It was a last-minute jio, and just like that – I found myself back in Korea this Spring! I honestly thought I wouldn’t be here during this season, which felt a little bittersweet since Spring in Korea has always been a yearly thing for me. But somehow, everything aligned perfectly… and here I am again, soaking in the beauty of Korea in Spring.

This hotel is located in the Incheon Airport area, and the best part: there’s a convenient shuttle bus that takes you to and from the airport with ease! Perfect for a stress-free start or end to your trip!

You know it’s April in Seoul when cherry blossoms start popping up everywhere ~~~ the whole city turns into a dreamy pink wonderland!

A twin room with plenty of space -> enough for you and all your Olive Young shopping bags, haha! Definitely a win if you’re planning to shop till you drop!

There’s also a nice little space for me to work! Yes, even on this short 2D2N trip, I had to bring my MacBook Pro along! Freelance life means the work comes with me sometimes~

If you’ve watched Single’s Inferno, you’ll definitely know where Paradise City is! Cue the dramatic music ~~~ haha! It’s like stepping right into the show!

Toilet is very big too!

Balmain leh!

How can you not have chicken when you’re in Korea, right? We popped by the chicken place right next to the hotel -> talk about convenience! It was almost perfect!

Incheon Accommodation: Grand Hyatt Incheon

Address: 208 Yeongjonghaeannam-ro 321beon-gil, Jung-gu, Incheon, South Korea

HELLOSIHUI’S THOUGHTS:
I think it’s a great place to stay, especially if you have a long layover or transit flight from Incheon. The location was actually quite convenient. There’s a shuttle bus, and even a chicken place nearby. Overall, this Incheon airport hotel was a pretty solid choice!

HELLOSIHUI’S TIPS: 
If you have an early flight, consider staying here the night before. It saves you from the stress of an early wake-up and rush to the airport. It’s a more relaxed way to start your trip. Meals are easily accessible around the hotel. If you’re looking to squeeze in some last-minute shopping, just hop on the hotel shuttle to Incheon Airport, then take the subway for two stops —> you’ll find Olive Young (where I actually bought more than at the Seongsu branch!), Daiso, and Lotte Mart all in one spot!

Overall Rating: 6.5/10

Grand Hyatt Incheon
Room Type: 2 Twin Beds High Floor
Standard Price ~ SGD210 per night

Transport
Airport Transfer Bus Limousine: 17,000won
Private Transport: Kakao Taxi and payment via Youtrip
Within Seoul: T-Money

Camera Canon R50, Go Pro 12 Hero, iPhone 14 Pro Max

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It’s my 5th time in Jeju, but my first time staying near the Hyeopjae area — and I absolutely loved the change of scenery. We rented a car for this trip, so getting around was super convenient, even though our schedule was a bit packed. With limited days on the island, we really made full use of the car to explore as much as we could.

But honestly… I kind of wish we had more time. More time to slow down, relax, and just enjoy our stay. The accommodation we picked this round was incredibly pretty and cosy — it felt just like home. I could totally picture myself spending the morning making a nice breakfast, sipping tea, and soaking in the calm vibes. Maybe next trip, I’ll do exactly that

The entrance, already so pretty!

this is the living space, really too pretty!

We also have kitchen, something very important for us, every morning – coffee tea or me!

Spot that expensive toaster that i wanted haha

Can i have such house? haha!

Level 2 to the 2 bedrooms!

The pool, and actually some bbq area as well!

Bathroom 1

Bathroom 1

Bedroom 1

Bathroom 2

Bathroom 2

Bedroom 2, very pretty!

the bathtub that we didnt really use, shld really enjoy a lay-back holiday!

spending time together watching lame drama :p

Our dinner by the tv!

Jeju Accommodation: The Grey Jeju

Address: Hyeopjae-ri, Hallim-eup (Please book the airbnb to get the exact address from the host)
Costing: $903.44 SGD (~ SGD301 per night / SGD75.25 per night per pax)

Airbnb Link: https://www.airbnb.com.sg/rooms/51816022?source_impression_id=p3_1743947001_P3-_5qpA0NfODFoG

HELLOSIHUI’S THOUGHTS:
This accommodation really stole my heart — it was warm, beautifully styled, and felt just like home the moment we stepped in. Every little detail was thoughtfully done, and it gave off the kind of calm, cosy vibes that made us wish we had planned a slower trip. It’s the kind of place you’d love to wake up late, make a simple breakfast, and just enjoy a peaceful morning doing nothing at all.

HELLOSIHUI’S TIPS: 
–

Overall Rating: 7.5/10

Air Tickets
Singapore > Incheon: Korean Air Ticket – SGD891.40
Gimpo > Cheju: Korean Air Ticket – SGD177.99

Brown Suites Hotel Sinchon Central
Room Type: Deluxe Double Room City View – SGD412.24 (3 Nights)
~ SGD137.40 per night / SGD68.70 per night per pax

L7 Hongdae
Room Type: Standard Double Room – SGD1,584.78 (2 Nights 2 Rooms)
~ SGD396.195 per night / SGD198 per night per pax

Jeju Airbnb
Room Type: Landed with 2 Bedroom – SGD903.44 (3 Nights)
~ SGD301 per night / SGD75.25 per night per pax

Transport
Airport Transfer 6002 Bus Limousine: 17,000won
Private Transport: Kakao Taxi and payment via Youtrip
Within Seoul: T-Money
Car Rental with Insurance: SGD439.56 (via Lotte Car Rental)

Camera Canon R50, Go Pro 12 Hero, iPhone 14 Pro Max

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Trying New Stays in Korea – This Time, Back to Hongdae with L7!

In recent years, during my Korea trips, I’ve started trying out different places to stay—especially when my itinerary includes side trips to places like Busan or Jeju. I thought it’d be fun to explore more hotels this way… plus, more recommendations to share with you all!

For the last few nights of this trip, I returned to one of my favorite areas—Hongdae! And this time, I stayed at L7 Hongdae. Let me share more about it~

We shifted over to L7 Hongdae a little earlier before our Jeju trip, so it would be super convenient for us to return here right after we flew back~ Smooth and fuss-free planning!

This view is at their reception level

The staff were really kind too—they helped us keep our luggage (we had 4 big ones! ) while we were away in Jeju. Super thankful for their hospitality!

They also surprised us with some traditional Korean snacks as a welcome treat when we checked in — such a sweet gesture that made us feel right at home!

One thing I really appreciate — hotels that give more hangers! With coats, shawls, and outfits to air out every night after a full day out, those extra hangers really come in handy. It’s the little things!

The room itself is pretty simple — nothing too fancy. And that brings me to the next point: the price might feel a little steep for what you get in terms of look and feel. (Honestly… RYSE still has my heart! )

I’m pretty sure everyone secretly (or not-so-secretly!) loves an automated toilet when they’re in Korea or Japan — it’s one of those little luxuries we all appreciate!

No bath-tub! Simple!

The room view was your typical Hongdae scene — which I actually loved! There’s something comforting about looking out at the road, seeing the familiar sights, and feeling right at home in the buzz of the city.

Seoul Accommodation: L7 Hongdae

Address: 141 Yanghwa-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Nearest Subway Station: Hongdae Exit 1
Costing: SGD1,584.78 (~ SGD396.195 per night / SGD198 per night per pax)

HELLOSIHUI’S THOUGHTS:
At nearly $200 a night for a twin-sharing room, this isn’t a budget hotel. Compared to Ryse, which was $400 during our stay, it’s definitely a different experience — not quite the same vibe, but still good enough for a comfy rest after a long day exploring Seoul’s streets. The bed was fine and didn’t cause me any back issues, which is a big plus! (Some hotels or guesthouses with those stiff spring beds have been a real torture for me.)

HELLOSIHUI’S TIPS: 
The location is definitely the best part — probably the main reason to stay here! The price can feel a bit steep, unless you snag some coupons on travel sites or happen to visit during a quiet, low-peak season.

Overall Rating: 6.5/10

Air Tickets
Singapore > Incheon: Korean Air Ticket – SGD891.40
Gimpo > Cheju: Korean Air Ticket – SGD177.99

Brown Suites Hotel Sinchon Central
Room Type: Deluxe Double Room City View – SGD412.24 (3 Nights)
~ SGD137.40 per night / SGD68.70 per night per pax

L7 Hongdae
Room Type: Standard Double Room – SGD1,584.78 (2 Nights 2 Rooms)
~ SGD396.195 per night / SGD198 per night per pax

Jeju Airbnb
Room Type: Landed with 2 Bedroom – SGD903.44 (3 Nights)
~ SGD301 per night / SGD75.25 per night per pax

Transport
Airport Transfer 6002 Bus Limousine: 17,000won
Private Transport: Kakao Taxi and payment via Youtrip
Within Seoul: T-Money
Car Rental with Insurance: SGD439.56 (via Lotte Car Rental)

Camera Canon R50, Go Pro 12 Hero, iPhone 14 Pro Max

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Looking for a no-frills stay in Seoul that’s easy on the wallet but big on space? This hidden gem might just be what you need! Perfect for shopaholics (yes, there’s room for all your purchases), this accommodation offers a spacious and comfy stay without breaking the bank. It’s simple, convenient, and does exactly what it needs to do—give you a good night’s rest after a long day of Seoul adventures.

And while the Lotteria downstairs is sadly gone , it’s still just steps away from our all-time favorite Emu store — the one we’ve been visiting on every single trip since 2013. Even when we don’t stay in Sinchon, we make it a point to swing by. (Like in my most recent 2025 trip — we stayed all the way in Incheon, but still went back on our last night!)

I can’t remembered why I didn’t open the curtain, could be because I will be staying alone that day haha!

Very simple room with almost everything!

They even have washing machine and microwave!

Classic toilet and bathroom for a small hotel

Korea 2024: Seoul Accommodation: Brown Suites Hotel Sinchon Central

Address: 137, Seogang-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea, Sinchon, Seoul, South Korea, 04058
Costing: SGD412.24 (~ SGD137.40 per night / SGD68.70 per night per pax)

Agoda – https://www.agoda.com/en-sg/brown-suites-hotel-sinchon-central/hotel/seoul-kr.html?ds=h5WxN0WTxX3heLwR

HELLOSIHUI’S THOUGHTS:
If you’re the kind of traveler who just needs a cozy place to crash and a huge space to dump all your shopping bags (hello, Myeongdong hauls ), this spot is for you! Super affordable at under $70 per night per pax—what’s not to love? Nothing fancy, but it totally does the job.

Also… RIP to the Lotteria that used to be downstairs. My heart is still healing.

HELLOSIHUI’S TIPS: 
–

Overall Rating: 6/10

Air Tickets
Singapore > Incheon: Korean Air Ticket – SGD891.40
Gimpo > Cheju: Korean Air Ticket – SGD177.99

Brown Suites Hotel Sinchon Central
Room Type: Deluxe Double Room City View – SGD412.24 (3 Nights)
~ SGD137.40 per night / SGD68.70 per night per pax

L7 Hongdae
Room Type: Standard Double Room – SGD1,584.78 (2 Nights 2 Rooms)
~ SGD396.195 per night / SGD198 per night per pax

Jeju Airbnb
Room Type: Landed with 2 Bedroom – SGD903.44 (3 Nights)
~ SGD301 per night / SGD75.25 per night per pax

Transport
Airport Transfer 6002 Bus Limousine: 17,000won
Private Transport: Kakao Taxi and payment via Youtrip
Within Seoul: T-Money
Car Rental with Insurance: SGD439.56 (via Lotte Car Rental)

Camera Canon R50, Go Pro 12 Hero, iPhone 14 Pro Max

Follow me: IG @superstarhui
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This will mark my final post for my Korea 2022/2023 series! To be frank, I never imagined that my 12-day trip would yield enough material for 45 posts. At times like these, I’m truly grateful for the support of those around me, enabling me to share abundant content on my website. The effort invested in each post – from navigating directions to capturing photos and even sourcing various items for diversity – all stems from a place of genuine passion.

Operating a non-sponsored website with all camera upgrades done by myself, I’ve come to realize that my passion for Korea and sharing its wonders knows no bounds. Despite my less-than-perfect language skills, my desire to continuously share remains unwavering. While some have discouraged me due to my imperfect English, I’ve also encountered friends whose acquaintances found my website beneficial in their Korea research, spurring me on further. If you’ve enjoyed my posts thus far, I want to extend a heartfelt THANK YOU VERY MUCH!

Feel free to drop me a message here or on my IG at superstarhui! I’d be delighted to hear from you.

So back to the accommodation post!

I ended up extending my trip by an additional 2 nights, mainly because it was cheaper to return on that day (lol). So, I thought I’d take advantage of the opportunity to try out some hotels in Hongdae. This time, I opted for RYSE – a hotel I’ve always been curious about, although it’s a bit pricier than what I typically spend on accommodation.

Given that it was the end of the year, hotel prices were generally high, but fortunately, we managed to snag a room at RYSE for a decent price (even cheaper than the rates in 2024!).

When taking a cab to or from the airport, you’ll likely be dropped off at this entrance. Simply descend the stairs, and you’ll find yourself in the lobby on the first floor.

I’ve heard that the café has been transformed into a Blue Bottle Coffee!

I found myself sitting on the stairs during my last night there, amidst the process of packing my luggage and squeezing in my final purchases. It was a moment of reflection and nostalgia (of my ever single korea trip)

another view. actually the cafe location was pretty nice!

TO THE RECEPTION LEVEL

During my travels in Korea and various other countries like Penang, Bangkok TO Paris, Switzerland, Austria, I typically opt for moderately priced accommodations within my budget, usually under $100 per person per night.

However, during my recent trip to Switzerland, I decided to splurge a bit and stayed at a more upscale hotel, which I’ll share more about later.

It was a departure from my usual routine when I checked in earlier than usual to this hotel, a higher-end and well-known establishment. After completing the check-in process, I left to explore the city since my room wasn’t ready yet. This include leaving my luggages with the reception.

Upon returning later in the evening after dinner and some shopping, I was surprised to find that everything had already been taken care of and delivered to our room. All I needed to do was pick up my room key. It may sound trivial, but it was a first-time experience for me, possibly due to the higher standards and services offered by the upscale hotel. It was a delightful surprise and made me wonder if this was the norm for such establishments.

very pretty stairs

interesting to see

standing at reception area

They even have merchandise haha

TO MY HOTEL ROOM

Excited to head over!

Glad to stay a higher level!

Entrance, and they already left our luggage here, nicely!

Love that the hotel room is big enough for me to pack and unpack – last few days is always a torture!

What you didn’t know is the speaker you might want on, and the kettle as I drink tea every night haha

Spot the gift?

everywhere is very pretty

Love the mirror, and it looks similar to the one at home haha

HELLO!

Tempted to bring this home, the cover!

I actually put some mask that night too!

This is the gift from them. The little toy is korean’s five stone!

Glad that everything is inclusive. Now, I wanted to stay here more! haha ($ fly)

RYSE, Autograph Collection Seoul by Marriott

Address: 130 Yanghwa-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul 04038, Korea
Address in Korean: 서울특별시 마포구 양화로 130
Nearest Subway Station: Hongdae Station
Website: Ryse Official Site
Price in 2022 December: SGD 535.20 / S$267.60 per night

Overall Rating: 8/10
My Recommendations: If the budget allows – good hotel with good comfy bed, bathroom are not cold at all. Best during winter!

Will I come back? YES, if budget allows!

HELLOSIHUI’S TIPS: The accommodation get more expensive in 2024 – Last checked was $400+ per night!

From Singapore to Incheon Airport
Via Singapore Air – 90,000 Mile + S$87.70 Tax
Singapore Air flight the same period cost S$1665.30

Seoul Accommodation (Sinchon)
Peter Cat Hotel – S$623.25 / S$56.70 per night

Seoul Accommodation (Hongdae)
RYSE, Autograph Collection Seoul by Marriott – SGD 535.20 / S$267.60 per night

Busan Accommodation (Busan)
Ramada Encore by Wyndham Busan Station – S$319.20 / S$159.60 per night

Transport
Airport Transfer 6002 Bus Limousine: 17,000won
Korail (KTX): S$125.50 (2 Way, Seoul – Busan, Busan – Seoul)
Private Transport: Kakao Taxi and payment via Youtrip
Within Seoul & Busan: T-Money

Camera Canon M3, Go Pro 7 Hero, iPhone 14 Pro Max

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Accommodation – Peter Cat Hotel

I was worried that the accommodation in December will be fully booked – I booked Hokkaido in April (for year end trip) but dropped the idea of travelling there as the air fare was really scary (imagine the cost of the tickets from SG to Tokyo and Tokyo to Hokkaido). There’s some hotel (ibis/ at noon) I wanted to book but they were either all sold out or not available so I ended up only able to book this Peter Cat – which I don’t recommend because the room is too small, the bed was really uncomfortable. BUT very cheap.

Peter Cat Hotel

Address: 21 Baekbeom-ro 2-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Nearest Subway Station: Sinchon Station
Website: Agoda
Price in 2022 December: Peter Cat Hotel – S$623.25 / S$56.70 per night

Overall Rating: 6/10
My Recommendations: I used to stay here because the cost per person was under $30. However, I’ve noticed the hotel is aging, and the mattresses aren’t as comfortable as before. Nevertheless, to be completely honest, considering you get a private bathroom with hot water for just $30 per night per person, there’s nothing to gripe about! It’s definitely worth the price.

Seoul Accommodation (Sinchon)
Peter Cat Hotel – S$623.25 / S$56.70 per night

Seoul Accommodation (Hongdae)
RYSE, Autograph Collection Seoul by Marriott – SGD 535.20 / S$267.60 per night

Busan Accommodation (Busan)
Ramada Encore by Wyndham Busan Station – S$319.20 / S$159.60 per night

Transport
Airport Transfer 6002 Bus Limousine: 17,000won
Korail (KTX): S$125.50 (2 Way, Seoul – Busan, Busan – Seoul)
Private Transport: Kakao Taxi and payment via Youtrip
Within Seoul & Busan: T-Money

Camera Canon M3, Go Pro 7 Hero, iPhone 14 Pro Max

Follow me: IG @superstarhui
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#hellosihuigoestravels for any travel destination! 

This marks my fifth trip to Busan, and interestingly, it’s one of the priciest hotel accommodations I’ve secured there. Partly attributed to the December winter season, and the fact that we booked rather late (originally planning to visit Japan, where accommodations were even more expensive, and we changed the travel destination just 1 month beforehand).

Despite the cost, I absolutely adore this accommodation because of its convenience. The hotel has small stores where I can easily grab snacks for breakfast or supper—perfect for a quick bite! Moreover, its proximity to Busan Station significantly simplifies transportation to and from Busan.

Entrance of the hotel and Busan station! THIS NEAR!

I really don’t mind coming back again!

Our hotel is not ready but its definitely not an issue to me as long they allow us to put our luggage with them

The room was quite comfortable and decent enough for me. Interestingly, when I recommended it to my friend, she mentioned that the wind was blowing very loudly during her stay. Surprisingly, I didn’t encounter any issues with noise during my own stay.

Simple enough for a breakfast drink, but I always buy something outside haha!

comfortable sizing!

Toilet was simple yet very very good! Had a good bath because, the one at Peter Cat is pretty rundown ever since my last stays! (Honestly, I am not going back to Peter Cat until they decided to do some renovation!)

The Day & Night View!

Dunkin Donut

Ramada Encore by Wyndham Busan Station

Address: 10 Jungang-daero 196beon-gil, Dong-gu, Busan, South Korea
Nearest Subway Station: Busan Station.
Official Website: Ramanda Encore by Wyndham
Price in 2022 December: S$319.20 / S$159.60 per night

Overall Rating: 8/10
My Recommendations: Absolutely! I love how it’s just a stone’s throw away from everything! The area is bustling with convenience stores, Dunkin’ Donuts, Starbucks, and even a fishcake store (which is quite popular in Busan!). It’s a perfect hub for all your needs.

Will I come back? Yes, but maybe not so soon, it’s my 5th time in Busan already!

HELLOSIHUI’S TIPS: Book early to secure cheaper rate!

From Singapore to Incheon Airport
Via Singapore Air – 90,000 Mile + S$87.70 Tax
Singapore Air flight the same period cost S$1665.30

Seoul Accommodation (Sinchon)
Peter Cat Hotel – S$623.25 / S$56.70 per night

Seoul Accommodation (Hongdae)
RYSE, Autograph Collection Seoul by Marriott – SGD 535.20 / S$267.60 per night

Busan Accommodation (Busan)
Ramada Encore by Wyndham Busan Station – S$319.20 / S$159.60 per night

Transport
Airport Transfer 6002 Bus Limousine: 17,000won
Korail (KTX): S$125.50 (2 Way, Seoul – Busan, Busan – Seoul)
Private Transport: Kakao Taxi and payment via Youtrip
Within Seoul & Busan: T-Money

Camera Canon M3, Go Pro 7 Hero, iPhone 14 Pro Max

Follow me: IG @superstarhui
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It was time to head to our 2nd destination of our trip – Prague. We took a really early train at 916am, it was a long 4 hours ride haha!

Hilton Prague Hotel

We reached Prague Train Station. We got to take the subway from Hlavní nádraží to Florenc, walked less than 5 mins to reach our hotel! Yippee!

We settled down a while more, and headed out for a walk in the old town. We wanted to experience the night views and a simple day since we already spent 4 hours on the train earlier.

Hilton Prague Hotel

Address: POBREZNI 1, PRAGUE, CZECH REPUBLIC, Prague 08, Prague, Czech Republic 186 00
Expenses for 4D3N: $554.05

Transport

Inter-country Go Euro Ticket
Berlin to Prague at $171.50

Czech Transport Pass
24 hours pass at 110CZ

Camera Canon M3, Go Pro 4 Hero, Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge

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Transport

There’s Berlin Welcome Card, a few different type that cater your needs. This BWC works in a way where any transport will be covered during your validity period. We bought this BWC online, and stated the timing so it will be activated on the timing you stated. Everything is that simple and fast!

Hotel
Courtyard by Marriott Berlin City Centre

Address: Axel-Springer-Straße 55, 10117 Berlin, Germany

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Favourable Factors:

• Location is off Mongkok, but you able to walk to Mongkok in 8 Minutes time.
• Convenience store and McDonald are just next to the Hotel
• Shuttle bus to bring you to Kowloon station and many other malls
• Price are good!

Unfavourable Factors:

• Hotel room, is a little small but manageable.

Dorsett Mongkok, Hong Kong

Address:  88 Tai Kok Tsui Rd, Tai Kok Tsui, Hong Kong
Contact: 852 3987 2288
Website: https://www.dorsetthotels.com/en/dorsett-mongkok/index.html
I booked via Expedia, and the total cost of SQ flight + Hotel: S$917.39 (2 pax)

Camera
Canon M3

Follow me: IG @superstarhui
#hellosihuigoeskorea for Korea travels
#hellosihuigoestravels for any travel destination!