SEOUL - Seoul continues to solidify its position as a world-class destination for luxury travelers, and Marriott just upped the ante again. The global hotel giant has officially welcomed the L'Escape Hotel Seoul Myeongdong into its prestigious Luxury Collection portfolio, giving travelers another refined way to take in South Korea's vibrant capital using Marriott Bonvoy points.

But what really makes this property particularly interesting is neither the over-the-top design nor the great location; it's the fact that award nights can start at 41,000 points, making it one of the more accessible Luxury Collection hotels in Asia. If you like your hotels upscale-but-not-astronomically-priced, this is a real standout addition worth considering seriously.

A Parisian-Inspired Escape in the Heart of Seoul

L'Escape is designed to feel like a slice of 19th-century Paris had been transplanted into modern Seoul, and the hotel really leans into its French elegance with dramatic interiors, ornate detailing, and a moody, romantic atmosphere that certainly sets it apart from the more minimalist luxury hotels.

The property originally opened its doors in 2018 but has now been elevated by joining Marriott's Luxury Collection, an exclusive group of hotels known for strong identities and culturally rich experiences rather than cookie-cutter luxury.

The aesthetic of the hotel was crafted by French architect Jacques Garcia, whose work has come to define historic inspiration married with contemporary comfort. Rich textures, bold colors, antique-style furnishings, and artistic flourishes are a consistent thread throughout the hotel, evoking European sophistication that still manages to feel fresh and considered.

Rooms, Suites, and Exclusive Lounge Access

L'Escape boasts 204 guest rooms and suites, categorized mainly into four types of rooms. Even entry-level rooms reflect the hotel's luxury positioning, boasting plush bedding, elegant décor, and thoughtful design elements that create a boutique-style experience.

La Maison Boutique is a hotel private lounge for guests staying in a higher tier of accommodations and offers:

• A refined breakfast service
• Afternoon tea presentations
• Evening Cocktails and Light Bites

The lounge adds considerable value to the travel experience of those who enjoy upscale amenties and peace and quiet away from city bustle.

Dining, Wellness, and On-site Experiences

Beyond beautiful rooms, L'Escape offers a really strong lineup of on-site amenities, too. Five dining venues reside within the hotel, each designed with the same attention to detail found throughout the property.

Other notable restaurants include L’Amant Secret, a Michelin-starred fine dining spot that attracts both hotel guests and locals alike. The culinary spotlight combines artistic presentation with elegant flavors, making it one of the hotel’s biggest highlights.

Additional amenities include:

• A chic hotel library
• A full-service spa
• A modern fitness center

Whether it be for leisure or business, the facilities at the hotel are designed to ensure extended stays are comfortable and indulgent.

Prime Location in Myeong-dong

Another major advantage of this Luxury Collection property is its location. L’Escape is in Myeongdong, one of Seoul’s most vibrant and centrally located neighborhoods.

The hotel has easy access to:

• Gyeongbokgung Palace
• N Seoul Tower
• Shopping precincts and street markets
• Cafes, restaurants, and cultural attractions

Transportation is also convenient. The hotel is about:

• 40 minutes from Incheon International Airport (ICN)
• 20 minutes from Gimpo International Airport (GMP)

That makes L'Escape a practical choice for both international visitors and travelers arriving from within South Korea.

Booking with Marriott Bonvoy Points

Now that L'Escape is officially part of the Marriott Bonvoy program, members can both earn and redeem points for stays at the hotel.

What's really impressive, though, is the pricing for awards. Nights can start at 41,000 Marriott Bonvoy points, which is very low for a hotel in the Luxury Collection, especially one located in a global city like Seoul.

Cash rates tend to start around $200 per night, which is already a solid value for a high-end Marriott property. Compared to the points requirement, the redemption here can be really great in terms of cents per point.

Even better, if available, travelers might be able to use a Marriott free night certificate to cover a stay depending on availability and peak pricing, which would make L'Escape a smart redemption for those trying to get the most value out of their annual certificates.

What makes the Luxury Collection so unique?

Marriott's Luxury Collection is not all about luxury lodgings; it's about storytelling, heritage, and distinct identity. The brand encompasses over 130 hotels and resorts in more than 40 countries, many with historic properties or culturally significant landmarks.

Unlike some luxury brands that are one-size-fits-all, the Luxury Collection celebrates individuality, each property reflecting its destination. L’Escape does just that, fusing European inspiration with Seoul’s dynamic energy.

For Marriott loyalists, this brand is often representative of some of the most memorable stays within the Bonvoy ecosystem.

How to Earn Marriott Bonvoy Points Faster

If you don't have enough points for an award stay right now, there are several ways to build your Marriott Bonvoy account balance quickly.

Popular choices include:

• Applying for one of the best Marriott Bonvoy credit cards - many with lucrative welcome bonuses
• Transferring American Express Membership Rewards points
• Transferring points through Chase Ultimate Rewards
• Transferring points from Bilt Rewards

These transfer options make it relatively easy to top up your account and secure an award night at L'Escape, rather than having to naturally wait months to earn the points.

Who Should Consider Staying Here?

L'Escape is particularly well-suited for:

• Travelers desiring luxury, but at a reasonable points cost
• Couples who want a romantic, design-forward hotel
• Marriott Bonvoy members seeking a high-value redemption
• Visitors looking to base themselves in a central, walkable Seoul neighborhood

While it may not appeal to the traveler who likes ultra-modern minimalism, it’s a perfect venue for anyone with a penchant for character, ambiance, and genuine design.

Final Verdict

L'Escape joining Marriott's Luxury Collection is a boon for travelers to Seoul, combining high-end design and Michelin-star dining with a great location and some of the most accessible award pricing you'll find in this tier of hotels.

With award nights starting at 41,000 points, this property is one of the best-value luxury redemptions in Asia. Whether you’re in town for a quick city break or a longer stay, L’Escape offers a refined experience without the sky-high costs typically associated with five-star hotels.

For members of Marriott Bonvoy-or anyone looking to join-the hotel is a compelling reason to put Seoul on your travel radar.