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