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Auckland skyline and Sky Tower lit up at night, seen from Devonport

Annyeong! I’m Ellen

Honest Travel Guides from a Korean Traveler

First-hand itineraries, real prices and no-nonsense tips for New Zealand, Australia, South Korea and beyond.

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Mount Eden crater in Auckland, New Zealand

New Zealand

Auckland, Hobbiton, Waitomo glowworm caves and Queenstown, plus SIM cards, airport buses and Kiwi food.

Cradle Mountain reflected in Dove Lake, Tasmania

Australia

Sydney, Melbourne and a Tasmania road trip: wildlife parks, driving tips, souvenirs and a real budget.

Seoul skyline at sunset along the Han River

South Korea

Local tips from a Seoul resident: getting around, public bikes and places locals love.

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New Zealand guides

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Australia guides

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Ellen looking out over Seoul from an observation deck

Hi, I’m Ellen

I was born and raised in Korea and live in Seoul. I write the guides I wish I’d had before my own trips: what things really cost, what’s worth it, and the mistakes to avoid. I planned and paid for almost every trip on this blog myself.

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