Unlock the Secrets of Korean Lunar New Year: Top Festive Experiences at Sono International!

Delphino. / Courtesy of Sono International

Craving a taste of tradition this Lunar New Year? Sono International’s got you covered. At their Vivaldi Park, Delphino, Sono Calm Goyang, and Sol Beach Samcheok locations, you can indulge in holiday classics. Start your day right at Chef’s Kitchen buffet with homemade rice cake soup and a variety of savory pancakes. For a full-on feast, hit up Korean restaurants Michaewon, Songwon, or Haepalang for their special rice cake soup sets. Adventure seekers, don’t miss the New Year Sunrise Yacht Tour at Sono Calm Geoje – talk about starting the year with a splash! Got kids? Sono Bell Byeonsan’s traditional kite-making class is perfect for little hands. For a touch of elegance, Sono Calm Gyeongju’s café Orot is serving up afternoon tea until April. And if you’re in the mood to shop, pop by the holiday flea markets at Vivaldi Park, Sono Bell Byeonsan, and Sono Bell Yangpyeong for unique accessories, handmade goodies, and gift sets.

◇ Inspire: A Cultural Celebration

Horizon Lounge. / Courtesy of Inspire

Ready to dive into Korean culture? Inspire Entertainment Lizzort is bringing the Lunar New Year to life from February 14-18. Slip into a stunning hanbok, get dolled up with traditional accessories, and strike a pose for the ‘gram. Want more? Try your hand at the formal New Year’s bow, get artsy with Hangul calligraphy, or have a caricature artist capture your holiday look. Don’t forget to drop your New Year’s wish in the special letterbox – you might just win a prize! Foodies, listen up: Chef’s Kitchen is hosting dinner events from February 16-18. Play traditional games like Yut Nori and Tuho for a chance to win dining vouchers, Baker’s Kitchen coupons, or cute Inspire mugs. Feeling lucky? Submit your New Year’s blessing for a shot at a Chef’s Kitchen dinner voucher. For a cozy meal, head to Horizon Lounge for their special set menu featuring rice cake and dumpling soup until February 20. Nightcap, anyone? Aurora Bar’s mixing up New Year Cocktails with a Korean twist – think scorched rice and sweet rice drink flavors. Cheers to new experiences!

◇ Lotte Tourism: Dolomites Direct

Dolomites. / Courtesy of Lotte Tourism Development

Dream of conquering the Dolomites? Lotte Tourism Development is making it easier than ever with direct charter flights to Venice this summer. Choose from two 7-night, 9-day adventures kicking off on June 24 or July 1. Strap on your hiking boots for epic trails including Alpe di Siusi (Europe’s largest high-altitude meadow), Seceda, and the iconic Tre Cime di Lavaredo. Prepare for jaw-dropping views at Lake Braies (the “Pearl of the Dolomites”) and Lake Misurina. But it’s not all about the great outdoors – indulge in a super Tuscan winery tour, perfect your pizza-eating technique, and sample creamy gelato. City slickers will love exploring Florence, Verona, and Venice. Pro tip: Book fast! The first 30 spots on each departure date score a sweet 50,000 KRW (37.5 USD) discount.

◇ Modu Tour: Cherry Blossom Bonanza

Hiroshima. / Courtesy of Modu Tour

Calling all flower enthusiasts! Modu Tour’s latest package is your ticket to Japan’s breathtaking cherry blossom season. From the vibrant streets of Osaka to the serene landscapes of Hokkaido, they’ve curated the ultimate pink-hued adventure. With departures from Cheongju, Busan, Daegu, and Jeju, getting there is a breeze. Choose your own adventure with flexible itineraries, or go luxe with their Modu Signature brand. For an intimate experience, check out the ONLY Us small group tours. The crown jewel? A 3-day Osaka, Kyoto, and Nara escape for groups of 4-6. Think no forced shopping stops, all tips included, and your very own local guide and transportation. It’s the VIP treatment you deserve!