Meet Nicholas Bonner, the founder of Beijing-based Koryo Tours, which since the '90s has specialized in taking tourists to one of the last undiscovered nations: North Korea
When I read about the tourism in the DPRK I marvel that my experience is so unique.
I've been invited to teach in high schools 3 times and given booths at the Book Fairs twice. I've also been to events near the Marshal, but not with any contact.
All as an unsupported individual with no oganizational support, following 2 tourist trips (for some reason, ostracized by the other tourists in these groups).
I'm usually allowed to wander alone among the locals and visit local stores and such. The only foreign contact during these outings has been with a few Russians.
Other than the first 2 tours, Ive been invited 5 times and once on a private tour with my wife and an American author.
I was invited back in 2020 but it was cancelled due to COVID.
When I read about the tourism in the DPRK I marvel that my experience is so unique.
I've been invited to teach in high schools 3 times and given booths at the Book Fairs twice. I've also been to events near the Marshal, but not with any contact.
All as an unsupported individual with no oganizational support, following 2 tourist trips (for some reason, ostracized by the other tourists in these groups).
I'm usually allowed to wander alone among the locals and visit local stores and such. The only foreign contact during these outings has been with a few Russians.
Other than the first 2 tours, Ive been invited 5 times and once on a private tour with my wife and an American author.
I was invited back in 2020 but it was cancelled due to COVID.
Fascinating - wonderful photos too !