More Than A Business Hotel, Conrad Seoul Is A Smart Stay For All Kinds Of Travelers

28.05.2024 - 14:09 / forbes.com

Making hotel recommendations for first-time visitors to Seoul is easy, since people request the same neighborhoods over and over again—Itawon, Gangnam-gu, and Myeongdong, which I affectionately refer to as Seoul’s versions of “Times Square.”

But what if you’re seeking a place to stay that’s less touristy and has a bit of everything, from timeless design to attentive service? In that case, I suggest Conrad Seoul in Yeouido. The neighborhood was known as the city’s stodgy financial center for decades, but in recent years has morphed into a lively social hub with the 2021 opening The Hyundai and the booming popularity of nearby Hangang Park—where Seoulites still enjoy eating instant ramen by the water—during the pandemic.

Since opening in 2012, it’s remained in-demand for business travelers and frequent fliers who want to splurge their Hilton Honors Points on a luxury vacation. If you you don’t fall into either category, however, no worries. I recently discovered why the hotel is a smart choice for every kind of traveler—whether you’re in town just for work or a pure leisure trip.

One of four towers envisioned by acclaimed architecture firm Arquitectonica comprising IFC Seoul (International Finance Center Seoul), Conrad Seoul’s design is singular and sleek. As with other Conrad properties I’ve had the pleasure of staying at, the main lobby casts a striking first impression by mixing soaring ceilings, lustrous marble flooring, elaborate floral arrangements, eye-catching art—note the delicate fans that appear to float high in the air—and a mesmerizing 131-foot spiral stairway.

This design mindset extends to the 434 guest rooms and suites done up in dark wood, Korean crafts, and temperature-regulating beds. If you have Hilton Honors Points to spare, why not upgrade yourself to a Grand King Executive Corner Suite? Laid out like well-appointed condos with a living room, bedroom, and marble bathroom with deep soaking tub, they let you spread out in style. Even better? You’ll have access to the 37th-floor Executive Lounge, where a well-curated breakfast and cocktail hour are coupled with stunning views of the city and Han River.

Another reason why Conrad Seoul makes for a reliable and flexible stay is choice. Beyond a conventional gym, guests have access to Pulse8, a massive members-only wellness destination that’s home to a huge exercise studio, indoor pool, Pilates room, saunas, golf practice ranges, and cafe.

This more-is-more mindset applies to the hotel’s seven restaurants and bars, too. Standouts include buffet restaurant Zest, which presents one of the top-rated breakfasts in town. No matter your craving—whether it’s bulgogi, pho, bread pudding, nasi goreng, or samosas—you’ll satisfy it at this sprawling