Busan Yeongmu Parade Hotel Haeundae Beach

At around ₩92,000 a night for a deluxe double non-smoking room with a beach view, this was one of the best places we stayed in South Korea. My expectations were low after reading some reviews, but we were blown away. Maybe some complaints come from people used to higher-end chains, but for us it was fantastic. I'd stay again if I had the chance. The room was spotless and spacious, with plenty of storage and well-stocked amenities. The shower had strong pressure and dependable hot water, and proper towels and bathrobes were refreshed daily. The LG TROMM Styler was especially useful for freshening jackets and coats during the chilly early spring, after Korean BBQ or just between washes. The view was amazing, and the reception and housekeeping staff were polite and friendly. The hotel is right in front of the beach, with plenty to do and eat nearby. Mipo Station and Jayeondo Salt Bread are within walking distance, and there are lots of convenience stores, plus even a 24/7 restaurant. They also stored our luggage before check-in and after check-out, which was handy.

The hotel is good value, quiet, modern, and well placed near amenities and attractions. We had a buffet breakfast included, and it was very nice. Our only small complaint is that over four nights, the bed linen was never changed. Our room on the 21st floor had a balcony overlooking the beach and ocean. It was large and modern, with a comfortable queen bed and twin bed. The bathroom was spacious with a separate shower; there was also a mini-fridge, A/C and a clothes de-wrinkling device. Robes were provided, but no slippers. Haeundae Beach is only 100 metres away, and Haeundae Market and Plaza are a 10-minute walk. The hotel can be hard to find because there are no big signs showing its name. We spotted it thanks to a small, unobtrusive parking sign. There's no proper lobby either, and the check-in desk is tucked into a dark corner behind a staircase. I highly recommend it.

We had an amazing view, and the location was perfect, about a minute's walk from the beach. The main strip of shops and food stalls is close too, and it's only 10 minutes to Exit 6 of Haeundae Station, where lots of tours pick up. Finding the place was really hard. There's no normal hotel entrance, so we followed Naver's directions to the building, walked through the corridors, and eventually found a random desk. When we went, it was behind 1 Euro coffee shop. The room was clean enough. The shower had good pressure, with Shampoo/Conditioner (Rinse) and Body Wash provided. We got fresh towels and water each day.

The room was great and close to the beach, though Haeundae subway station is a 15-20 minute walk away. Finding the entrance was tricky. It's on the building's left side when looking north, and the name on the glass doors is so small and white that it's almost invisible. The sink was plugged, but they fixed it on our last day.