Lotte Hotel Seoul features 1,120 guestrooms. 2018 Lotte Hotel Seoul
At this particular property, some tech is easily seen; the latest versions of flat-panel television screens display ultra high-definition quality better than most hotels, and locally manufactured in-room tablets control lighting, for instance. And some tech, like the hotel’s air-filtration system, is hidden from view.
The chances that an average guest spends time studying the electronics and hardware of a hotel is slim, yet I did exactly that during my stay at Lotte Hotel Seoul.
Korea is a land of innovation — especially when it comes to electronics - and I was there to witness it firsthand.
At this particular property, some tech is easily seen; the latest versions of flat-panel television screens display ultra high-definition quality better than most hotels, and locally manufactured in-room tablets control lighting, for instance. And some tech, like the hotel’s air-filtration system, is hidden from view.
But that’s not to say that this modern property doesn’t honour historic tradition. Ladies in traditional Korean dress welcomed me ceremoniously in the lobby and, despite my tired appearance, I counted a half-dozen staffers bowing respectfully as I made my way to the elevators.
The 1,120-room Lotte Hotel Seoul has an enviable position close to city hall and swanky shopping areas, with a private entrance to an adjacent mall located in the lobby.
The surrounding neighbourhood, known as Myeongdong, is a hub of activity, giving the two-tower hotel - which includes several restaurants and bars in addition to conference and banquet halls, a fitness club and more - a desirable address for both business and leisure travelers alike.
Business travellers will prefer the design-focused Executive Tower for its more modern accommodations and private club lounge. I stayed in a Deluxe guestroom in the Main Tower, which had a wide desk with international power outlets and a soft-cushioned chair. The fluffy duvet and thick pillows had me asleep in no time, while the bedside USB port — look carefully, it’s hidden on the light-control console — kept everything well-charged.
Because the hotel has so many rooms, the outside views vary; some look out to neighbouring buildings, while rooms on the Club Floor feature views of Mount Namsan, an 860-foot peak famous for its walking trails.
In the morning, I was up bright and early and among the first at the breakfast buffet at La Seine, which was a feast for the senses. Live-cooking stations display flavours from around the region: Fresh dim sum is prepared in one corner, while Korean bulgogi and rolled kimchi are in another; Chinese noodle bowls are made to order; and an omelet station features a wide variety of fillings.
I wasn’t surprised at the food’s quality; after all, the hotel is also home to Michelin-starred Pierre Gagnaire a Seoul, which offers French fine dining.
There are no Korean spa baths at the hotel, but the on-site Sulwhasoo Spa has a lovely menu nonetheless. Later, relaxation came instead in the form of a cocktail in the lobby lounge, where nightly, live entertainment and views of the garden waterfall helped me wind down. And, luckily, I had the breakfast buffet to look forward to in the morning.
The Details
Lotte Hotel Seoul
www.lottehotel.com