if asked questions about the quality of life in the country.
That doesn't mean it won't be a fascinating experience, just don't plan on heading off willy-nilly with your point-and-shoot. Tourists supposedly have to yield their passport and plane ticket out of the country to the police during their trip.
North Korean Travel
Can You Still Travel To North Korea?
October 18, 2006 at 4:35 PM | 3 Comments
Yes, and with all the current nuclear testing strife, we are sure this year's low season (November - March) will be, um, low.
If you are American, South Korean, or of South Korean origin, forget it. Without some sort of super special exemption you will have to holiday elsewhere.
One important exception to this rule, a handful of Americans do get to attend the world famous Arirang Festival, which is held between August 10 and October 10 every year. However, tour organizers are still awaiting word from the DPRK on if this will be the case in 2007 and beyond, so stay tuned.
Journalists, or those suspected of being journalists will have to obtain special permission to visit North Korea. Regardless of who you are, if you want to tour the DPRK you will need to book through a North Korean travel agency--no exceptions. Travel to North Korea is only possible as part of a guided tour, which is organized by the Korean Friendship Association--we kid you not--who kindly answer many questions about touring their country here.
