Go Go Korea

I'm considering a trip to South Korea in August or September. My birthday is August 27 and I think it would be a really nice way to celebrate by going to a totally new country. I've never been to Asia, and though I'd hoped my first Asian trip would be to Japan, it seems that Korea might be a more feasible location. I have a old friend living there now with his wife (OK full disclosure: he's my college ex-boyfriend, but I have this weird habit of remaining friends with my exes...and why not? Six years after our relationship ended, I can now stay with him and his wonderful wife in Korea!) And while my Travelocity Fare Watcher shows that tickets to Tokyo are about $300 cheaper than to Korea, the total cost of the Korean trip would be less expensive (no hotel, touring with friends instead of with a group, and I think overall the country is a little less expensive than Japan). I love offbeat travel and I love to just pick up and go, so I think I'm going to go for it. For those of you who have been to Asian countries on vacation (Matt, Allie, Mike, Dave, etc) what do I need? Do I need to get a Visa if I'm just going for about a week or so? Advice?

This Sunday my father is flying to Singapore for a week on a business trip. He is fortunate enough to work for a company that will spring for First Class airfare when he flies internationally. He is flying Singapore Airlines, natch. First class. Do you even KNOW what kind of luxury that is? I mean seriously. Let me run down a little list of first class amenities on this airline:

Your own "suite" complete with fully-reclining leather chair designed for total privacy (no neighbors)

Givenchy pajamas and a down comfortor when you feel like taking a little nap

Food brought out when YOU are hungry (not when they feel like it)

Satay made of chicken, beef, or (my goodness) mutton with peanut sauce, or perhaps the chilled malossal cavier suits you better

High-end wine list

Bvlgari toiletries in the bathroom (because hand soap just isn't hand soap unless its Bvlgari)

Japanese Kyo-Kaiseki, a traditional pre-tea ceremony meal expertly designed by master chefs (go to the website to see a picture if you don't believe me)

Turn-down service (the chair becomes a bed!)

So those are just a few of the nice things he can expect on his flight to Singapore. And once he's there I know it is also a country of relentless hospitality. Now, this isn't something my father could just pick up and do...it just so happens this is a business trip and he is going on behalf of his company. But it is certainly a nice perk for him, as he does work hard and deserves a nice little break now and then. Doesn't mean I'm not jealous though. When I fly to Korea, I'll probably be in a crate in the baggage area.