Red Guesthouse

The location gets six stars and makes up for a lot. The owners were helpful and nice, but the rooms really need work. Ours had a kettle but no cups, and the towels were tiny unless you're 5'2". The rooms and bathrooms felt cramped, and the aircon barely worked. It might be okay if you're in your 20s and traveling with friends, but if you're around 6 foot tall or have kids, I'd stay away. If you can afford another option, it's worth reconsidering.

Good value for the money, with a handy spot close to the night market, Seoul tower, and restaurants. Getting up the hill with heavy luggage is a bit of a hike. It's a hostel, so don't expect the quietest place or a particularly comfortable room. They do have adaptors for phone chargers.

The concierge was always friendly and helpful, and there's free coffee in the lobby. The hotel is clean, and they'll provide fresh towels if you ask. It also has a luggage elevator and works well for large groups. I especially liked the winding streets and little surprise nooks around this small town of hotels, convenience stores, coffee shops, restaurants, and charming shops. Its location is handy for sightseeing, shopping, or a regular vacation.

The main drawback is the lift, which is only for luggage, so you have to take the stairs to upper floors. That's not good if you're traveling with an elderly guest. Even so, I'd stay at this hostel again and recommend it to friends and family. Red Guest House is about a five-minute walk from Myeongdong, and there are restaurants, 7-11, marts, food shops, and underground shopping stores nearby. N Tower cable car, Myeongdong Cathedral, Lotte Mart, and Lotte Department Store are also close, with easy taxi, bus, and train access. The guest house, rooms, and dining area were clean. The owners were friendly, accommodating, and helpful, and the simple free breakfast was delicious.