GGuest UserThe Designers Hotel Jongno
A Christmas & New Year Story from an Aussie Traveler
I arrived in Korea just before Christmas, trading Australia’s summer holiday season for the cold, glowing winter streets of Seoul. The moment I stepped into The Designers Hotel in Jongno, soft carols and small Christmas decorations welcomed me, making it clear that I would be spending the holidays somewhere completely new.
Outside, Seoul shimmered with tiny trees in café windows, warm street lights, and a crisp winter breeze. As I planned where to spend the New Year’s countdown, I explored DDP’s dazzling lights and the lively Dongdaemun streets, but Bosingak kept calling to me. Its blend of history, year-end calmness, and lingering Christmas atmosphere made it feel like the perfect place to greet the new year.
Back at the hotel, my plans unexpectedly changed. I had booked only one night, but the staff were so warm and kind—asking about my first Korean winter and even offering directions to Bosingak—that it felt like receiving small Christmas gifts. Their sincerity, especially during the busy holiday season, left a real impression.
My room was cozy, quiet, and spotless, with crisp white linens that felt like part of the winter scenery. After walking through cold night streets filled with Christmas decorations, sinking into the warm bed felt comforting, almost like living here rather than traveling. The washing machines and dryers in the lobby were another huge bonus, especially with thick winter clothes piling up.
Jongno itself added to the charm. Outside the hotel were winter streets filled with coffee aromas, traces of Christmas decorations, and easy access to Seosulla-gil, Hipjiro, and Bosingak. Walking to the bell pavilion through this seasonal atmosphere became one of my favorite parts of the trip.
What was meant to be a one-night stay naturally extended into more. The kindness of the staff, the peaceful room, the winter mood of Jongno, and the chance to spend both Christmas and New Year in Korea made the hotel feel like the perfect base for the season.
Overall:
The Designers Hotel Jongno isn’t about luxury—it’s about warmth, comfort, and genuine hospitality. Between my first Korean Christmas and the ringing of Bosingak’s New Year bell, this hotel became a place where I made winter memories I’ll always remember.
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