South Korea Hotels and Hostels

South Korea can be a very fascinating country to travel it. It has very modern infrastructure and technology, but it is possible to still catch glimpses of old world traditions that have been passed down from generation to generation. If you're creative with you destinations and accommodation choices, you may find yourself in some unique situations. Consider doing a homestay, or staying in a minbak. Found mainly in rural areas, this unique experience allows you to rent a room in a locals home. They're quite common and popular near national parks. They can range dramatically in quality and price, with some are surprisingly fancy and high end. Typically you will get a TV in your room and you will share a bathroom. If you do choose a fancier option you may have a bathroom that accompanies your room, but these are rare and harder to come by.

Finding the Best Prices

South Korea has a wide range of options for both budget travelers and luxury travelers, as well as everybody in between. Seoul is probably the most expensive area in South Korea, and you can expect to pay roughly twice as much for accommodation in this city than you would elsewhere in South Korea. As such, it will dramatically help your budget to head to the countryside and see more of South Korea than just its capital city. This will also give you a more diverse trip and will prove quite enjoyable as well.

There are budget accommodations, but hostels are not as common in South Korea as they are elsewhere in Asia or Europe. There is a unique option that you might consider, referred to as a jjimjilbang. It is a public bathhouse that is usually affordable, but is quite simple and offers little more than a place to sleep and a shower.

Types of Accommodation

There are some great options for accommodation in South Korea that allow you to truly experience the unique culture in this country. In the countryside, minbaks, or homestays are the best option to experience a traditional home and interact with a local family for an affordable price. If you're in the cities, hostels are likely limited, but you will find motels. Keep in mind that motels are more like Japan's "love hotels" and less like western style motels. They often cater to young couples looking for an "escape". You will also find full service hotels that can be quite expensive. There are some cheaper options around so do some research ahead of time.

Jogye, Korea's largest Buddhist sect, operates the Temple Stay program, which lets you stay at a temple for a day. You are expected to work and wake up early to participate in prayers. A donation is typically expected as well, but this can be a very rewarding experience.