I recently stayed at the Marriott for 4 nights and then moved to the Hyatt Regency. I was initially hesitant about the Hyatt because there were not many reviews, but as recommended by Taecho, it turned out to be a fantastic resort. Here is a comparison between the Marriott and the Hyatt:
Advantages:
1. The Hyatt has a true resort feel in terms of its buildings and landscaping. The Marriott, on the other hand, had a more modern atmosphere.
2. While the staff at the Marriott were friendly, the staff at the Hyatt were even more welcoming and approachable.
3. The Hyatt has a club lounge where you can enjoy simple finger foods (the chicken wings were a hit with the kids) and alcoholic beverages between 5-7 pm. It eliminates the need to go to a convenience store for beer. The staff also regularly checked in to see if we needed more beer or wine. They even had a musician playing traditional Thai music.
4. The kids’ club program at the Hyatt operates continuously without requiring prior reservations. Unlike the Marriott, which had to be booked a day in advance, this was very convenient for us.
5. When staying in a Deluxe Club Room at the Hyatt, you can enjoy a free 60-minute massage at Barai Spa once per night. Just this benefit alone seems to offset the cost of the club room.
Disadvantages:
1. The WiFi at the Hyatt is slower compared to the Marriott. There are also some areas in the room with poor reception. In contrast, the Marriott had good WiFi coverage both inside the room and at the outdoor swimming pool.
2. The resort is located further away from the main road, requiring a slightly longer walk to get there.
3. While both hotels had twin rooms, the beds at the Hyatt were smaller than those at the Marriott. If the beds at the Marriott were super single-sized, the ones at the Hyatt were more like single-sized. However, we managed to solve this issue by using the sofa as a sofa bed.
Overall, we were very satisfied with our stay at the Hyatt Regency. While the Marriott seemed more focused on families with young children, the Hyatt had a more mature atmosphere with a higher proportion of Western guests.
Additionally, just like our previous stay at the Marriott, the room we were assigned at the Hyatt was in a great location. It was situated on the first floor, not far from the lobby and lounge. This may be thanks to the special attention from the Taecho Club. The concierge at check-in even confirmed our reservation made through the Taecho Club.
I haven’t slept in the bed yet, so I can’t comment on the bedding. I will provide an update on that in another review.
Please note that all the costs mentioned in KRW have been converted to USD for your convenience.
When staying at the Hyatt Regency, there are several nearby tourist attractions and activities that are worth recommending. One of the top attractions in the area is the Haeundae Beach. It is known for its beautiful sandy shores and crystal clear waters, making it a perfect spot for sunbathing, swimming, or even water sports like jet skiing and paddleboarding. Along the beach, there are also numerous cafes, restaurants, and shops where visitors can relax and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
For those interested in cultural experiences, a visit to the Busan Museum is highly recommended. Located near the accommodations, this museum showcases the rich history and heritage of Busan through its diverse collection of artifacts and exhibits. Visitors can learn about the city’s ancient traditions, architecture, and its role in Korea’s development.
Another popular attraction nearby is the Busan Aquarium. Situated within walking distance, this modern facility houses a wide variety of marine life, including sharks, dolphins, penguins, and colorful tropical fish. The aquarium offers educational shows and interactive exhibits, making it a great place for families and marine enthusiasts.
Nature lovers would enjoy a trip to the Dongbaek Island. It is a small island located at the southern end of Haeundae Beach. The island offers picturesque coastal views, walking trails, and a lush green park. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the boardwalk, appreciate the vibrant flowers and trees, and enjoy the panoramic views of the ocean.
For those seeking a bit of adventure, a hike up Mount Jangsan would be a great option. This mountain is situated in the west of Haeundae-gu and offers several hiking trails of varying difficulty levels. Along the way, hikers can admire the breathtaking scenery, lush forests, and panoramic views of Busan city.
To experience the local culinary delights, tourists can take a short trip to the vibrant Gwangalli Beach area. It is famous for its seafood restaurants and vibrant nightlife. Here, visitors can indulge in fresh and flavorful seafood dishes while enjoying the beautiful views of the Gwangan Bridge illuminated at night.
Lastly, a visit to the Nurimaru APEC House is worth considering. Located on Dongbaek Island, this architectural masterpiece was built to host the APEC summit in 2005. Visitors can explore the beautifully designed building, wander through the surrounding park, and enjoy panoramic views of the coastline.
In conclusion, guests staying at the Hyatt Regency can enjoy a wide range of attractions and activities during their visit to Busan. From relaxing on the sandy shores of Haeundae Beach to exploring cultural sites like the Busan Museum and Nurimaru APEC House, there is something for everyone. Whether it’s nature, history, or culinary experiences, this vibrant city offers a multitude of options to suit every traveler’s interests.