• Free Pass to Seoul’s Royal Palaces

  In connection with the upcoming K-Royal Culture Festival , the K-Royal Palaces PASS is being released to allow unlimited admission to Seoul’s five royal palaces throughout the festival period.The K-Royal Culture Festival showcases Korea’s representative cultural assets, and is held twice a year in both spring and fall at Seoul’s five major royal palaces (Gyeongbokgung Palace, Changdeokgung Palace, Deoksugung Palace, Changgyeonggung Palace, Gyeonghuigung Palace) and Jongmyo Shrine. This year marks the tenth anniversary of the festival and is expected to be better than ever, with more programs and the addition of a global reservation system. K-Royal Palaces PASS-holders can enjoy unlimited access to the K-Royal Culture Festival venues and experience a range of events from performances to exhibitions, hands-on programs, reenactments, and more. However, please note that the pass does not allow access to the special ticketed events of Gyeongbokgung Palace Special Evening Admission or Changdeokgung Palace’s Secret Garden.The K-Royal Palaces PASS is available for purchase on major travel platforms. The pass also acts as a transportation card and offers a 10% discount at KHmall off-line stores and Korea House; and a 30% discount on tickets to the musical “The Tribe,” taking place at Sejong Center.K-Royal Culture Festival K-Royal Palaces PASSValid period: April 27 – May 5, 2024Sales period: March 18 – April 25, 2024Price: 10,000 wonSales locations: Klook, KKday, Seoul Travel Pass, Trippose, Get Your Guide, TrazyPick-up period: April 27 – May 5, 2024 / 10:00-17:00Pick-up locations: Incheon International Airport Terminal 1, K-Royal Culture Festival information booth at Gyeongbokgung Palace (available at information booth of other palaces as well)Pick-up process: Show K-Royal Palaces PASS mobile ticket (QR code) to receive the K-Royal Palaces PASS (only required the first time)Website: www.chf.or.kr

• Royal Palaces More Beautiful by Night

  Korea’s royal palaces, full of charm at any time of day, are even more beautiful when viewed at night. The official evening programs for spring are starting up soon, with special guided tours taking place at Gyeongbokgung Palace, Changdeokgung Palace, and Deoksugung Palace. The Gyeongbokgung Palace Special Evening Admission program is popular among Koreans and foreigners alike for offering a chance to taste a recreation of Doseuksurasang, a table set for the king with 12 different dishes. At the Deoksugung Palace program, Night at Seokjojeon Hall, taste coffee and desserts enjoyed by Emporer Gojong while watching an original musical. For visitors unable to snag tickets to these highly sought-after programs, you can still enjoy the palaces at night through regular evening hours, taking place at Gyeongbokgung Palace, Deoksugung Palace, Changgyeonggung Palace, and the Temporary Palace at Hwaseong Fortress. Tickets for these hours are available on-site. Gyeongbokgung Palace [Gyeongbokgung Palace Special Evening Admission] Period: April 3 – May 4, 2024 / Admission period for foreigners May 2-4, 2024 Ticket reservations: Open April 1, 2024 at 09:00 (Site will close when sold out) Admission times: Session 1 - 18:40 / Session 2 - 19:40 (each session lasts 110 minutes) Ticket price: 60,000 won (Limited to two tickets per person) Website: www.chf.or.kr Reservations (Creatrip): creatrip.com/en Inquiries (Creatrip): +82-70-4327-2310 [Evening Hours] Period: TBA (Closed Tuesdays) Operating hours: 19:00-21:00 (Last admission 20:30) Admission fee: 3,000 won (200 on-site tickets available for foreigners) Website: royal.cha.go.kr Changdeokgung Palace Complex [Moonlight Tour at Changdeokgung Palace] Period: April 11 – June 2, 2024 / Admission period for foreigners April 27-28 & May 2-3, 2024 Ticket reservations: Open April 1, 2024 at 09:00 (Site will close when sold out) Admission times: Session 1 - 19:20, 19:25, 19:30 / Session 2 - 20:00, 20:05, 20:10 (each session lasts 110 minutes) Ticket price: 30,000 won (Limited to two tickets per person) Website: www.chf.or.kr Reservations (Creatrip): creatrip.com/en Inquiries (Creatrip): +82-70-4327-2310 Deoksugung Palace [Seokjojeon at Night] Period: April 16 – May 25, 2024 / Admission period for foreigners May 1-3, 2024 Ticket reservations: Open April 1, 2024 at 09:00 (Site will close when sold out) Admission times: Session 1 - 18:20 / Session 2 - 18:50 / Session 3 – 19:25 (each session lasts 90 minutes) Ticket price: 26,000 won (Limited to two tickets per person) Website: www.chf.or.kr Reservations (Creatrip): creatrip.com/en Inquiries (Creatrip): +82-70-4327-2310 [Evening Hours] Period: All year round (Closed Mondays) Operating hours: 09:00-21:00 (Last admission 20:00) Admission fee: 1,000 won / Free for visitors ages 18 & under, 65 & older, and all visitors wearing hanbok Website: royal.cha.go.kr Changgyeonggung Palace [Night Hours] Period: All year round (Closed Mondays) Operating hours: 09:00-21:00 (Last admission 20:00) Admission fee: 1,000 won / Free for visitors ages 18 & under, 65 & older, and all visitors wearing hanbok Website: royal.cha.go.kr Temporary Palace at Hwaseong Fortress [Evening Program Moonlight Conversations] Period: May 3 – October 27, 2024 / Friday-Sunday Operating hours: 18:00-21:30 (Last admission 21:00) Admission fee: 1,500 won / Free for visitors ages 6 & under, 65 & older, and all visitors wearing hanbok Website: www.swcf.or.kr

• In Search of Sleep: Hilton Caters to Rising Number of Sleep Tourists with Debut of Hilton Sleep Retreats

  Kilolani Spa at Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort Sleep expert Dr. Rebecca Robbins to host snooze‑worthy series at Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort’s Kilolani Spa Hilton’s 2024 Trends Report found the No. 1 reason people of all generations want to travel this year is to rest and recharge. In fact, some travelers are even building their entire trip around sleep, which is a trend now known as “sleep tourism.” Sleep tourism first picked up speed in 2023 and has accelerated this year – in its recent report, the Global Wellness Institute cites Wellness Tourism as one of the fastest-growing segments of travel, projected to reach $1.4 Trillion USD by 2027. To address this demand and in celebration of National Sleep Month in March, Hilton has partnered with sleep science expert Dr. Rebecca Robbins to offer expert insight into ways Hilton can lead the industry in providing the best night’s rest possible across the portfolio. This includes new programming like the launch of Sleep Retreats at Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort, with the potential to expand to additional markets in the coming months. Dr. Robbins, an assistant professor in medicine and associate scientist at the Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston, is also an acclaimed author and sleep expert featured in national print and television. She deeply understands the importance of sleep and which behavioral changes can help travelers get the most Zzzs when staying in unfamiliar environments. Together with Hilton, she will help guests put these insights into practice during a series of one-of-a-kind retreats, with the first launching in Maui at Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort’s Kilolani Spa, an all-new open-air luxury spa adorned by the natural beauty of Hawaii. “Understanding the vital role sleep plays in our lives goes much deeper than just knowing we need it. It's about nurturing and prioritizing it, especially in our fast-moving world where being constantly on the go is the norm," said Dr. Robbins. “Collaborating with Hilton to bridge the gap between sleep science and its practical, everyday application excites me and our retreats serve as a wonderful demonstration of how this knowledge can be brought to life – whether traveling or at home.” Designed to educate and empower guests while leveraging the unique wellness amenities offered at Hilton, the Sleep Retreats provide an all-encompassing journey into the science and practice of achieving restful, restorative sleep. Participants will have the opportunity to engage in a series of Dr. Robbins-led activities, discussions, strategies and meditations focused on enhancing sleep quality. Kilolani Spa at Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort - Portal Beyond spa services developed to mitigate jet lag, optimize circadian rhythms and release sleep-enhancing hormones, the programs include lectures that illuminate the science of restfulness, covering topics such as the foundations of sleep mechanics and sleep disorders. The retreats also feature healthy, sleep-promoting meals and opportunities for guests to design a personalized sleep schedule, ensuring each guest leaves with the knowledge and practices needed to improve their daily routine. “Hilton seeks to provide more than just a place to stay. We aim to be a catalyst for wellness, starting with a great night’s sleep. Recognizing that more than half of all travelers surveyed in our recent Trends Report emphasized the need for rest when they travel, our commitment has never been more important,” said Amanda Al-Masri, global vice president, wellness, Hilton. “From the moment a guest steps into our hotels, every touchpoint is an opportunity to contribute to the quality of their overall wellness, and these curated Sleep Retreats represent a fusion of comfort, science and innovation crafted to improve the sleep experience.” Hilton’s commitment to enhancing the guest sleep experience is exemplified by specialized offerings across its brands and properties. Travelers have shown a deep appreciation for the basics, and while all Hilton brands offer unique and exclusive bedding, Canopy by Hilton offers a gel memory foam mattress and Serta Cool Balance® technology, with the brand’s signature canopy frame, and Motto by Hilton has equipped its rooms with top-notch mattresses, sound-absorbing surroundings and smart technology available through the Hilton Honors app. Wellness offerings also extend directly into the room across many Hilton properties, such as Tempo by Hilton’s rooms designed with “power down” features for an optimal sleep environment. Additionally, dedicated wellness rooms are available at Signia by Hilton Atlanta Georgia World Congress Center, which are equipped with tools to help guests get their R&R. More information on Hilton’s new Sleep Retreats will be made available on the Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort’s website in the coming weeks.

• Free Pass to Seoul’s Royal Palaces

  In connection with the upcoming K-Royal Culture Festival , the K-Royal Palaces PASS is being released to allow unlimited admission to Seoul’s five royal palaces throughout the festival period.The K-Royal Culture Festival showcases Korea’s representative cultural assets, and is held twice a year in both spring and fall at Seoul’s five major royal palaces (Gyeongbokgung Palace, Changdeokgung Palace, Deoksugung Palace, Changgyeonggung Palace, Gyeonghuigung Palace) and Jongmyo Shrine. This year marks the tenth anniversary of the festival and is expected to be better than ever, with more programs and the addition of a global reservation system. K-Royal Palaces PASS-holders can enjoy unlimited access to the K-Royal Culture Festival venues and experience a range of events from performances to exhibitions, hands-on programs, reenactments, and more. However, please note that the pass does not allow access to the special ticketed events of Gyeongbokgung Palace Special Evening Admission or Changdeokgung Palace’s Secret Garden.The K-Royal Palaces PASS is available for purchase on major travel platforms. The pass also acts as a transportation card and offers a 10% discount at KHmall off-line stores and Korea House; and a 30% discount on tickets to the musical “The Tribe,” taking place at Sejong Center.K-Royal Culture Festival K-Royal Palaces PASSValid period: April 27 – May 5, 2024Sales period: March 18 – April 25, 2024Price: 10,000 wonSales locations: Klook, KKday, Seoul Travel Pass, Trippose, Get Your Guide, TrazyPick-up period: April 27 – May 5, 2024 / 10:00-17:00Pick-up locations: Incheon International Airport Terminal 1, K-Royal Culture Festival information booth at Gyeongbokgung Palace (available at information booth of other palaces as well)Pick-up process: Show K-Royal Palaces PASS mobile ticket (QR code) to receive the K-Royal Palaces PASS (only required the first time)Website: www.chf.or.kr

  • In English
  • Korea Today

  2024-04-15

• Royal Palaces More Beautiful by Night

  Korea’s royal palaces, full of charm at any time of day, are even more beautiful when viewed at night. The official evening programs for spring are starting up soon, with special guided tours taking place at Gyeongbokgung Palace, Changdeokgung Palace, and Deoksugung Palace. The Gyeongbokgung Palace Special Evening Admission program is popular among Koreans and foreigners alike for offering a chance to taste a recreation of Doseuksurasang, a table set for the king with 12 different dishes. At the Deoksugung Palace program, Night at Seokjojeon Hall, taste coffee and desserts enjoyed by Emporer Gojong while watching an original musical. For visitors unable to snag tickets to these highly sought-after programs, you can still enjoy the palaces at night through regular evening hours, taking place at Gyeongbokgung Palace, Deoksugung Palace, Changgyeonggung Palace, and the Temporary Palace at Hwaseong Fortress. Tickets for these hours are available on-site. Gyeongbokgung Palace [Gyeongbokgung Palace Special Evening Admission] Period: April 3 – May 4, 2024 / Admission period for foreigners May 2-4, 2024 Ticket reservations: Open April 1, 2024 at 09:00 (Site will close when sold out) Admission times: Session 1 - 18:40 / Session 2 - 19:40 (each session lasts 110 minutes) Ticket price: 60,000 won (Limited to two tickets per person) Website: www.chf.or.kr Reservations (Creatrip): creatrip.com/en Inquiries (Creatrip): +82-70-4327-2310 [Evening Hours] Period: TBA (Closed Tuesdays) Operating hours: 19:00-21:00 (Last admission 20:30) Admission fee: 3,000 won (200 on-site tickets available for foreigners) Website: royal.cha.go.kr Changdeokgung Palace Complex [Moonlight Tour at Changdeokgung Palace] Period: April 11 – June 2, 2024 / Admission period for foreigners April 27-28 & May 2-3, 2024 Ticket reservations: Open April 1, 2024 at 09:00 (Site will close when sold out) Admission times: Session 1 - 19:20, 19:25, 19:30 / Session 2 - 20:00, 20:05, 20:10 (each session lasts 110 minutes) Ticket price: 30,000 won (Limited to two tickets per person) Website: www.chf.or.kr Reservations (Creatrip): creatrip.com/en Inquiries (Creatrip): +82-70-4327-2310 Deoksugung Palace [Seokjojeon at Night] Period: April 16 – May 25, 2024 / Admission period for foreigners May 1-3, 2024 Ticket reservations: Open April 1, 2024 at 09:00 (Site will close when sold out) Admission times: Session 1 - 18:20 / Session 2 - 18:50 / Session 3 – 19:25 (each session lasts 90 minutes) Ticket price: 26,000 won (Limited to two tickets per person) Website: www.chf.or.kr Reservations (Creatrip): creatrip.com/en Inquiries (Creatrip): +82-70-4327-2310 [Evening Hours] Period: All year round (Closed Mondays) Operating hours: 09:00-21:00 (Last admission 20:00) Admission fee: 1,000 won / Free for visitors ages 18 & under, 65 & older, and all visitors wearing hanbok Website: royal.cha.go.kr Changgyeonggung Palace [Night Hours] Period: All year round (Closed Mondays) Operating hours: 09:00-21:00 (Last admission 20:00) Admission fee: 1,000 won / Free for visitors ages 18 & under, 65 & older, and all visitors wearing hanbok Website: royal.cha.go.kr Temporary Palace at Hwaseong Fortress [Evening Program Moonlight Conversations] Period: May 3 – October 27, 2024 / Friday-Sunday Operating hours: 18:00-21:30 (Last admission 21:00) Admission fee: 1,500 won / Free for visitors ages 6 & under, 65 & older, and all visitors wearing hanbok Website: www.swcf.or.kr

  • In English
  • Korea Today

  2024-03-30

• In Search of Sleep: Hilton Caters to Rising Number of Sleep Tourists with Debut of Hilton Sleep Retreats

  Kilolani Spa at Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort Sleep expert Dr. Rebecca Robbins to host snooze‑worthy series at Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort’s Kilolani Spa Hilton’s 2024 Trends Report found the No. 1 reason people of all generations want to travel this year is to rest and recharge. In fact, some travelers are even building their entire trip around sleep, which is a trend now known as “sleep tourism.” Sleep tourism first picked up speed in 2023 and has accelerated this year – in its recent report, the Global Wellness Institute cites Wellness Tourism as one of the fastest-growing segments of travel, projected to reach $1.4 Trillion USD by 2027. To address this demand and in celebration of National Sleep Month in March, Hilton has partnered with sleep science expert Dr. Rebecca Robbins to offer expert insight into ways Hilton can lead the industry in providing the best night’s rest possible across the portfolio. This includes new programming like the launch of Sleep Retreats at Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort, with the potential to expand to additional markets in the coming months. Dr. Robbins, an assistant professor in medicine and associate scientist at the Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston, is also an acclaimed author and sleep expert featured in national print and television. She deeply understands the importance of sleep and which behavioral changes can help travelers get the most Zzzs when staying in unfamiliar environments. Together with Hilton, she will help guests put these insights into practice during a series of one-of-a-kind retreats, with the first launching in Maui at Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort’s Kilolani Spa, an all-new open-air luxury spa adorned by the natural beauty of Hawaii. “Understanding the vital role sleep plays in our lives goes much deeper than just knowing we need it. It's about nurturing and prioritizing it, especially in our fast-moving world where being constantly on the go is the norm," said Dr. Robbins. “Collaborating with Hilton to bridge the gap between sleep science and its practical, everyday application excites me and our retreats serve as a wonderful demonstration of how this knowledge can be brought to life – whether traveling or at home.” Designed to educate and empower guests while leveraging the unique wellness amenities offered at Hilton, the Sleep Retreats provide an all-encompassing journey into the science and practice of achieving restful, restorative sleep. Participants will have the opportunity to engage in a series of Dr. Robbins-led activities, discussions, strategies and meditations focused on enhancing sleep quality. Kilolani Spa at Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort - Portal Beyond spa services developed to mitigate jet lag, optimize circadian rhythms and release sleep-enhancing hormones, the programs include lectures that illuminate the science of restfulness, covering topics such as the foundations of sleep mechanics and sleep disorders. The retreats also feature healthy, sleep-promoting meals and opportunities for guests to design a personalized sleep schedule, ensuring each guest leaves with the knowledge and practices needed to improve their daily routine. “Hilton seeks to provide more than just a place to stay. We aim to be a catalyst for wellness, starting with a great night’s sleep. Recognizing that more than half of all travelers surveyed in our recent Trends Report emphasized the need for rest when they travel, our commitment has never been more important,” said Amanda Al-Masri, global vice president, wellness, Hilton. “From the moment a guest steps into our hotels, every touchpoint is an opportunity to contribute to the quality of their overall wellness, and these curated Sleep Retreats represent a fusion of comfort, science and innovation crafted to improve the sleep experience.” Hilton’s commitment to enhancing the guest sleep experience is exemplified by specialized offerings across its brands and properties. Travelers have shown a deep appreciation for the basics, and while all Hilton brands offer unique and exclusive bedding, Canopy by Hilton offers a gel memory foam mattress and Serta Cool Balance® technology, with the brand’s signature canopy frame, and Motto by Hilton has equipped its rooms with top-notch mattresses, sound-absorbing surroundings and smart technology available through the Hilton Honors app. Wellness offerings also extend directly into the room across many Hilton properties, such as Tempo by Hilton’s rooms designed with “power down” features for an optimal sleep environment. Additionally, dedicated wellness rooms are available at Signia by Hilton Atlanta Georgia World Congress Center, which are equipped with tools to help guests get their R&R. More information on Hilton’s new Sleep Retreats will be made available on the Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort’s website in the coming weeks.

  • In English
  • Feature

  2024-03-16

• American Express Reveals 2024 Top Travel Trends

  American Express Travel® released its 2024 Global Travel Trends Report[1] today, highlighting the inspiration and trends driving global travel bookings this year. The report, based on survey data from travelers in the United States, Australia, Canada, India, Japan, Mexico, and the United Kingdom, found that 84% of respondents plan to spend more or the same amount of money on travel in 2024 compared to last year. Additionally, 77% of respondents care more about having the right travel experience than about the cost of the trip.The four trends driving booking decisions are:· For the Love of the Game: Sports fans are planning trips around athletic events, whether it involves a favorite sport, a beloved team, or an international multi-sport competition· Planning Big: Major, expedition-style adventures, like a trip to the Galapagos Islands or trekking with the gorillas, deliver the transformative experiences that travelers are looking for· Going Solo: Travelers are takings trips alone, embracing the ease of planning and ability to tailor itineraries that are a perfect fit· On a Whim: With so much of life being structured and scheduled these days, people are seeking flexibility in their travel plans and leaving room for spontaneity“Travelers are focused on creating the right itineraries and building memories, whether that means booking a trip to see a favorite sports team compete or taking a once-in-a-lifetime expedition cruise,” says Audrey Hendley, President of American Express Travel. “Our Global Travel Trends Report sheds light on what is driving global travel bookings and provides inspiration for where to go next. Our American Express Travel Consultants can help, no matter what type of trip you want to take.”Top insights from American Express Travel’s 2024 Global Travel Trends Report include:· A desire to see sporting events live and to watch favorite teams and beloved players in person are driving where travelers are going and what they are doing when they get there.- 67% of Millennial and Gen Z respondents[2] (compared to 58% of all respondents) are interested in traveling for sporting events in 2024- 58% of respondents who are traveling for sports in 2024 will do so for soccer, basketball or Formula 1 racing- New York, Miami and Paris are the top destinations respondents are planning to travel to for sporting events this summer· Transformative, once-in-a-lifetime trips, like visiting the Galapagos Islands and hiking in Antarctica, are at the top of many travelers’ wish lists, and younger travelers want an expert to help them plan.- 65% of respondents are more interested in taking a major trip in 2024 than in previous years- 72% of respondents would rather save money for a major trip than spend it on going out with friends; and more than half of respondents plan on saving between 6 months to 2 years for a major trip- 58% of Millennial and Gen Z respondents want a travel agent or trusted advisor to help them book a major trip this year- 55% of respondents planning a major trip would consider visiting multiple countries in a region· The ease of planning and ability to make the perfect, personalized itinerary is driving people to plan trips alone, especially younger travelers.- 76% of Millennials and Gen Z respondents (compared to 69% of all respondents) say they are planning on taking a solo trip 2024- 74% of male respondents and 63% of female respondents say they are planning on taking a solo trip in 2024- 66% of respondents planning on traveling solo are planning a trip tailored to treat themselves- 60% of respondents planning on traveling solo this year intend to take two or more solo trips· Travelers are leaning into flexible itineraries, allowing them the freedom to be spontaneous and experience the local culture when they travel.- 78% of respondents say that spontaneous trips appeal to them77% of Millennials and Gen Z have booked a last-minute trip before, compared to 65% of Gen X[3] and 52% of Baby Boomers[4]- 68% of respondents agree that they like to leave unplanned time in their trip to experience local culture/activities- 57% of respondents prefer booking a last-minute getaway to a nearby destination rather than somewhere far awayAs the demand for travel continues into 2024, American Express provides eligible Card Members with exceptional travel access and experiences, including 1400+ airport lounges through its Global Lounge Collection®; expert Travel Consultants who can build dream itineraries for everything from major trips like an expedition cruise or safari, to quick weekend getaways; restaurant reservations through Resy and curated where-to-eat guides at Resy.com/Travel; benefits across global sporting experiences and venues; benefits at over 2000 hand-picked hotels around the world via Fine Hotels + Resorts® and The Hotel Collection; more than 1000 premium vacation rental properties via Select Homes + Retreats™, and more.The full American Express Travel 2024 Global Travel Trends Report can be viewed here. [1] Survey Methodology: This poll was conducted between January 31 - February 8, 2024 among a sample of 2005 US Adults, 1007 Australia Adults, 1002 Canada, 1002 UK Adults, 1002 Japan Adults, 1006 Mexico Adults and 1005 India Adults who have at least a $50k+ income equivalent and typically travel at least once a year. The interviews were conducted online. Results from the full survey have a margin of error of plus or minus 2-4 percentage points. Some geographies may be weighted with fewer variables depending on local census data availability.[2] Millennials and Gen Z are defined as respondents as being born between 1981 - 2012.[3] GenX are defined as respondents as being born between 1965 - 1980.[4] Baby Boomers are defined as respondents as being born between 1946 - 1964.

  • In English
  • Global News

  2024-03-14

• MICHELIN Guide to Seoul & Busan 2024

  The internationally renowned Michelin Guide released “The MICHELIN Guide Seoul & Busan 2024” in February of this year. This marks the first time the Michelin Guide for Korea has included a city outside of Seoul since first being released in 2017. Busan was selected due to the port city’s unique dining culture.The MICHELIN Guide Seoul & Busan 2024 features 177 restaurants in Seoul and 43 restaurants in Busan, for a total of 220 premium dining locations. French restaurant Allen and Japanese restaurant Mitou in Seoul both earned their second star, while Mori (Japanese cuisine), Palate (French cuisine), and Fiotto (Italian cuisine) in Busan each earned their first Michelin star. Fiotto also earned a Green Star for their use of ingredients picked directly from the farm.In addition to the restaurants which were able to earn stars, the guide also includes 15 and 6 restaurants in Busan and Seoul respectively that were recognized as Bib Gourmand restaurants, providing delicious food at reasonable prices. These new additions bring the total of Bib Gourmand restaurants to 72, ranging from traditional Korean cuisine to Japanese, Mexican, and Thai, as well as vegan cooking.Foodies planning a trip to Korea should definitely check the Michelin Guide! For a gourmand experience that won’t cost too much, a visit to one of the Bib Gourmand restaurants is a great choice.The MICHELIN Guide Seoul & Busan 2024▶ Michelin restaurants in Seoul▶ Michelin restaurants in Busan

  • In English
  • Korea Today

  2024-03-12

• Seoul Subway Introduces Real-time Interpretation System

  A real-time interpretation system capable of interpreting 13 languages using AI technology has been installed at the Customer Support Center of Myeong-dong Station (Seoul Subway Line 4). The system works by connecting a mic to a see-through touch screen that displays the words spoken and translates them depending on which language the tourist selects. After the tourist asks a question in their own language, their question is translated into Korean and appears on the monitor for the Korean station worker to see and respond to. Now travelers can quickly and easily get answers to all their subway questions, including finding subway routes, the fastest transfer points, and anything else about the subway station. The touch-screen can also be used to look up information on T-locker and T-luggage, storage systems in place for travelers. The system is available in Korean, English, Japanese, Chinese, Vietnamese, Thai, Malay, Indonesian, Spanish, French, German, Arabic, and Russian (13 languages total). While the system is currently in the testing stage, more machines are planned to be installed at major subway stations, including Seoul Station, Itaewon Station, Gimpo Airport Station, Gwanghwamun Station, and Hongik Univ. Station.

  • In English
  • Korea Today

  2024-03-02

실시간 In English 기사

• Korea, Wonderland?

  Handing out hand-sewn masks, reducing rent, making donations, sending lunchboxes and volunteering at medical facilities… How have Koreans been responding to the COVID-19 outbreak? Watch the video to find out.

  • In English
  • Korea Today

  2023-05-02

• CHARGE Wellness & Hypnotherapy Center Promotes Awareness for Mental Health

  May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and CHARGE Wellness & Hypnotherapy Center, a Dubai-based wellness center marks the campaign by introducing a new method to promote overall mental well-being, combining Hypnotherapy and Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) in the therapy session. “These two powerful tools can be combined to enhance the effectiveness of therapy. The combination of hypnotherapy and NLP can be particularly effective for addressing a variety of mental health concerns, including self-limiting beliefs, addiction, feeling stuck, phobias, feeling overwhelmed, lifestyle management, and self-esteem to name a few,” according to Silvina Joseph, a Canadian Certified Hypnotherapist and NLP Practitioner and Founder of CHARGE Wellness & Hypnotherapy Center. A testimonial from one of CHARGE’s clients Patricia K in Dubai says: quote "I had an excellent session with Silvina who helped me better understand, manage & release my stress. I find her approach to be compassionate, insightful, and effective. She showed me a clear plan to move forward.” She added: “I have learned to identify my old ways of reacting to situations and through interrupting my old patterns I was able to engage with situations with new behaviors which results in creating effective solutions. This new way of dealing with life situations has had a significant positive impact on my life. I gained clarity and insight into the underlying causes of my stress through Silvina's thoughtful questioning and active listening. I always leave our sessions feeling empowered and better equipped to cope with life's challenges using the tools I learned during our sessions.” Hypnotherapy is a proven method for treating a variety of issues, including weight loss, feeling worried or overwhelmed, lack of joy and interest in daily activities that were once enjoyable, sadness, feeling emptiness or feeling down, smoking cessation, self-empowerment, and much more. Neuro-Linguistic Programming or NLP is a type of therapy that focuses on the language and communication patterns that individuals use to create their perception of the world. By identifying and changing these patterns, individuals can improve their emotional and mental well-being. A hypnotherapist using NLP techniques guides an individual through a hypnosis session to identify negative thought patterns and positively reframe them. This can lead to improvements in mood, self-esteem, and overall well-being. “By accessing the subconscious mind and changing negative thought patterns, individuals can develop more positive and adaptive coping strategies, leading to improved mental and emotional health,” explains Joseph. Mental health is becoming a growing priority in society. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), funding for mental health research and treatment has increased, and more companies are implementing mental health support programs for their employees. CHARGE Wellness & Hypnotherapy Center is revolutionizing corporate wellness programs with their innovative therapy approach in a group setting, aimed at promoting employee well-being, productivity, and work-life balance. The workshops are tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual, with a focus on enhancing confidence, eliminating self-limiting beliefs, overcoming procrastination, and maintaining motivation. Utilizing conversational hypnosis and NLP techniques, the group sessions and exercises are conducted in an experiential style, providing employees with practical tools and strategies to achieve the desired outcomes. Through this unique approach, CHARGE Wellness & Hypnotherapy Center has helped employees achieve tangible results that positively impact both their professional and personal lives, as well as the work environment. With increased confidence and productivity, employees are better equipped to meet the demands of their jobs and maintain a healthy work-life balance. The result is a happier, more engaged workforce, contributing to a positive and thriving workplace culture. CHARGE Wellness & Hypnotherapy Center is proud to be at the forefront of this revolution in corporate wellness, delivering real results and transforming the lives of employees. With the growing awareness and recognition of the importance of mental health in individuals and society as a whole, CHARGE Wellness & Hypnotherapy Center hopes to support and assist those who are looking to achieve, maintain and improve health, happiness, and paths to success. “With this approach to therapy individuals can achieve greater emotional resilience and positive change in their lives that reflect positively in all aspects of their social, personal, and work life,” concludes Joseph. To celebrate Mental Health Awareness Month, Charge Wellness & Hypnotherapy Center is offering a 30-minute FREE consultation throughout May. During the consultation, individuals will have the opportunity to discuss their specific needs and learn more about how hypnotherapy and NLP can help. Sessions are conducted in the clinics in Jumeirah and Barsha Heights.

  • In English
  • Global News

  2023-04-27

• Hong Kong to Host Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2023

  Asia’s very best bartenders and drinks industry talent will gather in Hong Kong this July as the city hosts Asia’s 50 Best Bars awards ceremony, one of the region’s most authoritative and prestigious surveys of cocktail tastes and trends. For its 2023 edition, the annual awards have partnered with the Hong Kong Tourism Board to bring the event to the city for the very first time on 18 July 2023.“We are delighted to host this year’s edition of Asia’s 50 Best Bars in July, one of the region’s most significant celebrations of hospitality, which further affirms Hong Kong’s position as Asia’s foremost hub for cocktail experiences. We look forward to inspiring the region’s best bar talent with what Hong Kong has to offer,” Dr Pang Yiu-kai, Chairman of the Hong Kong Tourism Board, says.Mark Sansom, Director of Content for Asia’s 50 Best Bars, says, “We are very excited to host the awards in Hong Kong this year. The city has one of the most dynamic and diverse bar scenes in Asia, and despite tight border controls in the last three years, it continues to lead with amazingly innovative bar experiences. By bringing the biggest event on Asia’s bar calendar to Hong Kong, we hope to shine the spotlight back on the city’s vibrant nightlife and contribute to driving travel and tourism.”Hong Kong is a breeding ground for cocktail-making talent and an ideal location for exchange of ideas among industry leaders. Eight Hong Kong bars are featured on Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2022. In the top three, two of which are bars proudly born and bred in Hong Kong, including Mexican-inspired bar COA in the No.1 spot, and Argo, at No.3, which serves creative cocktails using Asian-sourced ingredients.

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  • Global News

  2023-04-14

• International Digital Wellness Day to be Celebrated Globally on May 5, 2023

  The Digital Wellness Institute is pleased to bring you the fourth inaugural Digital Wellness Day on May 5, 2023. Last year, Digital Wellness Day reached 7 million people in 36 countries worldwide and this year, over 15 million are expected to participate in virtual and in-person gatherings across the globe. The mission of Digital Wellness Day is to provide free, research-based resources to support wellbeing in the digital era. This global movement and international holiday represents a time to “practice a pause” and optimize our relationship with technology in different areas ranging from mental health to productivity, workplace wellbeing, and beyond. On Digital Wellness Day, a growing network of 400+ Digital Wellness Educators, impact partners, and sponsors will host activations. A year-round educational toolkit is publicly available for diverse audiences to engage in mobilizing their own educational posts and events. Access the toolkit at www.digitalwellnessday.com. The day highlights the connective power of social media and digital devices, allowing participants to connect across countries. To this end, the toolkit features an approach of Digital Flourishing®: a positive psychology-based, mindful approach to technology usage that empowers individuals to take advantage of the benefits of technology while avoiding associated harms like zoom fatigue, negative social comparison, and more. On this day of celebration and reflection, the Digital Wellness Institute will also announce the first Certified Digitally Well University™ and first Certified Digitally Well Company™ in the world, setting a precedent for others to follow. These two entities will receive recognition for their dedication to and leadership in bringing positive digital practices to their communities through evidence-based interventions, assessment, and education. Additional information on how digital wellness principles have been integrated at these entities and how others may do the same will be available at www.digitalwellnessinstitute.com. Nina Hersher, Executive Director of Digital Wellness Day, shares her excitement for this celebration, “The purpose of this day is to inspire and empower individuals to take control of their relationship with technology. By stepping back to reflect on when, where, why and how we are engaging with devices, we can harness their power in a way that fuels versus fatigues us. This knowledge is integral to the Digital Wellness movement – where each of us can become an embodied change agent toward a culture of digital flourishing.” For anyone interested in hosting a virtual event celebrating Digital Wellness Day, partnering as a global sponsor, or learning more about keynotes, trainings and certifications through the Digital Wellness Institute, please contact info@digitalwellnessday.com.

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  • Global News

  2023-04-13

• Stirling Hospitality Advisors Reveals Key Trends Shaping the GCC Wellness Tourism Sector

  Wellness-centric travelers are inclined to spend more money, return more often, and stay longer at a property Wellness-centric travelers are inclined to spend more money, return more often, and stay longer at a property than average travelers, contributing to a more stable occupancy and improved profitability. The aging population, environmental crisis, and lifestyle changes have led wellness to become the center of consumer decision-making, propelling the industry into rapid expansion with a forecasted yearly growth rate of over 10% globally, doubling the value to a staggering USD 1.97 trillion by 2031.propelling the industry into rapid expansion with a forecasted yearly growth rate of over 10% globally, doubling the value to a staggering USD 1.97 trillion by 2031. Wellness lifestyle real estate developments, despite having higher development costs, result in significant sales price premiums averaging between 10.0% to 30.0% due to the associated perceptions of a wellness lifestyle. Stirling Hospitality Advisors (SHA), one of the leading boutique advisory institutions in the region, highlights key trends shaping the GCC wellness tourism industry. For decades, travelers have regularly enjoyed massages and yoga retreats in traditional spa facilities, but when the pandemic hit, wellness took a new urgency and became a priority for many. In response to these supercharged demands, the wellness industry shifted its marketing buzzword from “pampering” to “preventive”, giving integrative and medical wellness a strong momentum across the globe. Not only top-tier hotel operators, but more destinations are also incorporating holistic and advanced wellness treatments promoting timeless health and beauty for body, mind, and soul, hoping to get a piece of the multi-trillion-dollar pie. Tatiana Veller, Stirling’s Managing Director, elaborated, “With all the advantages of catering to wellness-centric travelers, including a significantly higher RevPAR and profitability compared to the traditional luxury hotels/resorts, major hotel operators will continue to go after the wellness tourism market. However, as their main business is to sell rooms, the wellness offerings will mostly be another wellness-washing product”. The continuum of wellness landscape ranges from day spas (e.g. Caudalie, Spa by Clarins), to traditional resort/hotel spas (e.g. The Ritz Carlton, Four Seasons) offering standard recreational/pampering wellness services as part of the lodging’s facilities, to destination spa resorts (e.g. Six Senses, Como) providing more well-rounded wellness packages. At a higher spectrum are integrative wellness resorts (e.g. Chiva-Som, Canyon Ranch) which provide broader treatment offerings with more advanced technologies and specialists, and medical wellness resorts (SHA Wellness Clinic, Clinique La Prairie) which operate under full-time on-site supervision of licensed healthcare professionals and may even perform minimally invasive treatments. Wellness Tourism Performance Indicators For a decade, MENA’s wellness tourism grew at a remarkable average annual rate of 13.3%, yet it only accounts for 1% of total trips whilst generating 2% of total revenue of global wellness tourism. In the Middle East, traditional hotel/resort spas account for 39.7% of the total market revenue and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 11.5% until 2025. Medical wellness is gaining momentum globally and is forecasted to grow at a CAGR of 15.1% until 2025, 1.2x faster than hotel spas and 1.3x faster than day spas. Historically, international wellness travelers spent more than 50% above the average international travelers, and domestic wellness travelers command double premium. The Untapped Potential Ingo Schweder, CEO of GOCO Hospitality, shared his insights during the interview with Stirling, “The GCC has to date no dedicated medical wellness resort. Currently, clients from the region frequent the Far East, including Thailand and India predominantly as well as Indonesia and Japan to a smaller extent. Many GCC clients are also found between spring and fall across main European wellness centers in Germany, Switzerland, Austria, the UK and France, representing 8-15% of the total guest share. However, we are working on 7 dedicated wellness projects in the KSA alone, i.e. Amaala, NEOM, Red Sea, soon UAE and expect to expand our reach further. Thus, this should change in the not-so-distant future”. It is evident that the rising popularity of medical wellness resorts offers an untapped potential in the region which presents a niche that investors should further evaluate. Qatar’s Zulal Wellness Resort by Chivasom which opened its doors in April 2022 is MENA’s first and only integrated wellness resort and the world’s first wellness destination to blend Traditional Arabic and Islamic Medicine (TAIM) with a holistic wellness approach. Until then, Six Senses Zighy Bay in Oman, a destination spa resort, served as an example of a more rounded wellness program focusing on soft wellness retreats, delivering a holistic wellness experience while not being as restrictive or highly specialized as other wellness retreats worldwide. Destination spa resorts on average generate only 20%-30% of total room revenue from holistic wellness packages, unlike integrative or medical wellness where the accommodation revenue is generated purely through the retreat/treatment packages as part of the wellness facilities. Stirling’s research shows that besides the apparent differences in expertise and wellness program offerings, the key differentiators between global integrative/medical wellness resorts and MENA traditional luxury resorts lie in the extensiveness of the property’s wellness infrastructure. Integrative/medical wellness resorts have 1 treatment room for every 3 guest rooms and wellness facilities that are on average 2.5 times larger, compared to MENA’s traditional luxury resorts which have 1 treatment room for every 20 guest rooms with higher room inventory and diverse F&B options. These differences suggest that these luxury resorts focus on selling rooms and provide a recreational or pampering experience, rather than a wellness-centric journey. Sustainability meets Wellness Immersive wellness resorts also incorporate sustainability into all their core values. Last year, SHA Wellness Clinic was awarded Green Globe Sustainability Certification, reflecting its core value in sustainability. Respect for the environment is one of SHA Wellness Clinic’s founding values and is present from the very construction of the building, which was adapted to the typology of the land to minimize environmental impact. Christopher Ford, Head of Asset Management at Red Sea Global KSA, added, “Today, wellness is one of the fastest-growing segments of the luxury travel market, with our target audience research showing that 75% of luxury travelers want vacations that cater for their overall well-being and provide fun activities at the same time. We are partnering with leading wellness hotel brands such as Clinique La Prairie and Jayasom to offer our guests advanced longevity programs and state-of-the-art health and wellness treatments.” Both properties will be located in Amaala, Saudi Arabia’s wellness-focused giga-project along the Red Sea. Amaala is powered by 100% renewable energy and will have a zero-carbon footprint with zero waste to landfill once fully operational. Is Stirling optimistic about the future of Wellness Tourism? Absolutely. Integrative and medical wellness resorts are the fastest-growing trend in the wellness industry today and will continue to be in the next decade. Bearing in mind that being in the business requires careful planning to ensure a safe, operationally efficient, and results-driven environment, it is highly recommended that an experienced consultant be hired to guide the owners and operators into a successful venture. Erni Wijaya, Asset Manager at Stirling, concluded, “Although to date most integrative and medical wellness resorts attract more affluent guests, it is believed that the pandemic has encouraged a shift and opened a new market at a lower price point in the future. Stirling is confident that when done right, a wellness-centric establishment brings enormous values and benefits for all the stakeholders involved, - from owners, clients, employees and community to the destination, the environment, and the world at large”.

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  • Global News

  2023-04-04