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| Tomb of King Tongmyong in Pyongyang is part of the Complex of Koguryo Tombs, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. |
Cox & Kings is shedding light on the mystery that is North Korea. In self-imposed isolation since 1953, the country is one of the least known nations in the world, making it that much more exotic and attractive for travelers who can say “been there, done that” to most of the world.
Cox & Kings has debuted a brand-new escorted group tour, offering travelers an opportunity to see what goes on behind some once very closed doors. Note: North Korea’s isolation has left its infrastructure lacking, and accommodation offerings are basic. While Cox & Kings requests the best, the final allocation is decided by the tour operator on location.
The 13-day/12-night itinerary begins in Beijing, where guests stay at the Novotel Peace Hotel for two nights. From there, guests are flown to Pyongyang in North Korea for a two-night stay.
While in Pyongyang, Cox & Kings takes intrepid travelers to the Mansudae Fountain Park and Mansudae Grand Monument for a viewing of the massive statue of Kim Il Sung. Travelers are then transferred to Taesongsan Park to take in the May Day Folk Festival. A day in Pyongyang also includes a tour of Moranbong Park and a walking tour of the city.
Guests will also visit Kaesong for a tour of the Kumsusan Palace of the Sun, the Revolutionary Martyrs’ Cemetery and the Foreign Language Bookshop.
Other highlights of the trip include a visit to Lake Sijung, Mount Kumgang, Wonsan, Panmunjom and the DMZ.
Facts: Tourists need a visa to enter North Korea and also one for China, as they enter from China. Cox & Kings assists with obtaining both.
Business Note: Cox & Kings’ President, The Americas, Scott Wiseman, tells us that he is spending his first few months with the company working on programs that will enable it to work closely with travel advisors; he is also setting up a travel advisory board.