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Many people here have suffered mental fatigue from weeks of limited outdoor activities in line with the government's social distancing campaign that has played a key role in slowing the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic here.
While the government loosened its high-level physical distancing rules earlier this month amid clear signs of a slowdown in COVID-19 infections, the health authorities continue to stress the need to comply with the basic rules of its "distancing in daily life" plan as "It is too early to relax yet."
The return of warm and refreshing weather, however, has made people want to go out to rejuvenate their tired minds.
For those people, Agoda, a Singapore-headquartered digital travel platform, recommends great areas throughout Korea to soothe bodies and minds while still maintaining distancing in isolated natural surroundings.
Become one with nature
Nature provides the perfect respite from a daily hectic working life.
From taking in fresh mountain air to having a cup of coffee with a magnificent view of the ocean, getting close to nature allows one's mind to rest while appreciating the surrounding beauty.
At Phoenix Pyeongchang Hotel located in Pyeongchang, Gangwon Province, people can indulge in a stress-relieving spa treatment after trekking on two-hour-long forest trails with a guide on the slopes of Mount Taegi.
Those who love the sound of the waves are invited to check in at Sun Cruise Resort and Yacht located on a coastal cliff in Gangneung where people can wake up to a breathtaking sunrise as well as take an enjoyable stroll down to the private beach and in the nearby scenic park.
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| Sun Cruise Resort and Yacht / Courtesy of Agoda |
Comfort for the mind through reading
Reading broadens and nourishes the mind.
For those who are real bookworms that love nothing more than the smell of books whether old and weathered or fresh of the printing press, Agoda recommends the 24-hour Forest of Wisdom Library in Paju's Book City where people can take a break from their all-day laptop activities and get lost in a veritable library of 500,000 books.
Hotel Jijihyang is just a few steps away ― Jijihyang could be interpreted to mean "the hometown of paper."
In Busan, a few nights stay at Hilton Busan would be a great choice for a luxurious stay with an ocean view, and easy access to Eternal Journey, an interactive bookstore, 1,540 square meters in size.
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| Hilton Busan / Courtesy of Agoda |
Hilton Busan is also equipped with three pools ― one indoor and two outdoor ― that boast a unique ocean view.
The hotel's main outdoor pool, Infinity Pool, is located along the shoreline, allowing guests to enjoy a view of the open sea while swimming.
Another outdoor pool for adults only is located on the second floor, offering a more private and quiet atmosphere.
The indoor pool, called McQueen's Pool, is located on the 10th floor.
The different locations of the pools allow visitors to enjoy the panoramic seascape from various angles.
A night with traditional culture
Diverse types of hanok (traditional Korean houses) from quiet old houses that retain their architectural heritage to hotels which reinterpret traditional culture are also recommended for those who want to escape from the present into a different era with a unique stay.
The warm ondol, traditional Korean underfloor heating, is perfect for reducing fatigue and getting a deep sleep, while the cool maru, traditional Korean wooden decking, is good for relaxing on during the day.
Jukheon Traditional House in Andong, North Gyeongsang Province, which is near the Hahoe Folk village, a UNESCO World Heritage site, will make guests feel like they have returned to the 1392-1910 Joseon Kingdom.
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| Jukheon Traditional House / Courtesy of Agoda |
In addition, the Royal Room of the King Hotel in Jeonju, North Jeolla Province, a city famous for the Jeonju Hanok Village, will make for a lavish stay in the historical district.
