Discover Asia’s First Swarovski Strawberry Buffet: A Sweet Escape at Paradise City!

As winter rolls in, hotels across the country unveil an array of promotions featuring seasonal strawberries. This year, the spotlight is on Instagram-worthy strawberry buffets, with Paradise City on Yeongjong Island emerging as the clear frontrunner.

Paradise City has claimed a groundbreaking title as ‘Asia’s First’ to collaborate with the modern crystal lifestyle brand ‘Café Swarovski’ to present their ‘Crystal Strawberry Buffet.’ This dazzling experience is available until March 15.

The Crystal Strawberry Buffet is hosted in a pop-up shop called ‘Garden by Laku’ on Paradise City’s ground floor. As you enter, a pink-hued Swarovski space immediately catches your eye. The entire area is awash in rosy tones, inspired by ripe strawberries and sparkling crystals, perfectly embodying a luxurious culinary getaway.

The buffet’s theme, ‘Crystal Berry Garden,’ showcases an array of strawberry desserts from shortcakes to tiramisu, each infused with Swarovski’s signature sparkle. Open exclusively on weekends, the buffet runs from noon to 3 PM on Saturdays and offers two sessions on Sundays: 11 AM to 12:40 PM and 1:20 PM to 3 PM.

Guests are greeted with a welcome drink – choose between bubbly or a refreshing passion fruit ade. The beverage corner boasts a Nespresso machine, fresh OJ, detox water, and an assortment of teas with hot water at the ready.

Each table is set with two adorable strawberry-shaped mousse cakes and a pair of drinks as a sweet welcome. The European-inspired decor transports you to a chic café abroad. Don’t miss the Insta-worthy giant blue Swarovski teddy bear – it’s the perfect backdrop for your winter getaway snapshots.

The spread is divided into hot dishes, savory bites, and desserts. To balance out the sweetness and keep your palate excited, they’ve cleverly incorporated a variety of salty and spicy hot dishes. This smart mix ensures you can indulge in desserts without quick sugar fatigue.

Kick off your culinary journey with a velvety mushroom soup. Then, dive into an impressive lineup featuring strawberry salad, creamy burrata, fresh asparagus, melon wrapped in prosciutto, tender grilled octopus, zesty gambas, aromatic red chicken curry, fluffy fried rice, and succulent grilled flank steak. Even if your date isn’t typically thrilled by fruit-themed buffets, this diverse spread is sure to win them over. The pancakes and French toast get a berry twist, while matcha-infused treats and an abundance of fresh strawberries round out the dessert offerings.

Early birds visiting in February and March are in for a treat. The first 300 guests score a ‘Café Swarovski Classic Venice Drip Bag Gift Set’ per table. For an extra touch of glamour, the Garden Café offers their signature ‘Rose Mousse Jam’s’ cake, topped with a chocolate swan pendant – a true jewel for your taste buds and Instagram feed.

For the ultimate luxe experience, book the Swarovski collaboration room package. Available at both Paradise City’s main hotel and the swanky Art Paradiso boutique hotel, each package includes a chic blue ‘Teddy Keyring’ featuring Swarovski’s iconic design. Depending on your chosen package, you’ll also snag either a decadent Swarovski dessert set from the Garden Café or tickets for two to the strawberry buffet.

While the strawberry buffet is a sweet treat, there’s more to winter on Yeongjong Island. Complete your getaway with a rejuvenating spa session for the ultimate cozy retreat. This year’s record-breaking cold snap makes a warm spa experience not just a luxury, but a necessity for total mind and body rejuvenation. As temperatures plummet, Paradise City’s ‘Cimer’ spa has become a hot spot for those seeking warmth and relaxation.

Cimer, recognized as a top wellness destination by the Korea Tourism Organization in 2019, offers the best of both worlds with its outdoor hot springs and indoor water park facilities. It’s a hit with everyone from young couples to families. The outdoor hot springs, where you can soak while breathing in the crisp winter air, are perfect for melting away stress.

If you’re in the mood for a more tranquil experience, head to the sauna spa zone. With seven different saunas and two chill-out areas, it’s a haven for tired bodies. Don’t miss the high-temp amethyst room, crafted from Bukhan Mountain amethyst. The ‘Hot Shot Service,’ which delivers a sudden burst of hot air, is the cherry on top. Cap off your spa day with a visit to the third-floor outdoor area, complete with a steam room and foot bath, and you’ll truly understand why winter getaways are so magical.

Kwon Hyo-jung, Travel+