‘Seoul Festa 2024’ to kick off on 1 May with various cultural events and programs

Seoul Festa 2024

Heard about ‘Seoul Festa’ but missed it last year?

No worries as Seoul Festa 2024 is coming right up!

Seoul City is putting on this festival to let travelers like yourself experience all the cool things Seoul has to offer—the food, culture, art, scenery; you name it, they have it.

They want locals and people from around the world to come check it out and it’s going to be centered in two areas—Seoul Plaza and Gwanghwamun Square.

On the first night, 1 May, there will be an opening party at Seoul Plaza from 7.30 to 9 pm with live K-pop and group performances.

After that, Seoul Plaza will transform into different “party zones” with activities like tea and coffee tastings, dance challenges with influencers, and performances inspired by Korean drama soundtracks on 2 and 3 May.

Meanwhile, Gwanghwamun Square will host all sorts of events and you can participate in programs there too.

They’re also setting up these “Seoul Style Road” areas with six zones focused on Korean culture, fashion, food, and more.

You can try traditional games, shop for souvenirs, get beauty treatments, and chow down on tons of Korean snacks and dishes.

They will have chef demonstrations and influencer cooking too.

On 4 May, the festival moves to Sejong-daero for the Seoul Road Show.

They will turn the street into a stage for performances and you can join in painting and other collaborative activities.

And out in Noeul Park from 4 to 5 May, there will be a picnic zone for Korean BBQ.

You can grill meat yourself after reserving a time slot via the Seoul Festa website and savor dishes made by famous chefs while shopping for local goods at the on-site marketplace.

The park is set to buzz alive with culinary and entertainment options, including an exclusive gourmet talk show scheduled for 4 May, alongside a sunset concert and street performances set for both 4 and 5 May.

Seoul Festa 2024 is a city-wide celebration with a packed schedule of 18 events spanning both public and private sectors.

The celebration will also include:

  • Myeongdong Festival, which kicks off on Thursday and runs until 6 May
  • A drone light show over the Han River starting Friday through to 6 May
  • Seoul Circus Festival from 4 to 5 May
  • K-Royal Culture Festival, which begins Friday and concludes on 5 May

The Seoul city government has set its sights on establishing the capital as a must-visit destination by curating several experiences for Seoul Festa 2024, ensuring visitors like yourself are eager to come back for more.

For a comprehensive guide to the programs and events at each key venue during Seoul Festa 2024, be sure to visit seoulfesta.com and their official Instagram account @seoulfesta_official.

Enjoy the fun fiesta if you’re in Seoul from 1 to 6 May!

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8 newly opened cafes to visit within 1 km from Hapjeong & Mangwon Stations in Seoul, South Korea

Korean Cafe Food & Drinks

Not your first time traveling to South Korea and want to visit other neighborhoods apart from those touristy ones?

You’re in luck!

I’ve searched high and low, left and right, and zoomed in and out on the maps to find you the latest cafes that have just opened not too long ago.

Hapjeong and Mangwon Stations are not too far away from Hongdae (Hongik University Station) so if you’re in that area or planning to visit, don’t forget to swing by Mangwon and Hapjeong for these cafes.

Within 0.6 km from Hapjeong Station

폴드 베이커리 | Fold Bakery

Opening hours:

Closed on Mondays

11 am to 8 pm (Tuesday to Sunday)

Prices: Starting from 3,800 KRW (3.80 SGD) for drinks

Address: 31 Dongmak-ro 2-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul (1st floor)

Distance: 257 m from Exit 7 of Hapjeong Station

릴 트리츠 | Lil Treats
coffee and dessert

Image Credits: blog.naver.com/colorlesss/223370818289

Opening hours:

11 am to 8 pm (Monday to Sunday)

Prices: Starting from 4,300 KRW (4.30 SGD) for drinks

Address: 126 Donggyo-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul (1st floor, No. 105)

Distance: 560 m from Exit 2 of Hapjeong Station

Within 0.9 km from Mangwon Station

도파민 | Dopamin

Opening hours:

Closed on Mondays

9 am to 6 pm (Tuesday to Friday)

10 pm to 7 pm (Saturday & Sunday)

Prices: Starting from 4,000 KRW (4.01 SGD) for drinks

Address: 22 World Cup-ro 15-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul (1st floor)

Distance: 225 m from Exit 2 of Mangwon Station

47625 Coffee

 

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Opening hours:

9 am to 9 pm (Monday to Friday)

12 pm to 9 pm (Saturday)

1 pm to 6 pm (Sunday)

Prices: Starting from 4,000/5,000 KRW (4.01/5.01 SGD) for drinks

Address: 9 World Cup-ro 10-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul (1st floor)

Distance: 270 m from Exit 1 of Mangwon Station

카페 공명 | Cafe Gong Myoung

Opening hours:

7 am to 9 pm (Monday to Friday)

10 am to 9 pm (Saturday & Sunday)

Prices: Starting from 5,000 KRW (5.01 SGD) for drinks

Address: 99-2 Jandari-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul (1st floor)

Distance: 483 m from Exit 1 of Mangwon Station

비번 | Bibun
glasses of coffee and dessert

Image Credits: blog.naver.com/cogus0544/223378936350

Opening hours:

12 pm to 8 pm (Monday to Sunday)

Prices: Starting from 4,000/4,500 KRW (4.01/4.50 SGD) for drinks

Address: 54 Huiujeong-ro 16-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul (3rd floor)

Distance: 538 m from Exit 2 of Mangwon Station

앤드앤드 | Andand
cafe drinks and cookie

Image Credits: blog.naver.com/byk6268/223344840707

Opening hours:

Closed on Mondays

10 am to 8 pm (Tuesday to Sunday)

Prices: Starting from 4,000 (4.01 SGD) for drinks

Address: 14 Seongmisan-ro 10-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul (1st floor)

Distance: 645 m from Exit 1 of Mangwon Station

캐롯뜨 | Carrotte

Opening hours:

Closed on Tuesdays

10 am to 8 pm (Monday, Wednesday to Sunday)

Prices: Starting from 4,000 KRW (4.01 SGD) for drinks

Address: 47 Poeun-ro 5-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul (1st floor)

Distance: 801 m from Exit 2 of Mangwon Station

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Jeju proposes an “eco-tourism tax” to curb environmental damage from tourism

Lava rock formation at Jusangjeoli rocks at Jeju

Planning a trip to South Korea and hoping to hop by Jeju Island for a night or two?

We’ve got bad news for you.

Well, not exactly bad news yet since it has not been implemented but plans are underway.

So Jeju, which we all know is a well-known resort area in Korea, is looking to charge visitors a fee to help protect the environment.

They’re calling it an “eco-tourism tax”.

Last week, the local government on Jeju Island released a report about charging visitors more to help ‘take care’ of the environment.

How much will be charged?

It suggested charging about 1,500 KRW (1.51 SGD) per night for hotel rooms.

But that’s not all.

There are also plans to charge around 5,000 KRW (5.03 SGD) per day to rent a car/vehicle, and 5% of the cost for bus tours.

These amounts are based on a study from a few years ago about charging visitors on the island in the name of an “eco-tourism tax”.

The money collected would be used to help with problems like pollution and sewage.

It would also protect natural areas from the over 10 million people who visit each year.

Will the tax apply only to Jeju?
Woman harvesting tangerines

Image Credits: unsplash.com

The report said Jeju would be the first place in Korea to do this.

Many popular places in Europe already charge these environmental fees and the report by the Korea Environment Institute (KEI) thinks Jeju should seriously consider doing the same thing.

The fees are allowed under a Korean law about environmental protection, which states that people who benefit from nature should help pay for it.

Jeju is known for its natural areas and volcanoes listed by UNESCO but the report also pointed out that while tourism is big for Jeju, it causes pollution problems.

In addition, the island doesn’t make much money even though so many people visit.

In the future, other places such as Gangwon Province and Ulleung Island may start charging environmental fees too…

Someday.

What other countries are doing

Many countries in Europe, Asia, and the Pacific have started charging “green fees” in recent years to control overtourism and pollution.

Jeju has tried passing these fees before since 2012 but stakeholders have opposed it, citing nuances of an “island entrance fee”.

Now, both major political candidates support the idea.

The local governor also wants it.

But some worry it may discourage people from visiting if it costs more, even its own residents from other cities.

In fact, the number of Korean visitors was down last year while more traveled abroad.

The local government will discuss the report more later this month and plan to introduce the fees if a new national law allows it after Korea’s general elections in April.

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3 accommodations with an ocean view under $60/night in Jeju, South Korea

Ocean view room in Jeju

Looking to have a memorable vacation in Jeju, South Korea this new year? We’ve got you covered!

We’ve handpicked some accommodations that offer ocean views, all for under $60/night. From pet-friendly homes to well-located studios, Jeju has a range of options that will make your stay both budget-friendly and unforgettable.

So, without further ado, let’s get started, shall we?

Pet-friendly homey home for 2 persons right by Geumneung Beach

Pet-friendly homey home for 2 persons right by Geumneung Beach

Price: $51/night (for 2 persons)

This cozy studio is your chance to escape to paradise—with your furry friend(s) in tow.

Located a mere 5-minute stroll from Geumneung Beach, this pet-friendly home offers unobstructed ocean views from its perch on the 2nd floor. Past guests rave about the value, beachy location, and ability to grill outdoors.

Whether you come for a weekend getaway or an extended vacation, you will find all the comforts of a home with air conditioning and heating. The beach beckons you with waves and walks, while the studio’s relaxed atmosphere invites you to settle in and recharge.

So pack your bags, grab Fido and Fluffy, and head to this home away from home right by the sea.

Recently remodeled studio stay near Gueomri Stone Salt

Recently remodeled studio stay near Gueomri Stone Salt

Price: $56/night (for 2 persons)

Just steps from the crashing waves and within sight of the famed Gueomri Stone Salt, this freshly updated studio provides the coastal escape you’ve been yearning for.

The inviting space was reborn in June 2023 with your comfort in mind, featuring new furnishings, appliances, and fixtures throughout. Infants under 2 are not allowed, but you will have plenty of room to spread out with a plush queen bed and light kitchen for simple meal prep. Best of all, free parking on the first floor means you can come and go without hassle.

Walk to the water’s edge within minutes, then return to your minimalist haven for a peaceful night’s rest. Jeju’s sea air and salt breeze await you at this coastal studio.

Clean & bright room within walkable distance of Lee Jung Seop Street

Clean & bright room within walkable distance of Lee Jung Seop Street

Price: $59/night (for 2 persons)

Step into serenity at this retreat just steps from buzzing Lee Jung Seop Street.

Huge glass windows in the bright room frame sweeping ocean vistas and views of Saeseom Island and Saeyeon Bridge, transporting you to a place of calm. Just across the street sits a GS25 convenience store for quick Korean snacks and essentials, while the downtown area and its restaurants, cafes, and shops are a leisurely walk away.

Security cameras on-site ensure peace of mind, while the double bed and wardrobe provide a comfortable home base for your Seogwipo adventures. Park your car in the free parking lot, then leave the cares of the road behind as you settle into this stylish, convenient lodging in South Korea’s jewel, Jeju Island.

With these accommodations offering stunning ocean views for under $60/night, you can now enjoy the best of Jeju, South Korea. Revel in the natural beauty of the island while staying within your budget. Whether you choose a homely home or a freshly remodeled studio, each option guarantees not only a breathtaking view but also an affordable stay. So, pack your bags and hop on your plane towards Jeju’s picturesque coastal paradise.

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5 hanok houses under $205/night in Seoul, South Korea, for a stay like no other

hanok home front yard

Want a travel experience where tradition meets comfort? Then join us as we guide you through a selection of hanok houses in Seoul, South Korea, that are pretty affordable.

These architectural gems, steeped in history, offer a unique blend of age-old Korean culture and modern amenities, delivering an unparalleled stay experience.

From their quaint tiled roofs to their warming ondol floors, these hanoks under $205/night are not just accommodations, but a journey into the heart of Korea’s heritage.

Let’s roll with the list!

2-bedroom hanok home in the well-known Gangnam district

2-bedroom hanok home in the well-known Gangnam district

Price: $133/night

This tranquil retreat offers easy access to Seoul’s central area, with the nearest train station, Daechong Station, just 10 minutes away.

If you book a stay here, you will enjoy exclusive use of the entire second floor, accessible via a separate entrance, ensuring utmost privacy. This space features two bedrooms, a living room for you to unwind in, and a spacious terrace that offers fresh air. A bathroom equipped with a bathtub offers the ideal space for a soothing soak or bubble bath after a long day out exploring.

To sweeten your stay, the host also provides a complimentary breakfast for the first 5 days. This isn’t just a place to rest your head, it’s a doorway into the soul of Seoul. Embrace a unique blend of tradition and modernity in one of the city’s most sought-after districts, in Gangnam style 😉

Remodeled hanok house with a yard in Yongdu-dong

Remodeled hanok house with a yard in Yongdu-dong

Price: $147/night

Delve into a blend of tradition and modernity at Koji Hanok, a beautifully remodeled private house complete with a welcoming yard. While this accommodation retains its historical charm, it has been renovated to meet contemporary standards.

You get two bedrooms, a comfortable living room, a modern kitchen, and a practical bathroom. The house, despite its age, is well-equipped with a floor heating system, ensuring warmth even on the chilliest days of winter. The kitchen, fitted with modern appliances, allows for simple cooking, offering you the opportunity to whip up a quick snack or meal when you need it.

Experience the essence of Seoul at Koji Hanok, where your stay is a rare encounter with Korean culture.

MUJI-style hanok stay in Gongdeok-dong

MUJI-style hanok stay in Gongdeok-dong

Price: $162/night

Sodam Stay is a delightful hanok tucked away in the residential area of Gongdeok-dong. It’s a hideaway, strategically positioned and a testament to the timeless allure of traditional Korean architecture.

Start your day basking in the golden sun rays as they dance across the quaint yard, or enjoy the rhythmic patter of the rain from the comfort of your hanok on a rainy day. Sodam Stay is your perfect retreat for a serene and rejuvenating stay.

The hanok features two bedrooms, giving you the choice between a double bed or two single beds, catering to your travel squad and preferences. Indulge in the simplicity of traditional Korean living coupled with modern comforts at Sodam Stay on your next visit to the land of kimchi.

Hanok with a garden near Hansung University Station

Hanok with a garden near Hansung University Station

Price: $201/night

Nestled in the heart of an old neighborhood that blossomed in 1936, Space MODA is a petite yet private hanok house exuding charisma.

As a testament to its heritage, this standalone hanok has been tastefully refurbished over time, blending the old with the new for an amazing stay experience.

Accommodating two guests, this property boasts a small garden, providing a serene sanctuary amidst the bustling city. The bedroom features classic Korean bedding for an authentic feel.

While the kitchen is well-appointed, full-scale cooking is not permitted. However, you are welcome to whip up a quick toast or brew a warm cup of coffee or tea.

A mini hanok stay in Bukchon Hanok Village

A mini hanok stay in Bukchon Hanok Village

Price: $204/night

This mini hanok is a modernized treasure that brings the 1920s back to life, located within the captivating lanes of Bukchon Gedong Road.

This unique property, one of the few in Bukchon that retains its original wooden structure from the 1920s, has been thoughtfully remodeled to exude a contemporary flair while still honoring its history.

Stepping into the home, you will be welcomed by an interior adorned minimalist-style, creating a harmonious blend of the past and present. This Airbnb space has been designed with relaxation in mind, right in a residential area, so it will sit very well for folks looking for a quiet stay.

These hanok houses, each under $205/night, offer an opportunity to immerse in Seoul’s rich history and culture without breaking the bank. Each place combines the charm of traditional Korean architecture with the comforts of modern living, ensuring a stay like no other. Whether you want to soak in the morning sun in a tranquil yard or listen to the rain pitter-patter on traditional roof tiles, secure your stay today, and get ready to step into an abode where the past and present coexist in harmony.

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