Hey, this is Daniel Kim here. This COVID-19 makes us really depressing, as a travel company, we couldn’t make any profit since last March!
International tourist numbers are projected to decline by between 58% and 78% from 2019 to 2020, the UN reports, which would result in a drop of 850 million to 1.1 billion tourists.
The expected loss in export revenues from international tourism is $910 billion to $1.2 trillion; $320 billion has already been lost in the first months of 2020, which is more than three times the loss experienced during the entire 2009 economic crisis.
Yes, it sounds really bad for us. Nobody knows when we can go back to normal life as we knew it. But we can’t be just stuck at home and do nothing, don’t I? (please give me the strength to survive through this horrible pandemic situation!)
Yesterday, I and Kate the operation manager had a very short trip to Ikseondong hanok alley which is a very famous hot spot for young generations. As a matter of fact, we visited here about a month ago for converting other local hot spots including ‘Cheongsu-dang cafe’. However, it was pretty crowded along with long queues in front of the cafe at that time. (I hate being in a queue so…)
This time, I assume that we could get there without any waiting due to the recent COVID19 situation. (unfortunately though) And yes, there was, more like awfully empty there. Thanks for us but sad for the pain of a recession. (ouch…!)
Of course, we took a couple of photos on the famous front spot.
‘淸水(Cheongsu; clear water)’, as its name suggests, Cheongsudang is a space filled with the sound of water flowing and the blue energy of nature, which is perfect for feeling nature in the city center.
The pond, which stands between the actual bamboo trees, and the lighting along the stone path create a unique atmosphere.
In addition, you can make a small stream using terrarium at the cafe’s main table and drink coffee while listening to the sound of water inside, sitting on the daecheongmaru and enjoying delicious souffle desserts. It was also refreshing to make coffee by grinding beans with millstones.
Although it’s a bit pricey menu, the cafe itself could be a good choice for those who love taking travel photos and posting it an Instagram or something. I have quite enjoyed myself after all.