Just another world from Ploy's view
INC Coffee Gasan Branch had lived rent-free on my must-visit list for ages—I’d even been recommending it for Seoul’s best holiday decor without having stepped inside! Now, after a long-pending plan finally came together, I made my way to this renowned coffee destination. While my initial mission was simply to capture its famous festive Christmas …
For snow enthusiasts, February in Japan has one mission: finding the perfect powder. Having traversed slopes across this winter-wonderland nation, I can confidently say that Zao Onsen Ski Resort in Yamagata Prefecture exists in a category of its own. It’s a place where world-class snowboarding blends with ethereal natural phenomena, creating not just a vacation, …
After a prolonged procrastination, I finally checked out Seonjeongneung in Gangnam, and I’m so glad my visit fell on the peak of the autumn season. The scene was a breathtaking explosion of fall color, so magnificent it left me wondering why I hadn’t visited sooner. This unforgettable experience instantly earned Seonjeongneung a top spot on …
This year, my annual quest to soak in Seoul’s autumn brilliance got a late start. With the calendar whispering that December was just a week away, I feared I had missed the season’s grand finale. But, driven by a stubborn hope and a pair of itchy feet, I found myself at the gates of Deoksugung …
Many people tend to associate winter in Korea with bleak, gloomy gray skies and runny noses, but there is a delightful side to Korea’s longest season that often goes overlooked. Numerous destinations boast breathtaking wintry scenery, especially outside of Seoul, where you can escape the unpleasant effects of seasonally contaminated air. So, instead of hibernating …
Some places live in your mind long after you’ve visited, calling you back for a specific moment in time. For me, that place is Staff Picks Cafe, and that moment is the peak of its legendary ginkgo tree. It took me two full fall seasons to finally return and witness this famous tree in its …
I went to Zao for the world-class snowboarding, but I left raving about my hotel. I visited in the heart of winter, from February 18th to 20th, 2025, and the landscape was a perfect, pristine winter wonderland. My stay at Oohira Hotel’s 善七乃湯 (Zenshichinoyu) in Zao Onsen was so much more than just a place …
Hidden in the heart of Seoul, Jeongdok Public Library is a cultural gem that offers more than just books. Known for its tranquil ambiance and stunning architecture, this library is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Its name, “Jeongdok,” translates to “correct virtue,” reflecting its mission to promote knowledge and learning. But beyond its …
Spring is a magical time of year, and there’s no better place to experience its splendor than at Seokchon Lake Park in Seoul, South Korea. Nestled in the heart of the city, this park transforms into a breathtaking wonderland when the cherry blossoms bloom. I recently had the pleasure of visiting during peak bloom season, …
When you’ve lived in a city as dynamic as Seoul for a long time, it’s easy to assume that you’ve seen it all. But Seoul has a way of surprising you, especially when spring arrives. The city transforms into a pastel wonderland, with cherry blossoms painting the streets in delicate shades of pink and white. …