About Tour Guide David a. M.

“Unforgettable day in Seoul with David Mason”

David's full day walking tour of Seoul was one of the best travel experiences we've ever had. It rained from morning to late afternoon, and we honestly didn't notice. His captivating commentary, insights and stories about living and working in Korea kept us absorbed from start to finish. We're seasoned travellers, yet after a day with someone so knowledgeable, we found ourselves questioning whether we've ever truly experienced any of the other countries we've visited. David goes far beyond the landmarks. He gives you a real feel for the city, its history, its people, the culture and daily life, the kind of understanding you simply can't get from a guidebook. I’m sure a native Korean guide would offer a wonderful perspective of their own, but there was something special about hearing from someone who has spent 45 years living and working here after growing up elsewhere. David knows what surprises and puzzles newcomers, and he answered questions we hadn't even thought to ask. Most importantly, he clearly loves this country and that came across every moment of our time together. If you're heading to Seoul, book David. Your tour with him will be the highlight of your time in Seoul. Pack a raincoat if the forecast looks grim, but the weather won't matter. Highly, highly, highly recommended.

David a. M.

(24 reviews)

I'm really glad that you enjoyed our tour, and got so much out of it! I really enjoyed you guys as clients, so interested. I hope that you visit Korea again.... David

“Hours well spent”

Our visit to the museum took place on our first day in Seoul. David used the exhibits in the museum to give us a very helpful outline of the history of South Korea and its people. His knowledge of the country, its culture and its history appears to be extensive and informed by his many years of residence in Seoul. Having grown up in the USA his English is fluent and expressive. He was a delightful guide.

David a. M.

(24 reviews)

Thanks, I'm really glad you got so much out of it; it was my pleasure to guide you in the spectacular National Museum. I hope that you return to Korea someday for more insight and beauty! David

“Touring with a Guide of Exceptional Knowledge ”

If you are interested in understanding Korea beyond the basics, I’d definitely recommend spending time with Prof. David Mason. Today I spent 8 hours with Prof. Mason, a tourist professor and scholar and contributor to Lonely Planet’s Korea content. I chose him through Gowithguide because his background matched my interest in Korean history - from early archeological findings to the formation of Korea today. In those 8 hours , he took me through Korea’s past in a way that was richly informative and easy to follow. I could listen to him for hours. At the national museum of Korea , he walked me through the early kingdoms, and around Seoul City Hall ( both old and new buildings ) and he connected that history to modern Korea. I appreciated that he adapted the day to my interests in a thoughtful in depth way and answered all of my questions without hesitation. I’m looking forward to continuing to learn from him by following him on FB and exploring his ebooks.

David a. M.

(24 reviews)

I really enjoyed guiding you, so interested to learn, and am glad you got so much value out of that tour. I hope you return to Korea for more, someday! David