Experience Unique Stays in South Korea!

Family vacations are cherished moments that everyone looks forward to. They offer a wonderful opportunity to bond, create lasting memories, and escape the routine of daily life. However, organizing a family getaway requires thoughtful planning and attention to various factors that influence comfort during the journey. A key consideration is choosing the perfect accommodation.

Accommodation refers to the budget set aside for temporary lodging. Even if it's just for a few nights, the place you stay plays a crucial role in your vacation experience. Options can include hotels, motels, guesthouses, apartments, rental homes, villas, hostels, and other residences that serve as your home away from home. For friends planning a trip, South Korea is an ideal destination, boasting a wealth of stunning attractions. Moreover, the country offers unique themed accommodations that enhance the travel experience. Don’t miss out on staying at these 6 remarkable places!

Traditional Korean House

Hanok refers to traditional Korean homes, distinguishing them from Western-style residences.

Beyond its culinary delights and entertainment scene, South Korea's architecture is another captivating aspect that enchants the world. A prime example is the hanok, a traditional Korean house frequently featured in dramas, variety shows, and films. These charming structures are widely found across the cities, with numerous restaurants and cafes adopting the hanok style in their design.

Hanok denotes traditional Korean houses, setting them apart from Western architectural styles. Korean architecture thoughtfully considers the house's location within its environment, taking into account geographical and seasonal influences. The interior design also reflects the surrounding area. Korean architects describe hanok as architecture that harmonizes with nature, crafted from wood, clay, and other natural materials.

A defining feature of hanok is its clay-tiled roof with elegantly curved edges, complemented by a grassy courtyard that gives residents a sense of being in nature, even amidst the urban hustle. By simply opening the windows, one can enjoy the beautiful views that hanok offers. Another unique aspect is the architectural style known as maru, a natural ventilation system designed to promote air circulation by positioning wooden boards at specific heights from the ground. This feature ensures that inhabitants remain comfortable, even during the sweltering and humid summer months.

Experience the cultural allure of Korea by spending a night in a hanok. Many hanok accommodations offer traditional activities like tea ceremonies and cooking classes. While hanoks were originally designed for a more static lifestyle, many modern versions come equipped with various amenities, including beds, for a more comfortable stay.

One of the best places to enjoy a hanok stay is Jeonju Hanok Village, situated in the heart of the vibrant city of Seoul. Renowned as the largest traditional hanok village in Korea, it beautifully blends classic hanoks with trendy streets, making it a popular tourist destination. Visitors can find numerous hanok accommodations to immerse themselves in the tranquil beauty of the village while enjoying the excitement of the bustling city.

Many hanok homes utilize mats and blankets on the floor for sleeping instead of traditional beds. If you prefer a bed, seek out hanok accommodations that specifically offer rooms with beds. It’s advisable to check the facilities before booking to ensure you choose a hanok stay that meets your preferences.

Flights to Seoul

Pension

A traditional lodging option on a sunny day in Gyeongju, Korea

Pensions might be the most distinctive form of accommodation in Korea. They come in various styles, from cozy homes to luxurious resorts. The diversity and uniqueness of pension facilities in Korea are more extensive than one might expect, offering everything from quaint pensions to lavish pool villas that rival high-end resorts, catering to a wide range of tastes and budgets.

Many pensions feature unique themes and decor, making them popular destinations for travelers. Some offer amenities like outdoor pools, private swimming areas, pet- or child-friendly facilities, and even in-room jjimjilbangs (saunas). Additionally, there are numerous Instagram-worthy pensions, perfect for friends who love to capture stunning selfies against beautiful backdrops.

Note that some pensions offer barbecue equipment for rent or even prepare full meals with meat and sides. However, not all pensions provide barbecue options, so it's wise to check in advance if this is important for your stay. If you’re eyeing a popular accommodation, be aware that reservations can take months. Notable and unique pensions in South Korea include Gulliver's Travels Pension in Gyeonggi Province, Aladdin Pension on Daebu-do Island, and Domgrami Pension in Jeju Province.

Smurf Town Happy House

A traditional Korean-style room designed for study and guests

Surely, you’re familiar with the Smurf films or series? Their adorable style and distinctive blue color are certainly eye-catching. Staying in the charming, mushroom-shaped houses inhabited by these lovable characters is a unique experience. In South Korea, there’s a village known as Smurf Town, located in Hwaseong City, Gyeonggi Province.

Friends can disembark at Oido Metro Station, exit through gate 2, cross the street, and catch bus number 790. Here, real-life adventures come to life, allowing you to experience a movie-like atmosphere. This location features a guest house with 12 Smurf-themed rooms, perfect for families. Staying here offers a one-of-a-kind experience, as you'll feel like you're residing in vibrant mushroom houses with low ceilings. Plus, you’ll climb wooden stairs to reach the beds on the second floor.

Pottery Village Bed & Breakfast

Experience Traditional Korean Pottery Making in Seoul

Pottery Village Bed & Breakfast has quite a charming name, doesn’t it? Staying here makes you feel as though you’re nestled inside exquisite flower vases. The buildings mimic large ceramic pots or classic Korean vases, adorned with beautiful paintings reminiscent of floral designs. Situated by the seaside, this accommodation offers stunning views and is a favorite among travelers.

What sets this place apart is its unique wooden interior designed in circular shapes that resemble pots, something friends won’t find anywhere else. Located on Yeongheung Island in Incheon’s Yellow Sea, guests can enjoy breathtaking sea views from inside the "pot."

Glamping

A lively atmosphere at Nanji Camping Site, where tents are set up among the trees.

Glamping offers the perfect blend of enjoying the great outdoors while still being able to relax in comfort. The concepts available are diverse, including glamping in the forest, by the mountains, alongside lakes, or even on the beach.

Korea, with its stunning natural scenery, majestic mountains, and three surrounding oceans, truly stands out as an exceptional camping destination. Camping can be enjoyed in a variety of locations, from the heart of Seoul to remote islands and distant mountains. However, foreign tourists may find it challenging to prepare the necessary camping gear. For this reason, glamping sites that offer all essential camping amenities are an excellent option.

Guest House

Guest houses are easily located in areas popular among foreign tourists.

Among the accommodation choices favored by young Korean travelers, guest houses rank highly. They can be readily found in areas that attract foreign tourists. The advantage of guest houses is their more affordable rates compared to other lodging options.

Guesthouses come in various styles, including dormitories and private rooms for one or two guests, catering to different tourist preferences. Some host lively parties at night to foster camaraderie among guests, while others provide a peaceful retreat. It’s advisable to explore the unique features of each guesthouse before your stay. Recommended areas for guesthouse experiences include: a. Hongdae & Yeonnam-dong, Seoul b. Haeundae & Gwangalli, Busan c. Gangneung, Gangwon-do

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