Introduction
The idea of traveling to a foreign country has become a popular topic of discussion in recent years, especially in the age of the internet and international travel. North Korea is one of the most isolated countries in the world, with citizens not being allowed to travel beyond its borders. This has caused a great deal of curiosity among westerners looking to visit the country. While there are no direct flights between the UK and North Korea, there are a few different ways of getting there. In this article, we will explore the various ways one can fly to North Korea from the UK and the regulations surrounding entry into the country.
Obtaining a Visa
The first step in the journey to North Korea from the UK is securing a visa. In order to apply for a visa, travelers should contact the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) Embassy in London. It is important to note that the DPRK Embassy will only accept applications from UK citizens, as well as citizens of countries that have diplomatic relations with North Korea. The embassy also specifies that all travelers must book their flights to North Korea through an officially-accredited tour operator. These tour operators will then apply for the visa on the traveler’s behalf.
Flights to North Korea
Although there are no direct flights from the UK to North Korea, there are a variety of options when it comes to flying to the country. The most common way to travel to North Korea is via Beijing, as China is one of the few countries that maintains diplomatic relations with the country. The flight from London to Beijing is typically around ten hours, and once in Beijing, travelers will then have to find a flight to Pyongyang.
If you are traveling from other parts of Europe such as Paris, Amsterdam or Berlin, then Iceland Air offers a direct flight from those cities to Pyongyang. However, those traveling from London will still need to take a connecting flight. Another option for UK citizens is to fly via Moscow, though this option may be more expensive and time-consuming.
Regulations and Restrictions
When it comes to traveling to North Korea, there are a few different regulations that must be followed in order to gain entry into the country. Firstly, travelers must obtain a visa prior to arriving in North Korea. Additionally, they must also register their trip with the International Travel Authorization Office, which is a government office responsible for managing all foreign travel and immigration into North Korea.
Once in North Korea, travelers will be subject to a range of restrictions on their movements, activities, and speech. Tourists are also not allowed to leave their hotels without permission and any visits to North Korean sites must be pre-arranged. Tourists should also be aware that photography of any kind is not allowed, and they may be subject to searches or detainment if they are caught taking photos of military or governmental sites.
Safety and Health Concerns
Traveling to North Korea can be a daunting prospect for some, particularly due to the many safety and health concerns associated with the country. The foreign Office has advised travelers against all but essential travel, due to the unpredictability of the country’s government, as well as its nuclear capabilities. They’ve also warned of the potential risks of detainment, as well as the potential for nuclear or conventional war.
When it comes to health, North Korea is facing a number of serious issues, such as malnutrition, poverty, and lack of adequate medical care. The World Health Organization (WHO) has also listed a number of diseases prevalent in the country, including dengue fever, rabies, and tuberculosis. In light of this, it is recommended that travelers seek medical advice before embarking on their trip.
Cost and Insurance
The cost of traveling to North Korea from the UK can vary significantly, depending on the route chosen and the method of travel. A flight from London to Beijing can typically cost anywhere from £250 – £300, while a flight from Beijing to Pyongyang can cost roughly £250-£400.
When it comes to insurance, travelers should ensure they are adequately covered and may want to consider looking for specific coverage for North Korea. It is also important to check if any restrictions may apply in regards to insurance when traveling to North Korea.
Alternate Travel Methods
For those looking to travel to North Korea, but not fly there, there are several alternate solutions. One option could be to take the Trans-Siberian railway, which runs through Russia, Mongolia, and China. It is also possible to take a cruise from Russia’s Vladisvostok which stops in North Korea. A third option is to drive from Beijing, though this is only possible for tourists from China, Russia, or other countries with diplomatic ties with North Korea.
Communication Restrictions
When it comes to communication, North Korea has some of the most restrictive laws in the world. Internet access is severely restricted, and visitors may not be able to access popular websites like Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube. Additionally, mobile devices may be subject to inspection and any devices found containing prohibited information may be confiscated. Thus, it is best to leave these devices at home or switch them off upon arrival.
Conclusion
In conclusion, North Korea is one of the most restricted countries in the world and as such, is a unique travel destination. While direct flights to North Korea are not currently available from the UK, travelers can still fly to the country via China and other countries with diplomatic relations with North Korea. However, it is crucial for travelers to be aware of the numerous restrictions and regulations that apply to visiting the country, and to take all necessary precautions when doing so.
