Frequently Asked Questions
Safe! Despite what you may think, North Korea is probably one of the safest places on Earth, to visit. Tourism is very welcomed in North Korea, thus tourists are cherished and well taken care of. We have never felt suspicious or threatened at any time. In fact, North Korean’s are super friendly and accommodating, if you let them into your world.
No. There aren’t any required vaccinations for travel to North Korea, but as always, it’s sensible to get checked out before your trip, and take any advice given by your doctor.
What if I Don’t Want to Travel in a Group?
Understandable. We offer independent tours, as well as group tours. Check out the tours page or get in touch for more details. We do, however, feel that group travel is most enjoyable for North Korea. It may get a little lonely if you’re spending your entire trip with just you and your guides.
Of course you can, but you can’t bring a camera with a lens over 150mm. Your Korean guide will give you the ‘go ahead’ and the ‘no-no’ zones, and it’s crucial to follow their requests. For the most part, you are only unable to take pictures of military zones (aside from the D.M.Z), check points, or soldiers. It’s also suggested/courteous, to ask locals if you can take their picture. Other than these, or whatever else your guides deem unsuitable, shoot away!
No. You must be accompanied by a guide at all times, but this kind of adds to the mysticism of the country. If you stay in the Yanggakdo hotel, it is possible to stroll around the island on which it's located.
I’m American. Is This a Problem?
Unfortunately, there are some stipulations if you’re American. One being, you’re only permitted to enter the country at certain times (usually during the Arirang Festival). You also have to fly in, which is a shame because the train journey really is out of this world.
I am a Journalist. What's the Story?
Journalists need a special visa, and permission from the government to enter the DPRK. We do not have the permission to bring in journalists. If you sneak in as a journalist, you may stand to gain from it, but your guides, and our company could get into a lot of trouble, so please don’t risk it.
We strongly recommend going by train. Not only do you get to see breath taking scenery along the way, but if you’re lucky, you can converse with North Korean people. Shortly after the Chinese/North Korean border, you go through customs, after which, get a chance to walk around the train station, have a drink, speak with locals, buy some souvenirs, and take in the hustle and bustle of the station; really neat to witness. Alternatively you can fly, which in itself is a pretty unique experience.
Euro or Chinese RMB. It will save a lot of
heartache if you work with the Euro, however the Chinese Yuan (RMB) is also
accepted and exchanges at a rate or 1 Yuan (RMB) for every 10 Euro cents. Prices are usually set in Euros and RMB. Credit cards
(including American Express) are not accepted in the DPRK, so make sure you bring enough cash with you to cover the cost of extra beer and snacks, Karaoke, Pool and Bowling, and of course some great souvenirs!
Some is good, and some is just ‘so so’, depending on your tastes of course, but we find it just fine! Our tours have really enjoyed the Korean Duck BBQ; DELICIOUS if you’re a meat eater. There is also the option of visiting the most expensive restaurant in the DPRK. This too, is very good. Other restaurants are available, but the bulk of your meal time will be spent at your hotel’s buffet or restuarants, which are quite tasty, with a variety of choices. Be warned, you will be fed A LOT of food on this trip. If you are a vegetarian, let us know and we will arrange vegetarian meal plans.
YES! You need to tip your guides. If you want to get what you’ve paid for and then some, a tip goes a long way; as it does in any tipping culture. The male guides enjoy foreign cigarettes and liquor. This does not however, benefit the female guides. They’d prefer to receive chocolate, cosmetics, or any other fun feminine products. Cash is obviously well appreciated by all, and should be included in your “gift”, usually given at the end of your trip. We also strongly recommend giving an entrance gift when you first arrive at the hotel, and have a ‘sit down’ with your guides. This gives them a taste of what’s to come when you leave, and you will be very accommodated throughout your holiday. In general you are not required to tip service staff. Keep in mind, that as in any service industry, the guides rely greatly on their tips, so be as generous as you like.
What if I Have Differing Opinions?
Well, you more than likely will, but refrain from having a debate with the guides. Remember, that their beliefs are important to them. Be respectful, don’t laugh, and keep your comments to yourself, until you’ve left. You can ask questions, but in a respectful manner. The guides will delicately let you know if they can’t answer. Everyone has read or seen lots on North Korea, this is your opportunity to listen to the other side. If you’re quiet and listen you’ll be surprised just how much you can learn about this unique culture.
What Plugs do they use in the DPRK?
Electric plugs are 220 volts, and the plug sizes are the same ones used in Western Europe. If you have different plugs, your hotel can provide adaptors for you.
The short answer is no. If you do take your phone with you and fly in, it will be packaged at customs, and returned to you at the end of your trip. If you enter by train, it will be put in an envelope and taped up but you can carry it with you, just don't open it as they will check again when you are leaving the country on the Chinese border. Laptops and MP3 players are fine, although you cannot access the internet.
But I Have so Many Other Questions!
If you have any more questions, drop us an e-mail, add us to MSN, or give us a call. We're able to answer most of your questions. Those which we can't, we'll find out.
