Fairfield Seoul [Master Thread]
 

I wonder why they have a 572 room hotel at Yeungdeungpo station when the Courtyard Times Square is right there too.

https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...0f6c53c1e9.jpg

I'm disappointed in no installed toilet washlet. Even Four Points come equipped with them.

Is that a toilet area open to the room on three sides??! :eek:

Open concept. :D

I'm looking at Marriotts to stay in Seoul but I dunno about this. Looked at the JW but they want like $300 a night which seems excessive compared to other options. The Courtyard Namdaemun looks promising as a gold though.

The GM of the Times Square CY was seconded to overseeing the Fairfield launch since early 2017... Marriott's presence in Seoul is quite significant and I doubt they intend to slow down any time soon.

It looks like this hotel is only providing complimentary breakfast until July 18th. I thought all Fairfields provided breakfast as a brand aspect. Does anybody know if there's any word on whether that will change?

I'm surprised, would have guessed there are a few hundred! Elevators are controlled by key card and were very quick so it didn't get noticeably busy in the common areas.

I spent here one night recently. Upgraded from basic entry room to Deluxe Premier. However, except the family roms, all rooms have the same size. The differences are "better" view, higher floor and espresso machine. The rooms are fine for one person, but too small for more than one person for more than one night.
This hotel is one of the culprits providing no breakfast for Elites. Apparently it's (American?) Fairfield brand standard to provide breakfast for all guests regardless of status or membership, but this Fairfield is an exception. If you'd like to have full breakfast in the Bistro 879 you need to pay KWR 22,000 for adults (or KWR 11,000 for children 3 to 13). For welcome amenity you might choose btw. 500 points or drinks or toiletry options.

Luckily, there's no dearth of Marriott options in Seoul that DO provide breakfast.

Well, thank goodness for FT. Now FTers know if they stay at this particular property it does not provide breakfast, contrary to brand standard.

And if folk don't want to do research to stay w/ Bonvoy (understandable), there are the Hiltion/Hyatt/IHG chains they can move to & leave Bonvoy behind.

Cheers.

Odd. When I stayed there six months ago, breakfast was definitely comped as a Platinum Premier. Must have been a limited time opportunity. I thought this was a great hotel for one person. Annoyed they wouldn't take my Marriott gift cards, though.

Warning: Heightened Self-Indulgence Alert
 

Upon enduring some gentle, or maybe not so gentle, ribbing from one of my European colleagues, I decided to rid myself, within reason of course, of the alleged sense of entitlement of which I was accused. I was therefore happy to announce to said colleague that I had booked two very basic hotels in Seoul, a new Fairfield property in Yeongdeungpo Gu, and another at the HIX in Euljiro. I was very proud of that, until he asked me if they had shared bathrooms, as that would be the true test of eschewing all trappings of a privileged existence. Long story short, I was not about to be that noble, so I stuck with my original hotel choices, and decided to use points for the HIX.

In keeping with my newfound austerity, I took Airport Limousine Bus 6008 from ICN to the Fairfield. Bear in mind, I neglected to mention the "limousine" nomenclature when relating my experience to this troublesome colleague. At ₩9,000 (~ $8 USD), the 75 minute trip was comfortable and quite straightforward as the bus route ends directly in front of the Fairfield, although when I asked the bus driver, he had never heard of the hotel. The 6008 also picks up from that same spot, so the Fairfield is really very convenient for first time visitors, at least in that regard. BTW, this same 6008 Airport Bus also stops at GMP, in both directions.

Entering the lobby, I was struck by the modern design. It reminded me more of a W than a Fairfield Inn. Note they do not refer to the property as a Fairfield Inn, but more aptly as Fairfield by Marriott. Hampton by Hilton uses a similar nomenclature for many areas outside of North America. There were a couple of guests being assisted by the two FDA's behind their podiums, but my wait was less than a minute. The friendly FDA greeted me warmly, in perfect English, and after a few clicks on her keyboard, acknowledged my Titanium status as well as an upgrade to the second highest floor on level 21. As I believe all rooms are pretty much identical except for bedding and view, I was able to tell my colleague I had received a normal room without bending the truth, at least not too much. For what it's worth, my room was referred to as a Premium Studio. I had opted to book a rate that included the full breakfast buffet, as at this property, a full breakfast buffet is NOT included, just a Grab 'n Go. The additional cost had been quite reasonable, so it wasn't cause for concern. I was handed two key cards, one for the room, and another uniquely designed to activate power in the room. I'd never seen that before. The FDA then provided me with two breakfast vouchers, informing me to use them in the proper order, as there was a specific usage date stamped on each one. Taking my luggage, she then escorted me to the elevator lobby, explaining that the elevators were not of the usual type. I quickly recognized the Smart Elevator system, and assured her I was familiar with its use. She wished me a pleasant stay, and I was soon in my room, investigating the efficiency of its compact design. I quite liked the decor, and found the masculine colour palette, the frosted double duty W/C/ shower door, sliding mirror/closet door/ sliding sink/room partition and generous seating area to be quite practical. One could actually close off the bathroom area entirely, maintaining a sense of privacy for those travelers uncomfortable with sharing bathroom functions. As well, there was a glass dining table, mini refrigerator, hot water kettle, Nespresso machine with genuine Nespresso capsules, two types of complimentary water, a safe, a 42" LG TV, plenty of USB and electrical outlets and a very effective HVAC system complete with a remote control. I did find the bed a bit firm for my liking, but less so than on previous trips in North Africa, Asia and even Europe. I was pleased with my hotel choice and found the cancelable ₩112,350 (~ $96.50 USD) rate, including the full breakfast buffet and all taxes, to be more than reasonable for the market. Non-cancelable rates with the breakfast buffet were around ₩18,000 (~ $15.50 USD) less. Non-cancelable rates without the full breakfast buffet were ₩81,937 (~ $71 USD). So basically, if you were okay with a non-cancelable rate and a Grab 'n Go breakfast, you could save yourself $25 USD per night.

Coming directly from a busy itinerary in China, I was pretty much exhausted and went to bed early the first night, skipping dinner. I watched the end of a film on Netflix before zoning out. Internet speed was the fastest I had experienced this year, 171.90 mbps/dowload and 128.31 mbps/upload. The two blind system kept the room dark enough so that I did not awake until about 06:00, rather late for me. No backache from the firm mattress, so that was good. The room was absolutely quiet, no sounds from neighbouring rooms or outside. I showered, not that I had any other option, as there is no tub, and was initially confused as to how one extracted the bath gel from its mounted container. After a few futile pulls, presses and pumps, I discovered that nothing more than a simple squeeze was required. I did not, however, like the fragrance of either the soap or shampoo. It had a distinctive floral component that reminded me of...well, I'd best not say. Once all clean and shiny, I made my way to Bistro 870, on the 3rd level, to see what breakfast options awaited. When I had been checking in, the FDA, suggested I wait until after 08:30 to breakfast, as the venue could be quite busy before that time. I couldn't imagine it would be crowded at 06;45 on a Saturday morning, and I was correct. Correct, that is, until 07:00, when the Asian tour group crowd arrived. Nonetheless, it was never uncomfortable, and there were always a number of vacant tables, so I didn't feel guilty lingering. The crowd dissipated as quickly as it had arrived, so I assume their tour bus had come to take them further along their journey. By 07:45, all was calm. The breakfast options were more than adequate, but certainly less than in the full service hotels that I had frequented during my previously self-entitled existence (sarcasm for the benefit of my irksome colleague). There was a fancy coffee/espresso machine, as well as large dispensers for both coffee and hot water, although the former was absent on the second morning. Various juices from a dispenser, milk, water and ice were present in addition to the usual assortment of teas and condiments. There were two chefs working on the first morning, one preparing egg dishes, the other preparing Udon hot pots/noodle soups. Hard boiled eggs, hash brown potatoes, fried rice, mushrooms, mixed vegetables, wiener type sausages and ham rounded out the hot choices. Salad fixings, cherry tomatoes, rambutans, cubed pineapple, apple wedges and yogourt rounded out the cold. As well, there was a basic assortment of breads and pastries. I found offerings to be of good quality, and the servers were friendly and extremely vigilant in clearing used plates and vacated tables.

After a full day of exploring the neighbourhood, as well as a bit of shopping in and about the adjacent Times Square district, I decided to try the Wine & Dine Buffet at the Fairfield's Bistro 870. FWIW, the venue is independently owned and operated, renting space in the Fairfield. Consequently, no points accrual on spend. I had read mention of this option on TA, and was intrigued because it was both on premises and a bargain at only ₩25,000 (~ $22 USD). The set up was in the same space as had seen the breakfast service, with simple cafeteria style seating, some booths and a wall of picture windows overlooking the neighbourhood streetscape. Two Chilean and a Spanish comprised the reds, and two Chilean and two Spanish, the whites. They were pedestrian, to be sure, but well selected as exhibiting a positive QPR. Something akin to what would be available in a United Club, LH Senator or AC Maple Leaf airline lounge, for example. Hot food selections included a way overcooked pasta dish, some form of forgettable, yet nicely spiced, pizza toast, a delicious creamy asparagus soup, a tasty meatball stew, rosemary ham and, my absolute favourite, panko crusted shrimp. Cheese and salami were available with crackers, garlic toast and various breads. A toasting unit was present for those wishing hot bread with their charcuterie. Tortilla and some sort of flaky wheat chips were also on offer with an assortment of sauces. Black pitted olives, mini gherkins, Jalapeño peppers, pasta salad and a vegetable salad rounded out the cold savoury selections. Jam filled fish shaped cookies and chocolate brownies were the dessert items. I sampled most items, some were hits, others misses, but all in all, I found enough to satisfy my tastebuds. I could have feasted on the panko shrimp all night, had I not shown restraint. I was not alone. One would certainly not leave hungry or thirsty, as it was self serve for both wine and dine. Service, as at breakfast, was super attentive and quite deferential. I was impressed by the professionalism and politeness of all the servers, host and manager. Basically I converted a limited service property into a quasi full service by adding ₩25,000 to replicate an Executive Lounge.

Would I stay here again? Given its location, price point, positive hard and soft product and easy airport access, yes I would. The added benefit would be in quelling the outcries from my overly vocal semi-socialist French colleague. 😉

Fairfield Seoul Bistro 870 Wine & Dine:

https://photos.app.goo.gl/kHujJeiHVtJ3e7mi7

Fairfield Seoul Bistro 870 Buffet Breakfast:

https://photos.app.goo.gl/YtEDX7Niq95CC49b9

Fairfield Seoul:

https://photos.app.goo.gl/tFEbsxmBo9mviQBCA

The most words that will ever be written about Fairfield Seoul!

flyme2, loved the trip report! :)\

Cheers.

Well, for the benefit of my audience of two, I have reviewed the HIX Euljiro, comparing it to the Fairfield. Which property came out the winner in the Battle of the Budgets? Click and find out:

https://www.flyertalk.com/forum/inte...l-euljiro.html

Here now. Breakfast IS provided to ALL guests, via coupons handed at check-in. 2 guests, 2 breakfasts. 6:30am - 10:30 am. It was recommended that I have breakfast after 8:30 am, as earlier it is very crowded.

I specifically asked if breakfast was an elite benefit and the check-in agent said "No, it's for all guests."

I was told that normally, as a Titanium, I can choose points or a snack as my amenity, but she said that she'll give me both. So, points and 2 bottles of Perrier and a small pack of shrimp chips.

A noon check-in was given and my feather-free room was already prepared. I did online check-in the day before, with the noon request and a chat reminder for the feather-free room. Upgraded to a Deluxe Premier Room, from a Premier Room, on a high floor. Not sure of the difference.

It's my second time at this property. The first was soon after it opened. I've long loved the neighborhood, the price is right, the staff is professional and friendly. I got off the KTX from Busan a minute away. No complaints here.

Weird...I was in the Fairfield in BUSAN just a few weeks ago and they were charging 16,500 KRW for breakfast.
I know cause I paid for it !

Mini review
 

First time in a long time that I've been in a Seoul hotel without a washlet.

I used this hotel for a shower and nap before a business meeting in nearby Yeungdeungpo.

This Fairfield is a million miles away from the original US ones with buttonless elevators that requires you to scan your keycard and it tells you which car to take. Maybe the future of elevators here. Only the disabled elevator has buttons.

Shower pressure is tepid compared to Rosewood Bangkok but that is in a totally different category and class. Shower is similar in hardware and function to Four Points Namsan.

This studio room is definitely made for a single traveler and not anyone with many pieces of luggage. Could barely open my 32" bag and the carry on needs to be opened on the bench seating.

https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...6c28514cc5.jpg

This is the amount of space between the bed and the wall.

Came back to the hotel and a big Chinese tour group was clogging the lobby and elevators. They had breakfast vouchers in hand but FD said nothing about breakfast to me. I'd rather eat Korean food for breakfast outside anyway and there's a Starbucks and 7-11 in this building.

Official Bonvoy website is still selling 2 different rates for rooms with (and without) breakfast.
If they are giving breakfast for free to everyone as some have reported in this thread, then it's a bit of a scam to be charging more on the website if you want breakfast.

Hello,

I was looking for some clarification on a rate for this property. The rate details for a 6 night reservation has the following description:

One plus One for Kids and Family, see Rate details

Additional Information

• Commissionable Rate
• One plus One for Kids and Family
• - One night stay in Premier Room(KING/TWIN) with Superior Single Room

The rate seems applicable for multiple nights. So, is the quoted rate for 2 rooms for a night (a premier room and a superior room) for each night of the reservation or just the first night? I can always book separate reservations, using that rate, for each consecutive night, but that would seem a bit silly. Also, appears to be a good rate, so I may be misreading the terms.

Thanks in advance for any help.

Could be something lost in translation. My best guess is that they offer a single connecting room that is attached to the original premier room.

any recent trip reports? do they accept gift card yet?

This is one of the worst hotels i have ever stayed in.

The rooms on the subway tracks side have absolutely zero sound insulation.
Might as well just have the room on the railway tracks themselves.
Only from 1am to 6am, is there quiet.
Other than those times, the subway train sounds are simply really really loud.

No other room to move to as well.
On 2nd day, managed to get a room facing the street.
Able to hear street car sounds but a lot better than the constant subway noises.

Many other guests were trying to change rooms too...

The bed itself creaked and groaned loudly when moving on the bed.
We moved rooms and the 2nd room was the same.
The shower in this 2nd room was just not clean and brown stains were all over the white plaster.

Overall worst than a motel quality.
Guess there is a reason why this is Marriotts cheapest hotel in Korea.

Really do not recommend this hotel to anyone.

Stayed here for 1 night recently.

Attempted to check-in around 12:30pm, but was told outright that check-in wasn't until 3pm. I mentioned I was "Gold" at least three times, but that didn't seem to sway things. They did offer to store by bags, so I moved away from the check-in counter to get a few things from my bags first. After about 30 seconds the person that I'd been talking to came back up to me and stated he'd just realized I had said I was Gold, and that he'd be happy to check if they had a room available, which they did!

As was mentioned above, the elevators use an automated system where you just swipe your card and it tells you which lift to use (based on your room number), but I can't help but feel the way this works pretty much sums up the hotel - a good idea, but poorly implemented. Above the card reader is a number pad, which is common of elevators in Seoul - you enter your floor, and it tells you which elevator to use. The problem is, hitting any number gives a message that the floor you're after is "a non-stop floor". Pretty much everyone seems to fail to see the card reader, and just tried typing numbers, and gets confused. Some swipe their cards, then try and hit the floor number, which again gives an error. There is *zero* signage or any other indication of how it's supposed to work, and it certainly wasn't mentioned at check-in. On the other floors there's no card reader, just the number pad. But there's also no indication of how to get to the ground floor! There's a "B", "C" and "0" button to help confuse things, but you actually need to hit "1" (which makes sense - but some signage still wouldn't hurt!)

The room itself was small but fine. I was on the road side, so didn't have the train noise issues mentioned above.

Breakfast is not included. Or perhaps it is... The restaurant has apparently renamed to "Million Spoons", and there's a sign in the room saying that breakfast is 25% off for hotel guests (normally 19,800W, now 14,900W). There's a sign in the elevator that states "Free Breakfast" (in English) - https://imgur.com/NVGU7qt however according to Google Translate the text under it states that it's once per stay, and not relevant for corporate rates (which I was on). Breakfast can't be charged to your room - you need either a coupon from reception, or to pay "cash" (Or possibly card, but they specifically said "cash"). After having a look around what was available which wasn't overly impressive I ended up just going to a cafe across the road.

As far as the comments above around "brand standard", Marriotts website does state that breakfast isn't included in AsiaPac Fairfields, although it's certainly not called out as clearly as I would have liked.

Here last week. No free breakfast for this Titanium. Room got to 66 degrees with full AC. Room can’t be shared unless you’re very intimate with your second guest. Transparent bathroom. Took gift card with some persuasion. Not sure why a Bonvoy elite would stay here sadly. Got the noisy side but knocked it out with Spotify white noise. Hotel has a Starbucks and a 7-11 built in. American soft power!

yup avoid at all costs. Used to be a mattress run place back in 2022 when cash rates used to be $50

that two in one door for shower booth and toilet booth is a total joke lol
location also bad