5 purple numbers to wear to Korea because Seoul’s landmarks are turning purple in June 2023 for BTS

Purple numbers for BTS

As the vibrant city of Seoul prepares to celebrate BTS’ 10th anniversary in June 2023 by transforming its iconic landmarks into a sea of purple, there’s no better time to flaunt your love for the K-pop sensation in style.

Let’s take a look at 5 eye-catching purple numbers that will not only help you pay the ultimate tribute to your favorite K-pop band but also ensure you fit in among the picturesque purple backdrops.

Get ready to make a statement while exploring the stunning sights of Seoul!

Danice Floral Skorts in Purple

Danice Floral Skorts in Purple

Price: $38.90 or 3 payments of $12.97 with atome

Step up your purple-style game with The Stage Walk’s Danice Floral Skorts in Purple. Made from beautiful cotton eyelet and featuring delicate floral embroidery, these skorts are a non-sheer fully lined design with pockets at the sides and an asymmetrical overlap front. They also come with a concealed back zip. Pair it with a cropped top for an effortlessly chic ensemble—perfect for your upcoming summer trip to Korea.

Melanie Elastic Waistband Flare Maxi Skirt

Melanie Elastic Waistband Flare Maxi Skirt

Price: $46

Get ready to set sail for the high seas of ARMY fashion with Love & Bravery’s Melanie Elastic Waistband Flare Maxi Skirt. This skirt is made with premium linen blend fabric and features a comfortable elastic waistband and hidden side pockets. Lined with smooth polyester, it’s designed for comfort. The versatile flare style is great for strutting around on your casual day out in the land of kimchi.

Chamomile Embroidered Babydoll Dress

Chamomile Embroidered Babydoll Dress

Price: $48.90

Get your cuteness overload with this adorable baby doll dress from Fayth. Transform into a dainty doll with this ultra-feminine dress that has a square neckline, puff sleeves, and detailed floral embroideries for extra charm. The double bow accentuates the sweet babydoll silhouette and comes with functional side pockets to complete your look. Get yours now in pretty pastel periwinkle.

Philippa Cotton Ruffle Maxi Dress

Philippa Cotton Ruffle Maxi Dress

Price: $59 or pay 3 installments of $19.67 with ShopBack PayLater

Slip into this lilac dress that’s apt for capturing that whimsical, carefree vibe. Crafted from comfy material, this sweeping maxi creation showcases a flowing trapeze shape and an effortlessly chic scoop neckline. Enhanced with elegant panel accents and customizable slider straps, this charming piece offers both style and practicality. Fully lined and adorned with convenient side pockets, prepare to be the epitome of poise among your fellow ARMY troops.

Marcelyn Linen Utility Pants

Marcelyn Linen Utility Pants

Price: $59

Embrace your practical side with these effortlessly stylish and versatile pants, ideal for the eco-conscious BTS ARMY fashionista. Made using lightweight, breezy 100% linen, these trousers boast a soft, tailored structure that’s perfect for staying cool on warm days. With belt loops and generously cut straight legs, these pants are the embodiment of functional chic. The oversized flap pockets add a fashionable touch while providing ample “storage space”. What’s more, the environmentally friendly linen material proves that you can look great and be kind to the planet at the same time!

Embracing the purple wave sweeping through Seoul in June 2023 for the BTS celebration is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the vibrant spirit of the city and its love for the K-pop phenomenon. These 5 stunning purple outfits under $60 will not only help you pay homage to your favorite K-pop band but also make you feel stylish and confident as you explore the picturesque cityscape. So, go ahead and don these eye-catching ensembles with your fashion staples as you make unforgettable memories in the heart of the BTS fandom.

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9 newly opened cafes to visit at Hongdae, South Korea

new cafes in Hongdae

Have you heard?

Seoul Metro will be raising its fares in Q3 of 2023, which means it’s going to be slightly more expensive to travel via subway in Seoul starting in August or September.

But still, it’s going to be cheaper than cabbing around so… just saying.

And speaking of trains, it’s always easier to visit the shops near the stations, right?

I’ve received a really good response from my last post on newly opened cafes in South Korea last month so here’s another one for all you cafe-thirsty fans.

Oh, and yes, you can catch the post here if you’ve missed it:

3 newly opened cafes near Seongsu & Ttukseom Stations to visit in South Korea

Anyhow, for today’s post, we will be looking at cafes at a hot place—Hongdae. The nearest station will be Hongik University Station (홍대입구역), yeah.

Let’s roll with the names.

NU HAUS | 누하우스

Opening hours:

8.30 am to 9 pm (Monday to Wednesday)

8.30 am to 11 pm (Thursday & Friday)

12 pm to 11 pm (Saturday)

12 pm to 6 pm (Sunday)

Prices: Starting from 4,000/4,500 KRW (4.02/4.52 SGD) for drinks

Address: 19 Donggyo-ro 22-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Directions: 508 m from Exit 1 of Hongik University Station (green line 2)

MAXIM1CAFE | 맥심1층카페

 

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Opening hours:

8 am to 12 am (Monday, Wednesday, Thursday & Friday)

8 am to 8 pm (Tuesday)

11 am to 7 pm (Saturday)

Closed on Sundays.

Prices: Starting from 4,500 KRW (4.52 SGD) for drinks

Address: 22 World Cup buk-ro 5ga-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Directions: 492 m from Exit 1 of Hongik University Station (green line 2)

ㅇㄷㅇㅅ | 어더아사

Opening hours:

11 am to 10 pm (Monday to Thursday & Sunday)

11 am to 11 pm (Friday & Saturday)

Prices: Starting from 2,900 KRW (2.91 SGD)

Address: 40 Wausan-ro 23-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Directions: 194 m from Exit 9 of Hongik University Station (green line 2)

ZERO CAFE | 제로카페

Opening hours:

9 am to 10 pm (weekdays)

11 am to 9 pm (weekends & public holidays)

Closed on Tuesdays.

Prices: Starting from 4,300 KRW (4.32 SGD) for drinks

Address: 17 Wausan-ro 27-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Directions: 435 m from Exit 7 of Hongik University Station (Gyeongui–Jungang Line)

UNDERSTAND | 언더스탠드

 

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Opening hours: 12 pm to 9 pm daily

Prices: Starting from 4,000 KRW (4.02 SGD) for drinks

Address: 11 Wausan-ro 29 da-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Directions: 315 m from Exit 7 of Hongik University Station (Gyeongui–Jungang Line)

MILKFLO | 미크플로 연트럴파크점

 

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Opening hours: 10 am to 9 pm daily

Prices: Starting from 4,500 KRW (4.02 SGD) for drinks

Address: 46 Yanghwa-ro 23-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Directions: 267 m from Exit 3 of Hongik University Station (Airport Railroad Express)

DESSERT SAGAK | 디저트사각

 

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Opening hours:

11 am to 8.30 pm daily

Closed on Mondays.

Prices: Starting from 3,200 KRW (3.21 SGD) for desserts

Address: 28 Yeonhui-ro 1-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea (level 2, #202)

Directions: 289 m from Exit 3 of Hongik University Station (Airport Railroad Express)

CAFE LIFE | 라이프

 

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Opening hours:

8.30 am to 7 pm (Monday to Friday)

11 am to 7 pm (Saturday)

Closed on Sundays.

Prices: Starting from 3,500 KRW (3.50 SGD) for drinks

Address: 26 Yeonhui-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Directions: 410 m from Exit 3 of Hongik University Station (Airport Railroad Express)

HOWEVER YEONNAM | 하우에버 연남

Opening hours: 11.30 am to 9 pm daily

Prices: Starting from 5,000 KRW (5.02 SGD) for drinks

Address: 45-6 Yeonhui-ro 1-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Directions: 397 m from Exit 3 of Hongik University Station (Airport Railroad Express)

As we wrap up this post of Hongdae’s latest cafe gems, it’s time to grab your friends, your favorite book, or just yourself and head out to explore these 9 new cafes. From creative and cozy hideouts to lively and social-media-worthy spots, each destination offers a unique atmosphere that will excite your senses and fuel your soul. So, whether you’re a cafe hopper, a coffee connoisseur, or simply looking for a place to rest your legs, these newly opened F&Bs in Hongdae are sure to become your go-to havens for your upcoming Korea trip. Have a lovely time to come!

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Travel Thursday: 4D3N Itinerary to Ho Chi Minh City at $440+/pax (flights + hotel + bus + tours)

4D3N Itinerary to Ho Chi Minh City Banner

Did you miss the last 3D2N itinerary to Surabaya, Indonesia for Vesak Day?

Prices might have changed but the itinerary still stands.

View it here: 

Travel Thursday: 3D2N Itinerary to Surabaya, Indonesia at $204.30/pax (flights + hotel + breakfast)

For this Travel Thursday series, we will still be eyeing the Vesak Day public holiday but this time around, you will probably need to take a day of leave on 5 June.

And we’re heading to Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC)!

Since Vesak Day falls on 2 June, a Friday, this itinerary’s prices will be based on research done for 2 June to 5 June 2023 (2-to-go):

  • Vietjet flights, round trip per pax: $198.90

SG to HCMC flights

  • Saigon Prince Hotel (deluxe double/twin): approx. $266 including taxes via Agoda ($133/pax)

Saigon Prince Hotel

This 4-star hotel located in District 1 of HCMC is one of the more atas options.

I’ve chosen this because, at the time of writing, all the other more affordable options in the range of $20 to $50/night are almost sold out.

You should be able to save much more if you book early so this hotel option is just a price reference point, yeah?

Also, this itinerary will be much more “relaxing” than the free & easy ones I’ve written earlier because we will be using a sightseeing bus to plan our trip and taking on a full-day tour for fuss-free sake.

Get ready to fork out $443.55/pax.

Prices reflected are accurate at the time of writing.

2 June 2023, Friday

Flight: Vietjet

3 pm Reach Singapore Changi Airport T4 for check-in

5.55 pm Flight to HCMC

7 pm (local time) Touch down at Tan Son Nhat International Airport

Hotel: Saigon Prince Hotel

8 pm Take your ride to the hotel for check-in (estimated time is about 30 to 50 minutes depending on the evening traffic)

Address: 63 Nguyen Hue Boulevard, District 1, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, 70000

9 pm Check-in and let’s grab some food at The Gangs Central (just beside the hotel). Or you can take a 5-minute walk to Saigon Centre (shopping mall) for food and shopping.

Saigon Centre HCMC

Image Credits: vietnamdiscovery.com

Oh yes, I would recommend you get some bread/pastries or fruits for breakfast tomorrow.

12 am Wash up and rest. We’ve got a long day tomorrow.

3 June 2023, Saturday

7.30 am Rise and shine. Fill your tummy a little!

8.30 am Take a 6-minute walk to Saigon Opera House/Ho Chi Minh City Opera House. Find the redemption kiosk to exchange your Klook tickets.

 

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We will be mainly taking the sightseeing double-decker bus today and it leaves at 9 am. So don’t be late!

The $27.25/pax option includes ticketed entries to the Independence Palace and War Remnants Museum so those two stops are a MUST to visit.

Other hop on & off sites include:

  • Notre Dame Cathedral
  • Saigon Central Post Office
  • Ben Thanh Market
  • Nguyen Hue Street walking street
  • Bitexco Financial Tower
  • Huyen Si Church
  • Bach Dang Pier

Note: The sightseeing bus will take you back to the opera house where you left in the morning.

4 pm Take a short walk back to your hotel to rest and freshen up a little.

6 pm Time for dinner!

We won’t go too far since you should be all worn out from all the walking today. Take an 8-minute walk (just 850 m away) to Ben Bach Dang Park, right on the banks of the Saigon River. There are eateries and restaurants around so it’s up to you to choose.

 

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Have a hearty dinner and some drinks if you’d like and head back early to rest. Our day’s gonna start early tomorrow.

4 June 2023, Sunday

5.30 am Rise and shine!

We’ve got a full-day adventure to the Cu Chi Tunnels and Mekong Delta today.

6.30 am Be at your hotel lobby for your guide to pick you up.

And all you need to do is to follow through with the day tour’s itinerary. Easy peasy.

Here are some highlights:

  • Get a chance to explore the hidden network of tunnels in the Cu Chi District

Uncover the underground world of the historic Cu Chi Tunnels

  • Receive insights into the complex and innovative lives of the tunnel residents during the Vietnam War
  • Cruise along My Tho River (Mekong Delta) to see the Dragon, Unicorn, Phoenix, and Tortoise Islands

relaxing boat ride along the Mekong Delta

  • Visit a local coconut sweet(s) workshop, and enjoy seasonal delicious fruits and drinks offered

Lunch at a local restaurant is included in the tour fee.

7 pm Once the tour ends, you will be dropped off at your hotel by 7.30 pm, just in time for dinner.

Since it’s your last night here in HCMC, why not head to a restaurant with a view? I suggest taking a 10-minute walk to Búp Sky Lounge & Restaurant.

Enjoy your food and drinks, before heading back to pack your bags for your morning flight tomorrow.

5 June 2023, Monday

6 am Hop on your taxi to Tan Son Nhat International Airport (it will take roughly 35 minutes)

6.45 am Reach the airport for check-in

9 am Take your flight back to Singapore

Vietjet Air

Image Credits: valleycentral.com

12.05 pm Touch down at Singapore Changi Airport T4

Head home, unpack, and let’s get ready to head back to work tomorrow 😉

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Exciting Things to Experience in Japan

Oh, the Land of the Rising Sun! I recently returned from my trip to Japan, and I’m still overflowing with emotions.

From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the serene temples of Kyoto, Japan captured my heart with its fascinating culture and friendly people. I found myself constantly mesmerized by the blend of traditional and modern attractions, and each day offered a new adventure.

The thrill of trying new foods and exploring vibrant neighborhoods left me feeling excited and curious, while visiting historic sites filled me with a sense of awe and wonder. Japan truly is a captivating country, offering a unique and unforgettable experience for every visitor.

If you are visiting Japan, anytime soon, here are some activities that you must consider.

#1: GO AMUSEMENT PARK HOPPING

Discover the excitement of Tokyo’s amusement parks! Disneyland, DisneySea, Universal Studios Japan, Sanrio Puroland, and Tokyo Dome City offer rides and attractions for all ages.

I couldn’t contain my joy as I rode each thrilling attraction, watched the vibrant shows, and indulged in delicious treats. I highly recommend arriving early to avoid long queues and to maximize your time at each park. My personal favorites were the magical Harry Potter’s Forbidden Journey ride at Universal Studios Japan and the unforgettable Journey to the Center of the Earth at Tokyo DisneySea. Don’t forget to enjoy the delicious treats at every park.

#2: VISIT SHRINES & TEMPLES

As you search for things to do in Japan, you will undoubtedly come across pictures of tourists posing in front of the vibrant facades of Fushimi Inari Shrine. This shrine is renowned for its thousands of striking red torii gates, which symbolize vitality and protection against evil in Japanese culture. In addition to the shrine, be sure to visit the Kinkaku-ji temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

During my visit to Fushimi Inari Shrine, my family and I had to seize the opportunity to capture the perfect pictures, even during the busy Golden Week period.

#3: EXPERIENCE THE BEAUTY OF MT. FUJI

As a UNESCO World Heritage site, Mount Fuji is a symbol of Japan. The magnificent mountain appeared before us in all its majestic beauty, and I couldn’t help but feel in awe. We were so lucky to see some of the Sakura trees there too.

A cable car ride to the summit of Mount Hakone provides breathtaking views, while the Chureito pagoda or any of the five surrounding lakes offer equally stunning panoramas. Visiting Mount Fuji is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that’s a must-see for any Singaporean traveler. From the picturesque views to the refreshing breeze, it’s an unforgettable destination.

#4: SHOP TILL YOU DROP

Japan is renowned for its exceptional shopping experience, with popular areas like Tokyo’s Ginza district, Shibuya Center Street, Osaka’s Shinsaibashi and Umeda areas, and Kyoto’s Shijo-dori and Teramachi shopping arcades.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

If you’re a shopping enthusiast, you’ll love exploring the discounted luxury items at Gotemba Premium Outlets and the second-hand luxury items at BOOKOFF. And to top it off, most of the shopping outlets offer tax-free shopping, making it a budget-friendly experience. From luxury brands to traditional Japanese crafts, electronics, and unique souvenirs, you’ll find a wide range of shopping options that will make you go crazy. We certainly did!

#5: FEED THE DEERS

Nara is a city renowned for its stunning parks and friendly deer population. The city’s centerpiece is Nara Park, which is home to over a thousand deer that roam freely. While there, be sure to visit the Todai-ji temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site that is home to the world’s largest bronze statue of Buddha. I was in awe of how huge it was up close!

Don’t forget to bow respectfully before feeding the deer, as they will often bow back in appreciation.

#6: INDULGE IN GOOD FOOD

Japan’s incredible food culture left me immensely satisfied. As a tourist, you can indulge in a wide variety of delicious dishes, including sushi, ramen, udon, tempura, wagyu, okonomiyaki, and yakitori. I couldn’t resist trying matcha in different forms every day, from matcha tiramisu cake to matcha ice cream.

Don’t forget to sample the delectable street food such as takoyaki, mochi, and Kobe beef skewer. Japan’s diverse and unique food culture is a must-try experience for any Singaporean foodie.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and book a flight to Japan!

Sources: 1 & 2

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3 newly opened cafes near Seongsu & Ttukseom Stations to visit in South Korea

BREADYPOST main banner

If you take an interest in South Korea, you would have known that the cafe culture in Korea is seriously not a joke.

Trends come and go in the land of kimchi and cafes are opening and closing within months.

Not to mention that prices have generally gone up.

But if it’s a well-deserved trip you’re making soon, go ahead and spend within your budget!

Here are 3 newly opened cafes near two train stations of Line 2 (green line)—Seongsu & Ttukseom—so drop by if you’re visiting the area.

BILLOWY | 빌로위 성수
BILLOWY exterior

Image Credits: blog.naver.com/jjh30417

Opening hours: 10 am to 12 am (last order at 10.30 pm)

Prices: Starting from 4,500 KRW (4.49 SGD) for drinks

Address: 15 Seongsuil-ro 12-gil, Seongdong-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Directions: An 8-minute walk (567 m) from Exit 1 of Seongsu Station

BILLOWY makes a good brunch place so if you’re short on time (which most of us are while on holiday), consider dropping by this cafe/brunch place.

BILLOWY brunch

Image Credits: blog.naver.com/prejiii

The brunch menu ranges from 14,000 to 30,000 KRW (13.97 to 29.94 SGD) so it’s a little on the high side. But I love the aesthetics of this place.

BILLOWY interior

Image Credits: blog.naver.com/jjh30417

The greyish-white interior colors with pops of greens are easy on the eyes and make perfect backdrops for selfie lovers.

FLOPPY | 플로피

 

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Opening hours: Mondays to Fridays 10 am to 6 pm; Saturdays to Sundays 11 am to 6 pm

Prices: Starting from 3,500/4,500 KRW (3.49/4.49 SGD) for drinks

Address: 10 Achasan-ro 1 ga-gil, Seongdong-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Directions: A 2-minute walk (150 m) from Exit 2 of Ttukseom Station

You will immediately spot this coffee & dessert place from afar thanks to its black exterior and clean white interior with unique mini tables and wooden chairs near the entrance. It’s not a huge space so you may not get seats if you’re unlucky.

 

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To guarantee a seat, you may want to visit them close to the opening hours, which are 10 am on weekdays and 11 am on weekends.

Prices are pretty wallet-friendly, considering it’s in Seoul.

BREADYPOST | 브레디포스트 성수
BREADYPOST exterior

Image Credits: blog.naver.com/qqq86

Opening hours: 10 am to 8 pm daily

Prices: Starting from 5,000 KRW (4.99 SGD) for drinks

Address: 5 Sangwon 1-gil, Seongdong-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Directions: Head to Exit 5 of Ttukseom Station and walk along Sangwon-gil. It’s just 259 m away from the exit.

BREADYPOST specializes in freshly made pretzels with a decent variety of jams and sauces as add-ons you can purchase.

The cafe itself somehow gives off some old-school vibes so it would make good vintage additions to your social feeds.

BREADYPOST interior

Image Credits: blog.naver.com/xenia5779

One visitor added that the pastries are out at 10 am, 1 pm, and 4 pm. So if you want the freshest treats right out of the oven, you know what time you should visit.

And that’s all from me for this short post!

As mentioned in the opening, cafes in Korea open and close at lightning speeds. So I’ll probably be able to bring you another similar post soon.

See you then! 🙂

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