Check out these offers for your next city break in August

Rakkojae Hanok Collection, Seoul 

Want to make your next trip to South Korea even more memorable? Spend a few nights in a Seoul hanok. This style of traditional Korean dwelling dates back to the 14th century and is constructed with consideration for the local climate and topography. With tiled roofs, waxed paper windows, open courtyards and wooden beams, this unique accommodation provides a charming way to experience Korean hospitality. 

The Rakkojae Seoul Hanok Village is an example of heritage done right. This 140-year-old hanok village has been redeveloped into guest rooms that immerse you in traditional Korean culture, a world away from the dizzying pace of downtown Seoul. Guests are offered traditional hanbok to wear, and rooms are furnished with genuine Korean antiques that give you a sense of having stepped back in time. Upon check-in, you will be welcomed with a tea tray containing delicate sweets, while the daily breakfast consists of simple but delicious banchan with rice, soup and meat presented on elegant ceramics. For the ultimate pampering, try the traditional mud sauna or the skincare bath experience. 

This beautiful setting lends itself perfectly to a mindful retreat: last year, the Rakkojae teamed up with the Seoul Metropolitan Government to launch Bukchon Binkwan by Rakkojae, a property within the village that emphasises meditation and well-being, with elegant, minimalist rooms, ceramic arts and city views that contrast ancient and modern Seoul. A selection of activities for further cultural immersion is available on request at the onsite Rakkojae Culture Lounge, which hosts traditional tea ceremonies, liquor tastings, afternoon tea and a private dining experience showcasing seasonal Korean ingredients. 

The offer: Book a stay at the Bukchon Binkwan by Rakkojae by 31 March 2024 (excluding 1 September to 30 November) with Cathay Holidays and receive welcome tea, breakfast, a minibar, a jjimjilbang mud dry sauna and a royal hanbok experience, plus one House of Dohwa cosmetics travel kit per room. 

Palais de Chine, Taipei 

For all the culture and connectedness of a city break with the relaxation and versatility that comes with a camping holiday, a new package offered by Taipei’s Palais de Chine has all bases covered. 

Spend one night in the opulent hotel, conveniently located in the heart of Taipei. Q Square, one of the city’s best shopping malls, is right next door, while Taipei Main station is a minute’s walk away, which will instantly connect you to all the city’s major sites. 

The next day, hit the road in a Taipei Vantel “hotel in a van” and enjoy the second evening sleeping under the stars in a cute camper. The vehicle, which sleeps two, comes with everything you’ll need to explore Taipei and its surrounding areas, including amenities and equipment to cook outdoors and enjoy a little #vanlife. 

This break represents the perfect blend of art and nature: the 286-room Palais de Chine is known for its astonishing array of Chinese and European objets d’art, which span Han Dynasty sculptures to exquisite tapestries depicting Greek legends. 

The hotel has three restaurants: the three-Michelin-starred Cantonese venue Le Palais; high-end Italian Artbrosia; and La Rotisserie, which serves French-influenced barbecue foods, such as fresh seafood and charbroiled steak, and offers an impressive selection of wines. 

The offer: Book the three-day, two-night package with Cathay Holidays to receive a complimentary upgrade to an Executive Deluxe Room with breakfast on the first night of your stay at Palais de Chine Hotel, access to the Le Salon VIP lounge and a set dinner for two at La Rotisserie. The package also includes a 30-hour rental of a Vantel camping car, in which you’ll stay on the second night. Please note that you must hold a valid Taiwanese or international driving licence to be able to drive, and all additional costs, such as car parking fees, are to be personally covered.