Although officially having opened in May, the Courtyard by Marriott Seoul Botanic Park recently came into full bloom when the adjoining Seoul Botanic Park opened last month. Well, the property has the new park in its name after all.
The park definitely adds to the appeal of the property, which is in the R&D district of Magok. While it caters to business travellers, there are many activities when it comes to downtime, too. How does it balance business and pleasure? Let's find out.
First Impression
The sleek-looking Courtyard by Marriott Seoul Botanic Park stands 15-storeys tall, in line with their neighbouring office buildings. Accommodation choices don't vary much as you have Botanic Room, Executive Room, Courtyard Suite and Park Suite. The first two room types are the same in terms of floor plans and size (30m²) but the Executive Room comes with exclusive access to the lounge on the top floor where many perks await. Coming in at least 50m² in size, the suite type features separate living and sleeping areas, bathtub, LG Styler clothes steamers (so you can always look sharp), air purifier, access to the lounge and more.
I checked into a basic room with access to the lounge. While the room's size isn't anything of note, the thought behind its design is noticeable. The room feels inviting with a wooden wall panel while the lamps are covered with branch-patterned shades. Should you need to catch up on work at the last minute, there's a small desk for your laptop (desktop computers are available on the ground floor if you don't want to hunch). The bathroom blinds can be drawn up to connect it to the living room, adding a sense of openness.
One of the biggest cultural shocks I had is that Koreans aren't fans of a private balcony. However, the very large windows afforded me a full view of the city and the park along with ample of natural light to brighten up the well-designed room. Those who travel with gadgets will be pleased to know that there are many USB sockets to recharge your expensive toys.
Staying In
As a hotel geared toward business travellers, there are many facilities for those who wish to organise meetings or events in style. There are usual meeting rooms, which are well lit with natural light and overlook the park. Or opt for the Idea Garden where you can find a pre-function area with a refreshment counter and more meeting rooms. There are two outdoor spaces for casual mingling and gathering as well.
Should you suffer from a mental block, hit the gym at anytime of the day as it opens 24/7 or simply jog at the Seoul Botanic Park. There's no swimming pool in the hotel, though. Wouldn't it be nice to be able to swim while overlooking the vast park below?
Guests with access to the lounge can go up to top floor to treat themselves to exclusive perks like continental breakfast, dessert, bite-sized delights, non-alcoholic beverages and more. There's an outdoor area to chillax with an overlooking view of the city or you can make a toast to a productive day. You can even help yourself to Jelly Beans or enjoy a nightcap before bed. However, do make a point of hitting the big breakfast at Garden Kitchen. This is going to make me sound so basic but I did enjoy putting together a soothing bowl of Korean porridge. Of course, they have the usual salad station, breads, cereal, eggs and such. The lounge, also on the ground level, is more for a quick snack or a cup of joe.
Going Out
Bangkokians will experience sidewalk-envy as they take pleasant strolls around the area as the evening breeze blows. Posers would be pleased to know that I've spotted several pieces of public art for IG moments near the property. There are many restaurants and pubs nearby the hotel as well. Go for some fried-chicken with beer (a Korean classic) at a no-frills restaurant. BTW, Bonchon isn't a go-to name for fried chicken here. Shock horror, I know.
One of the biggest draws of staying here is obviously the fact that it's a hop, skip and a jump from the Seoul Botanical Garden. The 504,000m²-park, or roughly 70 soccer fields put together, has a six-month opening period before its official launch in May 2019. It's free to enter all zones, including the greenhouse. Around 3,100 species of plants await you and a few parts are open 24/7.
For a complete change of scene, take a short ride from the hotel across the vast and beautiful Han River to Hongdae near Hongik University where you can find cool cafes, fashion stores, night life, street art and a youthful vibe. Stop at Stylenanda store for street fashion and its pink cafe on the top floor for coffee and pastries. There's a cute swimming pool there but it's strictly for IG moments.
Final Verdict
It's a business-meets-nature kind of property with something for you regardless of whether you're there for work or play. However, its location isn't the most ideal for those who wish to hit all the popular tourist spots in a jiff. They offer various deals, including Botanic Picnic Park until Dec 31 in time for the festive season. The perks include a 10am check-in, 4pm late checkout and a picnic in the park with a mat and takeaway coffee. Rates start from KRW175,000 (B5,120) per night. Use V2X promo code. g
Courtyard by Marriott Seoul Botanic Park, 10 Magokjungang 12-ro, Gangseo-gu, Seoul / bit.ly/2maScgm.
