L7 MYEONGDONG by LOTTE HOTELS

I had a glass of wine with a friend at the rooftop bar one evening, and the atmosphere was spectacular. It made sense why so many people recommend L7 Myeongdong. I’ll definitely come back, and it’s earned a permanent place on my travel list. Thank you so much to staff. The hotel is right in the heart of Myeongdong, so it’s easy to head out shopping at any time. The airport limousine bus stop is right in front, the subway is just a few steps away, and staff are happy to arrange a taxi. There’s also a taxi stand outside. Since it’s operated by Lotte, the service felt a cut above, with staff always smiling and ready to help. The guest lounge beside the front desk has a stunning view of Namsan Tower, and you can get Nespresso coffee and Korean green tea there 24 hours a day. A Seven‑Eleven is next door for Korean snacks or meals. The free foot-spa on the top floor has no restrictions, which is a crazy-good amenity. There’s coin laundry available whenever you want to do a quick wash, and the fitness center is arguably the best equipped in the Myeongdong area.

The lifts each have their own picture design. The room was big enough for two adults and one tall child, though it would have been nicer with a little more space for a small coffee table or couch area. The airport bus stops just metres from the entrance, and Myeongdong train station is just as close. Myeongdong shopping district is right behind the hotel. A big 7-11 next door sells some K-pop CDs cheaper than some audio shops, but check first since prices may vary. There’s a lot of people going in and out, so if you don’t like that, this place may not suit you. I didn’t deal with the service staff, so I can’t comment on the service.

We’re a couple from NZ who travelled around South Korea for two weeks, and this became one of our favorite places to stay. The staff were really friendly, and the hotel is close to the myeongdong markets, a large 12 floor Daiso, and the train station. We stayed twice. The first time, we booked a twin room because it was the only one available, and that turned out to be the better choice. It had all the facilities, while the king size room we booked on our second stay had a strange layout, with the bathroom sink and mirror outside in the middle of the room.

The rooms are clean, simple, and cute, and the workers were respectful and helpful. You’re right in the center of myeongdong, with the train station literally outside and a 711 next door. The main strip is down the block, and if you’ve forgotten anything, there’s a 13 floor daiso across the street.