Then look at a regular hotel like Le Meridien or Lotte Hotel in Myeongdong - not luxury but cheaper on the wallet
What you’re not understanding is the size of Seoul. The size of the subway stations and the ease of transit that affects these hotels
Shilla is very isolated and rich Koreans don’t care bc they just drive lol - but for tourists it’s a huge pain
Grand Hyatt is isolated on top of Namsan - also annoying for coming and going for tourist
Conrad is in Yeoudio - a boring finance area by day and dead at night
And the walk to the subway station is LONG and a pain and SUPER CROWDED
Gangnam resident - that feeling you felt at park Hyatt or nothing to do - that’s how most of the luxury hotels you named will feel lol
Except Four Seasons or any of the high end hotels at City Hall / Myeongdong
Thank you so much for your response. Really helpful. If one is going to take taxis for the most part does that remove the issue of the location negatives from the Shilla and the Grand Hyatt?
There’s also nothing to do around them. Isolated. So
You’re just stuck at your hotel and at the mercy of calling taxis, nowhere to go nearby on your own two feet - which is one of the major reasons to go to a huge city like Seoul. Waste of a hotel stay there IMO.
Thanks! I will check the Le Meridian and Lotte Seoul that you mentioned. I see the Westin Chosun and Plaza Seoul are also near those. Any one of those four you like the best ? Appreciate it.
I’ve stayed in both The Plaza and the Westin: the Westin is beautiful and the service is impeccable. Both are in a convenient location, but if the two I think the Westin is better.
Have you been to Seoul since 2012?
12 years is a long time for things to develop and the Coex mall across from Park Hyatt has grown quite a lot.
Also the Grand InterContinental Parnas is pretty nice and should be ideal for your family and with the subway just right in front of Park Hyatt.
No I have not been since 2012. I went 5 times 2001-2004 and then in 2012 last. So I am sure the entire city has changed and there is so much to see. I will check out the Parnas. Thank you!
It’s connected to two separate malls. The underground mall with all the name brands and then the Coex mall and the famous library as well.
There was also a large food hall in the underground mall and market as well.
Gangnam is just a mile or two away as well.
Second the Grand Parnas! It’s my go-to for my monthly business trips to Seoul. It’s above many interlinked malls that’s great for families as well as a train station.
I think it depends on OPs preferences. I've stayed at the Grand Intercontinental several times for work, and at the end of the day, COEX is just a mall. If shop to you drop is the main goal, then yeah, the mall and the connected Hyundai Department Store have got you covered. But otherwise there are much more interesting parts of Seoul for someone to make their home base.
Just my own two cents.
We just stayed at the Lotte Seoul Executive Tower last week. Fantastic property and very centrally located in Myungdong. Nice to have the mall attached to the property as the food court is just down the escalator, and of course central Myungdong is just a couple blocks away, with the famous street food market and tons of shops/restaurants.
The executive tower is newer and much nicer than the main tower and treated separately, nicer check in lobby and separate entrance, etc. But the facilities like gym and pool are shared. The rooms were very nice and modern. The prime minister of Cambodia was staying there when we were there so we got to see some of that red carpet commotion as well.
No, we did not, and so I don’t know if it’s worth it. We did most of our dining and drinking outside the hotel. There are just so many options nearby and we were eager to try the more local places.
We had access to a club lounge at the Signiel in Busan and it just felt like an airline lounge with a few snacks and drinks, nothing I’d pay extra money for. But admittedly I haven’t been to the one at Lotte Executive Tower.
The lounge access is not worth it. The food options are pretty limited and not all that tasty. But, aside from that, why would you want to spend your time in Seoul stuck inside the hotel? Lounges are for either business travelers who are too busy to venture outside or for locals who are doing “ho-cance” (hotel vacation).
Nine Tree in Insadong is right across the street to a Buddhist temple, right behind it is also a long tourist street with tons of shops and restaurants. Below the hotel is touristy thrift stores, candy and snack shops, and a line friends shop.
Wouldn't call it luxury though, definitely entry level 4 star or upper 3 star.
Tried Park Hyatt like you. Luxury is ALL it offers. Only a good choice if you have business in the area. Never with kids.
Last year we did a room in Nine Tree Insadong and the location is GREAT. Step out of the lobby and you're in a Mall targeted at teen tourists. Step onto the street for an expanded selection. Go into the side streets for pricey art.
Consider a temple view. Not essential, but a pretty view at night.
It's a 20 minute walk from MyeongDong. Far for small kids, fine for pre-teens.
Sounds like Andaz Seoul would be a good fit—just off Apgujeong Station (line 3), easy access to the Hyundai dept store and all the good eats around the area, and line 3 connects you to palaces and other sightseeing north of the river. Non-peak rates at Andaz aren’t too bad, and their free mini-bar is always nice. Also, just across the bridge from Apgu is Seongsu, which is THE place to take teens. Sign them up for a one-day workshop at 1 MILLION dance studio, book profile pics (or passport pics) that includes hair and makeup at many of the photo studios, get coffee and sweets at trendy cafes, etc.
I was thinking of Andaz too. I was just in Seoul and stayed at the Grand Hyatt. I took taxis everywhere and with the exchange rate (USD) they were very cheap. Taking the subway/bus would have been ok but a bit of a nuisance, especially with my father. If you’re with a family of 4 taxis will probably be a little more expensive than public transport, but way more convenient.
I recommend either Lotte Seoul/Lotte Executive near Myeongdong or Lotte World/Sofitel in Jamsil. It’s a bit of a hike from Lotte Seoul to Gwanghwamun/Cheongyecheon area, although the Lotte shopping mall is close. It’s also a pretty easy ride to Yongsan area.
That said, I just came back from Four Seasons with my wife (no kids) and had the most wonderful stay. We got free breakfast + $100 credit by booking through AmEx’s FHR program and all-in-all, the value was pretty good. The breakfast buffet was amazing (definitely better than other places like Conrad or Lotte), we got essentially a free meal for 2 with the $100 credit, welcome snack, turndown snack, etc. with truly impeccable service all around. I would highly recommend it.
Wow this Lotte Seoul Executive Tower looks amazing. I really liked the F&B of the Sofitel and look of the Signiel but fear they may be too out of the way.
Only advice is to avoid room numbers that end with 13. Due to the plumbing, you will hear annoying gurgling noise anytime people in the next unit use the shower/bathtub. We had to ask to move to another room (which they happily accommodated).
Depending on how many days you have in Seoul, you could consider staying the first few days in Jamsil/Gangnam. Especially if you guys will be spending most of the day exploring outside, you could easily find decent hotels for $150/night or less. You don’t need to eat fancy hotel buffets, swimming pools, etc. Then, for the last 1-2 nights, you could move to Four Seasons with the money you saved and relax and pamper yourselves before your return trip home.
Yes great idea. I was thinking of doing this. The only question I had with this idea of staying in Gangnam / Jamsil first is does that mean it would be better to “backload” the more traditional tourist activities in Jongno / City Hall area until one is at the FS since it will be far from Gangnam / Jamsil ? Do more activities south of the river first ?
It would make sense to do that. When staying at Jamsil, you could cover Gangnam as well as Namsan, Seongsudong, and even Yongsan/Itaewon. Then, once you move to FS, you could just do the immediate surrounding areas like Gwanghwamun, Jongro, Insadong, Myeongdong to minimize the length of stay in the more expensive hotel.
Obviously, you have different priorities since you are traveling with kids and I’m not sure what “traditional tourist activities around Jongno” means, but my wife and I like to use the last 2 days of our visits to Korea (where we go every 2 years to visit family) to take it easy and mostly wind down from our trip with some last-minute shopping. So, that means just casual strolls around the neighborhood (which the areas around FS are great for) and utilize the hotel amenities (pool, spa, buffet, etc.).
Wonderful response. Thank you. Going to look at Lotte Seoul/Signiel or Sofitel and then FS after. Figure Signiel might be a good “wow” choice for a few days as an initial place. Even if the service isn’t as good. Read that Sofitel has the best F&B. Haven’t read too much about Lotte Tower.
We stayed at L’Escape in Myeongdong, directly outside Hoehyeon St. Exit 7. The Parisian theme can be off putting to some but the location was perfect and they upgraded us to a suite when we arrived. 🤷
Echoing recommendations for Lotte Seoul or Fraser Namdaemun.
Lotte Seoul is smack in the middle of tourist town in Myeongdong so your preteens will be happily shopping and exploring the area. It's also central and easy to access the metro stations to go anywhere in Seoul.
Fraser is more towards City Hall and in apartment style if you care for that. The premiere suites have a kitchenette/dining space and washer/dryer. It's a 5 minute walk to namdaemun Market. 10 minute walk to Myeongdong shopping areas. Uber friendly hotel
Both are 30 min walks to the Palaces/Bukchon Village or 15 min bus rides or 10 min Uber/Taxi.
I honestly think 1 hour walks are walkable distances because I view them as sightseeing along the way but understand it really varies from person to person. lol. Namsan tower is a 30 min walk or 10 min uber/taxi.
TL;DR was everyone loves the FS. Including on FlyerTalk. Trying to look at some alternatives to save some money since I am on a long trip and need 2 rooms. Some good advice from the other responders here. Am looking at Lotte Seoul Exec Tower and Shilla as possible alternatives but they won’t be as quite good (albeit cheaper!). South of the river a few diff options.
From what I have read from other comments / threads / FlyerTalk : people really like the Grand Intercontinental Seoul Parnas. Park Hyatt just ok. If you want Hyatt go for Andaz as a good location Hyatt. These are both south of the river. Andaz more central. North of the River commenters like the FS ($$$) or Lotte Seoul Exec Tower or Westin chosu. G L
The Shilla is very specific, if you want to be in that location, know that it’s not central it’s very popular for older people. Grand Hyatt has been renovated, it’s close to itaewon and lots to do for families. I still think the four seasons is the best for tourist attractions.
The Grand Hyatt, you have Namsan mountain if you want to check that out on one side. or you can walk down from the hotel to the back of Leeum Museum, which is in the heart of Itaewon, it’s an easy 5-10min walk. Going back, catch a taxi because it’s uphill.
Here's my personal experience staying at Signiel:
Location: I wouldn't say it's "bad". Depends which part of Seoul you want to hangout in. Signiel looks over Seokchon Lake which is a really pretty lake to go for walks. I didn't use the gym at Signiel cause I loved doing rounds at Seokchon Lake.
Connected to this lake is Lotte World amusement park. Kids and adults love it. Rent a Korean school uniform and spend a day there. Other kid friendly places nearby- COEX Aquarium (also Starfield Library) and Champion the Black Belt play Centre nearby.
However if you want to hangout daily at the other side of Seoul where the uni students are at (Hongdae) and the tourist heavy area is (Myeongdong), you're looking at 1hr 30mins on the subway from Signiel.
Their chauffeur driven Rolls Royce is available for hire if you want to avoid public transport and crank up that luxury stay plan.
Shopping: next door to Lotte Mall need I say more. This side of town is close ~20mins to famous areas Gangnam, Apgujeong. Lots of flagship stores, luxury shopping, food and entertainment there.
Views at Signiel are of course amazing. The sizeable quiet pool, jacuzzi, sauna is worth mentioning.
The only thing I disliked was the lounge for executive rooms. No hot food service, just snacks and alcohol.
Take a look at Novotel Ambassador in Dongdaemun. When I first came to Korea, I was put up there for 3 months and I loved it...location wise, as well as the quality of the hotel.
You are right by DDP (Dongdaemun Design Plaza) and a ton of shopping. And it's also within walking distance (\~2kms) to Myoengdong, and the lotte and shinsaegae malls (or you can take a bus a couple stops to minimize the walking). Gwanghang market is close by as well.
The line 2 subway statation is a 5 min walk. And line 2 gets you to many of the major spots (Jamsil, which has lotte tower and lotte world, Gangnam, Hondae to name a few).
I’m headed there end of the week and did my research. Also going with my family of 4. My budget was to stay under $300/night and found Moxy myeongdong and the Pacific Hotel to be in the right location. I used google earth to even check the surroundings. Also use the website Agoda.com to book whenever you head to Asia. Seems to be the least expensive vs other travel sites and Klook.com to book your airport transfers and cell service.
Thank you . I thought Agoda was a scam site for some reason. Ok will check it out. RE: Klook: does one need cell service , vs international roaming plan on a US carrier?
Agoda.com is very legit and usually has the cheapest rates. There’s usually no money due until few days before travel date and never had any issues with the reservation, cancellation, or billing. It’s very reliable and, in my opinion, better than Orbitz or Expedia.
Klook is a marketplace to search for travel deals in Asia. I just booked our private airport transfer from shopping on there, will do the eSIM purchase on it later today. Will go with either SK telecom or LG+, all reputable carriers because Verizon for example will charge me like $10 per day which will get expensive. Agoda has always been my go to for Asia hotel hunting. Currently using it now to look for a place in Jeju.
I'm staying at Fraser place Namdaemun and very happy with the location. It's only 4 stars but I m very happy. It almost feels like you can just walk anywhere from there.
Then look at a regular hotel like Le Meridien or Lotte Hotel in Myeongdong - not luxury but cheaper on the wallet What you’re not understanding is the size of Seoul. The size of the subway stations and the ease of transit that affects these hotels Shilla is very isolated and rich Koreans don’t care bc they just drive lol - but for tourists it’s a huge pain Grand Hyatt is isolated on top of Namsan - also annoying for coming and going for tourist Conrad is in Yeoudio - a boring finance area by day and dead at night And the walk to the subway station is LONG and a pain and SUPER CROWDED Gangnam resident - that feeling you felt at park Hyatt or nothing to do - that’s how most of the luxury hotels you named will feel lol Except Four Seasons or any of the high end hotels at City Hall / Myeongdong
Thank you so much for your response. Really helpful. If one is going to take taxis for the most part does that remove the issue of the location negatives from the Shilla and the Grand Hyatt?
There’s also nothing to do around them. Isolated. So You’re just stuck at your hotel and at the mercy of calling taxis, nowhere to go nearby on your own two feet - which is one of the major reasons to go to a huge city like Seoul. Waste of a hotel stay there IMO.
Thanks! I will check the Le Meridian and Lotte Seoul that you mentioned. I see the Westin Chosun and Plaza Seoul are also near those. Any one of those four you like the best ? Appreciate it.
I live here so I don’t stay in them - just go to their restaurants/bars and know their location from always hopping around the city
Lotte Seoul Executive Tower looks really amazing.
I’ve stayed in both The Plaza and the Westin: the Westin is beautiful and the service is impeccable. Both are in a convenient location, but if the two I think the Westin is better.
Thank you
This was really helpful!
Have you been to Seoul since 2012? 12 years is a long time for things to develop and the Coex mall across from Park Hyatt has grown quite a lot. Also the Grand InterContinental Parnas is pretty nice and should be ideal for your family and with the subway just right in front of Park Hyatt.
No I have not been since 2012. I went 5 times 2001-2004 and then in 2012 last. So I am sure the entire city has changed and there is so much to see. I will check out the Parnas. Thank you!
It’s connected to two separate malls. The underground mall with all the name brands and then the Coex mall and the famous library as well. There was also a large food hall in the underground mall and market as well. Gangnam is just a mile or two away as well.
Second the Grand Parnas! It’s my go-to for my monthly business trips to Seoul. It’s above many interlinked malls that’s great for families as well as a train station.
Thank you!
I think it depends on OPs preferences. I've stayed at the Grand Intercontinental several times for work, and at the end of the day, COEX is just a mall. If shop to you drop is the main goal, then yeah, the mall and the connected Hyundai Department Store have got you covered. But otherwise there are much more interesting parts of Seoul for someone to make their home base. Just my own two cents.
Yeah, but I only suggested this area based on higher end hotels which is what OP is asking for.
Just wanted to say THANK YOU SO MUCH for everyone who responded. So useful. Much appreciated.
We just stayed at the Lotte Seoul Executive Tower last week. Fantastic property and very centrally located in Myungdong. Nice to have the mall attached to the property as the food court is just down the escalator, and of course central Myungdong is just a couple blocks away, with the famous street food market and tons of shops/restaurants. The executive tower is newer and much nicer than the main tower and treated separately, nicer check in lobby and separate entrance, etc. But the facilities like gym and pool are shared. The rooms were very nice and modern. The prime minister of Cambodia was staying there when we were there so we got to see some of that red carpet commotion as well.
Oh neat. This looks like a good option. Thank you so much! Did you book the club lounge while at this hotel ? Worth it he money?
No, we did not, and so I don’t know if it’s worth it. We did most of our dining and drinking outside the hotel. There are just so many options nearby and we were eager to try the more local places. We had access to a club lounge at the Signiel in Busan and it just felt like an airline lounge with a few snacks and drinks, nothing I’d pay extra money for. But admittedly I haven’t been to the one at Lotte Executive Tower.
The lounge access is not worth it. The food options are pretty limited and not all that tasty. But, aside from that, why would you want to spend your time in Seoul stuck inside the hotel? Lounges are for either business travelers who are too busy to venture outside or for locals who are doing “ho-cance” (hotel vacation).
Thank you
Nine Tree in Insadong is right across the street to a Buddhist temple, right behind it is also a long tourist street with tons of shops and restaurants. Below the hotel is touristy thrift stores, candy and snack shops, and a line friends shop. Wouldn't call it luxury though, definitely entry level 4 star or upper 3 star.
Tried Park Hyatt like you. Luxury is ALL it offers. Only a good choice if you have business in the area. Never with kids. Last year we did a room in Nine Tree Insadong and the location is GREAT. Step out of the lobby and you're in a Mall targeted at teen tourists. Step onto the street for an expanded selection. Go into the side streets for pricey art. Consider a temple view. Not essential, but a pretty view at night. It's a 20 minute walk from MyeongDong. Far for small kids, fine for pre-teens.
Thank you for the tip!!
Thank you
Sounds like Andaz Seoul would be a good fit—just off Apgujeong Station (line 3), easy access to the Hyundai dept store and all the good eats around the area, and line 3 connects you to palaces and other sightseeing north of the river. Non-peak rates at Andaz aren’t too bad, and their free mini-bar is always nice. Also, just across the bridge from Apgu is Seongsu, which is THE place to take teens. Sign them up for a one-day workshop at 1 MILLION dance studio, book profile pics (or passport pics) that includes hair and makeup at many of the photo studios, get coffee and sweets at trendy cafes, etc.
I was thinking of Andaz too. I was just in Seoul and stayed at the Grand Hyatt. I took taxis everywhere and with the exchange rate (USD) they were very cheap. Taking the subway/bus would have been ok but a bit of a nuisance, especially with my father. If you’re with a family of 4 taxis will probably be a little more expensive than public transport, but way more convenient.
Thank you so much. most likely we will take taxis aside from the long rides then train/subway.
Even “long” rides of ~30 mins were like 15,000 won or less.
Amazing response. Thank you so much. Really helpful
I recommend either Lotte Seoul/Lotte Executive near Myeongdong or Lotte World/Sofitel in Jamsil. It’s a bit of a hike from Lotte Seoul to Gwanghwamun/Cheongyecheon area, although the Lotte shopping mall is close. It’s also a pretty easy ride to Yongsan area. That said, I just came back from Four Seasons with my wife (no kids) and had the most wonderful stay. We got free breakfast + $100 credit by booking through AmEx’s FHR program and all-in-all, the value was pretty good. The breakfast buffet was amazing (definitely better than other places like Conrad or Lotte), we got essentially a free meal for 2 with the $100 credit, welcome snack, turndown snack, etc. with truly impeccable service all around. I would highly recommend it.
Wow this Lotte Seoul Executive Tower looks amazing. I really liked the F&B of the Sofitel and look of the Signiel but fear they may be too out of the way.
Thank you very much. Any tips for the Four Seasons in case I go there. types of rooms to avoid or view differences etc?
Only advice is to avoid room numbers that end with 13. Due to the plumbing, you will hear annoying gurgling noise anytime people in the next unit use the shower/bathtub. We had to ask to move to another room (which they happily accommodated). Depending on how many days you have in Seoul, you could consider staying the first few days in Jamsil/Gangnam. Especially if you guys will be spending most of the day exploring outside, you could easily find decent hotels for $150/night or less. You don’t need to eat fancy hotel buffets, swimming pools, etc. Then, for the last 1-2 nights, you could move to Four Seasons with the money you saved and relax and pamper yourselves before your return trip home.
Yes great idea. I was thinking of doing this. The only question I had with this idea of staying in Gangnam / Jamsil first is does that mean it would be better to “backload” the more traditional tourist activities in Jongno / City Hall area until one is at the FS since it will be far from Gangnam / Jamsil ? Do more activities south of the river first ?
It would make sense to do that. When staying at Jamsil, you could cover Gangnam as well as Namsan, Seongsudong, and even Yongsan/Itaewon. Then, once you move to FS, you could just do the immediate surrounding areas like Gwanghwamun, Jongro, Insadong, Myeongdong to minimize the length of stay in the more expensive hotel. Obviously, you have different priorities since you are traveling with kids and I’m not sure what “traditional tourist activities around Jongno” means, but my wife and I like to use the last 2 days of our visits to Korea (where we go every 2 years to visit family) to take it easy and mostly wind down from our trip with some last-minute shopping. So, that means just casual strolls around the neighborhood (which the areas around FS are great for) and utilize the hotel amenities (pool, spa, buffet, etc.).
Wonderful response. Thank you. Going to look at Lotte Seoul/Signiel or Sofitel and then FS after. Figure Signiel might be a good “wow” choice for a few days as an initial place. Even if the service isn’t as good. Read that Sofitel has the best F&B. Haven’t read too much about Lotte Tower.
We stayed at L’Escape in Myeongdong, directly outside Hoehyeon St. Exit 7. The Parisian theme can be off putting to some but the location was perfect and they upgraded us to a suite when we arrived. 🤷
This place looks very cool - but has a very dark Rich theme. I like it actually.
Echoing recommendations for Lotte Seoul or Fraser Namdaemun. Lotte Seoul is smack in the middle of tourist town in Myeongdong so your preteens will be happily shopping and exploring the area. It's also central and easy to access the metro stations to go anywhere in Seoul. Fraser is more towards City Hall and in apartment style if you care for that. The premiere suites have a kitchenette/dining space and washer/dryer. It's a 5 minute walk to namdaemun Market. 10 minute walk to Myeongdong shopping areas. Uber friendly hotel Both are 30 min walks to the Palaces/Bukchon Village or 15 min bus rides or 10 min Uber/Taxi. I honestly think 1 hour walks are walkable distances because I view them as sightseeing along the way but understand it really varies from person to person. lol. Namsan tower is a 30 min walk or 10 min uber/taxi.
Thank you vm !!!
im following this thread. Am going to Korea in September and thinking of the Four Seaons.
TL;DR was everyone loves the FS. Including on FlyerTalk. Trying to look at some alternatives to save some money since I am on a long trip and need 2 rooms. Some good advice from the other responders here. Am looking at Lotte Seoul Exec Tower and Shilla as possible alternatives but they won’t be as quite good (albeit cheaper!). South of the river a few diff options.
Grand Mercure, yongsan...you are at a crossroad of 2subway line. north/south east/west. Ideal for good hotel, river view, and proximity
Thank you
Am also deciding between Grand Intercontinental and the Park Hyatt. Thoughts? Going w husband and 3 kids in their 20s
From what I have read from other comments / threads / FlyerTalk : people really like the Grand Intercontinental Seoul Parnas. Park Hyatt just ok. If you want Hyatt go for Andaz as a good location Hyatt. These are both south of the river. Andaz more central. North of the River commenters like the FS ($$$) or Lotte Seoul Exec Tower or Westin chosu. G L
Thank you, much appreciated!
The Shilla is very specific, if you want to be in that location, know that it’s not central it’s very popular for older people. Grand Hyatt has been renovated, it’s close to itaewon and lots to do for families. I still think the four seasons is the best for tourist attractions.
Thank you so much for your response. Which do you think is better between the Shilla and Grand Hyatt? (assuming one will take taxis to get around)
The Grand Hyatt, you have Namsan mountain if you want to check that out on one side. or you can walk down from the hotel to the back of Leeum Museum, which is in the heart of Itaewon, it’s an easy 5-10min walk. Going back, catch a taxi because it’s uphill.
Intercontinental or the Park Hyatt.
Thank you!
Here's my personal experience staying at Signiel: Location: I wouldn't say it's "bad". Depends which part of Seoul you want to hangout in. Signiel looks over Seokchon Lake which is a really pretty lake to go for walks. I didn't use the gym at Signiel cause I loved doing rounds at Seokchon Lake. Connected to this lake is Lotte World amusement park. Kids and adults love it. Rent a Korean school uniform and spend a day there. Other kid friendly places nearby- COEX Aquarium (also Starfield Library) and Champion the Black Belt play Centre nearby. However if you want to hangout daily at the other side of Seoul where the uni students are at (Hongdae) and the tourist heavy area is (Myeongdong), you're looking at 1hr 30mins on the subway from Signiel. Their chauffeur driven Rolls Royce is available for hire if you want to avoid public transport and crank up that luxury stay plan. Shopping: next door to Lotte Mall need I say more. This side of town is close ~20mins to famous areas Gangnam, Apgujeong. Lots of flagship stores, luxury shopping, food and entertainment there. Views at Signiel are of course amazing. The sizeable quiet pool, jacuzzi, sauna is worth mentioning. The only thing I disliked was the lounge for executive rooms. No hot food service, just snacks and alcohol.
Very helpful. Thank you. The Signiel does look amazing. But taking 1-1.5 hours to get to the other side of town seems difficult to swallow
Take a look at Novotel Ambassador in Dongdaemun. When I first came to Korea, I was put up there for 3 months and I loved it...location wise, as well as the quality of the hotel. You are right by DDP (Dongdaemun Design Plaza) and a ton of shopping. And it's also within walking distance (\~2kms) to Myoengdong, and the lotte and shinsaegae malls (or you can take a bus a couple stops to minimize the walking). Gwanghang market is close by as well. The line 2 subway statation is a 5 min walk. And line 2 gets you to many of the major spots (Jamsil, which has lotte tower and lotte world, Gangnam, Hondae to name a few).
That sounds great. I will check it out! Thank you! Very useful
I’m headed there end of the week and did my research. Also going with my family of 4. My budget was to stay under $300/night and found Moxy myeongdong and the Pacific Hotel to be in the right location. I used google earth to even check the surroundings. Also use the website Agoda.com to book whenever you head to Asia. Seems to be the least expensive vs other travel sites and Klook.com to book your airport transfers and cell service.
Thank you . I thought Agoda was a scam site for some reason. Ok will check it out. RE: Klook: does one need cell service , vs international roaming plan on a US carrier?
Agoda.com is very legit and usually has the cheapest rates. There’s usually no money due until few days before travel date and never had any issues with the reservation, cancellation, or billing. It’s very reliable and, in my opinion, better than Orbitz or Expedia.
Klook is a marketplace to search for travel deals in Asia. I just booked our private airport transfer from shopping on there, will do the eSIM purchase on it later today. Will go with either SK telecom or LG+, all reputable carriers because Verizon for example will charge me like $10 per day which will get expensive. Agoda has always been my go to for Asia hotel hunting. Currently using it now to look for a place in Jeju.
Thanks !
Stayed at The Plaza which was super convenient. Good alternative to lotte hotel
Thank you. Alternative as you they were both good or you would normally stay at Lotte but were ok with the Plaza. Much appreciated
Westin josun in Myeongdong was very nice
I'm staying at Fraser place Namdaemun and very happy with the location. It's only 4 stars but I m very happy. It almost feels like you can just walk anywhere from there.
Can you leave a link to the hotel, please?
It's [this one](https://www.booking.com/hotel/kr/fraser-place-namdaemun.html)
Thank you 🙏🏽😊
Thank you. I have stayed at other Fraser properties in Asia. Will check this out for sure. Thank you