Ananti Cove
Busan has always served as a tourist and vacation destination with its fair share of luxury hotels. With Ananti Cove, the city now has a resort to call its own. Boasting 90 penthouses and 128 private residences, it offers a natural mineral spring spa (plus a state-of-the-art spa for pets), an infinity pool with views of the East Sea and a collection of high-end eateries, including Volpino, star chef Kim Ji-woon‘s Michelin-rated Italian bistro. Electronic cars for children by D. Throne are also available to ride around the spacious grounds. Room rates begin at about $400 a night.
268-31 Gijanghaean-ro, Gijang-eup, Gijang, Busan, +82 51-604-7000
Paradise Hotel Busan
This five-star hotel is a massive complex comprising two buildings featuring 532 rooms. Many of the film festival’s biggest parties hosted by foreign embassies are held at the Paradise, which offers an activity-based experience that includes a casino, an indoor golf zone and outdoor hot spring and an infinity spa that allows guests to soak in warm mineral water while overlooking the beach. The hotel is also the closest to the Haeundae downtown area that bustles around the clock, with multiple bars and restaurants offering traditional Korean BBQ. Rates start at about $444 a night.
296 Haeundaehaebyeon-ro, Jung 1, Haeundae, +82 51-742-2121
The Westin Chosun Busan
Located right at the western end of Haeundae Beach and the entrance of Dongbaek Island, the Westin Chosun is a Busan landmark a short cab ride away from the fest’s main screening venue, the Busan Cinema Center. Opened in 1978, the Westin Chosun is BIFF’s go-to hotel for VIP guests. Panoramic windows offer a breathtaking view of the beach, and the city’s first Irish pub, O’Kims, on the hotel’s ground level, is a lively industry spot for festgoers — especially during happy hour. A nearby scenic seaside walking trail offers an ideal route to travel by foot to other parts of the city’s downtown area. Rates begin at $390 a night.
67 Dongbaek-ro, U 1 Haeundae, +82 51-749-7000
This story first appeared in the Sept. 19 issue of The Hollywood Reporter magazine. To receive the magazine, click here to subscribe.
