Public Transportation in Geoje

Geoje, a beautiful island city in South Korea, offers a variety of public transportation options for both locals and expats. The city is well-connected with a network of city buses, intercity buses, and taxis. The city also has a ferry service that connects it to other islands and the mainland. With these options, an expat living in Geoje could comfortably live without a car, relying on the public transportation system and walking. However, having a car could be more convenient for those who prefer to travel at their own pace or need to commute to remote areas.

City Buses

The city buses in Geoje are a convenient and affordable way to get around the city. The buses cover most areas of the city and run at regular intervals. The bus stops are well-marked and have digital displays showing the arrival times of the next buses. The buses are generally safe to take at any time of the day, even for women traveling alone or children going to school. The fare for a single ride is around 1,200 KRW (approximately 1 USD), which can be paid in cash or by using a transportation card. However, the bus routes can be a bit confusing for newcomers, so it's recommended to use a navigation app to find the best routes.

Intercity Buses

Intercity buses connect Geoje with other cities in South Korea, such as Busan, Seoul, and Incheon. The buses are comfortable and equipped with amenities like reclining seats, air conditioning, and free Wi-Fi. The intercity bus terminals in Geoje are located in Gohyeon and Okpo. The buses run throughout the day and night, making it easy to plan trips to other cities. The fare varies depending on the distance, but a trip from Geoje to Busan costs around 7,000 KRW (approximately 6 USD).

Taxis

Taxis are another common mode of transportation in Geoje. They are available 24/7 and can be hailed on the street or booked through a mobile app. The taxis are metered, and the fare starts at 3,000 KRW (approximately 2.5 USD). The drivers are generally polite and helpful, but they may not speak English, so it's a good idea to have the destination address written in Korean. Taxis are a convenient option for short trips or when carrying heavy luggage.

Ferry Service

Geoje's ferry service is a unique and scenic way to travel to the nearby islands and the mainland. The ferries are large and well-maintained, offering stunning views of the sea and the islands. The main ferry terminals in Geoje are located in Gohyeon and Okpo. The ferry schedules and fares vary depending on the destination, but a trip from Geoje to Oedo Island costs around 15,000 KRW (approximately 13 USD). The ferries are safe and reliable, but they may be affected by weather conditions.

In conclusion, Geoje's public transportation system is efficient and affordable, making it possible for expats to live without a car. However, understanding the bus routes and ferry schedules may take some time. Therefore, it's recommended to use navigation apps and ask locals for help when needed.