Cathay Pacific has partnered with the Korea Tourism Organisation to offer travel agents from across the Middle East the opportunity to explore South Korea’s culture, history and attractions.

Cathay Pacific operates two daily flights from Dubai, and a daily flight from Bahrain, direct to its hub in Hong Kong, in addition to a daily flight between Dubai and Bahrain. From Hong Kong, the Asian carrier provides onward connections to nearly 200 destinations in Asia, Australia, North America, Africa and Europe.

During a recent UAE-focused Familiarization trip, senior managers from Al Naboodah Travels, Al Tayer Travel, Cozmo Travel, Al Arif Sons Travel and Deira Travels, each attended a six-day experience, exploring the sights of the country’s capital Seoul and popular attractions across Jeju, an island located off Korea’s southern coast.

The trip was designed to enhance awareness and appeal of Jeju as a destination and highlight the convenience of flying there from Dubai.

With beautiful sandy beaches and dramatic volcanic landscapes, Jeju is a popular destination that anyone can visit without a visa.

The two days’ itinerary included visits to Unesco World Heritage site Seongsan IIchulbong Peak, Spirited Garden, underwater experience in Seogwipo submarine and Play K Pop, a hologram concert with a 360 degrees rotating real 3D animation video.  
 
Once on the mainland, Cathay Pacific and Korea Tourism Organisation provided a host of cultural entertainment experiences, from a traditional Korean Performance at the JeongDong Theater, a tour of Gyeongbokgung Palace, dating back more than 600 years, to Lotte World Adventure Tour, Seoul’s famed theme park.

Commenting on the experience, Al Tayer Travels general manager Manu Mehrotra, said: "K-POP, Jeju, Gangnam and Ginseng, a modern fairy tale combined with high technology - modern with ancient traditions. South Korea is worth going back to again and again, and surely there will be more to discover with every visit. And what better way to go than flying on Cathay Pacific - in absolute comfort and style."

Echoing those thoughts, Cathay Pacific regional sales and marketing manager - Middle East, Nikhil Kilpady, said: “South Korea has a fascinating mix of traditions and technology and is becoming a popular destination. With Cathay Pacific’s regular services via Hong Kong to Seoul, Jeju and Busan, we work closely with Korea National Tourism Organization and travel trade to offer Middle East travelers exciting and affordable holiday packages.” - TradeArabia News Service