My wife and stayed at the Shilla Hotel for 3 days at the end of a busy trip around Korea in early May, 2009. I was initially reluctant to spend a relatively high amount for a hotel in Korea as the motels are such incredibly good value, as are many of the smaller-non-flagship properties, but I wanted to finish the trip with a splash, so why not? I booked on-line at directly with the hotel for around 230,000 won per night, which was better than the last minute deals available through the on-line re-sellers.
However, as soon as we pulled up to the lobby by taxi--about 6,000 won from Seoul Station--three staff took over our luggage and walked us to check-in through one of the most impressive lobbies I have ever experienced. Our cost misgivings were instantly dissolved as we were painlessly checked into a Superior City-view double room. Everything about this property was flawless--albeit expensive for food and beverage service, in-room service and on-site retail. The rooms were not huge, but nicely appointed with just about everything a traveller needs—even a decent number of hangers in the double closet, which seems to be a rarity in Korea. Although Internet access is normally charged, the first week was free when we there—nice touch—I must admit I do resent paying 15,000 won a day when the room is already at a premium price level.
The property is situated in extensive ground and is reasonably close to the Metro—there is even a shuttle bus that runs internally from the main gate to the lobby and The Shilla on-site duty free store. That being said, taxis are so efficient, plentiful and inexpensive that fighting the Metro with luggage is definitely a false economy—take a cab! The grounds are very attractive and offer some great views of the city and there are trails through their sculpture park. The external meeting rooms are in the style of Korean temples and pavilions and are very attractive.
We had breakfast in the hotel on our last day before heading back to Canada via KAL limousine bus to Incheon, which stops at the lobby entrance—very convenient at 18,000 won per passenger—tix can be purchased at reception and added to the bill, if necessary.
‘Breakfast’ is a bit of an understatement! We did the buffet thing, which I don’t usually do, as I am a light eater early in the day. However, with the amazing array of dishes, it was impossible to resist. There was everything from standard western breakfast fare to Japanese and Asian choices of grilled fish and ‘made to order’ noodle soups to roast beef and baked ham, as well fresh squeezed juices—strawberry and melon were among the choices that day. Although relatively expensive at around 35,000 won each, I didn’t begrudge the bill total because of the high quality, variety and excellent service. The buffet closes on the dot of 10:00am—I watched the dining-room and kitchen staff clean and close down every station by 10:07—amazing!
I wouldn’t hesitate to return to the Shilla Hotel and plan to do so very soon.
