If cities were human beings: Seoul would be an assertive businessman, while Busan would be a boisterous sailor. Indeed, South Korea’s second-largest city is full of spirit and character, with miles of beaches, vibrant nightlife, and an unrivaled food scene.
Continue reading Busan: A Trip to the Dynamic Coastal CityExpensive, exclusive and elite are the most appropriate words to describe Seoul’s Gangnam district. It’s indeed a place to see and be seen, filled with high-end real estate, luxury boutiques and glimmering skyscrapers. But fifty years ago, this area was nothing more than a vast countryside; home to rice paddies and pear farms. And everything you see today has been built since then.
Continue reading Gangnam District: From Zero to HeroThe sizzling sound, the irresistible aroma and the savoury meat, Korean barbecue has never failed to impress hungry visitors. This dish has extended beyond the borders of its home country, becoming the favourite of many people around the globe. And certainly, a trip to South Korea will never be completed without this grilling experience.
Continue reading A Culinary Journey to Korea: Korean BarbecueHome to pristine nature, Jeju has long been South Korea’s most favourite domestic holiday destination. A natural wonder just off the southern coast of the country – the island offers a stark contrast to the concrete jungle in Seoul or Busan, with fresh air, lush green landscapes and exquisite beaches.
Continue reading Jeju: South Korea’s Natural WonderTeddy bears are no longer just regular toys. Since their introduction some 100 years ago, those bear cubs have been loved and cherished by nearly every boy and girl on this planet. I was no exception. Hence, when seeing the Teddy Bear Museum in Jeju, I couldn’t stop myself from getting in. It’s simply a trip to childhood.
Continue reading Back to Childhood at Jeju Teddy Bear MuseumEvidence of a turbulent creation, East Jeju is characterised by black cliffs, hundreds of extinct volcanoes and craters. It was a desolate land, filled with rocks and lava stones. But Mother Nature has revitalised this part of the island, transforming it into a picturesque landscape with impressive rock formations, lush green meadows and silver grass fields.
Continue reading East Jeju: The Tale of A Dramatic CoastThough incredibly beautiful, the western half of Jeju is somewhat wilder and generally less accessible than East Jeju. Tour buses usually don’t halt here and people who go to this area are mostly locals. But for travellers who decided to explore this part of the island, they will be rewarded with unspoilt terrain and experiences that they can find nowhere else.
Continue reading West Jeju: A Journey Off the Beaten PathPerching on a sea cliff in northeastern Busan, Haedong Yongungsa is undoubtedly one of Korea’s most impressive worship places. The temple is widely known for its stunning ocean view, its architectural beauty, as well as the enigmatic phenomenon that occurred throughout its 600-year history.
Continue reading Haedong Yonggungsa: Spirituality by the SeaA hillside labyrinth filled with vivid colourful houses, Gamcheon is a destination for travellers with an interest in art and history. The village has emerged from the dust of poverty to become one of Busan’s most unique attractions. Here and there, quirky murals and eccentric figures spring up, adding an artistic touch to a lesser-known part of the city.
Continue reading Gamcheon: The Artistic Side of BusanNestled in the scenic Seoraksan National Park, Kensington Hotel Seorak is the closest accommodation to Korea’s most famous vacation area. With mahogany interior and royal emblems, the hotel surely evokes the graceful atmosphere of a British royal residence.
Continue reading Kensington Hotel Seorak: A British Touch in SeoraksanA picturesque landscape in which red and golden autumnal forest dotted by majestic rocks and small mountain streams, Mount Seoraksan has long been a favourite destination for both Koreans and international travellers. The mountain changes its colour according to each season. But fall in the area is considered amongst the most beautiful in the entire Korean Peninsula.
Continue reading Seoraksan: The Autumn DestinationFusing media art and traditional Korean performing arts, the troupe and production team of “Sim Cheong” has created a magical performance that highlights filial piety – a virtue that’s highly valued in Korean society.
Continue reading Sim Cheong: A Magical PerformanceA little slice of nature in the middle of Seoul, Namsan is a popular destination for both locals and foreign tourists. The mountain is well-known for its beautiful hiking trails which allow visitors to experience the local wildlife and to enjoy the view over the city. When autumn comes, Namsan is blanketed with vivid golden and red leaves, turning it into the city’s most scenic location.
Continue reading Namsan: Autumn in the South MountainFor all the world, Seoul is a megacity filled with skyscrapers and high-tech facilities. It’s widely known as South Korea’s powerhouse and the origin of Hallyu and K-pop. However, hidden beneath this modern facade are 600-years-old history and traditions. These values coexist with modern city life, creating an identity for one of Asia’s most interesting cities.
Continue reading Joseon Dynasty Through Architecture in Seoul
