Hotels promise real getaways: Options like child-free pools, kids zones offer truly relaxing respites

The hot, humid weather has been encouraging many to head on vacation, but the thought of what that actually entails can make the idea seem more stressful than it’s worth.That’s why many luxury hotels are introducing new facilities that promise truly relaxing getaways for both families with kids and those who want to escape them.For the latter, one of the best options is The Shilla Jeju, which has opened an “adults-only” pool near the indoor and outdoor options available for guests of all ages. The hotel - as well as others with pools nearby in the Jungmun Resort Complex - have been popular for families with small children, and the new facility was opened after many guests requested a kid-free zone where they could unwind.Swimmers can take advantage of free waterproof headsets, which play a combination of classical music and movie soundtracks, as well as floating tubes. The pool is especially popular among families with pregnant moms, who can take a rest on a sunbed or in a curtained-off cabana and order food and drinks by the water. Some of the sunbeds are available first come, first serve, but the cabanas require a reservation and come with an additional charge.The newly opened Hidden Cliff Hotel and Nature, also on Jeju Island, is also a strong choice for people seeking peace and quiet. Although its pool is open to guests of all ages, the hotel itself is still relatively unknown, so the pool area is typically uncrowded, particularly after dark.Located near a nature reserve within the Jungmun Resort Complex, the hotel features an infinity pool located about 15 meters off the ground. From the pool, swimmers can enjoy a scenic view of indigenous wildlife, trees and bushes, as well as Mt. Halla along the pool’s far edge. It has cordoned off a section of the pool for kids to make things easier for adults.Although it won’t be done until the hotel’s grand opening in September, a trail connecting the hotel to a nearby beach also promises an added dose of serenity. According to staff, it’ll take between 30 minutes and an hour to reach the water.Back in Seoul, meanwhile, other luxury hotels are working to better cater to those with little ones in tow.The Sheraton Grande Walkerhill in eastern Seoul recently renovated its former duty-free shop into the Walkerhill Kids Club to offer options for parents who want to take a vacation with their kids but can’t leave the city. The zone has a play room with different toys, a library filled with books, a cafe with a variety of food and drink options, and a space where families can throw birthday parties for their children. It has also refurbished its indoor pool and built a separate kids’ pool where the water is only about 40 centimeters (1.3 feet) deep.Following suit, the Grand Hilton in northwestern Seoul has also opened “The Summer Kids Playroom,” specifically for guests looking for a quick summer vacation with their kids. The playroom houses toys from brands popular among moms, including Little Tikes or Junior Sports ‘n Slide Bouncer, alongside kids books from Gilbut Children Publishing.Similarly, the Imperial Palace Seoul in southern Seoul also offers a “Kids Forest Playground.” The space has blocks made out of eco-friendly wooden materials, and was built in cooperation with the Korea Association of Wood Culture.BY LEE SUN-MIN [summerlee@joongang.co.kr]