Seoul: Spa and Shopping

Spas 24/7:

When in Korea…you must do as the Koreans do. These 24-hour-spas, or jimijilbangs, are where much socializing and relaxation occurs. Most spas in Seoul offer a full menu of services and are a very grandiose version of western spas.

Dragon Hill

Dragon Hill is the largest of the jimjilbangs. It has a family feel to it with the kitschiness of 80s Vegas meets an amusement park. Sprawled across seven floors, it includes a golf driving range, restaurants, cinema and rooftop garden. Foreigners and locals alike love this behemoth where they can enjoy a day of relaxation.

For more information www.dragonhillspa.co.kr

Spa  Lei

This tranquil spa is for ladies only. Quaint and smaller, it offers a full range of services, features a saltwater pool, and ginseng and rose baths.  Definitely get the body scrub as Korean body scrubs are like no other in the world; it’s as much of a cultural experience as a spa treatment.  The older Korean women may be vigorous in scrubbing you down (for the shy: they leave no nook or cranny unscrubbed), but if you come with an open mind, and leave your inhibitions in the locker room, you will leave with baby soft skin that lasts  for weeks on end and, perhaps, a few pounds lighter as they slough off the weight of your travels.

Shopping:

Shopping is a huge past time for Seoulites. A leader in fashion and all things trendy, Seoul is a shopper’s heaven.  You can seriously shop till you drop and shop any time of day or night.  From mega malls to small boutiques and street vendors, there is something for everyone.

Garosu-gil St in Gangnam

This fun and eclectic street is a favorite shopping area. It is full of one-of-a-kind boutiques, cafes and restaurants where the hip, young and trendy hang out. During the day, people watch at the fancy coffee shops, and at night, dance the night away at the numerous clubs and lounges.