Midsummer Getaway at Kensington Jeju

Finding a place to stay in Jeju has become rather overwhelming. Not because it’s hard to find, but because the options are endless—from boutique style, pool villa to English-friendly guesthouse, they really cater to your needs. Amidst the infinite pool of choices, Kensington Jeju Hotel stands out as the representative five-star hotel. Since it’s opening barely a year ago, the place has been welcoming domestic and foreign guests with its luxurious décor and relaxing ambiance. It poured all day when we checked in at Kensington Jeju last week. (Coincidentally, a light drizzle wet the forest in “Pine Tree” by Bae Byeong-u, a LED media art piece that hangs behind the concierge.) The classic interior of the suite resembles that of antique hotels in Paris, a pleasant surprise that I never expected from a hotel in Jeju. The marine-style design and graphic patterns of the deep blue carpet added just the right amount of old-world beauty to the architectural luxury. Drinks and snacks in the fridge are all complimentary, part of the “All Inclusive Package” that comes with meals, full facility access and services. Kensington is the first five-star hotel in Korea to provide such special offers. The “Luxury All-Inclusive Active Package” includes a continental breakfast, lunch, dinner and unlimited cocktails from the poolside bar, on top of outdoor programs like Jeju Gotjawal trekking. The programs can be customized with different events that are going on and are flexible to fit the needs of couples on honeymoon and families alike (available through Sep 17). The outdoor pool is equipped with a kiddie pool and a Jacuzzi, surrounded by the picturesque tropical garden with more than 200 palm trees. A marine swimming session for kids is available twice a day, one in the morning and one in the evening, for kids ages 6 to 12. Skyfinity, Korea’s first year-round rooftop pool, proved perfect for us three girls to kick back and relax on a hazy night. The hotel’s tour guide who accompanied us on the Gotjawal trekking the next morning was extremely informative; I can definitely recommend doing this out of the list of outdoor activities to choose from. If you truly want to experience the ultimate getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city, choose Kensington Jeju.