This summer, Yeosu has become one of the hottest destinations on the peninsula; so naturally, I had to take a look for myself and share it with you!
In the era of the Coronavirus, international travel has gone from a luxury to a flat out impossibility. Worries such as “Is it safe?,” “Will I need to quarantine upon arrival?,” and “Is the risk worth it?” occupy the minds of even the most adventurous jet setters. But luckily, the domestic travel industry is booming in countries like Korea where outbreaks are stabilizing and controlled.
PHOTO CREDIT: Yeosu Tourism Organization
Located on the southern coast of Korea, Yeosu is a 1 hour flight, 3 hour high speed train, or a 4 hour drive from Seoul—but it is definitely worth the commute. Thanks to the ocean breeze and warm current, Yeosu has cool summers and mild winters, making it a desirable destination at any time of year.
Why Yeosu?
While there are many luring attractions in Yeosu, such as historic sites, cable car rides, and stunning Buddhist temples, the main motivator that’s been pulling people out of Seoul is the resorts. Ocean view hotels and resorts have been popping up all up and down the coast, and attracting friends, couples, and families alike. Many people opt for an all inclusive resort, that eliminates the need to leave the resort during the entire stay. It’s safe, convenient (especially if you didn’t drive), and a great escape from busy city life.
I visited a beautiful pool villa resort called Le Grand Bleu. Boasting a panoramic heated infinity pool overlooking the ocean, and private jacuzzis in each room, it’s a great option for those needing some R&R.
Time to start the Hocance!
(Korean slang for hotel + vacance)
Right after check in, we changed into our swimsuits, reapplied our SPF, and hit the pool. Due to the somewhat cloudy weather and strong ocean wind, it was a little chilly on a September afternoon. But the pool had the perfect heated temperature so we still had fun just relaxing and floating around.
Le Grand Bleu boasts 10 different types of rooms, from simple double rooms, to huge party suites with private pools. So there’s something for everyone!
After watching the sunset, it was time to head back to the room and rinse off all that chlorine. I dropped a bath bomb in the jacuzzi, popped the champagne, and soaked away my stress, and indulged with some K-beauty travel essentials.
Pampering time! Aqulabo’s Kombucha First Breath-Like Toner is exactly what my skin was craving to hydrate and purify after all that sun and chlorine)
Morning Routine
The next day, I had a lazy morning and went out on the terrace for a sheetmasking session accompanied by fresh ocean breeze. I brought Celimax Sedum Ampoule Mask with me and it was the perfect choice to keep my skin hydrated all day.
Before leaving the resort, we had to take advantage of the best photo op in the whole facility… the swing! It was huge and reminded me of pictures I’ve seen of Bali. The resort even provided a choice of flowy dresses you could wear while swinging to get a really dramatic shot. Definitely Instagram worthy.
I was nervous at first, but the staff walked me through the safety precautions and strapped me in tight. He even taught me how to sit and arrange my dress to catch the wind most beautifully. Once I was ready, he gave me a few pushes and I was flying! It felt so magical and with my dress flowing behind me I felt like a goddess in the wind. On the ground next to the staff, my friend was snapping photos from every angle for my instagram. Once we got enough pictures, the staff helped me to slow down and get off the swing. I don’t know about you, but I was pretty happy with my photo!
(There are only two or three hotels in Yeosu that offer a swing photo zone, so be sure to do your research when booking a hotel.)
If you are a Seoulite like me, or once borders open back up, I highly recommend visiting Yeosu. Stay safe and stay beautiful!
