1 GYEONGBOKGUNG PALACE
Start your tour of central Seoul by delving into the city's empire-rich past at the largest royal palace, which comprises several offices, residences and royal gardens across 40 hectares of land. The palace was first built by the Joseon dynasty in 1395 but the buildings have been damaged and restored several times, first by fire during the Hideyoshi invasion in 1592 and then again during the Japanese occupation (1910-1945). A project to restore the structures to their former glory has been ongoing since 1990. Enter through the main Gwanghwamun Gate and proceed through two more gates to reach Geunjeongjeon Hall, an exquisitely decorated throne room with a captivating dragon-adorned ceiling. The hall was used for events such as coronations and receiving foreign envoys. Further highlights in these expansive grounds include two peaceful pavilions to the north and west, and the National Folk Museum of Korea to the east. Time your visit to coincide with the changing of the guard ceremony, which takes place at 10am and 2pm just beyond the Gwanghwamun Gate. During your visit, you'll notice plenty of people dressed in hanbok, the traditional Korean dress, which can be rented at various shops in the vicinity those sporting the attire get free entry. Tickets start from KRW3,000 (£1.80). Closed on Tuesdays.
2 CHEONG WA DAE
Bu hikaye Business Traveller UK dergisinin June 2023 sayısından alınmıştır.
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Pan Pacific Orchard, Singapore
BACKGROUND This biophilic property opened in June 2023 and is the second Pan Pacific hotel in the city, the other being the Pan Pacific Singapore. The hotel is a member of the Green Collection within the GHA Discovery loyalty programme. It is BCA Green Mark Platinum-certified for its sustainability credentials.
The Hoxton, Lloyd Amsterdam
BACKGROUND The Hoxton brand debuted in London's Shoreditch in 2006 and is part of Ennismore, in which Accor holds a majority stake. The brand has 16 properties across Europe and North America, including two in Amsterdam - the first opened in 2015 in the city centre, followed by this property in the Eastern Docklands in August 2023.
Ruby Zoe, London
BACKGROUND Germany's Ruby Hotels launched in 2013, and operates 17 properties in locations including Amsterdam, Dublin, Düsseldorf, Frankfurt, Hamburg and Zurich.
London Hilton on Park Lane
BACKGROUND The London Hilton on Park Lane opened in 1963 - the first Hilton property in the UK. To celebrate its 60th anniversary last year, the hotel embarked on an extensive multi-million pound refurbishment led by the GA Group.
Philippine Airlines A321 business class SINGAPORE-MANILA
BACKGROUND Philippine Airlines operates flights from Singapore Changi Airport to Manila's Ninoy Aquino International Airport, using A321ceo aircraft, which stands for 'current engine option, indicating an older aircraft than the A321neo. My flight (PR502) was a morning departure at 1035, arriving 1425 local time in Manila.
Lima
Peru's coastal capital boasts colourful public parks, striking street art and generous plates of ceviche
The inside scoop
We chat to the president of luxury hotel and restaurant association Relais & Châteaux, which marks its 70th anniversary this month
Why business isn't better
Our 'columnist' this month explains why they believe economy class reigns supreme over business class
Here be dragons
For a city known for its densely packed streets and hectic pace of life, Hong Kong has a truly remarkable countryside
Provincial Provence
As Terre Blanche marks its 20th anniversary, we experience the resort's golfing and spa facilities as well as Michelin-starred food and blush rosé
