Travel to the United States

When I think of "Seattle," I think of rain, movies (like "Sleepless Nights in Seattle"), and the Boeing Museum. This was my first time visiting Pike Place Market, and I'd never heard of it before. I was surprised on my first visit. Review of Pike Place MarketI'll try.

3 Reasons to Visit Pike Place Market

While traveling in Seattle, I visited all the must-see tourist attractions. However, among them, If I had to pick the most memorable place, it would definitely be Pike Place Market.am.

This place is 🔎It's huge, like the [Airplane Museum]It doesn't offer the same stunning night views as Kerry Park, but there's a reason I still remember Pike Place Market as a Seattle icon.

I started off with a grandiose story, but in the end Today's visit review of Pike Place MarketI'm trying to leave a comment on Klook. There is a walking tour that includes Pike Place, so be sure to check it out.I hope you try it.

Before reading this article, check out this video to better understand Seattle's must-see attractions!

👉 Watch the video about Seattle's must-see destinations.

1. Clam Chowder

There is one food you must try at Pike Place Market and that is Clam chowderThis dish is an American dish made with clams and various seafood, and it has a taste that is quite familiar and friendly to us.

Even though it was my first time trying it, my family and I were very familiar with the taste, so I expect it will suit the Korean palate quite well. Just as clams go well with kalguksu (noodles), the smooth soup and the clams' texture go quite well together.

Pike Place Market, located on the waterfront, boasts an abundance of seafood, which perhaps explains why it tasted even fresher and more delicious. If you're visiting Seattle, I highly recommend trying the clam chowder.

So where can you get some? Many restaurants around the market sell clam chowder, but I recommend 📍Pike Place Chowder (Google Maps) I recommend a restaurant called .

• Address: 600 Pine St, Seattle, WA 98101, USA
• Business hours: Opens at 11am, closes daily

This place is It is clearly a popular place for many locals and tourists.do.

Menu descriptions are available in Chinese, Japanese, and Korean via QR code, and I saw quite a few groups of Korean customers while I was dining there.

The absence of tipping is a distinguishing feature, and the chowder is reasonably priced. With regular hamburgers and street food burgers costing upwards of $10, a bowl of piping hot chowder is easily available for around $10.

However, we recommend avoiding lunchtime and weekends as you may have to wait in long lines.

📌 Pike Place Bar & Grill

The restaurant I'd like to introduce this time is not only a place that serves clam chowder, but also a place that has a strong local feel.

It wasn't well known to travelers and it wasn't a place my family had ever wanted to visit. I'm introducing this store because I happened to come across it and the satisfaction level was very high.I want to do it.

Judging by the interior and atmosphere, it's clear that the place has been around for quite some time, much like the market's history. The staff were very friendly, and the food was quite delicious, so I absolutely had to leave a review.

We ordered cream pasta, steak, and salad instead of clam chowder. Even for families with relatively picky palates, both taste and price are acceptable.(The clam chowder here also gets pretty high marks.)

• Restaurant name : Pike Place Bar & Grill
• address : 📍90 Pike St, Seattle, WA 98101, USA (Check Google Maps)
• Business hours : Weekdays 10:00 AM - 8:30 PM

2. Throwing fish

Even if you're not familiar with Pike Place Market, you've probably seen footage of fishmongers shouting and throwing fish at the fishmongers. I've been there too.

I was deeply moved to see with my own eyes a sight I had only seen on TV.All I could do was do it. Fish ThrowingThis was the work done by fishmongers to move fish quickly and efficiently.

However, as it has been introduced and received attention from many people, it has become a tradition of this market and tourists come to the market just to see this performance.

I was also lucky enough to witness the fish-throwing performance, which has become a Pike Place Market tradition. While it's not actually held at a set time, it seems like they do it whenever there's a large crowd.

Many locals and tourists cheered and enjoyed the sight.

In fact, there are many reasons to visit Pike Place Market other than the fish-throwing performance.

The scenery here is very exotic. It's hard to call it just a market. A diverse atmosphere, products, and the oldest market in the United States. It was enough to have the title of one of them.

Also, I can't quite put it into words, but I felt that complex emotion that traditional markets possess: the liveliness, the smiles of sellers and buyers, and the lives of Seattle residents.

3. Starbucks 1st store

This is the first Starbucks store in the US, which I frequent often…

This place is definitely worth a visit for its significance alone. It was unexpected, but it was located right across the street from Pike Place Market. 🔎Starbucks 1st Store (Check out the atmosphere in a 30-second video).

Whenever a special Starbucks opened in Korea, I always went there. I love to see where Starbucks stores are located, how they're decorated, and what menu items they offer. So, I observed the first store with a curious eye.

As a historic site, it's no wonder many travelers have been drawn to its coffee scene. Perhaps that's why so many people are lining up in such a seemingly unremarkable place.

I found out It opens at 6 a.m., so if you get there by 9 a.m., you can get coffee without having to wait in line like that.He said.

Leaving behind our regrets, our family left Starbucks after taking only a few photos. Our schedule prevented us from doing so, but we were determined to try the coffee next time we visited, even if it meant forcing ourselves to do so.

In closing

My trip to Seattle made me think about a lot of things. It doesn't matter if the city has a lot to offer or if it doesn't have a lot of flashy signs or attractions. Seattle is a place that calms the mind just by thinking about it.Could this be it?

Even though it was only a short two-night, three-day stay, I think I can understand why so many people love this rainy city. Perhaps that's why I still talk about Seattle so often, even though it's been quite some time since I left.

🎬 Watch the next episode of our US trip 👉 https://youtu.be/LLs0eK_ZBSk?si=i7yT0SFinqkDr6Oe

🔻A better article when read together🔻

• 📚 Seattle Family Trip Essentials: 5 Must-See Spots Recommended by a Dad in His 40s

• 📍The Complete Guide to the Seattle Museum of Flight: A Must-See Aviation Museum for Kids

📋 Here are the key information covered in this article!

• The process from booking to returning a US rental car in 2025
• San Francisco Airport → Seattle 1,300km route
• Actual cost incurred ($825.21 rent + $120.9 gas)
• Medford mid-night accommodations, including breakfast and accommodation tips ($90 per night)
• How to Use and Be Careful at Gas Stations in the U.S.

It will be much easier to understand if you watch the video before reading this article.

🎥 Watch a video of a rental car trip through the western United States.

🛫 Step 1: Your journey begins at the San Francisco International Airport rental car center.

Rental car reservation and pickup

Alamo rental car: Book online through search!

• Among several companies offering one-way rental cars from San Francisco to Seattle, we offer the most reasonable rates!
• Actual rent: $825.21 (3 nights, 4 days, one way)
  • Internet payment $400, additionally visit the rental car and pay the remaining $425.

📌Check out rental car prices from San Francisco to Seattle!

• Check out KLOOK rental car prices!

• Check out Trip.com rental car prices!

🚨 Things you should never forget when renting a car

Generally, an international driver's license is required. I'll leave instructions on how to obtain one below, so if you plan to rent a car in the United States, make sure you get one!

1. International Driving Permit (Required): 🔎[Simple method of issuing an international driver's license] Go to check
2. Credit card/check card in your name (Payment with another person's card is not allowed)
3. Passport (for identification)

There were several similar SUVs to choose from in my price range, including the Hyundai Tucson and the Nissan Rogue.

But, since the Tucson had maintenance issues, I ended up choosing the Nissan Rogue. It is a compact SUV with good basic options and cruise control, making it suitable for long-distance driving in the United States.I did it.

Rental car pickup location: 📍780 N McDonnell Rd, San Francisco, CA 94128 USA

🛣️ Step 2: A Practical Guide to Driving on Western US Highways

U.S. Traffic Laws Korean Drivers Must Know

American highways are different from those in Korea. There are many highways that are primarily straight. Therefore, driving can be done without too much danger as long as you keep to your lane, but there are some precautions that must be followed.

• No passing on the right – Passing only in the left lane
• When a school bus stops, all vehicles stop. (both directions)
• Proceed after stopping completely at the STOP sign

🚛 Large Truck Precautions

Countless large trailers (aka "Optimus Primes") travel the highways. Therefore, maintaining a safe distance is paramount. Drive carefully!

🏨 Step 3: Stay in Medford – Choose a Stopover

Rogue Regency Inn & Suites Detailed Review

샌프란시스코에서 시애틀까지 13시간을 한 번에 운전하는 건, 쉽지 않은 일이죠. 특히 처음 미국 운전이라면 더욱 그럴 수 있습니다. 그래서 저희는 중간쯤 되는 거리에 메드퍼드라는 지역에 숙소를 잡았습니다.

Although it felt a bit old in the traditional American style building, I am very satisfied with the cleanliness and comfort of the place and the affordable price for one night.I did it.

location: 2300 Biddle Rd, Medford, OR 97504
rating: 2-star hotel
Actual cost: $90/night (family of 3, 2 beds, breakfast included)

💰 How to Apply American Tipping Culture in Practice

• Breakfast Tips: $5 (free but to the server)
• Housekeeping Tips: $5 (at checkout)
• Tip calculation method: $1-2 per person for free meals, 10-20% for food cost when paying for breakfast

Medford is a medium-sized city in Oregon. The perfect location for a break midway between San Francisco and Seattle.(There is a Five Guys hamburger chain nearby!)

⛽ Step 4: Mastering American Gas Stations

Key Differences Between Korean and American Gas Stations

Select octane:

• In the rental car Regular 87 Select (cheapest)
• Premium or Plus is not necessary

Unit difference:

• United States: Gallon
• 1 gallon = 3.78 liters

💡 Tips for refueling

I once made the mistake of entering the gallons instead of the dollar amount at the gas pump. It was my first time filling up in the US, so I ended up filling up twice because of the mistake. Knowing this in advance will help you avoid embarrassment.

🚨 Precautions when returning a rental car The rental car Return fully chargedThis is the basics. If you return the car without refueling, you will have to pay a fine that is much higher than the cost of refueling, so be sure to fully refuel at a gas station right before returning it.do!

👉 Actual fuel cost: $120.9 (1,300km + city driving included)

🍜 Step 5: Experience local food after arriving in Seattle

Marugame Udon's Seattle branch is a hot topic among young people.

The first restaurant I stopped at upon arriving in Seattle was Marugame UdonIt was. I wanted to experience the same excitement I experienced while traveling in Hawaii in Seattle.

The prices are reasonable, there's no tipping, and you can enjoy delicious udon. (📌Check out the video for a review!)

characteristic:

• Easy access due to its location within a large shopping mall
• Especially popular with young people (hip vibe)
• Same menu and serving system as Hawaii Marugame Udon

💸 Total Cost of a Rental Car Trip in the Western US Revealed

For a family of three, I'll share the rental car costs and accommodation costs for a three-night, four-day trip from San Francisco to Seattle. I hope this information will be helpful to anyone planning a rental car trip in the western United States.

Disclosure of actual expenditure details

• Rental car cost: $825.21 (Alamo, 1 night, 2 days, one way)
• Gas costs: $120.9 (1,300 km driven)
• Accommodation: $90 (1 night in Medford, breakfast included) + $405 (2 nights for 3 people at a Seattle hotel)
• tip: $10 (Breakfast + Housekeeping)
• aggregate: Approximately $1,451 (excluding snacks, Boeing Museum fees, coffee, and other meal prices)

🎯 Key Points for a Rental Car Trip in the Western US

✅ Things you must check

1. Check out companies offering one-way rentals – Not all companies allow one-way transfers. (Please check return and refueling conditions)
2. International Driving Permit Validity Period – Be sure to check before departure
3. credit card limit - Secure sufficient limits, including deposits
4. Weather information – Even in the West, the temperature difference is large depending on the season.

🌧️ Seattle Weather Features

It rained on the day of my arrival, but I was able to experience Seattle's characteristically gloomy yet charming atmosphere.

📱 Tips for Using Highway Rest Areas

How to Use American-Style Rest Areas

Unlike rest areas in Korea, in the US Various franchises at each highway interchangeIt is located in a convenient location, so it is easier and more convenient to use than you might think.

• Signs for Starbucks, McDonald's, In-N-Out, etc. are visible from the highway.
• When you exit, there are supermarkets, restaurants, and gas stations all gathered together.
• Both restroom use and meals are available.
• Re-entering the highway is not complicated either.

👨‍👦 The meaning and memories of a family trip

Special time with my teenage son

Running the long distance of 1,300km together, I was able to have many conversations with my son, with whom I usually had difficulty talking.

The conversation that took place naturally in the confined space of a car was a more valuable experience than any other trip.

If I had taken a plane, it would have taken 1-2 hours to get there, but This time spent with my family is a precious memory that cannot be exchanged for anything else.This has become the case.

If you haven't seen the video yet, be sure to check out my US rental car travel video on my YouTube channel!

✈️ Check out our Western US rental car travel guide

🎬 Want to know more about my travel story?

You can find vivid footage of this trip and more episodes on our family's YouTube channel, which captures every moment of our world travels with my teenage son.

📺 Traveling YouTube Channel: https://youtube.co.kr/@traveljoong

finish

Traveling by rental car in the United States was initially a bit concerning, but the experience proved to be well worth the challenge. The time spent in the car with my family, in particular, created unforgettable memories.

All the scenery I saw while driving along National Route 5 remains vivid in my memory. I hope you too will find the courage to take on the challenge, and I hope this article will be of some help.

If you found this review helpful, please visit our YouTube channel. More travel stories and vivid videos await you!

📌Good articles to read together

• ✅ 40대 가족 여행, 국제운전면허증, 온라인 신청, 5분 만에 끝내는 방법

• 📌 5 Must-Know Facts About Traveling to the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, USA

We've visited six must-see places in Silicon Valley. We've compiled a complete guide, from local operating hours to admission fees and parking tips. Google, Apple, Stanford University, and even the Farmer's Market are all perfectly organized.So, before you travel, be sure to check!

📌 Before reading this article, it will be much easier to understand if you watch the video below.
🎥 Watch the Silicon Valley video

1. Apple Park Visitor Center (Cupertino)

Apple Visitor Center This space, built with eco-friendliness and boasting a clear view and well-organized interior, perfectly matches Apple's image.no see.

On the first floor, you can experience all of Apple's products and view Apple Park in 3D augmented reality.

You can enjoy your leisure time on the second floor outdoor rooftop with a view of Silicon Valley while holding a cafe latte ($10) purchased at the Apple Cafe.

• address : 10600 North Tantau Avenue, Cupertino, CA 95014
• Operating hours : Mon-Sat 10:00-19:00 / Sun 11:00-18:00
• entrance fee : free
• Why it's popular
  • For Apple fans, the 'AR Experience' where you can experience the Apple Park campus through AR, the loft-style design store, and limited-edition goods are attractive.
• You must go here!
  • A great place to take shots overlooking the entire campus from a secluded corner of the rooftop terrace.
  • Check out and participate in the free workshop schedule of 'Today at Aplle' (e.g. photography, video work classes, etc.)

2. Google Visitor Experience – Mountain View

The Google Visitor Experience is a dream destination for creators around the world. It's about a 10-minute walk from the parking lot, and you can reach the Visitor Experience in just two minutes by using one of the nearby Google bikes.

The world's best IT company A place where you can freely stroll around Google's campus and feel the atmosphere.no see.

• address : 2000 N Shoreline Blvd, View, CA 94043
• Operating hours : Mon-Sat 9:00-18:00 / Sun 9:00-18:00
• entrance fee : free
• Why is it popular?
  • A space where technology, art, and community come together, featuring freely accessible workshops and pop-up exhibitions.
• You must go here!
  • Park at Alta Garage and walk (4-8 minutes). You can also visit without shopping or attending an event.
  • We also recommend taking a break at nearby Charleston Park with a cup of coffee at the Google Cafe.

3. Stanford University

Stanford University is one of the best universities in the United States. A prestigious school that has produced many CEOs in Silicon Valley.is known as.

It has become a popular tourist attraction, especially for its spacious campus grounds and atmosphere.

• address : Stanford University
• Operating hours : Daily 10:00-16:00
• entrance fee : $8 (Free for children 3 and under, free for Stanford students)
• Why it's popular
  • Unobstructed views of the campus and San Francisco from afar! An iconic location that also offers a sense of academic sensibility.
• You must visit here!
  • On game days, parking is available in public parking lots with sidewalk access instead of paid parking ($1.50/h).
  • Tickets can be purchased on the first floor of Hoover Tower.

4. Stanford University Campus

• address : Stanford Main Campus
• Operating hours : Most public spaces are always open, but may vary by building.
• entrance fee : free
• Why is it popular?
  • A campus retreat with artistic spaces like Rodin's sculpture gardens and clean amenities.
• You must visit here!
  • Rodin Garden is best enjoyed by taking a walk in the quiet morning.
  • The restrooms at Arrillaga Restaurant are cleaner and more spacious than public restrooms.
  • Student-guided campus tours depart at 11:30 and 15:30, and are available by reservation.

5. Mountain View Farmers' Market

This is the largest local farmers' market in the Mountain View area, where you can meet the vibrant local community. Meeting friendly farmersIt will be an opportunity to experience America in a new way.

• address : 600 W Evelyn Ave, Mountain View, CA 94041
• Operating hours : Sunday 9:00-13:00 (Open even when it rains)
• entrance fee : Free, accessible to people with disabilities
• Why is it popular?
  • This is a local farmers' market open only on weekends, where you can enjoy fresh, affordable produce and a local atmosphere.
• You must go here!
  • The vendors at the back of the market have a wide variety of items and are more likely to bargain.
  • Free/cheap parking on Hope ST and Bryant St

6. Super Duper Burgers

Super Duper Burger is a burger restaurant known as a representative franchise in San Francisco. It's not a cheap, light fast food burger, but A restaurant with a luxury strategyno see.

• address : 737 Irving St, San Francisco, CA 94122
• Operating hours : Sun-Thu 10:30-21:30 / Fri-Sat 10:30-22:00
• Why is it popular?
  • High-quality burgers made with organic patties, Happy Hour fries, and discounted drinks make it popular with locals and tourists alike.
• You must go here!
  • Happy Hour, Mon-Fri 4-6pm: Discount on fries and drinks

If you haven't watched the video yet, I recommend you read the text above!
👉 Watch the Silicon Valley video

finish

Silicon Valley in the US is a great place to travel with your family. The roads are nice, there are lots of gardens, and the traffic is not too crowded.

6 Must-Visit Places in Silicon ValleyI tried it. I hope the information above helps you on your trip.

🔻Good articles to read together🔻

• 2025 US Car Rental Travel Costs Included | San Francisco Airport to Seattle (1,300km)
• Seattle Family Trip Essentials: 5 Must-See Spots Recommended by a Dad in His 40s

The biggest concern when traveling to the US, Tipping culturecast 20 years of experienceI learned from him. 17-day family trip to Hawaii/USA I experienced it firsthand during No tip calculation mistakes How to do it in 10 secondsclass Budget-friendly dining tips to save moneyis now released.

How to Calculate Tips When Traveling in the US

 

I'm traveling the world with my teenage son. We decided to visit the United States and Hawaii, and the biggest concern was actually the financial aspect. Since I have to pay for every meal, I couldn't help but be concerned about tipping.

미국에서 여행하는 17일 동안 비싼 물가와 팁 속에서 어떻게 절약하며 여행했고 팁을 줘야 하는 식당에서는 어떻게 팁을 계산해야 하는지를 정리 해보려고 한다.

1. Restaurants in the US where tipping is required

 

If you've ever eaten at a restaurant in the United States, you probably know that tipping is a must. That's because tipping is the primary source of income for those providing service.

So if you don't tip,‘I think it means that you are very dissatisfied with your service.‘' is done.

Restaurants in Hawaii and the US where tipping is required Includes all restaurants that come to each table with a menu, take orders, and serve food.Yes. Usually, in these restaurants, you have to tip between 15% and 25%, and the choice is up to the customer.

The restaurant above is the breakfast restaurant of a hotel I stayed at in Portland, Oregon. In South Korea, tipping is not required when eating breakfast included in a hotel restaurant, but in the United States, it's different.

Although I was aware of American tipping culture, I had no idea that tipping was even required at hotel breakfast restaurants. This is likely to be a confusing prospect for Koreans traveling to the US for the first time.

In American restaurants, you can pay by card and choose to tip, but here, I didn't have to pay separately, so I finished eating. Most people leave a tip of about $5 in cash on the table.It was.

2. Restaurants where you don't have to tip

 

but, There are also tip-free restaurants in the US.Here it is. First of all, it is a fast food restaurant that you are all familiar with.

For example, most restaurants such as McDonald's, Burger King, KFC, and IN & OUT have customers come in and order, and when it is their turn, they have to take their own food and clean up after they finish eating.

I've often wondered if this difference in tipping might be one of the reasons Americans flock to fast-food restaurants so often. It seems clear that tips make up a significant portion of their economy.

In these cases, restaurants are free from tipping. You pay at the place where you pay. Tip BoxHowever, in my case, I have never received exceptionally good service or felt friendly at these fast food restaurants, so I have never tipped.

The photo above is a very famous restaurant in Honolulu, Hawaii. This is Marugame Udon. In this restaurant, customers have to stand in line to order, get their food, sit at a table, and even clean up after themselves.

A restaurant that is not only delicious but also reasonably priced so you don't have to spend money on tipping.That's why I ate at this restaurant once a day.

🎬 Hawaii No-Tipping Restaurant VideoWatch with 👉 https://youtu.be/KOYcGgp0abU?si=NcQ78kApAtwr8TJa

3. A reasonable way to calculate tips

 

When traveling in the United States, you can't always eat at restaurants where tipping isn't required.

Sometimes we need to have a meal or a drink at a nice restaurant or a pub with an American feel, and that's when we ‘How can I tip appropriately without offending the other person?‘I start to think about it.

I heard some very sensible advice from my brother, who has lived in the US for 20 years and currently lives in San Francisco with his family, and it was so clear that I wanted to share it with other confused travelers to the US like me.

• Choose one of 15%, 18%, or 25%

When paying by card, you're usually given a choice of one of the percentages listed above. Deciding which one to choose can be daunting, but the choice is surprisingly simple.

First, I tell them If you received satisfactory service or felt the service was very friendly, you can choose the 18% tip line. However, in all other cases, you can choose the 15% tip line without hesitation.You can do it.

• (Food price + service charge / tax) 15%? Is this correct?

Koreans vaguely know that in the US, a tip is supposed to be around 10-15%.

However, it is a very sensitive issue for the giver to tip 15%, which is the price including service charge and tax, and to tip 15%, which is the price of the food.

And most restaurants only offer the 15%, 18%, and 25%, which naturally include service charge and tax.

For those who don't know much, they will choose 15% and 18% without any resistance and also don't know which one is the problem.

However, according to my younger brother who has lived in the US for 20 years, ‘'Paying 15%, the price of the meal excluding service charge and tax, is the most reasonable, and there is no problem calculating and paying the tip that way.'’He says confidently.

In most cases, Users can also input their own tips without selecting the three preset tips%.. So, you can calculate the exact price of the food (15%) and add the service charge, tax, etc. to pay the tip.

It wasn't a problem at all, even though my brother and I continued to pay like that while traveling in the US.

Example) If $150 (food price) + $30 (service/tax), then $150 x 0.15 = $22.5 Add $150 (food price) + $30 (service/tax) + $22.5 (tip 15%) to pay $202.5You can do it.

Know the exact calculation method and give tips

 

You can choose one of the three preset tip options and give a comfortable tip. Perhaps you can even give more than 25% to receive the best service without resorting to the complicated calculations above.

However, the reason why I shared the calculation method above is It means that you should know and give tips even if you give too much.am.

I'm writing this because I don't know how much I should tip or what an appropriate tip level is, and I hope that people don't give tips without knowing that the restaurant has already calculated the tip with tax added to it.

🎬 Watch Hawaii videosdo

(EP 1) Hawaii Travel: Don't Know This or You'll Be "Finally Fined" 👉 https://youtu.be/xTUTZREQYA0?si=1pv4OlKWoThbLX6R
(EP 2) Hawaii Family Trip 🌺 7-Night Budget-Friendly Accommodation 👉 https://youtu.be/um4m0b8JlgM?si=u8NHM4ipFlHvA5A0

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• 📚 2025 US Car Rental Travel Costs Included | San Francisco Airport to Seattle (1,300km)

• 📌 If it's your first time in San Francisco, this is a must-see. will do 5 Travel Tips (with Video)

• ✅ Seattle Family Trip Essentials: 5 Must-See Spots Recommended by a Dad in His 40s