Grim Hotel

The shower head had red water stains, and the air conditioner was yellow and black. Things felt too old and badly maintained. I wouldn’t mind paying 80,000 won instead of 70,000 won for a Friday night if they’d just clean the place properly.

I booked right away after seeing the high ratings on the accommodation app, and the clean facilities and modern interior made the place easy to use. The owner was kinder than at other places I’ve stayed, which I really appreciated. On the first floor there was a ramen machine, oven, microwave, disposable supplies like paper cups, wooden chopsticks and spoons, and a water purifier. It was handy for a late-night snack. It’s a little far from the station, but there’s a bus stop three minutes away and several stations nearby, so getting around is convenient. I think I’ll stay here often.

Good value for money in Seoul, and the heating worked well through winter. The building looks old from outside, but inside it’s been renovated and is clean, with a bidet and shower.