Hi All,

If anyone here has gone on a trip from Japan to Busan or knows the ins and outs of the place and has the patience to answer my questions, I would appreciate it sooo greatly... I will be visiting South Korea for the first time, having lived in Japan for 1.5 years, and all the stuff I will carry with me has been acquired in Japan. My brain now only knows what it's like to live in Japan and needs to prepare for a visit elsewhere.

So here I go:

1) I have a Shinsei Bank debit card (not a credit card) that works like a charm at 7eleven ATMs and post office ATMs in Japan. Will I be able to withdraw money using this card at ATMs in Busan? Which ATMs would you recommend for Japanese debit cards, which banks/ATMs should I avoid?

2) Where should I get some Korean money - what is cheaper: exchange in Japan or in Busan?

3) Any tips on mobile phone rental?

4) Has anyone had any problems bringing stuff from South Korea to Japan? Are there any unusual/surprising restrictions? (electronics, alcohol, cosmetics, food - all for personal use)

5) Is it easy to buy a laptop with Windows in English in Busan? Please bear with me and don't ask why I need Windows and why in English

6) Hidden gems to discover that are left out in tourist guides and are generally unknown to the outside world but worth seeing? Any category is OK.

7) Any areas in the city no one should go to?

8) Are taxis expensive compared to those in Japanese cities such as Fukuoka, Hiroshima, Okayama?

9) Do I need to be careful with taxi drivers, street sellers? I simply have no clue what it's like in places like Busan. I was living in Shanghai and Shenzhen for a few months two years ago and cheating was quite a headache there.

10) How about wi-fi? Is it easier to get online on the go than in Japan?


Many thanks in advance for any relevant answers to any of the above questions!

Cheers
efeilliaid