Seoul

Seoul is currently the new global hotspot, particularly captivating travelers seeking cutting-edge beauty trends, having a delicious food scene, and a dynamic shopping experience that ranges from high-end boutiques to bustling street markets. Seoul's vibrant energy and trendsetting appeal make it an unmissable destination. I travelled there for a "girl's trip" and it was the perfect week.

Best Time To Go

Seoul offers distinct seasonal charms: spring (April-May) boasts pleasant weather and beautiful blossoms, albeit with more crowds; summer (June-August) is hot and humid with monsoon season but features lush greenery and lively nights; autumn (September-October) presents crisp, dry air and breathtaking fall foliage, making it a popular time; and winter (November-March) is cold with occasional snow, offering a cozy atmosphere and better deals. The best time to visit depends on your preferences, whether you seek floral beauty, vibrant summer energy, stunning autumn colors, or a unique winter experience

Things To Do

Shop Until You Drop: Seoul is a veritable paradise for shopaholics, offering a dazzling array of retail experiences to suit every taste and budget. From the trendy boutiques and flagship stores lining the streets of Myeongdong, where you can find the latest K-fashion and beauty products, to the upscale department stores in Gangnam showcasing luxury brands, the options are endless. Explore the unique and independent shops in the artistic neighborhood of Hongdae, filled with quirky fashion, accessories, and stationery. For a more traditional experience, wander through the bustling Namdaemun Market, a sprawling labyrinth of stalls offering everything from clothing and household goods to fresh produce and street food. Don't forget the underground shopping arcades like the Goto Mall, a haven for affordable fashion finds. Whether you're hunting for the latest trends, unique souvenirs, or simply indulging in some retail therapy, Seoul's diverse shopping districts promise an exhilarating and satisfying experience.

Beauty Treatments from Scalp to Surgery: Seoul has firmly established itself as a global epicenter for beauty and cosmetic treatments, offering a comprehensive range of services to cater to every need and desire. Indulge in popular scalp treatments designed to promote healthy hair growth and a revitalized scalp. Explore the world of advanced skincare with laser treatments targeting various skin concerns and injectables for facial rejuvenation. For those considering more significant transformations, Seoul is renowned for its skilled plastic surgeons and state-of-the-art facilities, particularly for facial surgery. From quick and effective treatments to comprehensive procedures, Seoul's beauty industry combines cutting-edge technology with expert practitioners, attracting individuals seeking to enhance their natural beauty and explore the latest innovations in cosmetic care.

Seongsudong the Hip New Playground: Once an industrial area known for its shoe factories, Seongsu-dong has undergone a remarkable transformation, emerging as Seoul's trendiest neighborhood. Retaining its raw, industrial charm with converted warehouses and factories, it now buzzes with a creative energy. Explore stylish cafes with unique concepts and artisanal coffee, browse independent designer boutiques showcasing local talent, and discover art galleries and creative spaces tucked away in its alleyways. The neighborhood's laid-back yet sophisticated vibe attracts a young and fashionable crowd. Enjoy the contrast of the old and the new, as the remnants of its industrial past blend seamlessly with modern design and innovation, making Seongsu-dong a must-visit for those seeking Seoul's latest and most authentic urban experiences.

Lotte World and Lotte World Tower: Prepare for a thrilling adventure at Lotte World, a massive entertainment complex that caters to all ages. This includes a sprawling indoor theme park, an outdoor amusement park with exciting rides, a luxury shopping mall, a Korean folk village, and even a hotel. Adjacent to Lotte World stands the iconic Lotte World Tower, one of the tallest buildings in the world. Ascend to the Seoul Sky observatory for breathtaking panoramic views of the entire city, offering a stunning perspective both day and night. The tower also houses a luxury hotel, residences, and various entertainment and dining options, making the Lotte World complex a comprehensive destination for fun, entertainment, and impressive cityscapes.

N Seoul Tower: Perched atop Namsan Mountain, the N Seoul Tower is an iconic landmark offering arguably the most spectacular panoramic views of Seoul. Take a scenic cable car ride up the mountain or enjoy a leisurely hike through Namsan Park to reach the tower. At the top, you'll find observation decks providing 360-degree vistas of the sprawling cityscape, especially magical at sunset or when the city lights twinkle at night. The tower itself is often illuminated in vibrant colors, adding to the nighttime spectacle. It's also a popular spot for couples, famous for its "love locks" where visitors attach padlocks as a symbol of their affection. Whether you're seeking breathtaking views, a romantic outing, or simply a quintessential Seoul experience, the N Seoul Tower is a must-see.

Palaces: Stepping Back in Time: Immerse yourself in Korea's rich history and architectural beauty by exploring Seoul's magnificent palaces. Gyeongbokgung Palace, the largest and arguably the most stunning, showcases grand courtyards, intricate wooden structures, and serene gardens. Don't miss the changing of the royal guard ceremony for a glimpse into Joseon Dynasty traditions. Changdeokgung Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is renowned for its Secret Garden, a tranquil oasis of traditional landscaping. Explore the delicate beauty of Changgyeonggung Palace, often connected to Changdeokgung. Deoksugung Palace offers a unique blend of traditional Korean and Western architectural styles. Visiting these palaces provides a captivating journey back in time, offering a serene contrast to the city's modern hustle and bustle and a deeper understanding of Korea's cultural heritage. Rent a hanbok, a traditional Korean dress, near the palace and take some beautiful pictures.

Step into the mesmerizing Starfield Library, the stunning centerpiece of COEX Mall. Towering, two-story bookshelves create a cathedral of literature, bathed in natural light and offering a tranquil escape. More than just a beautiful backdrop, it's a welcoming public space to browse books, relax, and even attend cultural events, proving a peaceful oasis can flourish within a bustling urban hub. Get there early before the flood of tourist taking photos for the 'gram.

Off the Beaten Path

Bukchon Hanok Village: xxplore charming, narrow alleyways filled with trendy cafes, unique shops, and restaurants housed in beautifully restored traditional hanoks, offering a local and artistic vibe.
Charles H Speakeasy: hidden downstairs in the Four Season's Hotel, the atmosphere and drinks were intoxicating.
Spa Gogyeol: no girls trip is complete without a spa day. This Korean spa, tucked away in a small building, was the perfect respite for our jet lagged bodies. Techniques include kneading and stretching the body. The experience ends with tea, a light treat, and body analysis card with details about areas of focus that need your attention.

Where To Eat

Mr Ahn's Craft Makgeolli: this was the best meal we had in Seoul, and is on the Bib Gourmand list. Plates are small and meant to be shared. We especially enjoyed the Hwe Muchim, which was a dish of fresh raw tuna belly, scallop, seasonal greens, and grapefruit with a seaweed wrap.
Dosan Butchers: we walked past this Korean bbq place when shopping in the area and decided to try it. Everything was excellent and very fresh and we especially liked the self serve banchan bar. Apparently this restaurant is very popular because by the time we left around 8pm, there was a very long line.
Bicena: with breathtaking views, this Michelin Star restaurant is located on the 81st floor of the Lotte World Tower. Food is a fusion of Korean cuisine with a western spin with beautiful plating. I loved the steak with truffle (really anything with truffle is my favorite).
Onion Bakery: yes, we were influenced by Instagram, and yes it was that good.
Osulloc Cafe: try the soft serve and tea at Osulloc cafe at the Hyundai Seoul mall. Flavors are intense with many floral notes.

After service treats at a bespoke spa

BOTTLED

MEMORIES IN Seoul

Celebrating a milestone

Late night chats with old friends

Travel Tips

We found wine at restaurants to be extremely expensive in Korea, so it's best to stick to cocktails, beer, or Soju.
Traffic in Seoul is a beast, and it can often take 45 minutes to 1 hour from one area of Seoul to another whether you are in a taxi or train. Plan your trip based on districts and try to stay in the same area for the day.
It's hard to find a bad meal in Korea. We went to a range of restaurants from little mom and pop places to Michelin Star places and all of them were very good, and the prices were very reasonable.

Hotels in Seoul

Conrad

Leaving the busy streets of the city and stepping inside this beautiful hotel lobby was such a treat after a long day. This luxury hotel is an architectural marvel, featuring Korea's longest and highest independent spiral staircase in its lobby. The hotel is located in Seoul's busting Yeouido financial district, has a contemporary aesthetic, and rooms are spacious with views overlooking the Han river. Connected directly to the IFC Mall and The Hyundai Seoul, it provides easy access to premium shopping, entertainment, and a variety of culinary experiences. We were pampered as one of our friends was a diamond member so we had an amazing complimentary breakfast everyday in their sky lounge featuring a large selection of western and Korean food. The one drawback was that it was a far commute to most other tourist attractions.

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Four Seasons

Nestled in the heart of Seoul's historic Gwanghwamun district, the Four Seasons Hotel Seoul offers a luxurious escape that masterfully blends modern elegance with traditional Korean touches. Guests can enjoy stunning floor-to-ceiling city or palace views, a testament to the hotel's prime location near Gyeongbokgung Palace. The property is a destination in itself, boasting an impressive array of amenities including a Korean-style sauna, multiple swimming pools, an indoor golf experience, and a diverse selection of restaurants and bars, including the Michelin-starred Cantonese eatery, Yu Yuan. With its sophisticated design, exceptional service, and close proximity to cultural landmarks, the Four Seasons Hotel Seoul provides an unforgettable sanctuary for both leisure and business travelers.

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Park Hyatt

In the vibrant heart of Seoul's fashionable Gangnam district, the Park Hyatt Seoul stands out as a beacon of understated luxury and sophisticated design. This a-glass-box-like hotel, designed by the acclaimed Japanese firm Super Potato, is known for its minimalist aesthetic and a focus on natural materials like wood and stone. Guests are immediately greeted by a breathtaking "sky lobby" on the 24th floor, offering panoramic views of the city. The rooms themselves are sanctuaries of tranquility, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows, spacious layouts, and spa-like granite bathrooms with deep soaking tubs. The hotel's unique offerings also include an indoor infinity pool with stunning city views, a variety of elegant dining experiences, and the exclusive vinyl record bar, The Timber House. The Park Hyatt Seoul is a haven of quiet elegance and impeccable service, perfect for travelers who appreciate privacy and refined, modern luxury.

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