Question from a reader: Relaxing and romantic getaways?

A reader writes in:

I'm wondering, besides Jeju, what would you consider the best place in Korea for a romantic overnight/weekend getaway? I'm talking relaxation, not like a "romantic" hike on Seoraksan. Thanks!!!!!!!!!!!!

Jeju is definitely a romantic place, don't get me wrong. Until recently, the island was considered the honeymoon spot for Koreans, and a number of hotels offered honeymooner services that broke the ice for the new couple to, um, introduce themselves to each other. Unfortunately, the island is a plane ride away - not the easiest thing to spontaneously plan. The following suggestions, therefore, recognize that getting away needs to be reasonably easy.

Namiseom in eastern Gyeonggi-do has been recommended by multiple people, although I've not yet been there.

Tongyeong - I've been here before; while the city itself is small, it's not far from Geoje-do and Oe-do Paradise Island. It's also one of the only places in Korea where I've seen the stars - you know, those little white twinkly things in the sky you can't see in Seoul due to light pollution? 11 non-stop buses a day head there from Seoul's Express Bus Terminal, while 16 express buses a day (a few stops along the way) head there from Seoul's Nambu Bus Terminal.

Jumunjin Beach was quite relaxing, and far enough off the beaten path that you're unlikely to run into too many other people.

Danyang had plenty of things to see and do. The large bridge (simply called 대교, literally 'big bridge') lights up at night, while the river offers some nice areas to see some stars.

The area around Oido station is a relaxing place - a fairly quiet park offers a number of sculptures to enjoy as well.

If you don't have time to leave Seoul, there are still several nice places to get romantic. The lake near Jamsil station (the same one that Lotte World is partially on), almost anywhere along the Han river, and any number of jimjilbang can serve quite nicely. While I wouldn't recommend a Han River Cruise as a really romantic place, you'll see quite a few couples go on one for a date.

Readers, where are some relaxing / romantic you've explored with a significant other or on a date?

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