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Korea (South) Marketing

South Korea: A Hidden Gem For Cyclists Thinking ‘Asia’

South Korea is renowned for its pop culture, technological advancements, and mouth-watering cuisine. But did you know it’s also a haven for cycling enthusiasts? Its stunning landscapes, impressive infrastructure, and growing emphasis on eco-friendly living make it the perfect place for two-wheeled exploration. Read on to uncover five compelling reasons why South Korea should be your next cycling destination.

1. An Extensive Cycling Network – Yes, you read that right! Boasting over 5,000 kilometers of interconnected cycling paths, South Korea features major links like the gorgeous Four Rivers Trail stretching from Incheon to Busan. With comprehensive physical and digital signage, cyclists of all abilities can confidently navigate their way through this paradise.

2. Breathtaking Landscapes and Scenery – South Korea presents a diverse array of scenic beauty for every cyclist. From Seoul’s vibrant streets to the calm countryside and captivating coastlines of Jeju Island, each turn unveils something new to captivate your senses. Additionally, the ever-changing terrain ensures that every ride suits your desired challenge level.

3. Immersive Cultural Experiences – Cycling through South Korea is an all-encompassing cultural journey. As you pedal past quaint villages, ancient temples, and bustling traditional markets, you’ll dive deep into Korean customs and traditions. Along the way, indulge in delicious local flavors to make your two-wheeled adventure even more unforgettable.

4. Cyclist-Friendly Cities in South Korea – In recent years, the growing passion for cycling in South Korea has led to a shift in driver attitudes, the development of cyclist-only tunnels, and exclusive biking lanes, making the roads safer and more enjoyable for cyclists. The well-maintained urban and rural routes empower cyclists to confidently embark on thrilling adventures. What’s more? South Korea’s trains come equipped with bike racks, allowing cyclists to effortlessly combine rail travel with biking to explore greater distances.

Ready to experience the ride of your life? Dive into the world of South Korean cycling now!

5. Budget-Friendly Adventures – Cycling in South Korea is surprisingly affordable—from accommodations and food to transportation costs. Reasonably priced bike rentals and equipment ensure that travelers of any budget can experience the thrills of discovering South Korea on two wheels. The icing on the cake is that South Korea has many bike-friendly hotels and accommodations, so you can rest and recharge after a long day of pedaling.

Some of the must-ride routes include the coastal trail from Busan to Seoul, the UNESCO World Heritage course along the Seoul City Wall, and the scenic path skirting the Seoul Mountains. So, which adventure will you embark on first?

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Food & Dining Korea (South) Marketing

4 Must-Do Healthy Activities in Korea

  1. Jimjilbang literally means ‘heated rooms’, a place where locals come to unwind, engage and hang out while enjoying a host of health and beauty rituals that go beyond a quick soak. The cost to enter a jimjilbang is between ₩7000 and ₩20,000 (CAD 7 – CAD 20) and it varies based on the day of the week, the time of the day, and its location. Koreans have long believed that perspiring in these hot rooms has a medicinal effect and could help improve blood circulation, reduce stress, clear out the pores and possibly help with weight loss. They certainly make for a great place to meditate, relax, and unwind especially for tourists who may have spent a long day exploring the city.
    Suggested article for a first-timer at a Jimjilbang
  2. Korean Ginseng is a bitter-tasting root with a strong flavor whose shape resembles that of a human body. It is said to contain plenty of amino acids, vitamins, and minerals, including saponins or ‘ginsenosides’. Ginsenosides are known to boost immunity and help fight cancer as well as provide a quick recovery from fatigue. Korean Ginseng is a high-quality souvenir and can be purchased in department stores, supermarkets, road shops, and ginseng specialty shops when in Korea.
  3. Makgeolli has the longest history among all of Korea’s traditional alcohols. Made by mixing steamed glutinous rice or wheat with nuruk, a fermentation starter culture, and water, the mixture is left to ferment. Extremely nutritious and low in calories, Makgeolli is 80% water and 6–8% alcohol. An unfiltered beverage, it contains lactic acid and lactobacillus bacteria, at the level found in yogurt. It also contains dietary fiber. All in all, it aids digestion, improves immune function, and slows the aging process
  4. Temple Stay is a unique opportunity to experience Korean Buddhism, its daily lifestyle, rituals, and spirituality. It entails staying at a Buddhist temple and engaging in daily monastic activities, a wonderful way to rediscover oneself. Imagine waking up to the sound of temple bells that sweep through the mountains, rendering peace in the hearts of temple visitors. A temple stay provides sanctuary from city life and offers space for meditation and holistic healing. A typical temple stay program includes a Buddhist service, seon meditation, the 108 prostrations, and communal work. Some programs also educate participants on monastic meal offerings and tea ceremony rituals.

 

We recommend seeking medical consultation from your doctor before engaging in any of the suggested activities while in Korea. A doctor knows what is best for you!

Categories
Destination Marketing Slovenia

Slovenia – A Hidden Gem Worthy Of a Detour

This green country is tucked away in Central Europe offering something for every traveler and lots of love for everyone.

Its diverse topography consists of four major European geographic landscapes – the European Alps, the karstic Dinaric Alps, the Pannonian, and Danubian lowlands & hills, and the Mediterranean coast. A reason why landscape tends to change every 10 minutes of driving. The green heart of Europe shares a 670 KM long border with Croatia, making it an ideal dual destination combination.

Whether you are about being one with nature or are a wine connoisseur, you will leave Slovenia satiated. One can enjoy a green holiday in Slovenia as much as a gastronomical or wellness experience. The unique ways to explore the destination include active holidays, spa & health resorts, food & wine journeys, culture, and romantic getaways to name a few.

When one thinks of nature, limestone caves are the first to come to mind. After all, there are over 13,000 caves across the country and nearly 200 open to the public. Of these, Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle are must-do attractions.

Known for its diverse gastronomy, Slovenia’s culinary scene is influenced by its neighboring countries – Italy, Austria, Hungary, and Croatia. One can taste dishes from no less than 24 gastronomical areas and 3 wine-growing regions. There is keen interest in its local micro-breweries too. Slovenia received its first Michelin star in 2020 and the latest edition of the guide features 58 Slovenian restaurants. Local ingredients transformed into unique culinary creations.

No matter when your travels take you to Slovenia, it is a gem worth the detour. Imagine a private saxophone concert in a Karst Cave or a winemaker that surprises your clients after a long cycling tour. Every experience made possible by Roundabout Travel Experiences, a Slovenian incoming operator specializing in awe-inspiring journeys across Slovenia, Croatia, Montenegro, and Serbia.

Saleint Marketing Agency is managing the North American Sales office for Roundabout Travel Experiences.

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Destination Hotel Korea (South) Marketing

Feel At Home With Fairmont Ambassador

Why is it that you feel right at home when you’re in South Korea? Because even though it’s more than 8,000 Kms away from Canada, Seoul is one of the most modern cities in Asia that mixes class, culture, and technology in its main cities. Get ready to check into The Fairmont Ambassador Seoul experience!

Located at walking distance from parks and metro stations, this modern venue can easily accommodate people from all over the world in over 300 spacious rooms. With ballrooms and meeting rooms ready to welcome large parties, there are various possibilities for events of all sorts. Whether you’re planning a corporate event or a wedding celebration The Fairmont Ambassador Seoul offers elegant options that are both modern and classically influenced.

Download the hotel brochure

No lasting experience would be complete without having a taste of superb meals at one of their four restaurants. Guests can enjoy an all-day culinary experience, either when having lunch at Spectrum or The Atrium Lounge and when gazing at the city skyline from Mariposa or M29 for dinner.

Since The Fairmont is part of Accor Hotels, you also get to accumulate your meeting planner points as a bonus. That is certainly a reason to break out your Gangnam Style dance moves.

* Fun Fact for impressing people – Did you know that Gangnam Style literally means “South of the River Style” which is a region that is one of the richest and most glamorous places in Seoul. This classy district of Seoul is notorious for people displaying their trendy and hip lifestyles.

If you want to find out more about how you can plan your next meetings and events close to a Convention Center and create a lasting experience with super delighted clients, visit Fairmont.com/seoul

View the meeting specs

Categories
Destination Korea (South) Marketing

5 Questions Planners Ask About The DMZ

The Demilitarized Zone (Known as the DMZ) is widely considered a must in the bucket list of anyone visiting South Korea. As more people arrive each year, planners are usually faced with several questions. Here are the Top Five Answers to the most commonly asked questions:

  1. Is it safe to visit the DMZ? Absolutely, yes. While the DMZ in Korea is considered by some “the world’s most dangerous border,” there is no threat to any civilians or visitors. Tourists entering the DMZ go through a routine briefing that covers the do’s and don’ts of the visit. Although a safety waiver is required to visit the JSA (joint security area), where the North Korean and South Korean forces stand facing each other, the briefing will cover everything you need to know to better enjoy the experience.
  2. Are there any steps that I need to take before the visit? All you have to do is book your visit! It’s that simple. You can even do it from your couch. After you book, a DMZ travel operator will get in touch with you to cover all the details of your visit.
  3. What should my delegates be aware of before the visit? You cannot be part of this experience if you don’t bring your passport. Also, out of respect for the local culture, the dress code should be at least smart business casual. What does this mean? Absolutely no torn jeans, no shorts, and no open-toe footwear. Dress as if you were attending a business networking event. There will be several checkpoints along the way where military people board the bus; this is normal protocol.
  4. What’s the ideal budget for this experience? The Price points start around CAD 175.00 per person. The costs may vary on each day of the week, time of the year, exclusive bus/coach requirement, pick-up points, meal(s) needed kind of meal required, and so on. For an incentive group, we recommend budgeting CAD 500.00 per person in order to offer a more elaborate meal. Prices change and we recommend connecting with the tour organizers before submitting the final budget for approval.
  5. Are there any other unique experiences in the DMZ? Visiting the DMZ is a unique experience by itself. And yes, there’s a chance you get to capture everything that’s unique about this area, including an interview with the North Korean Defector. This interview is conducted in Korean with a translator and a guide. Delegates and attendees can come up-close and hear first-hand for as little as CAD 150 per person for this tour.

You might wish to check out a sample waiver form as you plan the visit to the DMZ.

Categories
Destination Korea (South) Marketing

Make Korea Your Event Destination

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Destination Maldives Marketing

Must Do Activities In The Maldives

As enticing as the destination may be, every traveler always looks for activities in the destination. Gorgeous sun, pristine sand, private beach; all of it sounds wonderful. The question remains, what can one do when in the Maldives? We have been asked about this time and again so we have spelled them about for you. There is a wide variety of activities to engage in and these are our favorite:

Scuba diving: One of the most iconic things people associate with the Maldives is the clear blue Indian Ocean. It invites you to take a dive and explore the beautiful sea creatures below. Luckily the Maldives offers scuba diving opportunities for both certified and uncertified divers. The crystal blue water is home to an array of sea creatures like stingrays, whales, sharks, sea turtles, eels, seahorses, etc.School of fish

The water is warm and does not require a wet suit. Just take your adventurous spirit along with you and enjoy the view. Raa Atoll, Malé, Maafushi, Dhangethi, and Addu City are among the many host cities in the Maldives with ideal diving conditions.

Snorkeling: For those who prefer staying closer to the surface of the sea, snorkeling is the activity for you! The Maldives is surrounded by a multitude of coral reefs that make snorkeling possible. This way you get to experience the beautiful sea creatures at the top and swim with the fish and sea turtles.

Since it’s close to the top and you will be making use of a snorkel, you can stay for hours just exploring and enjoying the crystal blue waters and pristine reefs of the Maldives. Various resorts provide ideal snorkeling conditions in the following islands: Malé, Maafushi, Dhangethi, and Addu City.

Surfing: If you’re an avid surfer, then surfing the Indian Ocean should be on your bucket list. Especially if you’re visiting the Maldives.

It is such a prime location for surfing that the Cinnamon Dhonveli break attracts some of the world’s top pro surfers. If you’re not a pro, no worries, there are other islands in the Maldives with free ocean access that allow you to surf. If you’re not a surfer, then sit back and enjoy the show while basking in the beautiful sun. The Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll offers the best surfing conditions in the Maldives.

Paddle-boarding: It is a great activity to carry out in the Maldives as it has a lot of islands with calm waters. You can stand or lie on your paddle-board and see the clear sea creatures as they swim beneath you in the clear blue water. The islands are also quiet and serene, so you can have a relaxing day away from all the buzz as well.

Scenic flight: What’s the best way to take in all the beauty of the Maldives at once? A scenic flight! You get to have the perfect view of the crystal blue waters crashing against the reefs and sandbars. You also get to see the many atolls and islands that make up the Maldives. Up in the air – you witness the isolation of the islands and appreciate the wonder of Maldives.

Some resorts often require a twin-engine float-plane to transport clients to and from the resort. This could save you the hassle of having to book a separate flight to take to the Maldives. However, not all resorts do this so you might have to book for one.

Categories
Destination Maldives Marketing

Maldives – Prepare To Be Pampered

Hearing the country’s name conjures up images of luxury huts overlooking an aqua blue ocean, Maldives is a nation of islands located in the Indian Ocean. Comprising of 1192 islands the country covers an area of approximately 90,000 square kilometers, only 298 square kilometers of which is dry land (less than 1%). With over 1200 coral islands ringed by a beautiful landscape of reefs, it is the most dispersed country in the world. The complex atoll (pronounced – at al. Atoll means it is the ring-shaped reef, island, or chain of islands formed of coral) structures of the Maldives are formed on ridges rising from the ocean. The islands are grouped into a double chain of 26 atolls.

One-third of the residents reside in Male – the capital city, making it one of the most densely populated cities in the world. Its unique geography and breathtaking natural beauty have made the Maldives one of the most sought-after holiday destinations in the world. Of the 200 islands, more than 120 have been developed as resorts and are in operation, and at least another 50 are under development.

Did you know that due to global warming 80% of Maldives may be inhabitable by 2050? This is according to multiple reports from NASA and the U.S. Geological Survey.

The beauty of the Maldives is not only above the water. The Maldives is home to about five percent of the planet’s reefs that come with an explosion of color contributed by soft and hard corals that form them. The reefs are home to a thousand species of fish. Lured by the rich nutrients that flow in with the currents, large pelagic fishes such as manta rays and whale sharks also make the Maldives their home.

Things to know about the Maldives:

  • Capital – Male
  • Language – Dhivehi
  • Local time – +10 hours EST | + 13 hours PST
  • Religion – Muslim
  • Currency – Maldivian Rufiyaa
  • Country code – +960
  • Visa – on arrival for all nationalities (as of Jan 31, 2022)
  • Seasons – Spring, summer, autumn, winter
Categories
Destination Dubai Marketing

Travel To Dubai & Explore A Destination Like None Other!

Dubai, an Emirate (and a city) in United Arab Emirates is well known to many of us today. Thanks to Emirates Airlines which connected the world while making Dubai a stop-over destination. Today, you can stay for as long as 10 days without running out of things to do. The city has something for every traveler which is what makes it a great choice for multi-generational family trips.

Everyone travels differently and there is no standard or suggested length of stay. In 5 days – 4 nights you can expect to experience a lot of what the destination has to offer. Our typical 5-night program that we have put together for our North American travel partners and their clients looks something like this:

  • Day #1: Arrive, arrival transfer, dinner and overnight at hotel
  • Day #2: Full day Dubai Tour with visit to Burj Khalifa
  • Day #3: Morning at leisure. Afternoon Desert Safari
  • Day #4: Morning at leisure. Evening Dhow Dinner Cruise
  • Day #5: Departure transfer

Free time can be filled with activities that the traveler would enjoy. We always like to recommend that a car & driver be hired to enable exploring the city at one’s own pace.

One of the safest destinations in the world, we have been there a few times and have helped many explore this ever growing city.

What are you waiting for?