Myeongdong Merlin Hotel

The staff were friendly and helpful, and the loft worked well for the children. We chose this place because it could fit two adults and two kids, but I wouldn’t book it again. The room felt dated, the bed was quite hard, and in winter the shower-room floor was freezing.

It’s a cozy, homey place at a reasonable price, and the host speaks both English and Korean. We felt well looked after, and the place covered our family’s basic needs without costing a fortune. The rooms look a little old, but everything was clean. Bottled water, coffee, and tea were available freely throughout our stay, and the pantry had a water dispenser, kettle, microwave, cutlery, and disposable cups, bowls, and plates. Getting around was easy, too. The location is central, a 24-hour convenience store is right next door, and public transport and plenty of places to eat are within walking distance. There are late-night eateries, including k-bbq, and pochangmacha food stalls in tents nearby. It’s not the kind of hotel with a bellboy, valet parking, or luxury restaurants, but we found the host thoughtful and helpful, and our stay with the family was comfortable and happy.

We had four people sharing one room, and the bathroom was part of that same room, which was inconvenient. There are some stores nearby and a laundromat, though staff sent my mother and brother searching for hours when one was just minutes from the hotel. I’m sure the staff are nice, but that was frustrating. The room had plenty of open space and felt comfortable, but the furniture was worn out, with peeling surfaces, and the little table for four was propped up by pipes. The towels had holes and were close to rags, though I didn’t mind them. Sunlight made the room really hot. The AC only had one setting, and its remote didn’t work, so it was either hot or cold. It was only briefly comfortable just after switching the AC on or off.

The owners were really accommodating and helpful, and I’d stay there again. It’s near a train station and Myeongdong shopping street. The place was clean and modern, with what you need, though it’s not a five-star hotel.