hidden-gem-travel

Apr 8, 2011

PHUKT'S SEA SUN & SAND

Web: http://www.phuket.com/
Location: A southern island off of the mainland peninsula on the Andaman Sea in Thailand
Getting there: Fly to Bankok Airport and then connecting flight to Phuket.
Weather: Visit during the dry season from November through to February/March each year.
Useful Info: www.phuketemagazine.com/download_en.shtml

Arrival at Phuket:
* Phuket's coastline is over-saturated with tourists and resort towns. The costs of the hotels/restaurants are one of the most expensive in all of Thailand and not much of bargains can be found since the invasion of multi-national corporate chains. But despite it all, the natural beauty of the water, beaches and near-by natural wonders are simply breathtaking and makes it all worth while visit.
* The beaches are on the west coast, stretching some 45km from Mai Khao beach in the north to Rawai in the South.
* Recommend the following beaches & its near-by accommodations for those seeking to escape the crowds for a relaxing and quiet holiday.

Nai Yang Beach
Just south of Phuket Airport, Nai Yang beach has a few nice resorts and part of the beach is a national park. Some beachfront restaurants are close to the Nai Yang Beach Resort.

Lodging:
1. Nai Yang Beach Resort: http://www.agoda.com/asia/thailand/phuket/nai_yang_beach_resort.html
2. Dewa Phuket: http://www.dewaphuket.com/
3. Indigo Pearl Hotel: http://www.agoda.com/asia/thailand/phuket/indigo_pearl_hotel.html
4. Airport Resort & Spa: http://www.agoda.com/asia/thailand/phuket/airport_resort_spa.html

5. Airport Resort: http://www.agoda.com/asia/thailand/phuket/airport_resort.html

6. Tanamas Hotel: http://www.agoda.com/asia/thailand/phuket/tanamas_house_hotel.html

7. Pen Siri House: www.pensirihouse.com

Naithon Beach

Naithon Beach is located in between Nai Yang and Bang Tao beaches. Although it's not easy to get to, it's well worth the effort.

Lodging:
1. Naithorn Bungalows:
http://www.travelfish.org/accommodation_profile/thailand/southern_thailand/phuket/naithon_to_mai_khao
2. Pearl of Naithon Resort: http://www.agoda.com/asia/thailand/phuket/pearl_of_naithon_resort.html
3. Naithon Beach Resort: http://www.agoda.com/asia/thailand/phuket/naithon_beach_resort.html
4. Sunshine Guesthouse: http://www.aqua-divers.net/accomodation/sunshine-guesthouse.html
5. Naithon Sea View Hotel: http://www.travelfish.org/accommodation_profile/thailand/southern_thailand/phuket/naithon_to_mai_
6. Naithonburi Beach Resort Phuket: www.naithonburi.com
7. Sunshine Villa: Accommodates up to 6 persons. ( Car and moped rental )
http://www.aqua-divers.net/accomodation/sunshine-villa.html

Kata Noi Beach
Kata Noi stretches along and ends at a cul du sac. Just a few minutes drive south from Kata Beach. (Note: Kata Beach is very popular with the younger crowds and has a spring-break vibe with a plenty of cheap to moderately priced hotels/bungalows).

Lodging:
1. Katathani Phuket Beach Resort: http://www.agoda.com/asia/thailand/phuket/katathani_phuket_beach_resort.html
2. Katanoi Club: http://www.katanoiclub.com/index.php
3. The Shore at Katathani: http://www.agoda.com/asia/thailand/phuket/the_shore_at_katathani_resort.html
4. Mom's Tri Villa Royale Hotel:
http://www.agoda.com/asia/thailand/phuket/mom_tri_s_villa_royale_hotel.html
5. Kata Noi Riviera Bungalow:
http://www.tourismthailand.org/where-to-stay/info-page/cat/14/accommodation/7562/
6. Kata Noi Bay Inn: http://www.katanoibayinn.com/

Layan Beach

Layan is nice quiet beach which is a part of a national park and on the far north end of Bang Tao Beach. There are a couple of resorts here, but they are built off the beach and do not detract from the scenic view.

Lodging:
1. Bundarika Villa: http://www.agoda.com/asia/thailand/phuket/bundarika_villa.html
2. Layan Beach Resort: http://www.agoda.com/asia/thailand/phuket/layan_beach_resort_and_spa_village.html
3. The Pavilions: http://www.hotelthailand.com/phuket/phuketpavilions/
4. Dusti Thani Laguna Phuket: http://www.hotelthailand.com/phuket/dusit-thani-laguna/
5. Oriental Style Layan Beach: http://www.hotelthailand.com/phuket/oriental-style-layan-beach/
6. Trisara Hotel: http://www.agoda.com/asia/thailand/phuket/trisara_hotel.html
7. Andaman White Beach Resort: http://www.agoda.com/asia/thailand/phuket/andaman_white_beach_resort.html

* Hotels 6 & 7 are located in between Naithon and Layan Beaches in a separate secluded beach area.

Must do's and activities:
* Personal concierge service for your day excursions, contact: http://www.easydaythailand.com/contact-jamies-phuket.php

Phang-nga Bay: A bay on the eastern side of the island on Gulf of Phuket with a stunning view of towering limestone cliffs, rocks climbing from the water and mangroves.

1. Boat tours: Sightseeing longtail boats operate day trips in the bay. Although organized tours are convenient, it's far more interesting to hire your own boat driver and create your own customized itinerary. Avoid feeling like a herded cattle by touring at your own pace. Ask your hotel concierge about the details. Make sure to stop at Koh Panyee. More info guide

2. Kayaking or canoeing: A fantastic way to explore the hidden caves. Half or full day trips and overnight stay tours available. Following are eco-friendly & activist tour guides:
* http://seakayaking-thailand.com/destinations/phang_nga.htm
* http://www.seacavecanoe.com/canoe_trips.html
* http://johngray-seacanoe.com/

3. If your preference is to join a tour, then I recommend the traditional Chinese Junk Boat Tours:
* http://www.phuket-travel.com/cruises/junebahtra.htm
* http://www.phuket-travel.com/cruises/junebahtra-island-adventure.htm ( Eco tour )
* Avoid the cruises and other large boat day tours.

Phuket's markets: To soak in some culture, mingle with the locals and eat some of the best cheap grubs, always head out to a market. Best time to visit is in the afternoon to early evening when the temperature cools down or go check out the night market.
* http://jamie-monk.blogspot.com/2008/03/weekend-market.html
* http://www.phuket.com/magazine/discover-fresh-market.htm
* http://www.patong-beach.com/shopping/index.htm

Bang Pae Waterfalls: The largest waterfalls in Phuket. Popular with the locals. More info & direction:
http://www.asiaexplorers.com/thailand/bangpae_waterfall.htm. Close by is Gibbon Rehabilitation Center.

Phuket Big Buddah: A giant marble statue which stands 45 meters high and sits over 400 m above sea level on Nakkerd hilltop in the south of Phuket Island and an easy drive from Karon or Kata beach. Quite an impressive site to see. Further info: http://www.phuket.com/magazine/big-buddha-today.htm

Phuket's Heiritage Trail Tour in old town: What a fantastic way to experience and explore the island's history. The morning Phuket Town Tour price is 1,950 Baht/person (including Breakfast & Lunch). Booking info: phuketheritagetrails@gmail.com and http://www.facebook.com/Phuketheritage
* 99 Oldtown Boutique Guesthouse: Facebook

Diving: Similan Islands offer the best, off-the-chart diving sites. It is comprised of 9 inhabited islands and located 40 miles west of Khao Lak or 60 miles NW of Phuket.  Other diving trips also available.
Local's insight on Similan Island: http://jamie-monk.blogspot.com/2008/09/similan-islands.html.
Booking info: http://www.sunrise-divers.com/similan_island.php & http://www.aqua-divers.net/

Thai cooking classes:
http://www.phuket-travel.com/thai-cooking-classes/
http://www.blueelephant.com/school/index.html ( Royal Thai Cuisine )
http://www.phuket.com/thai-cooking/index.htm ( Home cooking at the host's residence )

Elephant trekking tours:
Please read this article before deciding to experience an elephant trekking tour:
http://journals.worldnomads.com/responsible-travel/story/81053/Thailand/Why-Elephant-Riding-Should-Be-Removed-from-Your-Bucket-List

Chalong Bay
Lodging http://www.housebythepond.com/serviced-villas-in-phuket/

Photos:
http://absolutedevelopments.wordpress.com
http://www.asiaexplorers.com
http://www.phukethotel-booking.com

Apr 6, 2011

AMAZON RIVERBOAT EXPEDITION

Join an expedition team of researchers & scientists to study the Amazon Forest animals of macaws, dolphins, monkeys & more.
AN RARE LEARNING OPPORTUNITY. ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES AND PRESERVATION. REWARDING.
Web: www.earthwatch.org
Costs: $2695 - $3895
Location: Iquitos, Peru
Duration: 8 - 15 days
Dates: Apr, Jun, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec in 2011

Photos:
www.earthwatch.org

Apr 1, 2011

CAN TALAIS

A charming Mediterranean lodge on a hill in the Northeastern side of the Island of Ibiza.
A FAMILY OWNED VILLA IN AN UNSPOILED COUNTRY SIDE. ESCAPE FROM INFAMOUS FRENZY PARTY SCENE OF IBIZA.
Web: www.hotelcantalaias.com
Location: San Carlos, Ibiza (Eivissa), Balearic Island of Spain.
Rates: As of May 15, 157 €
Getting there:
* Flights to Ibiza is cheaper out of major European hub cities like London, Barcelona, and Frankfurt
* Find an affordable flight at:

* At Ibiza Airport, rent a vehicle to get to the hotel. No international license required, but the rental companies do require the drivers to be at least 25 years old with a valid national driver's license.

Photos:
www.hotelcantalaias.com

Mar 29, 2011

SAINTE CHAPELLE CATHEDRAL. PARIS

A master example of Rayonnant Style gothic chapel commissioned by King Louis IX in the 13th century.
MOST BREATH-TAKING CATHEDRAL IN ALL OF PARIS. INSPIRING. BEAUTIFUL WORK OF ART & STAINED GLASS WINDOWS.
Location: In the Palais de Justice complex on the Ile de la Cité in the center of Paris
Métro: line 4, station Cité. RER: Saint Michel-Notre Dame
Buses: lines 21, 27, 38, 85, 96 and Balabus
Hours: Open every day, 9.30 a.m. - 6.00 p.m. (closed Jan. 1, May 1, Dec. 25).
Admission: €5.50 ; Red.: €3.50 ; Group: €4.50
Tours:
* One-hour guided visits for 30 available in English, Spanish, French; for group reservations, call 01-53-73-78-52 or email: sainte-chapelle@monum.fr
* With one month's notice, a 1.5 hour visit with commentary is also available for groups of 30 in English, French, German, Russian, and Spanish.
* Best to visit on a sunny day to fully enjoy the light shining through the magnificent stained glass windows.

Photos:
http://www.visitingdc.com/paris/sainte-chapelle-paris.asp
http://www.sacred-destinations.com/france/paris-sainte-chapelle
http://www.travelpod.com/ad/Sainte_Chapelle-Paris

Mar 25, 2011

HOTEL MARKET

A modern hotel classically designed with an Art Nouveau inspiration located in the center of Barcelona.
BOUTIQUE HOTEL. ELEGANTLY DESIGNED. CHIC. AFFORDABLE.
Location: Passatage Sant Antoni Abad 10, Barcelona; Opposite of San Antoni Market
Map: Link
Web: www.markethotel.com.es
Rates: Start at 69 Euro ( $97.00 US )

Photos:
www.lazarorosaviolan.com

Mar 21, 2011

SEOUL 101 & AFFORDABLE HOTELS

Web: http://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/index.kto
Informative blog: http://budgettravel2korea.blogspot.com/
Planning:
1. The best time to travel to Seoul is in the months of late April, May, September, and early October when the weather is comfortably warm and not dry. The flights and hotels typically cost more during the Summer months.

2. No visa required for stay less than 30 days for the citizens of Canada, USA, Western Europe, Australia. But the passport is required for entry.

3. Search for a cheap flight. Check the special promotions with:

4. Affordable hotels:
Jung Gu District (Myeong-dong, Dongdaemun, Namdaemun Neighborhoods):
Web: http://tour.junggu.seoul.kr/tour/eng/h01_intro/h110_greeting_01.jsp
Metro: Myeongdong (line 4), Chungmuro (line 3), Chungjeongno (line 2 or 5), Euljiro 1(il) ga (line 2)

Centrally located in and around the downtown of Seoul, North of the Han River. Near by or walking distance to the shopping districts, restaurants.

Seoul Youth Hostel: http://www.seoulyh.go.kr/english/main.htm
Ibis Hotel: $120. www.ibishotel.com
Sejong Hotel: $130.
Green Residence Guesthouse: 55,000 won http://www.seoulgreen.com/index.html
Jin Guesthouse: Dormitory 19,000/ Twin room 54,000won www.jinguesthouse.com
BangRang Guesthouse: Dorms 18,000/ Double ensuit 55,000won www.bangranghostel.com
Traveler's A Hostel: 40,000 won www.travelersa.com/index.htm
Savoy Hotel: $123 https://www.savoyhotel.co.kr/html/ENG/WC/index.asp
Metro Hotel: 90,210 won http://www.metrohotel.co.kr/index.php
Doulos Hotel: 100,000 won http://www.douloshotel.com/
Hotel Skypark: 89,000 won Info
Ulijiro Co-op Residence: $75.55 Info
Alps Seoul: $89 Info
Hill House: $89 Info
Western Co-op Residence Apartment: $107 Info
Zaza Hostel: Info
Daeyang Motel: Info
Myeong dong Hostel: Info
Mizo Hotel: Info

Yongsan District (Itaewon, Hannam Neighborhoods):
Metro: Itaewon & Noksapyeong (line 6), Namyeong & Yongsan (line 1), Samgakji (Line 4).

The "Foreigner District" which is centrally located just North of the Han River. Minutes away from great restaurants & shopping areas. Strategically, this is the best district to lodge if you are planning to visit throughout Seoul. It is thoroughly covered by the mass transit and never too far from the northern districts like Jongno-gu and Jung-gu, south of the river districts like Gangnam and Apukgjeong, and popular neighborhoods on the west side, Hongdae and Sincheon.

Hamilton Hotel: $128 http://www.hamilton.co.kr
Rainbow Hotel: $60 http://www.rainbowinseoul.co.kr/EIndex.aspx
Hotel Elle Inn: $100 Info
Itaewon Hotel: Info
Kaya Hotel: Info
IP Boutique Hotel: $127 Info

Jongno District ( Samcheongdong, Insadong Neighborhoods):

Metro: Anguk (line 3), Hyehwa (line 4)

Located just outside north of Jung-gu District.

Windroad Guesthouse: 13,000 won http://www.hanafos.com/
Hostel Korea: 17,000 won http://www.hostelkorea.com/
Banana Back Packers Hostel: 22,000 won http://www.bananabackpackers.com/
Yeha Guesthouse: 30,000 won http://www.yehadoye.com/US/guest/guest_index.jsp
Seoul Hostel: 55,000 won http://www.seoulhostel.net/seoul/english/index.htm
Rainbow Guesthouse: 45,000 won http://www.rainbowgh.com/?mid=main
Backpackers Inside: 25,000 won http://www.backpackersinside.com
Eugene's House: Traditional floor sleeping. 60,000 won http://eugenehouse.co.kr/en_menu02_01.php
Friends House: 25,000 won http://www.friends-house.com/main.asp?lang=eng
Wangtang Tea Guesthouse: Traditional floor sleeping. 50,000 won http://www.teaguesthouse.com/english/index.php?id=eng
Anguk Guesthouse: 50,000 won http://www.anguk-house.com/
Traditional Korean House of Bukchon: 70,000 won http://www.bukchon72.com/eng_index.php
Lees Hotel: 55,000 won Info
Bi won Hotel: 100,000 won http://www.biwonhotel.com/
Sun Bee Hotel: 88,000 won http://www.hotelsunbee.com/main/main.php
Seoul YMCA Hotel: 70,000 won http://www.ymca.or.kr/hotel/eng/index_eng.html
Cat Boutique Hotel: 80,000 won Reservation
Hotel Biz Jongro: Info
Hangul House: Info

5. Korean Food: http://www.maangchi.com

Arrival at Incheon International Airport / Gimpo International Airport:

1. If needed, rent a cell phone at one of following phone company's booths & make sure the "English" language is an optional feature on the phone
* Texting is much cheaper than dialing.

SK Telecom
KT Telecom
LG Telecom

2. Ask at the "Tourist Information Desk" about transportations into Seoul:

Airport bus - Costs about $12.00. Thoroughly covers the city of Seoul. Stops at international or major hotels. If you are staying at a small hotel, write down the address and names of the district/neighborhood/nearest subway station to determine which bus stops near-by. It takes about an hour to get into Seoul.
Regular subway train - Costs about $3.00. Many stops and several transfers may be required.
Speed subway train - Costs about $12.00. 10 mins faster than the regular train. It travels directly to Seoul Subway Station (Line 1). If your hotel is not near-by, I don't recommend taking this train.
Car rental - An international driving license is required. I do not recommend it although all the major traffic signs are written in Korean and English. Driving is a hassle with a heavy traffic and parking options being limited.
Grab a map of Seoul written in Korean and English. Save yourself a trip to a tourist office later.

3. Exchange some cash.

Arrival at Seoul:
1. Getting around/Transportation:
* Purchase public transit card at any subway kiosk. Start out with 10,000 won ($10.00 USD). Give the money to the booth personnel and ask for a "car-dd". It can be used for the subway and buses. Recharge as needed. Ask for a subway map. Just say "map" in English.
* Seoul's mass transit is very affordable. Bus and subway cost about $1.00 one way.

Subway system: Very extensive and well covers the city and some of the outskirted areas. Signs are in English and Korean. It is very easy to navigate. http://www.smrt.co.kr/Train/Subwaymap/Eng/Subwaymap.jsp
Buses: Very extensive but a little more challenging. Ask your hotel concierge about which bus to get on and where to get off. There are several different bus systems: inner city, outer districts, neighborhoods, etc. 5 minutes or less wait for most of the buses within in the city. http://bus.congnamul.com/SeoulRouteWebApp/view_english/map.jsp
Taxis: Plentiful but most expensive. Tips: Drivers do not navigate the city from the location's address. Instead, they use the neighborhood name and near-by well known landmarks such as department stores, universities = day-huck-gyo, museums, subway stations = yuck, hotels = ho-tel, parks = gong-won (as in "magic wand" but no "d"), tourist attractions, shopping districts, etc. Pick up a copy of the city map with these places written in Korean and English. If you get lost, just show the map to your driver. It is not customary to tip the drivers.

2. Tourist offices or kiosks:

Jung-gu: http://tour.junggu.seoul.kr/tour/eng/h05_guides/h51_travel_01.jsp
Itaewon:
Tel: 02-794-5579/792-9070 (from outside Korea 82-2-794-5579 or 82-2-792-9070)
Take Subway Line 6 to Itaewon Station. The Center is inside the station just past the turnstile

4. Money:
* All major banks exchange cash and travelers' cheques, but they prefer Euro, US, Canadian, Australian, and British currencies.
* Credit cards are widely accepted, but hidden fees may be charged for overseas' usages. Check with the CC company for details.
* Most bank cash machines do not accept foreign cards. If you absolutely need quick cash, try to find one at a subway station. Instructions are in Korean.

5. Eating:
* It is not customary to tip workers at restaurants/bars.
* Learn to love Korean food and drinks. Affordable and a better value than the foreign food.

* The best way to learn about Korean food is head down to the basement of the department stores or the grocery store "marts". They often have a food court with a variety of Korean food booths to choose from. Peak around and see what looks good.
* Neighborhoods with a plenty affordable Korean restaurants & street food:

Locals' street-food favorites: Read
Day-hawk-no (Daehakno) - Hyehwa Station Exit 2. Light blue line 4. Info
Myeong-dong Shopping District: ( Myeongdong Station Exits 5, 6, 7 & 8. Light blue line 4)
Hong-day: Hongik Station Exits 4 or 5 Green line 2 . Exit 5 - Walk 1 block down and turn. Info
In-sa-dong: A designated neighborhood promoting traditional Korean food & tea. Anguk Station Exit 6. Orange line 3. Explore the main street and the alleys as well.
Gawng-nam: Gangnam Station Exits 6 & 7 Green line 2. Explore the alleys.
Sin-cheon: Sinchon Station Exits 2 & 3 Green line 2. Explore the alleys. A college town. Info
Dong-day-moon: Dongdaemun Stadium Line 4; Exits 8, 4, 9, 10 - Street food.

* Seoul has a plenty of international cuisines to choose from as well. It is becoming quite the foodie connoisseur city, but those restaurants tend to be on the pricey side. Key is to explore the back alley streets to find better restaurants within these Neighborhoods:

E-tay-won ("won" pronounced as in "magic wand" but no "d"): Itaewon Station & Hangangjin Exit 3 Brown line 6
Ga-roe-su-gee-il: Sinsa Station, Orange line 3 Exit 8. Walk about 3 blocks. Turn left before the tallest building. Next door to Apgujeong Neighborhood. Info
Sam-cheong-dong ( Gyeongbukgung Palace Station Exit 3, Orange line 3) Walk 10-15 mins along the walls of the palace to the starting point of Samcheongdong Street and turn left or ( Anguk Station Exit 2, Orange line 3) walk straight for approx 700 meters. North of Insadong.

* Foodies' websites based in Seoul:

6. Night-life: Seoul has a great nocturnal nightlife culture.
* Web: http://www.seoulgrid.com

* Imported liquor, wine or other beverages are extremely overpriced.

* Subway trains stop running by midnight and buses by 1am. Taxis are the only option afterward until the public transit is up and running around 5:30am.

* Things to do:

Urban Art/Music/Design events - http://www.kunsthalle.co
No-ray-bawng: Korean style karoki. You rent a private singing room. It's very popular in Korea and fun with a group of family/friends. They are charged by hourly or a flat fee. These are often opened til 4-5am. Ask your hotel concierge for a recommendation in your area or in the area that you are planning to visit. Some can be very expensive particularly the ones in the areas Apgujeong and Cheongdahm.
Nan-sam Tower: Although open all day, I recommend visiting it at night for the great panorama view of the city. Info
Jjim-jil-bawngs (prounced: Jjim-jay-bawng) - Public bathhouses & saunas. Often open 24 hours * birthday suit in the bathing room. Info. Dragon Hill Lodge: In Yongsan. Owned by the US army and caters more to the soldiers & their families and foreigners. Take a taxi. A little more complicated to find. Tell the driver " Young-san, Dragon Hill Lodge Ho-tel"
Midnight shopping: Dong-day-moon Shopping district: Fashion apparel, fabrics, etc. Some shops don't open til 10-11pm. Dongdaemun History & Cultural Station ( Exits 14 &2, Lines 2 & 4) Info. Noryangjin Fish Market: Noryangjin Station ( Line 1). Open all year. Info
Casinos: Gambling is illegal for Koreans, but legal for foreigners and Koreans with foreign passports. Make sure to bring your passport. There are 3 locations: http://www.7luck.com/en/Main.aspx: - Gangnam ( Subway Line 2 Samseong Station Exit #5, pass the Hyundai Department Store, then make a right and walk 100 meters to see the casino to your right). Millennium Seoul Hilton Hotel (Line No. 4 to Hoehyeon Station and go out Exit 4, and then walk 200 meters in the direction of Daewoo Foundation Building and take the byway on the left in the direction of the entrance to the parking lot of Seoul Hilton Hotel) and Paradise Walker Hill Casino. < Click for direction.
Night food tours: www.ongofood.com
Recommend the following neighborhoods' bars for foreigners: Most bars are open til 2-3 am from Mon-Thurs & Sundays and 3-4 am on Fri & Saturdays. The clubs are open til 5-6am on Thurs, Fri & Saturdays.

E-tay-won (Itaewon): There are a plenty of generic "pick-up" bars catering to the US army soldiers in this area. The following listed bars have a little more touch of class with character. A great place for bar hopping. * E-tay-won ( pronounce "won" as in "magic wand" but no "d")
Club Volume: Night club which specializes in electronic music with guest international headliner DJs on the weekends. Noksapyeong Station (Brown line 6 Exit 3). Walk for about 5-8 minutes heading down a hill and across the street to Capital Hotel. Club is at the next door.
Queen: Intimate hole in the wall gay bar which attracts a mixed crowd. Great music & dance crowd. Itaewon Station (Brown line 6 Exit 3) - Walk ahead and pass a fire station, across from Helios Bar. Turn right at the following street. Turn left at the 2nd street and Queen is on the left with big windows.
Bricxx Bar: Chilled basement hook-ah lounge with a great vibe. Attracts ex-pat English teachers. Itaewon Station ( Line 6 Exit 1) - Turn right into the first alley street from KFC and walk til it deadends. Turn right and look for the sign on your right.
Berlin Bar: Cocktail bar with DJ's spinning on the weekends. Noksapyeong Station (line 6 Exit 1) - Across the street on the sky-walk bridge. Walk up the staircase along the rail. When it comes to a street, turn right. Look for the sign on your right. Info
B-1 Bar: Gay bar but attracts a mixed crowd. Basement cocktail lounge with DJ's playing usually on Fri and/or Saturdays. Small dance floor. Itaewon Station (Line 6 Exit 1). Turn right at the first alley passing KFC. Look to your left.
Bliss: One of the classiest bars & restaurants with an outdoor patio. Info
Gecko's Garden: Beautiful outdoor terrace. Food is average & overpriced. Info - Itaewon Station Exit 1. Turn right at first alley after KFC. Turn right when it dead-ends. Look for the sign on your left.
Bungalow: It has a tiki bar vibe with a rooftop beach. Itaewon Station (Line 6 Exit 2) - Turn left at 1st alley street. Turn right when it deadends. Look for it on your left.
The Loft ( Wine Bar): It has a great roof terrace with a chilled indoor decor. Itaewon Station ( Line 6 Exit 3). Walk up and pass a gas station and fire station near the first street. Pass Rocky Mountain Tavern and Sortino Restaurant ( look for an Italian flag hanging). Start looking for the sign. It's on the 2nd floor. note: There is another "drinking" bar called Loft in Itaewon.
Luv Superlounge: Small night club with a fantastic line-up of oversea DJs performing on the weekends. Facebook & Info. Itaewon Station ( Line 6 Exit 1)- Turn right at 1st Street after KFC. Turn left when it deadends. It's on your right side.
Mu: Trendiest rooftop bar. Itaewon Station ( Line 6, Exit 2): You will see Hamilton Hotel on your left. This bar is located behind the hotel in the alley street.
Hong-day (Hongdae): It's located in Hong-ik University town, so it mostly attracts the college student crowds. But there are a few hidden worthy mentions that tend to draw older crowds. A great area to walk around & explore and it has a plenty of bars with cheap drinks.
Unknown: Chilled basement hookah lounge with Morccocan decor and ambiance. Direction: Sangsu Station ( Exit 1 Brown line 6): Walk North bound for 3 blocks and turn left at 7/11 Store corner into the alley. Turn left at the 2nd street (Gr8 Hookah Bar). Pass aA Design Museum Cafe (map)on your right and Nabi Bar on your left (Another great hookah bar with a boho vibe. Head to the basement). Start looking for a building with an "Arabic" writing on your right. Head to the basement. ( This bar is such a hidden gem that there is no English or Korean sign on the building).
Vinyl Bar - Hongik Station ( Line 2 Exit 5) - Walk ahead and turn left at the 1st street. Walk up til it deadends at Hongik University building. Turn right and walk for 200 meters. Look for the sign. If you pass 7/11 store, you went too far. A great place to enjoy a cocktail or two before heading to the clubs.
Oversound - Info
Club Cocoon - Night club with a mix of hip hop/R&B/pop Info
Oi Bar - Hookah Bar which is uniquely designed with all white interior. Info
Mansion - Cocktail lounge bar with Dj's providing the tunes on the weekends. Info
Storm - Classy lounge bar. Info
Sin-cheon: In Ewha University town which may appear rough and scruff but under the surface has a cool laid-back vibe with genuineness. Next door to Hong-dae neighborhood.
Nori Bar: Eclectic music & dance crowd in this cozy bar. Location - Sinchon Station Exit 1 Green line 2. Take your 2nd right after Hyundai Department Store. Walk straight and look for the bar on the left side, after passing your 4th left. Head to the basement of 'The Bar". Do not get here before midnight.
Gawng-nam (Gang-nam): Hectic & buzzing with neon signs. Although foreigners do hang out here, this district has more Korean appeal than other areas like Itaewon and Hongdae.
Rainbow: Hook-ah lounge with a great decor. Gangnam Station Line 2 Exit 6 - Walk 250 meters. Turn left at Giordano Store. Turn right at Dunkin Donuts and it's on your right.
Club Eden: Upscale night club with tech-house and minimal electronic music. Shin-nonhyun Station (Line 9 Exit 4)- Walk straight ahead. Beside the Ritz-Carlton Hotel. 30,000 won cover. Info

Photo:
http://english.whatsonkorea.com/map_of_seoul.ph

Mar 17, 2011

SALT & SILL INN

First floating hotel in Sweden overlooking the surrounding archipelago.
FRESHEST RAW SEAFOOD & HERRING. COSY. MODERN SCANDINAVIAN SIMPLE DESIGN. ECO-FRIENDLY.
Location: West coast of the island of Klädesholmen, Sweden
Web: www.saltosill.se/english__.html
Rates: From 990 SEK/$154.80 USD per night

Photos:
www.boutique-homes.com

Pages