Ritz-Carlton Hotel Seoul

Modeled after 18^th century Palace of Versailles, the Ritz Carlton is a five-star hotel with marble floors, four-tier chandeliers, and 375 guest rooms—a place built with airs of nobility. Located at the heart of Gangnam nightlife, the hotel is a step away from Sinnonhyeon Station and comes complete with lavish décor, wood paneled doors, and earth tone infused linen bedding. However with tradition comes age—you may spot a slight crack here and there on the bathroom countertops, and the water pressure may be a little lower than the rainforest shower heads at other hotels these days. Yes, the hotel was built in 1995 and it shows, but its strengths lie in its quality service and detail. Upon arrival, you're greeted by a guide dressed in hanbok and welcoming you in Korean, complimentary shoe shines are offered, and beds are ‘turned-down’ and tended to in the evening. Oh, and did I mention there’s spa by Pevonia on the lower levels? (FYI, Pevonia is Beyoncé's flawless spa of choice.) If you have already heard about the private tatami rooms and the lunch course at Hanazono, book a reservation beforehand and avoid the weekday rush.