The Shilla Seoul

In contrast with the traditional temple-like structure next door, The Shilla Seoul is modern and streamlined throughout, from its square 23-floor building to its wood-paneled interiors adorned in neutrals. The lobby’s marble floors, suspended curtain of glass beads, and imposing sloped ceiling make a grand first impression, though there's no seating here. Guest will find more restful spots elsewhere in the property, such as the large, curved outdoor pool surrounded by wicker sofas and cabanas, some with flat-screen TVs. There’s a low-key poolside bar, and an attractive terrace has views out to Namsan mountain. The executive lounge provides another spot to rest and recharge, with cream sofas, attractive wooden room dividers, and large windows that let in natural light and stunning mountain views. This cozy modern space also has long communal tables, flat-screen TVs, and newspapers, books and coffee- and tea-making facilities on handsome built-in wooden cabinets. The Shilla's one traditional touch is a sculpture garden with modern and classic figurines nestled among bonsai-style foliage and a manicured lawn. 

Set on a hill in Seoul’s suburban Dongguk University district, The Shilla’s peaceful location is inconvenient for destinations like the Myeongdong and Insadong shopping districts. Both are a 20-minute drive away, and there's little in the hotel’s immediate vicinity. But the hotel does run free shuttle service frequently to Dongguk University subway (a five-minute walk away), Dongdaemun market (22-minute walk), and Myeongdong. Incheon International Airport is an hour’s taxi ride away, while a taxi from Gimpo International Airport takes 40 minutes by car.

Like the public spaces, guest rooms at the Shilla have a muted, modern elegance. Throughout, comfortable beds topped with white linens, patterned gray rugs, beige walls, and wood floors and wall panels set an neutral backdrop. One highlight is the impressive views through the rooms' large picture windows. All rooms have air-conditioning, flat-screen smart TVs, safes, coffee- and tea-making facilities, bathrobes, slippers, and umbrellas. Rooms also have extensively stocked minibars with Champagne, wine, and spirits. Bathrooms are equally elegant with white-gray marble countertop, glass-enclosed walk-in showers and separate soaking tubs. Upgraded details abound like the individual Molton Brown toiletries, magnifying mirrors, rainfall and handheld showerheads, and toilets with heated seats and bidet functions.

Corner Suites offer more rooms with a living space furnished with sofas and armchairs, sliding doors that open onto double closets and floor-to-ceiling mirrors, a second half bath, and a second mounted smart TV. Bathrooms also include double sinks. Executive Rooms are similar to the Corner Suites in style, but their seating areas are folded into the bedroom, with couches and armchairs by the foot of the beds. Of these, Executive Grand Deluxe Rooms are the more spacious option. 

As expected for an extensive luxury hotel in Seoul, the Shilla has a full roster of top-shelf features, but they often come at a cost. Five great restaurants serve Korean, Chinese, Japanese, and French cuisine, plus an all-day international buffet. There’s also a bakery and room service, and the intimate lounge bar is open from morning until late, but dining is pricey, even for a luxury property. The excellent breakfast buffet offers wide choices of Asian and Western dishes, but it isn’t included in all rates. The executive lounge serves free snacks and drinks as well.

The Shilla also covers all manner of pampering and physical activity. The Guerlain spa’s Paris-trained therapists offer massages, wraps and scrubs, while the large gym has cardio machines and free weights, and there are running courses and a golf range. The Urban Island includes an outdoor heated pool -- rare in Seoul, but open only in summer -- hot tubs, and a poolside bar. But guests complain that there are extra charges for use of the outdoor pool and the sauna. And the gym, sauna, and an indoor pool close once a month. 

Shoppers can visit the adjacent duty-free outlet plus a designer shopping arcade. Excellent free Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel, and parking is free; the main building and the Yeong Bin Gwan venue can host weddings and conferences. Guests report the concierge is good for straightforward reservations, but less reliable for local recommendations.