SEOUL
Annyeong HasimnikkaSouth Korea’s compact size and superb transport infrastructure means that tranquility can be found easily within reach among the urban sprawl. Make a turn and hike to the summits ofthe craggy mountains enveloped by densely forested national parks, get off the beaten path and sail to remote islands, and chill out in the serenity of villages surrounded by rice fields. A country full of culture, we’ll take you through a couple of destinations other than the well known city of Seoul!
Jeju Island A picturesque island offering an abundance of nature, travelers can enjoy strolling along Jungmun Beach, roam alongside incredible stone sculptures at Jeju Stone Park, hike up to Seongsan Sunrise Peak for breathtaking views, or see the spectacular lava tubes at Manjang Cave. But wait, there’s more! Trek a UNESCO-designated geopark of Suweolbong, all the way to Mt. Sanbang and feel the power of the volcanic lava beneath you, ending it all with a cooldown at Cheonjeyeon Waterfall (a.k.a. ‘The Pond of God’ - wut can I swim innit) for its three-tier cascade of clear blue magnificence.
Apparently nicknamed the “mysterious” island, the stunning scenery humbly offers natural land formations and great hiking paths. Since it is less developed, it is still full of small fishing villages where people move at a slower pace; definitely appealing to those seeking relaxation. Board the ferry to the languid port town of Dodong; a seaside village reminiscent of Cinque Terre in Italy, walk along seaside pathways that go through and above the rocks, and take in all its beauty... It’s actually a challenge to take a bad picture of this place.
Ulleungdo 
Chandeokgung Palace To see Korean beauty in its purest form, explore a secret garden tucked away within the grounds of Seoul’s Chandeokgung Palace. Taking 60% of the palace grounds, Huwon is a UNESCO heritage site that serves as a private sanctuary especially built for the royalty to relax and recharge. While some may argue that the garden radiates its best in all their autumn glory, seeing the lotus pond freeze all over might exude its own charm… Built in view of the Bugaksan Mountain and its endless horizon, Huwon embodies the harmony between nature and traditional Korean architecture.
Wouldn’t it be wonderful to gaze up at a star-filled South Korean sky, before falling asleep to the sound of the Pacific Ocean? Choose one of the several suites offered at a luxury hotel that is The Shilla Jeju, equipped with balconies overseeing the sea, separate living areas and whirpool tubs to chill in. The resort offers direct access to the beach, golf course, and Yeomiji Botanical Gardens. And for those looking for a more relaxing experience, spend your day wandering through its gorgeous grounds in the presence of the tranquil Mt. Halla...
The Shilla Jeju 
Molecular Korean food is still considered a novel thing in Korea, and Jungsik is definitely one of the frontrunners. Since 2009, Chef Jung Sik Yim’s style propelled the restaurant to be ranked the 10th best restaurant in Asia, where they quickly earned two Michelin stars. Enthusiastic gastronomers can choose from a range of remarkable 4-8 course meals, all served almost without fault.
Try worthy dishes such as the Truffle Egg (pan-friend mushrooms covered in truffle parmesan foam), the velvety smooth and rich Uni Sea Urchin and Baby Octopus Rice Bowls, and the delicious Dolhaerubang dessert (which is said to symbolise fertility LOL) made up of green tea mousse and peanut ganache, smothered in black sesame butter and sponge cake *drool*. Jungsik is definitely hard to beat with their all rounded innovative dishes and sincere service.
As the name “Mingles” suggests, their menu consists of a wide range of fusions with Korean as its backbone and Japanese, Spanish and French influences, designed to entertain the tastebuds of the foodie aficionados. Their dishes have been known to fuse seamlessly, and everything tastes like the wonderful care and thought taken to create them has successfully found the perfect marriage of flavors. Their pickled vegetables are aged to perfection, their amuse-bouches becoming one of the favorites, and their ‘Jang trio’ dessert of Doen-Jang creme brulle, Gan-Jang pican, and Gochu-Jang grains and vanilla ice cream is a series not to be missed.
