Guess what? I’m thrilled to announce that I’ve just returned from my 20th trip to Korea! Not many people get the chance to travel this much, especially to the same country so many times. I feel incredibly lucky and blessed. As a way of giving back, I want to share the best food spots, café finds, and hotel experiences with all of you, my readers! I hope you’ve been enjoying my blogging journey and that you’ve found my website beneficial. If you love it, feel free to tag me @superstarhui and let me know your thoughts.

My website may have simple content and occasional broken English, but it’s a humble platform that I’ve built over time. With over 272 posts solely about Korea, it hasn’t been easy, especially without any sponsorships—all funded from my own pocket, including upgrading equipment for better resolutions. None of this would have been possible without my designer job (huge thanks to my amazing clients for believing in me!).

Quick shout-out—I’ve also recently started a YouTube channel to create more vlog content. I may be new at this, but I’m excited to improve (plus, I have content from Korea and Europe to share). Check it out at https://www.youtube.com/superstarhui.

Thank you all for your support!

Here to kickstart my first post for 2024!

I’ve got my ticket and picked up some snacks (didn’t have dinner since it’s a morning flight). Oh wait, I forgot about the USB plug! Just a heads up if you’re flying with Korean Air, they don’t have USB-C ports, so be prepared for that, alright?

I snapped a selfie and managed to capture some blurry photos—funnily enough, I didn’t even take out my camera the whole time!

Korean Air, of you need to take Korean Food Option!

Here’s the route for the free shuttle bus—don’t worry if you see other stops along the way, it’s all part of the route!

I hopped on the complimentary shuttle bus to pick up Shumin, and after six hours of travel and an hour of waiting, we finally met up!

Yeah to simple breakfast especially ROYAL MILK TEA LATTE!

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
#hellosihuigoeskorea for Korea travels

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

Follow me: IG @superstarhui
#hellosihuigoeskorea for Korea travels

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
#hellosihuigoeskorea for Korea travels
#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
#hellosihuigoeskorea for Korea travels

I have a lengthy list of cafes I’ve been eager to visit, especially since Covid. Although it’s challenging to check off all of them, I’ve made it a goal to try out as many as possible. For my final day of the trip, I typically prefer something more relaxed and straightforward—checking out of the accommodation, indulging in some random shopping, and of course, ending the day with a visit to a cafe.

Our first cafe visit turned out to have a two-hour wait, and it might even be longer! Since we have an evening cab ride to the airport, we’re already feeling pressed for time. It’s currently 3:30 pm.

Our second cafe visit didn’t provide any clarity on waiting times—everyone seems to have just gone ahead and ordered their meals. We’re next in line, but it’s hard to predict how long it will take. You know how Koreans can sit in cafes all day!

So, we decided to return to Pie in the Shop!

The posters make it very yummy!

it’s a slightly quiet day in the basement!

Yummy!

Tried this cheesecake tart this time. I actually prefer Strawberry White Blossom more!

PIE IN THE SHOP 파이인더샵

Address: 26 Seongmisan-ro 27-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Operating Hours: 11:30am – 9:00pm
Nearest Subway Station: Hongik University Exit 3
Official Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pie_intheshop

Overall Rating: 8/10
My Recommendations: Strawberry Latte! I had it twice haha :p I like the Strawberry White Blossom. I actually thought, if I have more time/stomach, I will try their savoury pie as well

Will I come back? I love the idea of the area is big! Not so stressful to dine with a big group either!

HELLOSIHUI’S TIPS: Strawberry!

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
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
#hellosihuigoeskorea for Korea travels

Today marks the conclusion of my journey, a journey I eagerly anticipated since the onset of Covid, and I am thrilled to be back home at last! For my final evening, I’ve opted for something truly extraordinary – an Omakase dining experience. It’s a departure from my usual meals in Korea, adding a touch of uniqueness and excitement to this special occasion. Let’s savor this distinctive culinary adventure! Woohoo!

For the best experience, sat right beside the chef… haha

For dating experience, sit on your own hahaha

My view!

I need to buy some Korean utensils back next time!

Rice Cake

Cute little rice cake ball!!

the chefs are busy

cooking the best foods that I am waiting for!

1st course. You can actually see that they used the mini table that koreans used in their home.

a little luxury feel with a traditional touch

prawns on cone?

beef tartare

uni on snow crab

korean potatoes pancake

2nd course. soondobu

i really love it alot, there’s tofu, egg and minced meat. everything looks so delicious!

and they told us that we have to order 1 bottle of drink for every table. picked the cheapest in the menu since i dont really drink. Surprisingly, this could be the best makgeolli I ever had, and I don’t know where to buy this particular brand!!!

3rd course. Prawn

Chef start to cook with new things haha

4th course: Jjukkumi with kimchi risotto

It’s so gooood, i really love Jjukkumi. But at this course was a little big portion already haha.

5th course: Egg roll with squid ink sauce

So big and thick haha!! who love EGG ROLL!!!

6th course: Sashimi with cold noodles

This is very special and very nice! It’s like a up level of the usual cold noodles you have in Korea!

FIRE!

7th course: Beef or Chicken. We actually order 1 beef 1 chicken, but I think he mistaken and give us 2 portion of beef, which was wow good! I love the medium rare temp!

8th course: First you tried the fried rice~

then, they pour in the soup!

Dessert ice cream sorbet!

Busy chef cooking and letting me film as well haha!

I can’t decide which is my favourite, but I think this 3 is really top from it. But I have trouble choosing haha!

Direction to Gudeul 구들 Omakase

Apujeong Rodeo Station Exit 5

Walk straight (you will see Nike in front of you)

Cross the zebra crossing and continue to walk straight

Turn right at this junction

Continue to walk straight

Continue to walk straight

Spot the santa (i went during winter, so during other season this might be not around)

Yes this one!

So you continue to walk straight after this restaurant – turn right

You will see the door here, go in and take the lift!

Take the lift up to Level 3!

Entrance to your yummy food!

Gudeul (구들)

Address:  South Korea, Seoul, Gangnam-gu, Apgujeong-dong, Seolleung-ro 155-gil, 26 3층
Contact: 070-8882-8889
Nearest Subway Station: Apujeong Rodeo Station Exit 5
Operating Hours: 5:30pm – 11:00pm (Sunday Closed)
PLEASE MAKE RESERVATION

HELLOSIHUI’S THOUGHTS:
Experiencing Omakase for the first time, especially in Korea with a Korean twist, was truly remarkable. Surpassing my expectations, the quality of the meal justified its price. Sharing this experience with friends elevated the enjoyment and concluded our trip on a high note. I relished every moment and look forward to introducing different friends to the diverse menus in the future!

HELLOSIHUI’S TIPS: 
Don’t forget to make a reservation since they don’t accept walk-ins. While the chef’s English may be limited, it’s not much of an issue during Omakase since there’s not a lot of conversation anyway—except maybe when choosing between beef or chicken! LOL.

Overall Rating: 8/10

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
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 / Ask me any question on IG or email me

Hello 2024!

Seoul Forest is likely a familiar place to many of you, but as my most recent visit was during winter, whereas my previous one was in spring, let’s explore if there are any noticeable differences.

botanic garden

toy horse

pray for more korea trips

the sky is blue

tunnel to the future

oh…

the walking lake

walking on the water

thank you for always supporting me and my travel blog

the slide is harmless but i scare

its a forest

finding elsa

hello!

where’s next?

Seoul Forest 서울숲공원

Address: 273 Ttukseom-ro, Seongdong-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Nearest Subway Station: Seoul Forest
Operating Hours: 24 Hours

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
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 

The webfoot octopus is one of my absolute favorite ingredients in Korea! Every trip, without fail, I make sure to indulge in them. Their flavor is simply divine; they’re incredibly delicious! Even my go-to snack tends to be octopus-related, believe it or not!

I’m genuinely thrilled to recommend this place, as the food here is exceptional. If you’re a fan of pajeon, this spot is a must-visit. Many years ago, I tried the 누룩나무 Pajeon, and it instantly became my favorite, primarily because of my love for leeks and spring onions. However, I understand that not everyone shares my enthusiasm for these ingredients. If that’s the case, this place might be just perfect for you!

Look at this! Don’t you wish to try?

the soup that comes with the set we ordered

some very refreshing cold soup

salad

stir and stir

mix and mix

i love many many leeks!

webfoot octopus and pork belly!

really one of my favourite dish in korea!

and pajeon! so generous serving of webfoot octopus!!!

Korea really have alot of good food!

Direction to Dongmyojib 동묘집 Spicy Webfoot Octopus

Exit 6, and walk straight

Turn right here

Walk along the pathway

Turn right here!

Walk straight – i know is weird~

ALMOST!

You reached!

Reached!

the octopus haha

The menu

You will love it

alot alot alot

Dongmyojib 동묘집 Spicy Webfoot Octopus

Address: 330-49, Changsin-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul 1F
Address in KOR: 서울특별시 종로구 종로52길 43-9 1F
Contact: 070-8882-8889
Nearest Subway Station: Dongmyo Station Exit 6
Operating Hours: 10am – 9:30pm

HELLOSIHUI’S THOUGHTS:
I had a great time savoring the webfoot octopus, so it’s definitely a must-try on my next visit. It might be a tad spicy for those who aren’t accustomed to spice, but personally, it posed no challenge for me. I’m all for embracing spiciness to the fullest. Plus, this dish also incorporates pork, which, I must admit, probably constitutes a significant portion of my pork consumption for the year! Haha.

HELLOSIHUI’S TIPS: 
I actually arrived around 5:30 pm since the store is quite tiny, and upon arrival, I found myself waiting for a little while. Haha!

Overall Rating: 7/10

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
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 / Dayre @superstarhui

It’s possible you may have misunderstood Donhwamun Gate as a palace in its own right, but it is, in fact, a magnificent gate that functions as the primary entrance to Changdeokgung Palace, one of Seoul’s five major royal palaces.

The original version of Donhwamun Gate was constructed in 1412 but, unfortunately, it was destroyed during the Japanese Invasion of 1592. Subsequently, it was meticulously reconstructed in 1609 during the first year of King Gwanghaegun’s reign.

One cannot help but be awed by the impressive architectural design of this gate, which holds a significant historical narrative within its structure.

After strolling through Samcheongdong, I found myself with some extra time before dinner. I made a spontaneous decision to visit this place, although I wish I had planned ahead to take a Changdeokgung Palace tour – something I’ll definitely do next time! Nevertheless, it turned out to be a great opportunity for a leisurely walk, sightseeing, and taking photos before heading to dinner.

Even toilet looks pretty!

haha traditional vibe with modern people

lucky last time people dont do freelance. if not this room so small how to put working desk haha

the secret tour

the modern and the old

imagine this is a lake

lake that turn into snow & ice

There’s a “garden”, a greenhouse haha too modern for a palace like this haha!

Look like the one at madrid!

I love the colourful roof of each building too!

Donhwamun Gate 창덕궁 돈화문 昌德宮 敦化門 (Donhwamun Gate of Changdeokgung Palace)

Address: 2-71 Waryong-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Nearest Subway Station: Anguk Station Exit 3, Walk Straight
Operating Hours: 9am – 6pm, Monday Closed

HELLOSIHUI’S THOUGHTS:
A splendid palace gate to explore for a brief walk before your dinner plans, especially when you’re in the Anguk vicinity, is highly recommended. Why not add this to your itinerary?

HELLOSIHUI’S TIPS: 
Book your secret tour when you decided to come Changdeokgung Palace!

Overall Rating: 6.5/10

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
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 / Dayre @superstarhui
#hellosihuigoeskorea for korea travels
#hellosihuigoestravels for any travel destination!

I had heard a lot about this cafe before arriving here. I’m pretty certain you’ve come across pictures of this place while researching your upcoming trip to Korea. Whenever I passed by, I noticed that the waiting line was quite lengthy, with many people patiently standing around, even in the chilly spring and winter weather.

Then, one morning, I made a spontaneous decision. Although I had something else in mind initially, I thought, “Okay, it’s time to visit this cafe.”

This cafe somehow evokes memories of Vietnam for me, perhaps because of the lanterns and the water pathway that resembles the scenery in Vietnam.

.

mirror mirror, who serve the best dessert

outdoor looks pretty too!

got a seat here!

i am actually standing at the cashier where I placed my order haha

honestly, everywhere is pretty full haha

even floor seats!

those people who works hard for our drinks

my view for less than 5mins, before a korean family come in haha

Menu for you!

Dessert Menu

Black Tea Latte / Stone Drip Egg Coffee

Souffle Castella – Strawberry Souffle (30mins wait for this)

Texture is good! I always love my dessert hot!

Not the best, seriously.

This cafe was also featured in the drama “More than Friends” (Korean: 경우의 수), where the lead characters, Shin Yeeun and Ong Seong-wu ( Wanna One), met and later went through a breakup.

Previously, they used to offer spa services, but they discontinued these services in April.

Direction to Cheong Su Dang 청수당 淸水堂

This queue is for Dong Baek (still prefer this over this Cheong Su Dang)

continue to walk straight

Turn left here

continue to walk straight

Turn right here

Into this small alley

continue this small alley path way

turn right here

continue to walk straight

haha yes, you already reaching very soon!

here the queue haha

Cheong Su Dang 청수당 淸水堂

Address: 31-9 Donhwamun-ro 11na-gil, Ikseon-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Nearest Subway Station: Jongno 3-ga Exit 4
Operating Hours: 10:30~21:00 Last Order 20:30
WIFI AVAILABLE: cheongsudong1
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cheongsudang_/

HELLOSIHUI’S THOUGHTS:
In my opinion, I found the milk tea at this cafe to be just okay. It had a certain taste that didn’t quite appeal to me. I believe Twosomeplace’s Royal Milk Tea does a better job. As for the Strawberry compote souffle castella, it didn’t impress me as much as the one at Dong Baek’s. While this cafe’s version is warm and decent, there are so many cafes in this area to choose from. If I had only one stomach to fill, I would definitely opt for Dong Baek’s.

HELLOSIHUI’S TIPS: 
The queue at this cafe is indeed quite long. However, if you arrive early, you can usually walk in without any problems. On my visit, I managed to secure a seat, but by the time I entered, there were fewer than 8 seats available in the cafe.

Overall Rating: 6.5/10

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
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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