Seoul Shilla Hotel Staycation - A Special Retreat on a Rainy Day

In May 2023, I had the chance to enjoy a one-night staycation at the Seoul Shilla Hotel! A shuttle bus runs from the main gate of Jangchung Gymnasium to the hotel lobby, but unfortunately, it was pouring rain that day. 😢

🚐 A Heartwarming First Impression
While I was standing at the bus stop without an umbrella, trying to avoid the rain, a staff member noticed me and called a van to take me to the lobby before the shuttle bus arrived. This thoughtful gesture left a lasting impression right from the start! Truly, five-star service is on another level.

🏩 Check-In & Breakfast Reservation
The staff were incredibly friendly during check-in. However, there was a wedding that day, and the lobby was bustling with guests, which made things a bit chaotic. A staff member kindly apologized for the inconvenience. I tried to reserve breakfast, but it was already fully booked. They honestly suggested, "It might be best to go early to avoid any hassle." I made a reservation anyway, but... (more on this later 😂)

🏊♀️ Relaxation at the Indoor Pool
Since it kept raining, outdoor activities were off the table, but I enjoyed swimming at the indoor pool. The glass dome offered a view of Namsan, and the pool was clean and comfortable. After swimming, I tried the famous mango shaved ice at The Library. The price was ₩98,000 😱. Honestly, it didn’t seem any better than the mango shaved ice you’d find in Southeast Asia. I heard the price has gone up even more now, so I wouldn’t recommend it.

🤒 Sudden Illness and Warm Care
After eating the mango shaved ice, I suddenly started feeling unwell. I was shivering and asked the staff for an extra blanket, which they promptly provided. After sweating it out under two layers of blankets, I felt a bit better, but I still wasn’t in any condition to go outside.

🥩 Comforting LA Galbi Room Service
In the end, I ordered LA galbi through room service. For some reason, I always crave LA galbi when I stay at hotels 😂. It was absolutely delicious—tender and perfectly seasoned. It was a hearty meal that comforted my aching body. Unfortunately, I had to cancel my breakfast reservation due to my condition. 😢

✨ Part of the Journey
It was disappointing not to fully enjoy the staycation due to my illness. I wanted to try the spa and lounge, but couldn’t. Still, this experience is part of the journey! Above all, the staff’s attentive service truly showcased the quality of Shilla Hotel.

Spending a rainy day wrapped in blankets, eating LA galbi, and gazing out the window had its own charm. I hope to revisit in good health next time and fully enjoy the experience!

One-Line Review: Despite being unwell, I was deeply impressed by the Shilla Hotel’s class and the warm care of its staff during this special staycation.

📍 Seoul Shilla Hotel
📍 Address: 249 Dongho-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul
📍 Nearby Attractions: Namsan Tower, Myeongdong, Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP), Namsan Park, Jangchungdan Park