Seoul Autograph Collection Hotels: A Dreamy Blend of Korean Charm and Modernity, A Haven for the Soul.
1. The Plaza Seoul, Autograph Collection
• Location: Situated in the heart of Seoul's Jung-gu district, adjacent to City Hall, a 5-minute walk to City Hall Station (Lines 1/2), and a 10-20 minute drive to attractions like Myeongdong, Gyeongbokgung Palace, and Cheonggyecheon Stream, making it very convenient for travel.
• Room Design: With the concept of 'Stayin’Style', rooms combine modern design with Korean elements, equipped with smart toilets, capsule coffee machines, double beds or sofa beds, and some rooms offer city views.
• Facility Highlights:
◦ Leisure Facilities: Indoor heated pool, sauna, spa center, and gym. Some rooms feature underfloor heating and automatic curtains.
◦ Dining Services: The restaurant offers a buffet breakfast with both Chinese and Western options. The 4th-floor restaurant serves Korean dishes like beef short ribs and sukiyaki, and the bar offers cocktails and desserts.
• Service Experience: 24-hour concierge service, airport transfers, and luggage storage. The front desk supports multiple languages (Chinese/English), but some guests have reported safety concerns with fire escape routes.
2. RYSE, Autograph Collection
• Location: Located in the Hongdae district, a 3-minute walk to Hongdae Station, close to Gyeongbokgung Palace and Namdaemun Market, ideal for young travelers.
• Room Design: Decorated with creative geometric patterns, equipped with private bathrooms, double sinks, and automatic toilets. Some rooms offer sofa beds, compact but fully functional.
• Facility Highlights:
◦ Leisure Facilities: The 15th-floor bar has an outdoor viewing platform, the gym is well-equipped, and the Hongdae night market is a 5-minute walk away.
◦ Dining Services: The 4th-floor restaurant offers Korean specialties like fried chicken and samgyetang. Breakfast includes beef short ribs and seafood porridge.
• Service Experience: Quick response times, Titanium Card members can upgrade their rooms, but the hotel lacks a lounge, and meeting rooms require an additional fee.
3. Marriott Hotel DDP
• Location: Adjacent to Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP), within walking distance to Myeongdong shopping area, suitable for fashion enthusiasts.
• Room Design: Minimalist modern style, equipped with high-speed Wi-Fi and comfortable beds. Some rooms offer executive privileges.
• Facility Highlights:
◦ Dining Services: The restaurant offers both domestic and international cuisine, with an underground passage directly to Myeongdong Night Market for authentic snacks.
◦ Business Support: Meeting rooms are equipped with advanced facilities, suitable for business travelers.
4. Shortcomings and Suggestions
• Price Fluctuations: Basic room rates range from 1000-1600 RMB per night (including tax), with significant price variations for view rooms and suites. It is recommended to check real-time prices on the official website or Ctrip.
• Facility Limitations: Some branches charge extra for pool and sauna access, and corridor lighting or decor may appear slightly outdated.
• Language Communication: Non-English services may respond slowly, so it is recommended to specify needs in advance.