A visit to one of Korea’s hot-spring destinations is the perfect getaway during the cold winter season. And whilst the country may be a little spoilt for choice, the Korea Tourism Organization recommends the regions of Uljin in North Gyeongsang Province, Juklim Spa in Wanju, North Jeolla Province, Singal-ri Spa in Gyeonggi Province and Seorak Waterpia in Gangwon Province as ideal escapes for holidaymakers in December.




The no. 1 spa destination within the East Sea area is Uljin. The region boasts two top quality spas that are bathed in a history dating back for centuries. Deokgu Spa is Korea’s only natural open-air spa and bubbles up its precious supply of warm water averaging 41.3 degrees Celsius throughout the year. Sulfur spas are a rare phenomenon in Korea, and few would argue that Baekam Spa is the finest example. Bathers have enjoyed its unique healing properties since the Shilla Era(B.C.57-A.D.935) over 1,000 years ago. Uljin also takes pride in its beautiful natural landscape and fine architecture, including Mangyang Pavilion and Wolsong Pavilion, two of the biggest attractions in the nation's eastern region. Another great reason to travel in winter is the chance to taste snow crabs when they are in season. For more information, contact Uljin-gun Culture & Tourism Department. Tel: (054) 785-6393, http://tour.uljin.go.kr.




If you seek an alkaline sulfur spring, make your way to Juklim Spa in Wanju, North Jeolla Province, a place that has earned a reputation as one of the most tranquil spots for bathing in the country. Spa purists believe that it rivals the great Beppu in Kyushu, Japan for its superb water quality. The soft soapy water permeates the skin and helps remove heavy metal impurities that gather in our bodies, reducing symptoms of arthritis, dermatitis, moist tetter and atopy. The Nearby Songgwangsa is one of Korea's Three Jewel Temples along with Tongdosa in Yangsan and Haeinsa in Hapcheon. Jeonju Hanok village offers a variety of traditional Korean activities such as brewing, traditional Korean paper-making, ceramic ware and wooden industrial arts. For more information, call Wanju-gun Culture & Tourism. Tel: (063)240-4224, www.wanju.go.kr, For information on Juklim Spa, tel: (063)232-8832.




Singal-ri Spa in Icheon, Gyeonggi Province became the retreat for Kings of the Chosun Dynasty. King Sejong (A.D.1418-1450) and King Sejo (A.D.1453-1468) sought cures for their physical and mental ailments from the healing waters of the Singal-ri Spa. Icheon also boast supreme quality rice, grown as a gift and a tribute for kings in ancient times. Here, you can bath in the king’s spa and dine on rice fit for a royal palate. For more information, visit the Icheon City Culture & Tourism Department website at www.icheon.go.kr or call (031) 644-2123. The independent spa websites are also a useful source of information and inspiration. Termeden Spa at www.termeden.com and Icheon Spa Plus at www.mirandahotel.com/spaplus.


Seorak Waterpia in Sokcho, Ganwon Province has upgraded its facilities to include an aqua-dome that gives visitors the opportunity to bathe in style whilst taking in magnificent views of the surrounding countryside. Sokcho has many other attractions such as the traditional Jungang Market and Lake Yeongrang. Experiencing the Sokcho sunrise should not be missed under any circumstance, and it is also a perfect venue to bring in the new year. For more information, call the Sokcho City Tourism Department at (033) 633-3171 or visit the website at www.sokchotour.com. Seorak Waterpia’s website is www.weorakwaterpia.com and can be reached on phone no. (033) 635-7700.