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Five North Korea trips for 2011, and a "no taxation" celebration

It isn't easy to visit North Korea. The country makes it intentionally difficult for outsiders to get in. For those of us in the United States, the distances to be traveled increase the barrier even more. Well, I just got the list of tour options from Koryo Tours, and it looks like North Korea is more open than ever!

There are several ways you can get to Pyongyang and other cities in 2011 – and not just for the Arirang event. Chartered planes, bikes and new destinations are on the itinerary, making this an exciting company to reach the most isolated nation on the face of the planet. Take a look below at five ways you can visit North Korea next year.

  • Kim Il-sung and Kim Jong-il on Mt Paekdu
  • The Scenery around Mt Paekdu Is Stunning
  • A Rare Treat from Mt Paekdu
  • Propaganda Is the Point of Mt Paekdu
  • And, the Party Is Always on Hand
  • Mt Paekdu Looks Nothing Like Pyongyang


1. Arirang 2011 confirmed: if you've always wanted to see Arirang in Pyongyang, next year's dates have already been confirmed. Westerners will be able to witness the spectacle from August 1, 2011 through September 9, 2011. For those short on time or cash, consider taking a Mass Games Mini Break jaunt for three days.

  • South Korean soldier at
  • South Korean soldier at
  • South Korean soldier at the Joint Security Area
  • At the DMZ, you're always being watched
  • The stance and sunglasses are to intimidate
  • Look out for landmines!


2. Second city access: don't stop at Pyongyang! In 2011, you have the option to visit Hamhung, on the east coast of North Korea, and Rason, the country's free trade zone. From Rason, you'll leave the country by train to Vladivostok.

3. Take your time: visitors to North Korea who don't want to miss anything can take advantage of a 16-day excursion into the world's most isolated country. In addition to a deep look at Pyongyang and the surrounding areas, you'll fly by chartered plane out to Mount Paekdu, one of the most important sites in relation to the Kim family. Chongjin, Hamhung and Mount Kumgang are also on the itinerary.

  • Air Koryo boarding pass
  • Air Koryo flight attendants
  • Air Koryo still offers an in-flight meal!
  • Boarding Air Koryo at Beijing capital Airport
  • Air Koryo on the tarmac at Beijing Capital International Airport
  • North Korea's flag is of course on the tail


4. Ride a bike: for the first time, you can bike across parts of North Korea (five-day and nine-day options are available). Pyongyang, Nampo and Sariwon are on the list, as well as Kaesong, the ancient capital. For the long option, you'll also fly to Mount Paekdu by chartered plane for even more scenic cycling. This has never been done before!

5. No taxation: visit Pyongyang in late march to celebrate Tax Abolition Day (March 21, 2010). This is the anniversary of North Korea's abolishing what the sixteenth amendment to the U.S. Constitution permitted. Maybe we'll see some of the "Tea Party" folks on this one?

[photo by David Stanley via Flickr]

Filed under: Arts and Culture, Festivals and Events, Asia, North Korea

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