My Stay at IBIS Ambassador Myeongdong: Perfect Location, Kind Staff, and a Breakfast Miss

Myeongdong is Seoul’s lively core, bursting with street food aromas, K-beauty shops, and neon-lit energy. I couldn’t wait to soak it all in, so I booked a stay at the IBIS Ambassador Myeongdong, drawn by its spot right in the action. Here’s the scoop: the location is unbeatable, the front desk staff are wonderfully kind, but the breakfast buffet didn’t quite hit the mark.

Location: Right in Myeongdong’s Heart

Staying at the IBIS Ambassador feels like having Myeongdong as your backyard. Step out the door, and you’re surrounded by bustling stalls selling tteokbokki, shops stacked with skincare, and the glow of Lotte Department Store just across the street. The Timewalk Building is steps away, and I loved how everything felt within reach.

Getting around was a breeze. Euljiro 1-ga and Myeongdong subway stations, both a 2-minute walk, made trips to Gyeongbokgung Palace or Hongdae quick and easy. I strolled to Namdaemun Market for late-night dumplings in under 10 minutes and even hiked to Namsan Tower in about 15, soaking in Seoul’s vibrant streets. The airport limousine bus stop, practically next door, was a lifesaver for my luggage-heavy arrival from Incheon. For travelers craving convenience, this location is hard to beat.

Front Desk: Warmth and Professionalism

Checking in on the 19th floor (yes, you take an elevator) was a highlight. The front desk staff greeted me with genuine warmth, making my long flight fade away. Maybe I was a platinum member, and i felt exceptionally welcomed by their friendliness.

Breakfast Buffet: A Disappointing Start

The 19th-floor restaurant, La Table, boasts stunning views of Myeongdong’s skyline, so I was excited for the breakfast buffet. Priced at 19,800 KRW (about $15 USD), I hoped for a spread to fuel my Seoul adventures. Unfortunately, it fell short. I was at the restaurant on three occasions between 8.30 to 9am. The breakfast buffet felt like a sad spread of day-old leftovers, with lukewarm eggs and tired sausages that couldn’t compete with Myeongdong’s vibrant street eats.

The Hotel Vibe

With 279 rooms, the IBIS Ambassador is clean and efficient. My standard room was compact but comfortable, with a large window showcasing city views, a cozy bed, and a desk for planning my next food crawl. The bathroom was small but clean. The Wi-Fi was pathetic.

The gym had essentials like treadmills and weights, perfect for a quick workout. A coin laundry was handy for my overpacked suitcase. I didn’t try out the restaurant quality Le Bar on the 19th floor because the disappointing breakfast spread was not helping. Overall, the hotel was a practical, well-kept base for exploring Seoul.

Wrapping Up

The IBIS Ambassador Myeongdong is a fantastic choice for travelers who want to be in the heart of Seoul. Its location puts Myeongdong’s excitement and subway access at your fingertips, and the front desk staff’s kindness adds a personal touch. The breakfast buffet, though, is worth skipping—head to nearby stalls for a tastier start.

Would I book again? Maybe if they revamp that lackluster breakfast and stop charging premium prices for a stay that’s outshined by better, cheaper hotels just down the street! If you’re looking for a clean, central spot to dive into Seoul’s energy, this hotel delivers. Just plan your mornings elsewhere.