#koreatrip

#koreatrip 📍Thrill On The Mug, Busan, South Korea Chanced upon this café that’s located nearby Huinnyeoul Cultural Village in Busan and decided to have a rest and some coffee! The café is a 2 storey building, whereby multiple seating areas are available, both indoor and outdoor. It was raining during our visit thus indoor seating it is! The warm lighting in store sets a warm and inviting tone, while the ceiling to floor transparent glass windows offering spectacular views of Busan scenic sea views adds to the charm. This sea view café feels like a cozy place to have a small talk and dates where time slows down! Such a vibe!

#koreatrip Visit this charming island when travelling to Jeju island: Udo! It’s an hour drive away from the city centre, definitely worth the visit! Cars are not allowed to board the ferry ride to Udo unless you are staying in Udo for the night. Also, if weather is bad, the ferry ride will be suspended so it very much depends on the weather. Be sure to check the weather forecast ahead! Udo is a small charming island featuring its coastal road, peanut ice cream and cute mini EV ride. Visitors can rent a bicycle or mini car ride to explore the entire island, which was pretty cool and fun. Oh, international license is required for this! So much fun we had here and would like to revisit!

#koreatrip 📍Gamcheon Cultural Village, Busan, South Korea One of the top destinations to visit while in Busan is none other than the vibrant and colour Gamcheon Cultural Village! The village is filled with colourful houses, which was like a fairytale place, unique and Instagrammable! The entire area is huge, with a number of photo spots featuring little Prince and the colourful houses! Spent around 3-4hours here just strolling, take a lot of photos, buy some souvenirs, send some postcards. There is also hanbok rental that’s available at the cultural village.We took the taxi there so that we did not have to walk too far, very convenient!

#koreatrip "The Westin Josun Busan delivers a luxurious beachfront experience. Located at the edge of Haeundae Beach, the hotel offers breathtaking sea views and direct access to the shore. The rooms were beautifully designed, spacious, and equipped with premium amenities. Dining at the hotel’s restaurant was exceptional, with fresh, high-quality ingredients and impeccable service. The fitness center and indoor pool were well-maintained and convenient for guests. The staff were attentive, going above and beyond to accommodate requests. Proximity to Dongbaek Island and local attractions added to the appeal. Perfect for a relaxing and upscale stay in Busan."

#koreatrip "Grand Josun Busan offers a delightful mix of modern luxury and convenience. Located near Haeundae Beach, the hotel boasts stunning sea views and easy access to the bustling beachfront. The rooms were stylishly decorated, spacious, and equipped with high-end amenities. The hotel’s rooftop pool and lounge were standout features, perfect for relaxing with panoramic ocean views. The breakfast buffet was diverse, with both Western and Korean options. The staff provided exceptional service, ensuring a seamless stay. Its proximity to local attractions, shopping, and dining added to the overall convenience. A great choice for families or couples visiting Busan."

#koreatrip "Sun Cruise Resort and Yacht is a truly unique experience. The cruise ship-shaped hotel perched on a cliff overlooking Jeongdongjin Beach provides unmatched views of the sunrise over the ocean. The rooms were comfortable, clean, and had large windows showcasing the sea. The on-site revolving sky lounge was a highlight, offering a panoramic dining experience. The resort’s private beach and walking trails made it perfect for relaxation and exploration. Staff were welcoming and helpful, ensuring all our needs were met. A one-of-a-kind destination for travelers looking for something extraordinary in South Korea. Ideal for families and couples seeking adventure."

#koreatrip "Lotte Hotel Jeju exceeded all expectations. Situated near Jungmun Beach, the hotel offers incredible ocean views and easy beach access. The spacious rooms were tastefully decorated and included luxurious touches, like plush bedding and a soaking tub. The staff was attentive and friendly, always willing to assist. The outdoor pool with a heated section was a favorite spot. Dining options included Korean and international dishes that were delicious and well-prepared. The hotel’s proximity to attractions like waterfalls and volcanic craters made it an excellent base for exploring Jeju Island. Perfect for families, couples, and anyone seeking luxury and comfort."

#koreatrip 📍KTX Seoul Station, Seoul, South Korea Just travelled to Seoul recently and took the KTX ride from Seoul Station to Busan Station, and the entire ride was about 2.5hours (we booked the express ones, so it was a shorter duration of time). The seat was cushioned and was really comfortable. The ride offers scenic views along the way, pretty relaxing and chill! There is a small table for visitors on board to work on their laptop or eat. Food is allowed on board, be sure to get some snacks for the ride! Booking of the ride was convenient and seamless via KTX website or trip.com. Be sure to arrive at the station about 15 minutes earlier to board on the train!

#koreatrip 📍1in1jan Café, Seoul, South Korea One of the prettiest café with beautiful hanok view in Seoul would be 1in1jan café! Set in a 5 storey building, 1in1jan is huge and spacious, plenty of seating areas offering the scenic views of the hanok village! The café has large transparent windows which offers ample flow of natural lighting besides a birds eye views of the hanok village. They serve both main dishes desserts and coffee. We were there for some coffee and dessert. Love the almond latte which was a harmonious blend of coffee and almond, nutty and rich! Café was chill and cozy, can definitely spend the entire day here just chilling! Would recommend!

#koreatrip 📍Gyeongbokgung Palace, Seoul, South Korea Visited the stunning and dreamy Gyeongbokgung Palace and we were in awe by the meticulously crafted and beautifully constructed palace! It’s a harmonious blend and offers a glimpse into the ancient times while being set in the heart of Seoul city! The palace is easily accessible via metro or taxi. The palace is huge with plenty of hallways and areas! Here’s some tips if you plan to visit Gyeongbokgung palace. Be sure to check the admission day and time. Rent a hanbok from one of the nearby stores to have free admission into the palace! We spent around 2-3 hours here, be sure to catch some of the performance while being there! Very cool and interesting!

#koreatrip Abai village is an interesting place. Has a really unique feel to it. The residents and shop owners there are formerly from North Korea, and there is a real sense of history there. I didn't really get to talk to anyone, but everyone in the village was super friendly. And please do try the squid sundae. Absolutely worth it. There was a mom and son shop that sold it and they were very gracious and welcoming. A great spot for everyone

#koreatrip It is a place where the relics of the Buddha that Master Jajang received from Manju Bodhisattva are enshrined, and is one of the five major Jeokmegtebo Palaces in Korea. If you walk 15 minutes from Sangwonsa Temple, you will reach the Great Lion Rock. It was a 15 minute hike. If you spend 15 minutes with nature with a solemn heart, you will feel at ease. Don't think of it as a temple, but think of it as a relationship.

#koreatrip It costs 12,000 won for an adult fare. The Ferris wheel moves slowly so you have plenty of time to take in the beautiful views of Sokcho. We waited in line for about 10 minutes. It also lights up at night making for a cool photo op. It is perfect for an activity on a date. The ride lasts about five minutes long. The cabin has a USB charger and music selection. I would recommend checking it out if you are visiting Sokcho !

#koreatrip A must visit for a coffee and bakery lover if you’re in the area — the place could be crowded at times but it’s so because it’s a coffee factory with an authentic seaside ambience. You can sit indoor or outdoor and spend all day chatting or working by the beautiful ocean. Expect a lot of people on the weekend and grab your table by the sea if the weather allows! Awesome multi level cafe and bakery. A variety of sweets, beverages, indoor/ outdoor seating, and easy parking.

#koreatrip It was good point to enjoy and see a view of city and sea. There was a " health checking gate" available, you could check how things you are passing through the pillars shown in the last photo. Great 360 view of the city. 175 steps of stairs up to the lighthouse, but totally worth it. The view was breathtaking. You get a pretty good view of all of Sokcho, from the mountains to the lake to of course the ocean. I'd recommend it even for people who struggle with the way up the stairs. It's really worth it. Free, too.

#koreatrip Definitely one of the best choices to see the sunrise! The view is breathtaking. I recommend whomever is planning to visit Sokcho, add "Sunrise in Yeong-Geumjeong" in your schedule. This is one of my favorite places in sokcho so far. Beautiful panoramic views of the sea beach and the place has an aesthetic touch to it. Very calm and full of solitude vibes. If you want to spend some lonely time or if you want to come with your lover, in both ways you will be satisfied! No entrance fee.

#koreatrip If you come in the summer, you can feel the excitement of being washed away by the winds and waves of the world, the surrounding scenery is beautiful, and it is a famous spot where you can see the natural monument, Yeolmokeo! The waterfall was small, but it was great for children to play. Because it is grade 1 water, the water is very cold even in the middle of summer. Life jackets can be rented for free, and the owner and son of the campsite next door are very friendly. The bathroom is clean and dry

#koreatrip Open only in October every year. Although it was opened for the first time in three years and was a little early in October, I took the time to visit during the Hangeul Day holiday, but as expected, I could not see the yellow ginkgo trees. If you are planning to visit, we recommend that you visit at the right time. It would be really cool to see a bank where every tree in sight was yellow. There is a local market at the entrance where you can grab a quick bite to eat. Even though I visited a little early in the morning, parking was not easy because there were a lot of cars. Parking problems are likely to be more severe during peak season, so we recommend visiting

#koreatrip This is an historic temple located along one of the major hiking trails in Odaesan National Park. The buildings here are fairly new construction, however the temple does hold the oldest bronze bell in the nation, which happens to be listed as one of Korea's National Treasures. Aside from the historic bell, the temple itself doesn't have much to distinguish it from the many other temples located on mountains in Korea. But since it is on a major hiking trail through the park and a very short walk from the parking lot / bus stop, you might as well stop by for a quick visit.

#koreatrip This temple is found at the top of one of the smaller peaks in Odaesan National Park. (really, this is just a glorified hill). This small temple was packed with people, and unlike at many of the other mountain temples you in Korea, the people visiting here was actually using it as a place of worship. People were circumambulating the shrine with bowed heads, people were praying and making offerings, it was actually quite nice. It is only a brief detour from the main hiking path to Birobong Peak, so it's worth stopping by to see.

#koreatrip 📍Jeju island, South Korea Here’s some of the cafes that we have visited in Jeju island and all of them were cute and instagrammable. So save this for your next visit to Jeju island! -Saebil Café This café features pink muhly grass which is only available in the autumn seasonal. We were lucky enough to be able to catch a sight of that in mid October! They even provide pink umbrellas for patrons visiting! -Gamtannam Café Wish we were here when the tangerines are in the season! Cute and homey café, decorated with warm vibes! Love their tangerine pound cake especially, of the right sweetness! -London Bagel Museum Such a heaven for pastries and bagels lovers as the entire store was filled with pretty and delicious bagels! Be prepared to queue as they are always full house! Definitely must visit for pastries lovers!

#koreatrip 📍Gwangalli Beach, Busan, South Korea Gwangalli Beach is a chill and serene destination for both visitors and locals in Busan! It is a long stretch of beach with a tonnes of cafes and restaurants at the beach front! The beach offers stunning views of the Gwangan Bridge which changes colours when the night falls! Besides, be sure to catch the drone light show when visiting. The drone light show is on every Saturday with 2 slots of performance: - Summer (March to September): At 20:00 and 22:00 - Winter (October to February): At 19:00 and 21:00 The drone show lasted for about 10minutes, pretty cool and amazing! Would recommend!

#koreatrip Jeju Island in winter offers a serene and magical experience, showcasing its natural beauty in a different light. Mount Hallasan, blanketed in snow, becomes a popular destination for hikers seeking stunning winter landscapes. The island’s waterfalls, such as Cheonjiyeon and Jeongbang, take on a unique charm amid the cooler weather. Winter is also the season for Jeju’s famed citrus, with tangerine farms offering a delightful experience. Beaches like Hamdeok and Woljeongri are quieter but still picturesque, ideal for peaceful strolls. With fewer crowds, cozy cafes, and seasonal seafood specialties, Jeju Island in winter provides a tranquil and refreshing escape.

#koreatrip located off the coast of Jeju, is a charming getaway known for its picturesque landscapes and tranquil atmosphere. Named “Cow Island” for its shape, Udo offers stunning white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and rolling green hills. Popular activities include biking or riding scooters along the coastal paths, exploring caves, and savoring local specialties like peanut ice cream and seafood dishes. Attractions like Seobinbaeksa Beach and Udobong Peak showcase the island’s natural beauty, while its relaxed pace provides an ideal escape from the mainland. Whether for adventure or serenity, Udo Island offers a unique and memorable experience for visitors.

#koreatrip Juknokwon Bamboo Forest in Damyang is a picturesque destination that perfectly combines natural beauty with cultural charm. The forest features eight scenic walking trails, each offering unique perspectives of the towering bamboo groves, which create a soothing and cooling environment. Traditional pavilions, a waterfall, and small ponds add to its serene atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and meditation. Visitors can also explore the Bamboo Ecology Exhibition Hall and enjoy local bamboo-themed delicacies, like bamboo rice. With its stunning landscapes and peaceful vibe, Juknokwon is a favorite destination for photographers, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a tranquil getaway.

#koreatrip Juknokwon Bamboo Forest in Damyang is a serene retreat that offers a refreshing escape into nature. This beautifully maintained bamboo grove features winding paths surrounded by towering bamboo stalks, creating a tranquil and cooling atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks, explore themed gardens, and relax in traditional pavilions. The forest also houses a cultural exhibition hall and a café serving bamboo-inspired treats. Photogenic and peaceful, it’s an ideal spot for nature lovers, photographers, and those seeking relaxation. Nearby attractions, such as Damyang’s signature bamboo cuisine and the Metasequoia-lined Road, make Juknokwon a must-visit destination in South Korea.

#koreatrip of water sports and recreational activities, including jet skiing, banana boating, and kayaking. During the evenings, the beach transforms into a romantic destination with stunning sunsets and lively beachfront restaurants serving fresh seafood, such as grilled clams and crab dishes. The nearby Daecheon Fishing Port offers even more dining options, allowing visitors to savor local delicacies while overlooking the sea. For those seeking a bit of adventure, the nearby islands, such as Wonsando and Sapsido, are accessible via ferry and offer hiking trails, fishing spots, and more secluded beaches. The area is also home to cultural sites like the Coal Museum and local markets where visitors can experience authentic Korean traditions. With its combination of natural beauty, fun-filled events, and diverse activities, Daecheon Beach is a must-visit destination. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or cultural experiences, this vibrant seaside location caters to all interests, making it a memorable getaway for all ages.

#koreatrip Cheongnamdae Presidential Villa, often called the “Blue House of the South,” is a historic retreat offering a glimpse into the lives of Korea’s presidents. Located in Cheongju, the villa is surrounded by stunning natural scenery, including serene lakes and lush forests. Visitors can explore the well-preserved main building, secret gardens, and trails that highlight traditional Korean aesthetics and modern elegance. Informative exhibits detail the villa’s history and its use as a presidential getaway. The peaceful environment, combined with panoramic views, creates a relaxing yet educational experience. Cheongnamdae is a unique destination blending political history with natural beauty.

#koreatrip The Garden of Morning Calm is a breathtaking botanical garden that showcases Korea’s natural beauty and artistic landscaping. Nestled in the scenic Gapyeong region, it features meticulously designed themed gardens, such as the Sunken Garden and Hometown Garden, each highlighting vibrant flowers and lush greenery throughout the seasons. Spring blossoms, summer blooms, autumn foliage, and the stunning winter light festival make it a year-round destination. The tranquil atmosphere, with its winding paths and serene ponds, offers a perfect escape for nature lovers and photographers. Ideal for families, couples, and solo travelers, the garden is a peaceful retreat that inspires awe and relaxation.

#koreatrip Haenggung Palace, a temporary royal residence located within the fortress. It provides further insight into the daily life of the royal family and their military operations. Regular events, such as martial arts performances and cultural festivals, bring the history of the site to life, making the visit more engaging. For those seeking a unique experience, the Hwaseong Trolley offers a guided tour around the fortress, while nighttime illuminations create a magical atmosphere for evening visits. Local restaurants and cafes around the area allow visitors to enjoy Suwon’s famous dishes, such as the renowned Suwon galbi (grilled ribs). Whether you’re a history enthusiast, architecture admirer, or casual traveler, Suwon Hwaseong Fortress is a fascinating destination that perfectly balances cultural heritage and natural beauty. A visit here is not only educational but also deeply enriching, leaving you with a profound appreciation for Korea’s historical and cultural achievements.