The Shilla Seoul launches Urban Island promotion

As the temperatures rise, The Shilla Seoul provides guests with the ultimate summer experience at Urban Island. The hotel’s luxury outdoor leisure area provides guests with an all-in-one retreat to relax, connect with nature and enjoy poolside service.

Recently reopened to welcome the warmer weather, The Shilla Seoul’s Urban Island invites guests to enjoy outdoor heated pools, a jacuzzi, and the rooftop garden with Namsan Mountain and the Seoul skyline serving as a picture-perfect backdrop. Cosy cabanas are dotted throughout lush greenery, creating exclusive hideaways.


Available until June 30 2019, Urban Days room rates start from KRW320,000 per night, exclusive of taxes and service charges and based on two persons sharing a room.

To complete the total summer experience, Urban Island presents its all-new 4 Hands Burger. The burger melds four popular flavours – cheese, chicken, teriyaki and shrimp – and is served with fries.

Source: The Shilla Seoul. Soak in the sun at the Urban Island, The Shilla Seoul.

Details:

For a minimum two-night stay , the Urban Days package includes:

- Accommodation in a deluxe room or business deluxe room

- Complimentary all-day access to the Urban Island outdoor pool (open daily from 10 am)

- US$50 credit for a one-time use at The Shilla Seoul’s restaurants The Library & Bar, Pastry Boutique and in-room dining (excluding minibar)

- Complimentary access to the indoor pool facilities and gym

A member of The Leading Hotels of the World, The Shilla Seoul takes its name from the ancient Shilla Dynasty – regarded as the most culturally prosperous period in history. Situated in the heart of the city with views of Mount Namsan, The Shilla Seoul is surrounded by Seoul’s must-see attractions and key districts. The property’s 464 guest rooms and suites and public spaces were refurbished in 2013 by Peter M. Remedios.

The Shilla Seoul's Business Plan package introduces The Executive Lounge

Source: The Shilla Seoul. The Executive Lounge.

Until 30 June 2019, guests can take advantage of The Shilla Seoul’s Business Plan package, designed to introduce guests to The Executive Lounge.

Guests who book the Executive Business Deluxe option enjoy exclusive access to The Executive Lounge, a complimentary breakfast at The Parkview, and access to the gym and indoor swimming pool.

Located on the hotel’s top floor, The Executive Lounge at The Shilla Seoul is designed as a luxury penthouse. Boasting full views of Mount Namsan, the N Seoul Tower, and downtown Seoul, The Executive Lounge was designed by Peter Remedios to evoke the relaxing, modern and welcoming mood of a private residence.

Guests can spend their time exploring the collection of lifestyle books by the fireplace, or arrange a casual catchup in one of the fully-equipped meeting rooms. The Executive Lounge provides complimentary dining services throughout the day, including a healthy breakfast, light snacks, afternoon tea, and happy hour. From 6 pm-10 pm daily, guests can enjoy free-flow beverages against the backdrop of Seoul’s city lights.

Details:

Rates for the Business Plan Executive Business Deluxe package start from KRW390,000 (excluding taxes and service charge).

Le Meridien Seoul features traditional Korean touches and French elegance

Source: Le Meridien, Seoul website. Hub lobby. 

The Le Meridien, Seoul, the first Le Meridien property in Korea, also marks the debut of London-based interior architecture and interior design studio David Collins Studio in the country. Situated in the upscale Gangnam district, the hotel is within walking distance from the Sinnonhyeon and Gangnam subway stations. Gimpo (GMP) and Incheon (ICN) International Airports are 30 and 65km away, respectively.

The studio, appointed to oversee the interiors for all of the public spaces and rooms, blended Parisian opulence with strong mid-century references while rooting the hotel to its location with inspirational takeoffs from traditional Korean arts and crafts. The hotel comprises old and new buildings linked by a 12th floor bridge. David Collins Studio created a grand colonnade running the length of the original building to evoke a sense of grandeur and add rhythm to the space.

The lobby features a large-scale artwork made from traditional Korean hanji (한지) paper, while the décor and furniture incorporates elements of local artisanship applied to contemporary furnishings: decorative woven and knotted thread (an ancient technique known as maedeup, 매듭) becomes woven metal; hammered metal tableware (bangjja, 방짜) becomes hammered metal door handles; and the fine hand-stitched intricately patterned fabrics Korea is famous for are reinterpreted for window treatments and used as trims on the drapery.

The 336 smoke-free rooms exude mid-century European style with relaxing palettes of green, blue, and lavender. Erco lighting enhances the décor. The guest rooms have eucalyptus trimming on architectural details, as well as lavender-and-cream leather screens in a pojagi (보자기, traditional Korean wrapping cloth) pattern that references Korean heritage. Near a custom clothes-hanging system, the LM BED offers enhanced comfort with a Sealy mattress.

Source: Le Meridien Seoul website. The double-height lounge, Presidential Suite.

Suites are distinguished by their ample space, luxe finishes, rich fabrics on window seats, velvet upholstery, and local artwork. Wall panelling, oak floors, and low-level lighting enhance the residential feel. Each 919-sq ft balcony executive suite offers a panorama of Gangnam through floor-to-ceiling windows. The balconies are ideal for private gatherings.

The Presidential Suite is one of the most exclusive suites in Seoul, and has hosted world’s biggest celebrities. Guests enter via a grand foyer, where a rotunda features a high-level screen inspired by the work of French architect and designer Pierre Chareau. The suite comprises six main rooms, each with a unique and distinct feel. Its visual impact has been heightened with the removal of the floor above the living room to create a double-height space.

Cuisine prepared in the show kitchen can be served in the indoor dining area or on the outdoor terrace with a generous dining space. A spiral staircase leads to the suite’s upper terrace, which features a jacuzzi and cabanas.

Located next to the entrance lobby, Latitude 37 is both a coffee shop and a cocktail bar. Latitude 37’s timber cabinets, curated art pieces and custom decorative lighting in opaque glass transform seamlessly from coffee outlet in the day to chic cocktail bar at night.

The wellness area comprises a pool, jacuzzi area and fitness centre. The area is characterised by teal-coloured lacquered panels and leather trims, with white stone and glazed green tile flooring and wall treatments.

The event facilities total 1,650 sq m. Four function venues can be divided into smaller areas, and outdoor space is also available.

Up to 500 guests can be hosted in the 736-sq m Da Vinci Ballroom, which combines chic European modernity and East Asian mystique. Ceiling insignia and chandeliers against a sophisticated but reserved palette of finishes convey an atmosphere of majesty.

The function rooms are named after Impressionist artists. The Chagall Room is ideal for intimate gatherings while natural light influences the ambience of the Monet Room. The Cezanne Room is finished in grey and white as a neutral backdrop for a variety of events.

The 525-sq m Maple Garden can accommodate private parties and product launches. Prefunction areas allow for catering options as well as breakout spaces.

Free internet is available to all SPG Members when booking on Starwood websites, mobile sites and SPG apps. Benefits vary by membership level.

Details:

The Le Meridien, Seoul is at 120 Bongeunsa-ro, Gangnam-gu Seoul 06124, South Korea

La Yeon, The Shilla Seoul's Korean fine-dining restaurant, gets three Michelin stars

Source: The Shilla Seoul. Nine delicacies at La Yeon.

At the inaugural Michelin Guide Seoul 2017 launch at The Shilla Seoul’s Dynasty Hall, the hotel's traditional Korean fine-dining restaurant La Yeon was awarded the prestigious Michelin three-star rating. Acclaimed for its authentic flavours, service, ambiance, and drink pairings, La Yeon is the only restaurant that is part of a hospitality brand in Seoul to receive three Michelin stars.

Every detail at La Yeon reflects an understanding and appreciation of Korean culture. Since opening in August 2013, La Yeon has offered reinterpretations of classic recipes using modern culinary techniques, complemented by tableware from Korean artists La Ki-Hwan and Lee Ki-Jo. The restaurant distinguishes itself with unique presentations of recipes dating back to ancient Korea.

La Yeon’s recognition in the Michelin Guide is a testament to The Shilla’s long-standing commitment to quality and exemplary service. To explore new heights, the restaurant regularly visits restaurants in Tokyo, Hong Kong, and New York for research and development. La Yeon’s dedicated team of buyers, recipe developers, and food connoisseurs source authentic, seasonal ingredients and only 100% Korean-made premium products. Every year, the team personally visits over 100 local suppliers to ensure quality standards are met.

Ingredients used at La Yeon include grouper, codfish, bamboo shoots, pine nuts, edible wild plants, and Hanwoo (한우, beef from a particular type of Korean cattle). The restaurant also offers a wide selection of drinks which are carefully selected to complement the dining experience.

“Since opening three years ago, we have continuously strived to recreate the best of Korean cuisine,” says Executive Chef Kim Sung Il. “The recognition is a result of our combined teamwork and motivates us to further our vision of sharing the beauty of Korean culture to guests from around the world.”

The Michelin Guide Seoul 2017 is the fifth guidebook to be launched in Asia following Japan, Hong Kong & Macau, Singapore, and Shanghai.

Shilla Stay opens Shilla Stay Guro

Source: Shilla Stay. The hotel lobby.

Shilla Stay’s eighth property in South Korea has opened in Guro, the heart of Seoul’s digital district.

Shilla Stay Guro’s contemporary interiors are designed by Italian architect Piero Lissoni. Sleek and stylish for today’s business travellers, the hotel boasts three multipurpose meeting rooms that can be customised for business functions or private events. Each meeting room is equipped with state-of-the-art audiovisual and sound systems, and refreshments are available upon request. To further assist business travellers, the Business Corner is equipped with computers with high-speed Internet access, which hotel guests can use free of charge. The 2/F café offers breakfast, lunch and dinner buffet with a selection of international and pan-Asian favourites.

Spanning 25 floors, Shilla Stay Guro comprises 310 guestrooms designed for maximum comfort and ultimate convenience. Each guestroom features 100% Hungarian goose-down bedding and Aveda bathroom amenities. Guests can choose from three room categories: the standard room, a deluxe room, or the grand room.

A five-minute walk from the Guro Digital Complex Station, Shilla Stay Guro enjoys easy access to Seoul’s tech hub and IT industry. The hotel is near the Guro Digital Complex, which houses many of South Korea’s top technology firms, as well as Boramae Park, Yeouido Park and Pureun Arboretum. Several shopping malls – including Hyundai Outlet Gasan, Mario Outlet and Cheil Industries Outlet – are a short distance away by car.

Interested?

The Shilla Stay Guro is at 596 Siheungdae-ro, Dongjak-gu, Seoul. To celebrate its opening, Shilla Stay Guro is offering a special introductory package throughout February. Guests visiting the hotel during the month will receive a Shilla Stay Bear, complimentary breakfast for two, free Wi-Fi, and access to the fitness centre. Room rates per night start from KRW130,000* (blackout dates apply). Call +82-2-2230-3000 for enquiries.

Guests can also enjoy the Korea Grand Sale package with 50% discount on rooms and a complimentary upgrade to the Deluxe Room at selected Shilla Stay properties between February 1 and 29. Room rates start from KRW85,000* per night.

Interested?

Read about the new Shilla Stay Gwanghwamun in WorkSmart Asia

*Quoted prices exclude 10% tax

Shilla Stay officially opens the Shilla Stay Gwanghwamun

Source: Shilla Stay.

The Shilla Hotels & Resorts’ premium business brand, Shilla Stay, has unveiled its latest location in Gwanghwamun, Seoul’s cultural, historical and business hub. Gwanghwamun is the main gate of Gyeongbukgung Palace and a designated national treasure.

Comprising 339 standard, deluxe and grand rooms, the Shilla Stay Gwanghwamun is within a 10-minute walk from three different subway lines - Line 1 (Jonggak), Line 5 (Gwanghwamun) and Line 3 (Anguk). It is close to attractions such as the Seoul City Hall, Gyeonghui Palace, Jongmyo Shrine and Gwangjang Market, as well as to Gwanghwamun Plaza, a public space developed by the Seoul Metropolitan Government that is a popular location for filming and features in many Korean blockbusters.

Shilla Stay Gwanghwamun’s interiors are designed by Italian architect Piero Lissoni, and reflect his signature minimalist style. A spacious lobby with a bar for relaxed casual meetings and a business corner where guests can stay connected while working away from the office are focal points in the hotel. There are also four function rooms available with a total capacity of up to 80.

Source: Shilla Stay. A function room. 

The 108-seat restaurant Café boasts an outdoor terrace, and serves breakfast buffets as well as a semi-buffet brunch. It transforms into a lounge bar in the evenings.

Interested?

The Shilla Stay Gwanghwamun is at 71 Sambong-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul. To mark its opening, the Shilla Stay Gwanghwamun is offering a special package available up to January 31, 2016. Guests visiting the hotel during this period will receive a Shilla Stay Bear, complimentary breakfast for two, free Wi-Fi and access to the fitness centre. Room rates per night are KRW150,000*.

*Prices exclude 10% tax. Blackout dates apply. 

Autumn treats at The Shilla Seoul and at The Shilla Jeju

Source: The Shilla Seoul.

The Shilla Seoul and The Shilla Jeju are welcoming autumn with a series of special offers and unique opportunities.

Embracing traditional culinary customs, tThe Shilla Seoul’s fine-dining Korean restaurant La Yeon will present an autumn menu showcasing seasonal ingredients, including pine nuts, sweet potatoes and seafood. At the 2015 Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants awards, La Yeon debuted on the list at No.38 and earned the coveted One To Watch award.

With Mt Namsan framed by The Library’s full-length windows, The Shilla Seoul’s guests can enjoy the picture-perfect view while indulging in scones, pastries, cakes and various premium teas. The tea menu includes flavours as crème Caramel, Moroccan Mint and ‘Anniversary’, combining black tea, Mint, blue Mallow, Marigold Flowers, Rose Petals and Cream and raspberry flavours.

The Pastry Boutique at The Shilla Seoul embraces French flavours with its own interpretation of the Mont Blanc dessert, which traditionally consists of sweetened chestnut puree topped with whipped cream. The Boutique’s chefs offer a twist on the chestnut based classic with pistachio and pumpkin.

Last but not least, The Shilla Seoul boasts a private Sculpture Garden which showcases autumn’s changing landscape and rich-red colours to perfection. Aside from the natural beauty, visitors can also admire the 60-plus sculptures dotted throughout the 40,000 sq m garden.

At The Shilla Jeju, a Mediterranean-style resort, autumn is the season of outdoor movies. Movies will play each evening on a large poolside screen next to a fully heated outdoor swimming pool.

The Shilla Jeju’s Guest Activity Organiser specialises in arranging outings and guiding visitors to Jeju’s autumn experiences. Each GAO manages every detail of the outing and accompanies guests on outdoor activities such as horseback riding and sunset yacht cruising.

Guests looking to bring a touch of glamour to the camping experience can choose the Glamping Village. The cabana-style tents comprise a large comfortable sofa, dining table, heater, Galaxy tab, private stereo and a docking station for individual devices. Adding an extra level of luxury, a special lunch and dinner menu is available with chefs preparing dishes at the on-site barbecues. The meal concludes with a dessert being prepared live, in front of the guests. 

Shilla Stay opens third hotel in Mapo, Seoul

Source: Shilla Stay. The Shilla
Mapo.

Shilla Stay has opened a third property in Seoul, Korea, in the Mapo District. Located the heart of Seoul’s administrative district and surrounded by universities, the Shilla Stay Mapo enjoys easy access to Seoul’s public transport network.

As with other Shilla Stay hotels, Italian architect Piero Lissoni designed the Shilla Stay Mapo interiors. Known for his contemporary style, the designer uses a neutral palette, chic furnishings and minimalism to create a warm, welcoming ambience.

The 383 guest rooms are available in three categories –  Standard, Deluxe and Grand. All rooms feature high-quality Hungarian goose-down bedding and Aveda bathroom amenities. To meet the needs of today’s business traveller, Shilla Stay Mapo includes a variety of modern facilities, including a business centre, conference room, and fitness centre.

The 2/F Café provides all-day dining, and transforms into a lounge bar in the evenings. Occupying two floors, Shilla Stay’s Café can host up to 114 guests while the private dining room can be customised to cater for 24 guests.

Centrally located, Gongdeok subway station is a three-minute walk from the hotel. The station serves as a transfer point for Subway lines 5 and 6, the Gyeonggui-Jungang line and Airport Railroad Express line. Aside from having the National Assembly Building and many major financial buildings nearby, Shilla Stay Mapo is also close to the Yeouido IFC shopping mall and Hongik University. Culinary connoisseurs can explore the Itaewon district, famous for its restaurants. Seasonal celebrations held nearby include the Yeouido Cherry Blossom Festival, Han River Summer Festival, International Firework Festival, and Haneul Park Reed Flower Festival.

In celebration of the hotel’s opening, Shilla Stay Mapo has announced a Grand Opening Package. Guests will receive a Shilla Stay Teddy Bear, complimentary breakfast for two, free Wi-Fi and access to the fitness centre through to end-September. 

Interested?

The Shilla Stay Mapo is at 83 Mapo-daero, Mapo-gu, Seoul. Nightly rates start from KRW189,000*. During the mid-autumn period (September 25 to 29), room rates will be discounted to KRW159,000* per night. Call +82 2 2230 3000 for reservations.

*Prices exclude 10% tax

Accor opens first ibis budget hotel in South Korea

Accor, the largest international hotel operator in Asia Pacific and South Korea, has opened the ibis budget Ambassador Seoul Dongdaemun, the first ibis budget brand hotel in South Korea. 

Source: Accor. The Ibis budget Ambassador Seoul Dongdaemun.

The newly-built hotel has 195 guestrooms and is located north of Seoul’s Han River in a commercial district renowned for its traditional markets and shopping centres. Ibis budget Ambassador Seoul Dongdaemun is a 10-minute drive to Dongdaemun Design Plaza and Myeong-dong District, Chunggyechen Stream and major shopping malls. The hotel is a stone’s throw away from the subway lines 2, 4, and 5, which connect it to the rest of Seoul.

Patrick Basset, Chief Operating Officer for Accor Thailand, Vietnam, South Korea, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar and the Philippines said, “With the successful opening of our ibis hotels in Seoul and Busan, we are proud and excited to introduce the first ibis budget hotel in South Korea. Ibis budget is one of Accor’s leading economy brands where at a value for money room rate, guests will find cosy beds, spacious showers, soft duvets, and an all-you-can-eat breakfast buffet.

“We saw an increasing demand in Seoul for international-standard accommodations coupled with affordable pricing; we therefore believe this hotel will become a favourite amongst domestic and international travellers visiting this vibrant city.”

All rooms are equipped with a flat screen TV with multi-media hub, individual reading lights, Wi-Fi connection, work table, safe, mini-refrigerator, coffee maker, and a sizable en-suite bathroom with shower. The hotel also features a 24-hour business corner with free Internet access and printing services.

The hotel’s General Manager, Tchang Lee, said, “Ibis budget Ambassador Seoul Dongdaemun integrates the core values of the ibis family brands – ‘simplicity, modernity and well-being’ and promises guests a quality accommodation at an affordable price, with the highlight being the signature beddings - Sweet Beds by ibis budget - for a good night’s sleep.”

To book a room, please visit www.accorhotels.com/9114 or email H9114-RE@accor.com.

Korean Air connects Seoul with Houston

Korean Air has begun new daily nonstop services between Houston's George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) and Incheon International Airport in Seoul. 
 

Source: Korean Air. The first 777-200 aircraft touches down in Houston on May 2.

Said John Jackson, Korean Air Vice President, Passenger Marketing and Sales, Regional Headquarters, The Americas: "There are enormous opportunities here and we are proud and honoured to be a part of the dynamic Houston business community."

Nonstop flights connecting the two destinations will depart from the Terminal D facility at George Bush Intercontinental Airport every morning at 10:40 am (CST Houston time), with the return flight departing Seoul at 9:10 am local time at Incheon International Airport. 

"Houston shares a deep connection with the Asian region of the world, a fact that benefits our city both economically as well as culturally," Houston Mayor Annise Parker says. "This new service from Korean Air will allow that connection to grow even stronger and that's cause for celebration on both sides of the route map."  
 

The Asian demographic in Houston has grown by 70% over the past decade. This growth rate tops the levels found in traditional Asian hubs in US cities such as New York, San Francisco, Los Angeles and Seattle.

Korean Air, a member of the SkyTeam Alliance, already operates nonstop flights in those four cities along with these other key gateway airports found throughout the Americas: Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, Honolulu, Las Vegas, Sao Paulo, Toronto, Vancouver and Washington, DC. The airline serves more than 24 million passengers on an annual basis through flights that span six continents today, making it one of the world's 20 busiest airlines.

Flight	Route	Departure	Arrival	Frequency	Aircraft
KE 30	Houston - Seoul	10:40 am	3:30 pm +1	Daily	B777-200
KE 29	Seoul - Houston	9:10 am	8:40 am +1	Daily	B777-200

*All times are local. "+1" stands for next-day arrival