The Gyeongsangnam-do province in South Korea has just launched a new service called “Gangsaeng-irang Gaeng-irang,” aimed at helping pet owners find pet-friendly attractions, accommodations, cafes, and walking trails all in one place. This pet travel map allows users to contribute their own experiences and information by adding details about locations and writing reviews.
Key Features of the Service:
- User Interaction: Pet owners can leave “like” ratings and share their experiences. They can also request additions to the map for any missing pet-friendly places.
- Custom Itineraries: Users can create personalized travel routes by selecting locations and see the travel time for each route. Maps can be saved or shared on social media.
- Addressing Information Gaps: The service aims to consolidate scattered information about pet-friendly travel options, addressing the growing demand from pet owners who’ve struggled to find comprehensive resources.
Trends in Pet Travel:
A report by the Korea Tourism Organization indicates:
- High Demand: 74.1% of respondents traveled domestically with a dog in the past year, and a similar percentage plans to do so within the coming year.
- Information Gaps: 46.4% noted a lack of pet-friendly accommodations, 44.8% pointed to a shortage of pet-friendly dining options, and 35.7% mentioned a lack of attractions.
Photo Exhibition:
To celebrate this launch, there will also be a photo exhibition entitled “Off-Season for Looks, A Fleeting Moment,” featuring homely pets. The exhibition has various prizes for participants, including a pet drying room and a pet stroller.
Jang Jae-hyeok from the Urban Housing Bureau emphasized that this initiative allows pet owners to access relevant information in one place and encourages them to share their experiences. The province plans to continue enhancing useful services for travelers with pets.
