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South Korea

Seoul, South Korea (Photo: E. Dyan via Flickr)

The Land of Morning Calm is rapidly becoming one of Asia’s most popular destinations. Almost every year South Korea or Seoul features on top ten lists of the best places to visit, and with good reason. South Korea’s rise has been nothing short of meteoric after breaking from military dictatorship in the 80s. Since then an Olympics and a World Cup have kick-started a vibrant modern economy. Parts of Seoul feel like a scene from a sci-fi movie. The peninsula has no open land borders making flight or sea the only routes of ingress. Much of the country is forested with half of the 50 million population located in the Seoul metropolitan area. Beautiful, delicately painted temples dot the landscape, often alongside plate glass high-rises in the cities. Many historic landmarks were destroyed during Japanese occupation but have been faithfully reconstructed. Due to the sweltering summers and deep freeze of winter, spring with its ubiquitous cherry blossoms and autumn with its stunning colours have proven to be the best times to visit. Year-round however travelers are drawn by the delicious Korean cuisine, friendly people and the revered K-Pop and K Dramas which have found a huge audience outside Korea.

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South Korea air hub Incheon takes off as casino destination

Newest resort run by U.S.-based Mohegan offers shopping, dining and family fun

SEOUL -- South Korea's Incheon is becoming a bigger entertainment destination in its own right with the latest casino resort in a city known for one of Asia's busiest international airports.

The new attraction, the 2 trillion won ($1.44 billion) Mohegan Inspire Entertainment Resort, features a 150-meter-long covered arcade lined with restaurants and shops. Every 30 minutes, the LED screen overhead comes alive with whales, dinosaurs, primeval forests and other scenes in a show of sight and sound.

Macao expo highlights casinos' search for post-pandemic growth

Singapore begins second phase of casino resort development, japan's sega sammy to sell seaside resort to u.s. investment firm fortress, singapore's marina bay sands to build fourth tower by 2029, japan's expo 2025: osaka triumph or billion-dollar folly, latest on travel & leisure, thailand to shut duty-free shops at airport arrival zones, mt. fuji opens for season with traffic cap, toll to combat overtourism, hong kong disney poised for 1st profit in decade on 'frozen' bump, sponsored content, about sponsored content this content was commissioned by nikkei's global business bureau..

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Luxury South Korea Tours

Best of Seoul (5 Days)

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Insider Seoul (7 Days)

Introduction to South Korea (7 Days) Seoul, Busan & Gyeongju

Highlights of South Korea (10 Days) Seoul, Busan & Gyeongju, Jeju Island

Cultural Highlights of South Korea (9 Days) Seoul, Gyeongju (Templestay), Busan

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Highlights of South Korea

(10 Days - Departs Daily on a Private Basis ) Seoul, Busan & Gyeongju, Jeju Island

This is the ultimate private tour of South Korea's most interesting cultural, historical, culinary and natural attractions. It features flexible private touring with your own guide and driver, luxury accommodation, private transfers, internal flights, first-class travel on the high-speed KTX train, and culinary and cultural activities that put you in touch with Korean culture.

Begin in  Seoul , the fascinating capital of South Korea. During flexible private touring, visit highlights such as the Changdeokgung Palace complex—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—and its "secret garden." Learn about traditional Korean lifestyles while walking through Ikseondong and Bukchon, neighborhoods filled with  hanok  (traditional Korean houses). Stop for a cup of tea in a traditional teahouse in the Insadong neighborhood, and browse the best local shops for Korean antiques, textiles, ceramics, clothing and more. Visit Gwangjang Market, Namdaemun Market or one of the other vast markets dedicated to food, clothing, antiques, herbal medicine and more.

Discover the treasures of Seoul's best museums, such as the Leeum, Samsung Museum of Art, Korea Furniture Museum, the War Memorial of Korea or National Museum of Korea. Other options include visiting the Zaha Hadid-designed Dongdaemun Design Plaza, walking along scenic Cheonggyecheon Stream, touring Gyeongbokgung Palace and additional royal palaces, visiting the National Folk Museum of Korea, learning about Confucian traditions at Jongmyo Shrine, eating fresh sashimi at Noryangjin Fisheries Wholesale Market, walking through trendy neighborhoods such as Myeongdong to see the latest fashions and pop culture (including K-Pop), visiting high-end fashion boutiques and restaurants in Gangnam, going to the top of N Tower, hiking in the mountains surrounding Seoul, stopping by top art galleries and visiting the vibrant Hongdae university district.

One evening, enjoy a culinary tour, and sample Korean street food dishes such as  tteokbokki  (chewy rice cakes in a sweet and spicy sauce),  bindaetteok  (fried mung bean pancakes) and irresistible  hotteok  (pancakes stuffed with brown sugar).

Next, travel by high-speed train to  Gyeongju , which was the ancient capital of the Silla Kingdom for nearly a thousand years. During private touring, visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites and other highlights such as the Daereungwon tumuli complex of royal tombs; Bulguksa, a Buddhist temple dating from the eighth century; Wolji Pond; Seokguram Seokgul, a stone grotto temple; Cheomseongdae observatory; and Gyeongju National Museum, which exhibits gold crowns and other masterpieces of the Silla period. Other touring options around Gyeongju include Golgulsa Temple and the traditional village of Yangdong. 

Continue to  Busan , a bustling port town that’s South Korea's second largest city. During private touring, visit highlights of Busan, such as Jagalchi Fish Market, the largest fish market in Korea; Huinnyeoul Culture Village, a charming coastal village; and Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, an important Buddhist temple on the waterfront. Other options include riding the Busan Air Cruise for scenic views over beaches and the sea and shopping at Shinsegae or Lotte Department Store Centum City, among the world’s largest department stores.

Next, fly to  Jeju Island , a beautiful volcanic island and popular vacation destination. Learn about the unique history of the island, and see interesting geological features, including Seongsan Ilchulbong (Sunrise Peak), a volcanic tuff cone and UNESCO World Heritage Site with spectacular views over the sea and rural landscapes below. Also, tour sites such as a Tadao Ando-designed meditation and art complex; the volcanic cliffs of Jusangjeolli; a traditional island village; and Samseonghyeol Shrine, the legendary birthplace of the island's three main clans. Depending on your interests, we can also arrange tours of additional architectural sites designed by Tadao Ando or Jun Itami, a visit to a botanical garden specializing in bonsai, visits to local markets, touring of an impressive lava tube (and UNESCO site), or guided hiking on an  oreum  (volcanic cone) or on the slopes of Hallasan, the high volcanic peak at the center of the island. There will also be time to relax at your resort.

Return to Seoul and, if desired, take a fascinating excursion to the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) and Joint Security Area (JSA) at Panmunjom.

Upon request, Artisans of Leisure can further customize this tour to include special interest activities such as a private Korean cooking class to learn to prepare kimchi or other typical Korean dishes, a private soju and  makgeolli  (rice wine) tasting, a strawberry picking activity or lessons in taekwondo. We can also arrange excursions to ceramics villages, folk villages, other UNESCO World Heritage Sites, amusement parks and hallyu sites.

Booking Information >

All Artisans of Leisure tours are private and depart daily.

Please Contact Us for more information regarding the above tour, or to begin customizing your own itinerary.

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Testimonials

I wanted to let you know how much we enjoyed our South Korea trip—it was great. Our guide was phenomenal—the best guide we’ve ever had. Her knowledge was great and the pace was perfect. ~ L.W., Menlo Park, CA

We loved Japan and South Korea. We loved the guides and experiences. The trip was a big success! ~ A.E., New York, NY

My client wrote to thank me for using Artisans of Leisure for her family’s South Korea tour…she said the trip was flawless. ~ H.Z., Beverly Hills, CA (travel agent)

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Seoul Guide: Planning Your Trip

A capital city for more than two millennia, Seoul draws in visitors with its food, culture, history, and highly-coveted cosmetics, among other things. Whatever the reason for your visit, you won't be disappointed by your trip to South Korea's bustling, vibrant capital. Get ready for your vacation with this complete guide including what to do, where to stay, and essential travel tips.

Planning Your Trip

• Best Time to Visit : While crowds are bigger, the weather in Seoul is at its most pleasant during spring and fall.
• Language: Korean
• Currency: Won   . 1,100 won is equivalent to $1.
• Getting Around : The Seoul Metro is fast, reliable, and covers a majority of the city and surrounding areas. What the subway doesn't reach, above-ground trains and buses do.
• Travel Tip: Buy a tourist T-money card, you get discounts on dozens of attractions, and it's good on the subway, buses, KTX trains, and in convenience stores.

Things to Do

Shopping, eating, and exploring the city on foot are the most common things to do in Seoul, as in any major city. Because of the city's extensive history, there are several palaces and historic neighborhoods ready to explore. Seoul is also filled to the brim with cosmetic stores where you can get very cheap, high-quality skincare products. The primary commerce areas also have dozens of street stalls selling cute socks and trendy clothes.

• Gyeongbokgung Palace is the largest of Seoul's five grand palaces. It was the former home of Joseon kings, and after being painstakingly restored, it's an incredibly popular tourist attraction. It's free to enter the first gate of the palace and to walk around the surrounding parks, but there is a fee to access the inner palace walls. Many visitors put on hanboks (traditional Korean dress) to walk around the palace. After visiting Gyeongbokgung, continue your tour of Korean history by walking to Bukchon Hanok Village. The neighborhood is filled with traditional homes and is free to visit.
• Namsan Tower is one of Seoul's most recognizable landmarks. The tower is at the top of a mountain and can be reached by hike or funicular. There, thousands of love locks are attached to fences and tree-shaped metal sculptures. It's exceptionally beautiful at night when you can see the sparkling city below, but be aware that you'll be sharing your view with dozens of couples.
• Olympic Park was built when Seoul hosted the 1988 Olympics   . It is a massive park with museums, walking trails, and the eternal flame. Sports and nature lovers alike will Olympic Park.

Add to your itinerary with our articles on the best things to do in Seoul , the top temples, and the best museums .

What to Eat and Drink

Foodies will love eating their way through Seoul. Whether it's trying cheesy egg bread, chowing down on ddeokbokki and fish cakes, or tucking into some Korean barbecue, Seoul has dozens of options, ranging from traditional Korean fare to international cuisine. Side dishes called banchan are served with all restaurant meals. The exact number of banchan that you will receive varies, but some sort of kimchi is guaranteed. While Korean cuisine is very meat-heavy, vegetarians and vegans will still be able to find restaurants that fit their needs.

As far as alcohol goes, South Korea is most well known for soju. It's readily available at almost all restaurants and convenience stores for less than 2,000 won (around $2). Soju pairs especially well with barbeque and fried foods. For a very Korean mixed drink, add a shot of soju to your glass of beer to make somaek . Makgeolli is another popular Korean alcohol. It is a type of rice wine and while it's not as widespread at soju, it's worth a try.

Find out where to eat with our article on the best restaurants in Seoul .

Where to Stay

Gangnam: Made famous overseas by PSY's viral hit "Gangnam Style," this neighborhood has tons of restaurants, high-end stores, and is home to the largest underground shopping center in Asia, COEX Mall .

Hongdae: Hongdae is a hot spot for live music, bars, restaurants, and boutiques. The neighborhood is close to several universities, so the crowds skew younger, and it's no surprise for streets to be bustling well into the early morning.

Itaewon: This area is home to a lot of expats, and as such, this is where you can find international restaurants and clothing in larger sizes. There are plenty of bars, cafes, and street art to check out. The Leeum, Samsung Museum of Art is in the area and has an impressive collection of traditional Korean and contemporary art.

Myeongdong: Myeongdong is a shopper's paradise. There are massive department stores along with smaller street shopping and dozens of cosmetics stores. It's also an ideal place to taste some Korean street food.

Learn more about the city's different neighborhoods and the best hotels.

Getting There

Seoul has two major international airports to choose from, but a vast majority of international flights from the U.S., Europe, and Canada fly into Incheon International Airport, the newer of the two. Gimpo International Airport is still a viable option and is closer to the city (although, since both are accessible on the same train line, the 30 minutes saved may not be a significant deciding factor).

Culture and Customs

• While Seoul is an international city and the number of foreign tourists is only growing, fluent English is not widely spoken or understood. That doesn't mean that you need to know Korean to enjoy the city; pointing and pantomiming is more than enough. However, some menus do not come in English, so having a translation app on your phone or knowing the Korean alphabet will come in handy.
• Air quality in Seoul has worsened over time. Fine dust (called "hwang sa" in Korean) used to only be an issue during the spring, but now it's a year-round threat. Purchase an air filtering face mask in convenience stores or pharmacies and keep an eye on the air quality for the neighborhoods you'll be in each day.
• Foreigners aren't held to the same cultural standards as Koreans, but it is considered rude to give or receive something, like money or a credit card, with one hand   . You'll notice that store workers will hand your card back with two hands, and it's polite to receive it with two hands. Most employees will also bow when greeting customers. When that happens, you should return the bow.
• Don't expect people to say "excuse me" when passing you on the street or when pushing past you on the train. It's just not a common practice in Seoul.
• When you want to ask for more water or side dishes at a restaurant, you should call out for an employee. Saying " sajangnim " (boss) or " yogiyo " (over here) is sufficient and is not considered rude. Some restaurants have a call button you can press instead.
• If you don't see any spoons or chopsticks on your table, check the sides. There is usually a drawer on the side of a table filled with chopsticks, napkins, and spoons.

Money Saving Tips

• When shopping at street markets, bring cash with you. While most places will accept cards, you will pay a 10 percent service fee.
• A tourist T-money card is an excellent investment. It costs slightly more (4,000 won instead of 2,500 won and is cash only), but it also gives discounts to popular attractions. Look for a card that says "Korea Tour Card" on it at the airport or in subway stations.
• It's very easy to have an excellent meal at a low price in Seoul. Street food stalls sell rice cakes, fried foods, sweet and savory hotteok , dumplings, and the list goes on. Restaurants in university neighborhoods like Hongdae or Sinchon also tend to be cheaper than in say, Itaewon or Gangnam.
• Many stores offer VAT refunds for purchases over 30,000 won ($25), and some will process the return on the spot—rather than at the airport. Make sure you bring your passport and save your receipts to get the refund.
• Some attractions like Gwanghwamun Palace have nominal entrance fees, but it's free to walk around the main gate.

Learn more about how to enjoy the city without spending a fortune by reading our guide to a budget trip to Seoul.

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Things to do in South Korea

When you are living in South Korea, you can enjoy a wide range of leisure activities in your free time. There are various ways to discover South Korea's landscape, history, and culture. For example, many hike in the mountains, visit beautiful beaches along the long coast, travel to historical attractions or visit an amusement park.

Historical sites and attractions

Every year, millions of people visit South Korea. One of the reasons why so many tourists visit South Korea is to explore the country's historical, cultural, and religious sites. There are various historical monuments listed as World Heritage by the UNESCO, including forts, monasteries, ancient palaces, and temples. Some of the most famous include Gyeongbokgung Palace in Seoul, Bulguksa Temple, Seokguram in Gyeongju, and the traditional hanok village in Jeonju. All across the country, you can find historical sites and artefacts that bear witness to South Korea's long history and traditions.

Parks and nature reserves

Nature lovers can enjoy walks or hikes around Korea's many parks and nature reserves. Many people also rent bicycles to explore the country's mountainous landscape and abundant flora and fauna. South Korea has 22 national parks, 15 of which are located in mountainous regions. The Juwangsan National Park is well known for its pristine forests, gorges and valleys offering visitors an extraordinary panorama.

Songnisan National Park is also well known for its peaks, namely Cheonwangbong, Birobong and Munjangdae. Seoraksan National Park, located in the north of the country, is home to many endemic plant and animal species. Visitors can explore forests, waterfalls and other natural wonders in the surrounding areas. You can also follow the paths leading to the Jungsanri Cheongwangbong Peak, or the Gwimyeonam Rock.

Good to know:

Some parks have designated camping areas where you can spend the night safely.

Amusement parks

You will find many amusement parks and theme parks in South Korea, particularly around Seoul . You may want to visit the Children's Grand Park, which includes a huge playground for children of all ages, as well as a zoo. Dreamland, in the suburbs of Seoul, is an amusement park that features a large water park, a zoo, where you can play with the animals and feed them, as well as carousels and roller coasters.

Everland, one of South Korea's most famous theme parks, is located only a few kilometres away from Seoul. It consists of different areas, including Caribbean Bay, a large waterpark, and the Everland Speedway with specific attractions and restaurants. Lotte World in the southern part of Seoul is the world's largest indoor amusement park. The large building also features shopping malls, a sports centre, and leisure facilities including indoor golfing, skating, and large carousels.

Water activities

You can enjoy a variety of thrilling water activities all along South Korea's coastline. Here, visitors engage in various activities, such as surfing, kite-surfing, canoeing, kayaking, rafting, and windsurfing. You can even go scuba-diving in Jeju island and discover its rich marine life. Fishing is also very popular in South Korea and is practised all around the country's many lakes, rivers, and beaches. Tournaments and professional fishing leagues are regularly organised.

Skiing and climbing in South Korea

In winter, skiing and ice climbing are also popular activities for both tourists and South Korean citizens. There are various ski resorts across the country, with the most popular ones found in Gangwon-do Province. There are different slopes and peaks for all levels. The most popular locations are Mount Bukhan, Seoraksan and Bukhansan National Parks, and Towangsong waterfall.

Yongpyong, Muju, and Alpensia, are the best and largest ski areas in the country. They also have artificial snow machines should there be not enough snowfall.

The country will host the 2018 Winter Olympic Games in Pyeongchang, Gangwon-do Province.

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TRAVEL + LEISURE CO. EXPANDS INTERNATIONAL FOOTPRINT INTO SOUTH KOREA

Strategic partnership with the Hyundai Hotel Development Company will extend the Club Wyndham Asia travel and lifestyle benefits to property investors in Jeju island and across Asia

Singapore and Seoul (22 JUNE, 2023) – Travel + Leisure Co. (NYSE: TNL), the world’s leading membership and leisure travel company, announced it has forged a unique partnership with Hyundai Hotel Development Company (HHDC) that will introduce Club Wyndham Asia , part of the world’s largest vacation ownership company, to property investors on Jeju island. Executives from both companies attended a signing ceremony in Seoul to mark the occasion earlier this month. 

As part of the deal – valued in excess of US$12 million – HHDC has appointed a TNL subsidiary to manage the 5-star, 148-key Wyndham Grand Hamdeok beach resort that is expected to open in December 2026. The Wyndham Grand Hamdeok also will have 187 state-of-the-art residential units for sale. HHDC purchased 1,200 Club Wyndham Asia memberships for the buyers of these apartments, giving them the ability to book accommodations in more than 200 unforgettable Club locations globally. They also will be able to convert their Club Wyndham Asia points into Wyndham Rewards points, to be redeemed at over 50,000 Wyndham hotels, vacation club resorts, and vacation rentals worldwide.

“South Korea has long established itself as the region’s trendsetter in entertainment and fantastic holiday destinations, and it is fitting to launch our modern vacation and lifestyle club model with a forward-thinking partner like HHDC,” said Barry Robinson, President and Managing Director International Operations, Wyndham Destinations , at Travel + Leisure Co. “Hotel developers naturally want to sell as many units as they can prior to any build. By including a vacation ownership membership with each sale, deals like these make it easier for our partners to do so, while giving early adopters a chance to not only stay at some stunning properties across our network, but to benefit from the added value and lifestyle benefits that only Club Wyndham Asia offers,” he continued.

• New Resort Manager Appointed to Wyndham Resort Torquay February 19, 2021
• New General Manager Appointed to Ramada Resort by Wyndham Shoal Bay February 19, 2021

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Travel to Korea | Top 15 Outdoor Activities in South Korea for the Summer

For the adrenaline junkie, spring/summer in South Korea is the perfect time to go out and experience a thrilling adventure doing various outdoor sports activities. However, for many foreigners, the options can be limited because of the language or cultural differences. Wonderful is here to break down those barriers and allow you to make the most of the good weather! Simply send your preferences to our assistants and we will help plan your next adrenaline-filled vacation, complete with accommodation and transportation options. Take a look below to learn about options in Korea, including sky diving, paintball, and a hot air balloon ride!

To give you some ideas on what to do this coming summer, here is a list of the top 15 outdoor activities in Korea. Feel free to send Wonderful a message on KakaoTalk , Facebook Messenger or Email if you have any questions.

1. Hot Air Balloon Ride

Quick facts: The hot air balloon experience is about 450,000 KRW for 2 people. Prices may depend on the season. The flight time ranges from 40 minutes to 1 hour and the entire experience (including preparation for the flight) takes up to 3 hours.

2. Sky Diving

Quick Facts : Cost estimate for Skydiving would be around 320,000 KRW ~ 500,000 KRW depending on the course. A video recording would cost extra. Actual diving experience will take about 20~40 seconds also depending on the course.

3. Bungee Jumping

Quick Facts : The highest bungee Jump in Korea is at 62 meters in Jecheon City. The cost would be about 40,000 KRW per person.

4. Zip Lining

Quick Facts : The longest continuous zip line in Korea is 1.487 Km long located at the Hadong Alps Leports (Leisure + sports). The full course has 3 parts, 732m, 1487m and 967m in length. The fastest speed reachable is 120 km/h. The image above is the Zip Line at Nami Island.

5. Paragliding

Quick Facts : There are paragliding places all over the country, from Jeju to Incheon. Weather conditions can affect paragliding schedules so its always good to check before hand and make a reservation. Average costs range from 100,000 KRW ~ 150,000 KRW.

6. Scuba diving

Quick Facts : The most famous spots for diving in Korea are Gangneung/East Sea, Uljin, Jeju Island, and the South Sea. The South Sea and Jeju Island tend to have clearer waters. It is recommended to dive in autumn since the ocean is warmed up during the summer. Costs vary from 40,000 KRW ~ 150,000 KRW depending on the length of the dive and the course.

7. Para Sailing

Quick Facts : Parasailing in Korea is mostly done in Jeju Island. Costs would be about 54,000 KRW ~ 80,000 KRW. One ride will take about 40 ~ 50 minutes long.

Quick Facts : The best surfing spots in Korea are located in Busan, Jeju Island and Yangyang (Gangneung/East Sea). Yangyang beach is exclusively dedicated to surfing. Expect costs of 30,000 KRW ~ 50,000 KRW, for a quick lesson and surf experience. If you are looking to become a pro, there are surf schools available for that too.

9. Paintball

Quick Facts : Best enjoyed with a group of 4 or more people. Costs depend on the number of people, with large groups getting discounts. Expect to pay more than 30,000 KRW per person. There are plenty of options to choose from all over the country.

10. ATV Tours

Quick Facts : There are places that offer an ATV driving experience all over Korea. It is advised that you have a drivers license for safety reasons. Expect to pay about 25,000 KRW for a 30 minute experience and above 40,000 KRW for an hour long experience.

11. White Water rafting

Quick Facts : Expect to pay 25,000 KRW ~ 100,000 KRW. Large groups tend to have discounts. The longest rafting course in the country is about 3 hours long and will cost about 45,000 KRW per person.

12. Rock Climbing and Bouldering

Quick Facts : There are many public bouldering/free climbing gyms in Seoul, even along the Han River. (Ttukseom Climbing Wall). For real rock climbing, we would recommend Insu Bong or Seoraksan if you live in Seoul.

13. Go cart Racing

Quick Facts : The most exciting race cart track is at the Paju Speed Park. With a 1.2km long and 11m wide race track, you should be able to enjoy an exciting race with friends. Costs are about 20,000 KRW for a basic experience course, to 250,000 KRW for a full day rental program.

14. Archery

Quick Facts : Korea has a rich history with Archery, dating back to the 5th Century BC, when riders shot arrows on horseback. There are horseback archery competitions still held today. There are many indoor and outdoor archery ranges through out the country.

15. Ejection seat and Big Swing rides

Quick Facts : There is only one theme park with both the ejection seat ride and the big swing ride in Korea, that is the Cheongpung extreme sports land in Jecheon City. Instead of dropping, you are shot 162m into the sky at 120 km/h while strapped to a seat.

Bonus: River Bugging

Quick Facts : River bugging is similar to rafting except for the fact that you are on your own floating tube. You also descend a river feet first, which can help navigate areas with rocks. Expect to pay about 60,000 KRW for a 3 hour experience. Price might vary depending on the course.

Most trip planning requests take around 30-80 minutes to get done on average, but times can vary depending on your situation.

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Live Along The Iconic Han River In A One-Of-A-Kind Designer Airbnb Home, Hosted By The City Of Seoul

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Airbnb and the City of Seoul join forces to list a bespoke waterfront home on the banks of the Han River as part of Airbnb’s continued support of the dynamic K-wave.

Guests around the world will have an opportunity to book a stay in Sky Suite Hangang Bridge – a one-of-a-kind designer home overlooking Seoul’s iconic river, conceived and brought to life by Airbnb in collaboration with the Seoul Metropolitan Government.

Sky Suite Hangang Bridge is located at the northern end of Hangang Bridge, one of the many bridges crisscrossing the river. The unique stay marks the latest in a series of efforts by Airbnb and the City of Seoul to attract more international tourists to Korea’s vibrant and dynamic capital, following last year’s overnight stay at Dongdaemun Design Plaza hosted by K-pop powerhouse ENHYPEN.

With floor-to-ceiling windows offering spectacular views of the river and Seoul’s skyline, the spacious 144m² home includes an expansive bedroom and living room, giving guests a dazzling vantage point overlooking the city.

The designer stay is outfitted with the latest on-trend furnishings in Korea, with a clear glass ceiling installed in the bedroom for guests to fall asleep beneath a starry night sky. The home exterior has been further enhanced with stylish aluminium louvers for a modern, sophisticated touch.

Sky Suite Hangang Bridge hosted by the City of Seoul will officially welcome guests beginning July 17th. Bookings are now open on Airbnb.com and will remain bookable through the year on Airbnb. The price will be set within a range from approximately 345,000 KRW (RM 1,171.44) to 500,000 KRW (RM 1,697.74).

• Guests will have the opportunity to explore Han River Park and Nodeul Island nearby, and enjoy activities right out of a K-drama or K-pop music video:
• Enjoy a picnic at Han River Park – lay out your mat and delight in a picnic feast with K-food staples like fried chicken, pizza, and tteokbokki. You can grab some snacks from a nearby convenience store to add to your spread.
• Don’t miss the chance to savour Han River’s iconic treat, Hangang Ramen, favoured by many K-pop stars.
• Hop on a bike ride along the river. You can easily rent a ‘Ttareungi,’ a public bike from Seoul’s public bike rental service.
• As the locals do, enjoy a refreshing riverside stroll or an evening jog, soaking in the crisp air and serene vibes of the river. Or capture some fun memories by filming a trendy dance challenge against the beautiful backdrop of the river!
• Visit Nodeul Island, located a quick 7-minute walk away. Feel like the star of your own K-drama as you relax and explore the area. Don’t forget to head to the Han River Bridge for a panoramic view of the river!

“We are thrilled to showcase Airbnb’s continued commitment to Korea through this exciting partnership with the City of Seoul,” said Dave Stephenson, Airbnb’s Chief Business Officer.

“Sky Suite Hangang Bridge is a wonderful creative initiative in the heart of a precinct that’s been revitalized into a leisure and entertainment hub. As more visitors flock to Seoul and Korea, we’re confident that through these sorts of projects we’ll continue to support the Seoul Metropolitan Government’s ambition of attracting 30 million foreign tourists annually by 2027. “

Mayor Oh Se-hoon said, “We anticipate that Sky Suite Hangang Bridge will become a go-to destination for visitors seeking to immerse themselves in the various festivals and events along the Han River, like the Yeouido Fireworks Festival. By sharing the stunning views of the Han River with the world, we believe this will help put Seoul on the global map and serve as one of the critical initial steps in transforming the river into a location where the city’s charms can be enjoyed.”

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Bleisure travel: the rise of mixing business with pleasure.

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Bleisure travel is rapidly gaining in popularity.

The concept of a “‘workcation,” in which people travel to a vacation destination but work while on the trip in order to save paid time off, has been around for many years. However, “bleisure” – which merges the words leisure and business – adds extra days at the beginning or end of a business trip, thereby offering employees some additional rest and relaxation before or after diving into work.

Bleisure trips became very popular a few years ago after travel restrictions were lifted and a growing number of workers started returning to business trips. Often wanting to take their loved ones with them for a respite from the isolation everyone had been subjected to, these trips evolved into hybrids of work and pleasure.

Chrisy Ranallo, Director of Sales & Marketing at Skytop Lodge in the Pocono Mountains of northeast Pennsylvania, hosts many bleisure travelers. She explains, "Many business events have a full itinerary in a conference room setting, so they have not been able to explore the 5,500 acres and everything we have to offer. We often get requests for the group guests to extend their stays and invite their families for the weekend, since we are an easy two hour drive from Philadelphia, New York and New Jersey. Our resort offers an array of summer activities and breathtaking views for unwinding."

Research indicates that nearly half of American workers now embrace the concept of bleisure travel, and bleisure trips currently reach a worldwide market value of nearly $600 billion. Research indicates this market is expected to grow by around 500% or more over the next decade.

According to Routespring , a top-rated travel management platform that caters to the growing bleisure travel market, around 40% of business trips are extended for bleisure travel. Bleisure trips have seen significant growth in the last decade, with estimates suggesting a 20% increase from 2016. This trend has continued to accelerate, driven by factors like changing work dynamics, the desire for more personal and work balance and the relative affordability of adding personal time to business trips. Popular forms of bleisure travel include:

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• City breaks: Extending a business trip to a major city to explore its cultural attractions, museums.
• Adventure travel: Combining a work conference in a scenic location with outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, or water sports.
• Visiting friends and family: Using a work trip to catch up with loved ones in a different city or country.
• Relaxation getaways: Adding a few days to a business trip to unwind at a resort or spa.

Top Bleisure Destinations

The following options are ideal for bleisure travel.

Skytop Lodge in the Poconos is ideal for bleisure travelers.

Skytop Lodge, Skytop, Pennsylvania

Since 1928 Skytop Lodge has stood as a symbol of elegance and refinement. Guests are transported to a more dignified time from the moment they arrive at this exquisite lodge. Steeped in 5,500 acres of nature, Skytop offers bleisure travelers an abundance of activities to enjoy before of after a few days of corporate commitment such as zip lining, treeetop adventure course and axe throwing. The array of thoughtful accommodations include: The Lodge, central location with four delectable on-site dining options and historical significance; The Inn, secluded and located near the golf course with two on-site dining options and fantastic views of the entire property; The multi-room Cottages, nestled by the lake, ideal for large gatherings.

The Lake House on Canandaigua offers a wide array of activities.

The Lake House on Canandaigua , Finger Lakes region, New York

Guests can spend several days pre- or post-work at T he Lake House and enjoy lakefront access, impeccably designed guest rooms, many featuring spacious, private balconies, plus fine dining, cocktail lounges and an artisan coffee shop. A myriad of on-site amenities await you including a full-service luxury spa complete with a picturesque sauna garden, heated lakefront pool, year-round hot tub, private daybeds and boating activities plus the sheer beauty of the Finger Lakes.

RVs are a very popular mode of bleisure travel.

THOR Industries , RV industry global family of companies

RVs have become synonymous with bleisure travel. The flexibility and freedom of RVing is an enticing option for workers, and given the increasing number of air travelers this season, it makes sense that 45 million Americans are planning to hit the road in an RV this summer. RV travel experts and brand ambassadors for THOR Industries , Gabe & Rocio Rivero advise to choose the right RV by checking out websites like Outdoorsy and Rvshare . Also, invest in reliable technology and have at least two different WiFi options. They also recommend a backup power source, including a generator or power bank.

The resort is in the Texas Hill Country.

La Cantera Resort & Spa , San Antonio, Texas

Not only does La Cantera Resort & Spa offer 115,000 square feet of business event space, but it also has a wealth of amenities for those looking to extend their stay beyond a business trip. This premier luxury resort in San Antonio offers numerous ways to unwind including an 18-hole golf course, tennis and pickle ball courts, Loma de Vida Spa and luxurious private pools. For added adventure, the resort is in the Texas Hill Country which features over 50 unique wineries.

Bleisure travelers can relax after work-related responsibilities.

Rosewood Villa Magna , Madrid, Spain

Situated on the tree-lined Paseo de la Castellana, Rosewood Villa Magna occupies a prime location along Madrid’s most coveted grand boulevard. The hotel offers both elegant indoor and beautifully presented outdoor venues. The hotel’s exquisite indoor and outdoor meeting, event and conference venues accommodate gatherings from 10 to 500 people. Perfect for bleisure travelers, the hotel offers unique experiences like access to enjoy Madrid’s best football matches along with wellness journeys where guests can venture off-property through programs that explore the city through a therapeutic lens.

The hotel immerses business travelers in a unique experience.

Grand Bohemian Charlotte , Charlotte, North Carolina

Located in the center of North Carolina’s business district in Uptown Charlotte, Grand Bohemian Charlotte , a Kessler property, welcomes guests to experience luxury bleisure just steps away from the Charlotte Convention Center. Inspired by Argentinian heritage, the Queen Terrace showcasing stunning, floral murals or the Palace Ballroom filled with four hand-crafted crystal chandeliers, immerses business travelers in a unique experience for a blend of sophistication and artistic expression. Guests can experience “A Taste of Malbec: Altitude Flight,” a self-guided, culinary pairing sampling of three Malbec wines.

Elevated amenities make it ideal for bleisure travelers.

Shashi Hotel , Mountain View, California

Shashi Hotel serves as an urban oasis designed with both corporate and leisure travelers in mind, offering an abundance of amenities for every type of guest. They recently debuted a new technology that is perfect for bleisure travelers, and specifically neurodivergent travelers, called Living Room in a Box. powered by AI, that allows guests to enjoy a fully customizable experience, creating the feeling of a guest’s own Living Room within the hotel room. The hotel's proximity to major tech hubs across Silicon Valley, combined with high-end facilities and elevated amenities make it the ideal choice for bleisure travelers.

This unique hotel caters to adventurous bleisure travelers.

Big Cypress Lodge, Memphis, Tennessee

Big Cypress Lodge is a one-of-a-kind wilderness hotel located in the iconic Bass Pro Shops at the Pyramid in downtown Memphis boasting accommodations that resemble vintage cabins, a Cypress Swamp featuring aquariums teeming with fish and alligators and two sky-high culinary outlets offering panoramic views of the Memphis skyline. Perfect for work and play, the 32-story Pyramid offers plenty of meeting space and leisure activities any bleisure traveler is sure to enjoy. Big Cypress Lodge’s meeting, group and event spaces  accommodate 10 to 350 people. The Lodge offers a wide variety of attractions on and off the resort to make your off-site standout, such as underwater-themed bowling at Fishbowl, onsite shooting and archery ranges and easy access to all that Memphis has to offer including live music on Beale Street and the Memphis Zoo.

Bleisure travelers can enjoy a Tequila Bar.

Rosewood Inn of the Anasazi, Santa Fe, New Mexico

Rosewood Inn of the Anasazi offers great accommodations for business travelers who also want to incorporate leisure into their trips. The property blends Southwestern charm with modern amenities, with stylish accommodations offering comfortable work spaces and complimentary Wi-Fi. Its central location only steps away from Santa Fe’s historic Plaza provides easy access to business venues, cultural attractions and local dining options. Guests can enjoy the Anasazi Restaurant, serving contemporary American cuisine with local influences, perfect for business meals and networking. Unique experiences offered on property include the Tasting Experiences, where guests can choose to learn the history and process of either Tequila or American Whiskey.

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Exclusive! Inside Michael Rubin’s Star-Studded White Party With Kim Kardashian, Jay-Z, Beyoncé, Leonardo DiCaprio, and More

Hotdogs, fireworks, American flags, and celebrities dressed in all-white at Michael Rubin’s annual White Party —Happy 4th of July from the Hamptons!

Last night, in Bridgehampton, New York, Michael Rubin (the CEO of Fanatics) and his partner Camille Fishel hosted what has fast become one of the Hamptons’ most buzzy events: the annual White Party. Those on the guestlist—a who’s who of sports, Hollywood, and social media stars—were instructed to arrive in shades of white, and nary an attendee deviated from the dress code.

Camila Cabello and Emily Ratajkowski opted for drapey mini dresses, while Teyana Taylor wore a white maxi with a gold metallic belt that encircled her waist like a snake. Winnie Harlow wore a beaded cowl-neck minidress with a hood, and Megan Fox went the preppy route in an eyelet mini. Other guests included Megan Thee Stallion, J. Balvin, A$AP Ferg, Travis Scott, Gayle King, Kim Kardashian, Khloe Kardashian, Kendall Jenner, Tom Brady, Jay-Z, Beyoncé, Leonardo DiCaprio, Drake, Quavo, and many more.

Attendees pulled up to the gleaming glass beachfront home from around 5 p.m. Paparazzi were stationed outside, snapping away as guests arrived, but once on the premises, some of the only cameras were those on guests’ iPhones. (Harlow posted sweeping scenes of the party on her Instagram, offering a peek inside.)

The party was staged on multiple patio decks at Rubin’s home and spread across tents set up in the beach dunes. For the food, Rubin went all out with catering from New York’s finest: Nobu (a handroll station served up wagyu beef and truffle salt rolls), Cucina Alba (offering summer tomato salads), Lucali (an unfussy menu with a choice between the classic margherita and pepperoni), and Raos (their famous meatballs). Like your typical 4th of July fete (though this was anything but), the seating was informal, and everyone grabbed a bite at their leisure instead of a seated dinner.

And because Rubin has a crew of friends from the world of music, once again, the party’s entertainment did not disappoint. First on stage was Shaboozey, whose hit “A Bar Song (Tipsy)” is in the running for song of the summer. “This is the most tipsy I’ve been ever in my life!” he joked to the crowd during his set. Next up came R&B legend Mary J. Blige (who performed her hit “Be Happy”) and then Lil Wayne, who was in awe of Blige, telling the crowd to make some noise for the singer who had just “blessed the stage.” Around the same time, the sun began to set, and a series of lights shooting up from the beach created a dazzling linear pattern in the sky.

Come 11 p.m., and the “nightclub portion” of the evening kicked off. After a fireworks display, a dance party broke out, and the many musicians in the crowd were given free rein to take the stage. Among this year’s impromptu performances were those by Alesso, Megan Thee Stallion, Machine Gun Kelly, Bryson Tiller, A$AP Ferg, and Travis Scott. With the many surprises that seemed to keep on coming, guests had little desire to call it a night. Even by the time the 5th of July rolled around, this Independence Day party was far from over.

DJ Khaled, Teyana Taylor, Fat Joe, Huda Kattan

Camila Cabello, J. Balvin

Kim Kardashian, Khloe Kardashian, Machine Gun Kelly

Megan Fox, Machine Gun Kelly

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Accelerating the transition to net-zero travel

The worsening effects of climate change have made decarbonization a top priority for many industries, including global travel and tourism, which accounts for between 8 and 11 percent of the world’s emissions. 1 A net zero roadmap for travel & tourism: Proposing a new target framework for the travel & tourism sector , World Travel & Tourism Council, November 2021. If nothing is done, the sector’s carbon emissions will only rise as it grows. Travel activity is expected to soar by 85 percent from 2016 to 2030. 2 “Tourism’s carbon emissions measured in landmark report launched at COP25,” UNWTO, December 4, 2019.

As more consumers, employees, regulators, and investors consider reducing their trips, they are also ramping up the pressure for the sector to reduce its carbon emissions. In response, more travel companies have pledged to reach net zero. But obstacles stand in the way. The range of decarbonization technologies in the market is limited, and what’s available is expensive.

About the authors

This article is a collaborative effort by Danielle Bozarth , Olivier Cheret, Vik Krishnan , Mackenzie Murphy, and Jules Seeley , representing views from McKinsey’s Travel, Logistics & Infrastructure practice.

While demand reduction may be part of the answer, there are many practical steps travel companies can take right now to accelerate their journey toward greater sustainability—and potentially create value while doing so. McKinsey and Skift Research have put together a report exploring four high-priority areas for travel companies to focus their decarbonization efforts to catalyze the most meaningful outcomes for the environment, their customers, and themselves. This article provides a summary of the report’s key insights.

Identify and sequence decarbonization initiatives

Being familiar with the relevant decarbonization levers for your business is a good start, but it’s not enough. Many travel companies struggle with implementation and balancing tradeoffs. A robust plan factoring in various potential pathways is critical for success in a quest as complex as deep decarbonization.

The marginal abatement cost curve (MACC) pathway framework provides a cost-benefit analysis of the individual levers and phasing plans, helping companies identify strategic tradeoffs between the various implementation pathways over time. Companies can use the framework as a tool to validate climate-related targets and time their decarbonization initiatives. By assessing the feasibility and tradeoffs between multiple potential paths, companies could be better equipped to select the most appropriate pathway for them to reach their net-zero goals.

Would you like to learn more about our Travel, Logistics & Infrastructure Practice ?

Partner to accelerate decarbonization of business travel.

Business travel represents 30 percent of all travel spend, making it an important segment for travel companies. 3 Getting back to business: Navigating the safe return of meetings and their role in economic recovery , US Travel Association, November 2020. As more organizations—businesses and non-profits alike—set more ambitious emissions-reduction goals for themselves, they’ll almost certainly be reevaluating their travel habits. This opens up opportunities for travel companies to enter into robust decarbonization partnerships with their corporate clients.

The top 100 highest-spending organizations of business air travel spent around $12 billion on domestic and international bookings in the US in 2019. Forty-five of them—together accounting for around half of this business air travel spend—have not only made public decarbonization declarations, but have also committed to a target year of 2030 or before.

These organizations would be eagerly seeking out ways to reduce their emissions and are likely to be more receptive to enter into decarbonization agreements with travel companies. To help organizations that travel achieve their net-zero goals, travel companies could expand their range of sustainability-focused product and service offerings. As examples, car rental companies could encourage clients to pay for electric vehicles, while hotels may command a premium for corporate packages that promote low-carbon and sustainable practices.

Travel companies could also devise other ways to support these organizations in their transition toward greater sustainability. These could include designing booking platforms to nudge users to make more sustainable choices while making reservations, helping employees track their emissions, and providing greater data transparency for organizations to accurately measure their carbon emissions from corporate travel.

Close the “say-do” gap among leisure travelers

Studies suggest that leisure travelers—who generate 70 percent of all travel revenues—are also supportive of decarbonization. 4 Getting back to business: Navigating the safe return of meetings and their role in economic recovery , US Travel Association, November 2020. A recent McKinsey survey indicates that 40 percent of travelers globally say they are willing to pay at least two percent more for carbon-neutral flight tickets.

However, Skift’s latest consumer survey has exposed a “say-do” gap; only 14 percent of travelers state that they actually paid more for sustainable options when they travel. 5 Mishal Ahmad, Frederik Franz, Tomas Nauclér, and Daniel Riefer, “ Opportunities for industry leaders as new travelers take to the skies ,” McKinsey, April 5, 2022; “US travel tracker survey,” Skift Research, August 2022. There are a number of reasons for this "say-do" gap, including a lack of clear sustainability-related information, a scarcity of sustainable booking options, and high cost barriers. Many customers also struggle with balancing competing priorities when purchasing a travel service or product.

Travel companies can bridge this gap and help consumers choose more sustainable actions by focusing on three levers: offering more sustainability-focused travel products and services visibly within the booking journey, presenting decarbonization information in compelling ways to engage and resonate with customers, and using behavioral science techniques to encourage leisure travelers to make sustainable purchase decisions (for instance by actively promoting the most environmentally friendly options first).

A methodical approach is necessary to execute these initiatives while keeping the booking journey seamless for the customer. A dedicated task force armed with digital capabilities, consumer insights, and sustainability expertise could be set up to test and refine these changes for smaller sample groups in each customer segment before implementation is scaled up.

Rebooting customer experience to bring back the magic of travel

Build new sustainable travel options for the future.

Instead of reacting to the latest developments in the transition toward net zero, the travel sector can be a proactive force and pioneer sustainable products and services. Not only will doing so reduce the industry’s carbon emissions, but it will also enable individual travel companies to create new sources of revenue that could be redirected to other green business opportunities.

There are as many possibilities as there are types of travel companies. An airline may consider playing a more active role in the sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) value chain, perhaps by investing in production plants to increase the supply of alternative fuels or launching a green airline that deploys smaller alternative propulsion aircraft. Hotel and lodging companies can launch green hotels or brands, applying the latest design approaches and green technologies. Larger and more established travel agencies and booking platforms could provide standardized environmental, social, and governance (ESG) measurement services to smaller travel companies that lack such capabilities or brands focused on green travel. Finally, credit card companies could partner with airlines and hotels to offer customers a consolidated view of their emissions across travel providers, giving them additional rewards when they choose more sustainable options.

Launching these new businesses will likely require companies to create special initiatives outside of the current core of the business. The teams leading them will need to be empowered to experiment with and learn from short iterations and pilots without the pressure to be immediately profitable. Fortunately, the first examples of travel companies applying green business-building principles show promising results, which should pave the way for others to follow suit.

The full report concludes by offering a checklist for travel companies to track their readiness in each of the four strategies and to maximize their chances for a successful—and profitable—journey to net zero. Companies that act now could gain a competitive advantage over their peers, while those that stand by and wait may find their value proposition erode as they get left behind.

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Danielle Bozarth is a senior partner in McKinsey’s New York office, Olivier Chéret is a senior expert in the Montreal office, Vik Krishnan is a partner in the San Francisco office, Mackenzie Murphy is a consultant in the Seattle office, and Jules Seeley is a senior partner in the Boston office.

The authors wish to thank Seth Borko, Wouter Geerts, Melissa Lukasiewicz, and Haixia Wang for their contributions to the report.

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