"ColmNugent's new North K ..." a North Korea Travel Page by ColmNugent

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Welcome and thank you for being on of the 8,000+ VT-ers who've visited this page so far. It really is very difficult to convey what a trip to North Korea is like. This is my attempt to do so, without boring you to tears (I hope).

North Korea (or the DPRK) has been in the news quite a lot recently - the old 'axis of evil' and all that. It is a fascinating place, but it's best to ditch the whole 'independent traveller' ethos when you arrive. You're a guest of the regime and they'll tell you where to go, when and what to see. The best times to go are for the May Day celebrations or the October 9th celebrations (foundation of the Workers Party of Korea 'WPK'). 2002 has been a particularly bumper year for mass displays - probably to compete with the World Cup.

Only travel there if you are prepared to be shepherded everywhere, have a 24 hour guide, and to keep your mouth shut when you're told something that is patently untrue by the guide. Play the game and you will have a marvellous time. The people that you meet are unfailingly courteous and it is (no matter how well travelled you are) unlike anywhere you have ever been or will ever go.

"After North Korea, everywhere else is like Luton" said Andy Kershaw BBC Travel writer and DJ. [Luton is a particularly nondescript town in England]

Before you go, you'll find it helpful to check out this website: "www.english.dprkorea.com" and for background to read "The Two Koreas" by Dan Oberdorfer. A keen sense of history will help. The North Koreans detest the 'Japs' for historical reasons, but are more than happy to have them as visitors and Japan hosts the KNCA website. They are more ambivilant about the Americans, but there is certainly none of the anti-American hatred that those who have travelled to Iraq or Libya will be familiar with. Axis of evil? Decide for yourself.

It is about the only country in the world where you'll feel more comfortable in a suit and tie than a pair of jeans - dress accordingly. In terms of personal safety, it's probably the safest country you will ever visit.

A trip to the DPRK is inextricably linked with Pyongyang, its showcase capital, where you'll spend most of your time. Please go to that page as well for additional information.

Note: click on 'picture view: full size' above to see the photos properly. This is a picture of the divinding line at the border - the most heavily fortified border in the world - step across this line and you will be shot, without question, probably by both sides. See the small line running down the centre between the blue huts? - That is the official (and VERY strictly enforced) border. North Koreans armed to the teeth this side, South Koreans and US forces armed to the teeth that side. Apparently you are only posted to border duty (in the South) is you meet very specific height and fitness guidelines and are a martial arts expert.