There is a wide variety of accomodation available to
visitors to Korea - everything from expensive upscale hotels to
inexpensive places to crash for the night. Below is a general overview of
the types of short term lodgings available in Korea.
Hotels Most of Busan's world class luxury
hotels are in Haeundae and Seomyeon. Very decent, but less expensive hotel
options are scattered throughout the city. For the most comprehensive
guide to Busan Hotels, visit http://busanhotel.org/
Yogwans Another popular, reasonably priced alternative
is a yogwan, or Korean-style inn. Yogwans offer a Korean mattress, a
pillow filled with wheat husks, heat from the floor, and a bathroom
which may or may not be shared. Nowadays some yogwans also
have western beds. Rates are per room, not per guest. Prices
vary from 20-30,000won/night. Be aware that some yogwans are used
primarily as rendezvous spots for (usually secret) romantic
encounters. Commonly referred to as 'love hotels', they charge
by the hour as well as by the day.
Yoinsuks Yoinsuks are a step below and less
expensive than yogwans. Usually they have shared bathrooms and
Korean-style bedding. Some have hot water, others do not, but there
is often a public bath nearby. Prices vary from 12,000 -22,000 won/night.
Hostels At present, there are several dozen youth
hostels in Korea; all are members of the Korea Youth Hostel Association.
They offer reasonably priced rooms for economical travelers and
students. The prices vary from 50,000 won/night for a twin room to 12,000
won/night for dormitories. (Seoul is more expensive than other parts of
the country.) Reservations and further information can be obtained from
the Korea
Youth Hostel Association
Homestays There are many homestay options in
Korea. For a list of resources, visit Lee & Kim's Homestay links
Minbak & Hapsook These are usually rooms in a
private house, and involve shared facilities and meals. This is an
especially popular form of accommodation in rural areas. As many as 12
people in a large traveling party will sometimes stay together in one
room. Minbak usually cost around 5,000 to 10,000 won/night. Hapsook are
similar to the minbak, but for long-term stays. These are also popular in
rural areas and student communities. It's common to find families that
provide meals as well rooms.
Campgrounds Camping is usually not allowed in
national parks, but some wilderness areas do have campgrounds. Campers
must provide their own sleeping bags and camping equipment. The cost
is usually 5,000won or less per night. Visit the National Park
Authority website for more information about visiting wilderness areas
in Korea.
Temples It is sometimes possilbe to stay at
Buddhist temples. Guests are expected to follow the temple habits (waking
up early, sharing chores and eating what the monks or nuns eat). Men and
women usually stay in separate quarters. It is appropriate to leave a
small donation before leaving, but not required.
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