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My Korean teacher said she has never stayed in a Hanok (traditional Korean house) before and was amazed when I showed her the price of the one I booked through Agoda.

I stayed in a Hanok 10 years ago near Bukchon Hanok Village and had a good experience. I thought it would be something different staying in another one with the little one this time.

The transit flight from Macau was smooth. The driver I booked via Klook picked us up at the airport carpark. I considered taking the airport bus to town but it does not bring us to the place we are staying. Convenience over price since we were traveling with a child and bulky luggages with winter wear.

The driver had difficulty looking for the place. He is of Chinese and Korean descent. Glad he called up the ajumma and asked for directions. Since cars could not reach the Hanok, we had to carry our luggages uphill and waited for the owner to open the door for us. So much so for convenience 😅.

I chose Haemil Guesthouse since it is near Changdeokung. The neighbourhood is very much local with limited English. Anything in English comes with premium price. I overestimated my Korean language ability for this trip.

The electrical heated floor is a bonus in winter but it got too hot in the middle of the night. I adjusted the heat to the lowest but my child was perspiring. Not the best sleep but this is very much a cultural stay over anything.

Breakfast is usually included in Hanok stays. The Ajumma was really sweet by preparing porridge for us on our last day. My boy and I were coughing non-stop due to the cold by this time.

Comparing both experiences, Hyeahn, the one I stayed 10 years back has a common toilet to be shared with more than 10 pax. Haemil for this trip has an ensuite proper toilet and bath so it wins.

Seoul is not just about k-pop, aesthetic, beauty and shopping. There is history and culture too if you step out of your comfort zone and experience things.

Overall, I enjoy the vibe and stay in a Hanok and highly recommend the experience but please do more extensive research and pay for better ones.