Yeogi Eottae Survey Results
Gangwon-do Ranks 1st in Reservation Rate, Jeju-do 2nd
[Asia Economy Reporter Minyoung Cha] "This year, our family decided to perform the ancestral rites together and then leave for Pyeongchang, Gangwon-do, on the afternoon of Chuseok day. We tried to book a 5-star hotel in Jeju Island, but since all the rooms were already fully booked, we had no choice but to find an alternative reachable by car." (Seo Yeonji (pseudonym), a woman in her 30s)
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Gangwon-do and Jeju Island have emerged as the most popular travel destinations. Gangwon-do is favored as a COVID-19 safe area where families can spend intimate time together, while Jeju Island attracts crowds due to the opportunity to enjoy comfortable rest at luxury hotels.
According to the domestic travel platform company Yanolja on the 1st, the highest booking rate during the 3-night, 4-day Chuseok holiday period from September 30 to October 3 this year was recorded in Wonju City, Gangwon-do, with a 4.8-fold increase compared to the same period last year. Following that, Hoengseong County and Pyeongchang County in Gangwon-do saw increases of 3.4 times and 2.1 times, respectively, while Seogwipo City and Jeju City in Jeju Island each rose 1.8 times, ranking high. After that, bookings were evenly distributed across Ulsan, Gyeonggi, Gyeongnam, Gyeongbuk, and Chungnam provinces.
In fact, predictions that the Chuseok booking rates for accommodation businesses in Gangwon-do and Jeju areas would be higher than last year’s season were detected from August. Especially, inquiries from young housewives in their 30s and 40s, family customers, and newlyweds surged, prompting hotels to strengthen pre-marketing efforts. Additionally, luxury hotels, resorts, and private pensions were considered better choices in terms of hygiene and cleanliness, intensifying competition for reservations among guests.
Jeju hotels proactively launched 'Chukangseu' (a portmanteau of Chuseok and vacation) packages that highlight the unique character of each hotel to boost marketing. For example, 'The Grand Seomorum Jeju' introduced a 'Chuseok Package' on the 22nd of last month. It includes one night’s stay along with traditional holiday treats such as songpyeon (rice cakes) and herbal tea, plus a yutnori (traditional Korean board game) set. Guests also receive a welcome drink coupon for two at the Basalt Restaurant, where they can enjoy an ocean view and a relaxing time.
'Ramada Plaza Jeju' launched the 'Charye Charye Package' for Chuseok, allowing the whole family to safely enjoy the hotel. It rents out yutnori and board games to be enjoyed in the ondol (heated floor) rooms. The package includes a 'Gourmet Box' and a bottle of sparkling wine to enjoy in the room. An additional guest is allowed free of charge.
Hotels in Gangwon-do also introduced 'Sopkangseu' (a portmanteau of forest and vacation) themed packages. 'Phoenix Pyeongchang,' operated by Phoenix Hotel & Resort, is running an event until the 31st where children can freely play in the Forest Park. At the Small Lawn Square in Forest Park, children can explore the wellness forest while listening to forest stories with a forest guide. The event is held twice daily during the holiday period on a first-come, first-served basis.
Camping car rental/sharing service 'Kkumcar' is collaborating with Phoenix Pyeongchang to hold a contactless honeymoon camping car event with the compact camping car 'Rody' until the 16th. Five couples who apply through the Kkumcar app will be selected. They can experience Rody for 2 nights and 3 days and use the Forest Camping Car Hotel package at Phoenix Pyeongchang for one night.
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