Yeoksam Tria

The room was central for transport and places to eat, and we had a decent view. If we looked at the right angle, we could see part of a massive church a few blocks away. Everyone on room service was courteous and nice, and when we were short a shower towel, they brought one up even though we got back late. Don't be afraid to ask for help. We only saw one small bug, despite finding a can of roach killer in the room. There were plenty of problems, though. The air conditioning worked only at full blast or off, and seemed to shut off after running for a long time, like overnight. Coming back after a long day to find it off was unpleasant. Cigarette smoke was constant, lingering in the hallway and seeming to enter through the bathroom vent. It seemed like management knew, but nothing was done. If smoke bothers you, I'd avoid this place. The tile floor was dirty enough to leave soot on my feet. Some towels were stained and clearly not new. Be careful with toilets and paper, though most bathrooms in the city had warnings about that. The hallways were dark and dirty, the carpets needed a proper steam clean, and the elevators needed lights. Of the three hotels we stayed at on this trip, this was the only one where we needed an outlet adapter. Maybe that's down to the age of the buildings.

I spent a week here and was so uncomfortable that I thought about leaving, and now regret staying. The room was messy, there was a large garbage bag on the stairs, and the bathroom had no bathtub. Two older front desk staff members were crude and unfriendly, though the two younger staff responded well. This shabby, poor place doesn't feel like a hotel, and I wouldn't recommend spending your money here. I'm angry and regret it. They should take down the “Hotel” sign and call it “Tria Motel” or “Tria Inn” instead.

I absolutely loved my five weeks here in August and September, with trips out to Japan and back in between. The restaurants and cafes opposite are gorgeous, cabs are easy to get, and the transport links are great, with the metro just up the road and buses going everywhere. It's also close to Starfield CoEx mall, Joseon Palace hotel and shopping centre with whole floors of restaurants, and Tehran-ro is a two minute walk away, a main artery road to everywhere. Tria is due to be renovated at the end of 2024, and I can't wait to see what they do with this gorgeous, quirky place. I hope they keep the amazing staff!

The location worked well, but the room felt gross for what it cost. The fittings were cheap and poorly maintained, the lights were too dim, and the panel had LEDs so bright they made sleeping difficult. There was no air conditioning, though I understand that may be normal. I also dealt with mold, dusty surfaces, and a dirty bathroom. The hall carpet had holes, and the place was loud: rattling vents, noise from neighbors and construction, plus the vent cycling on and off every 30 seconds. At half the price, I could accept it as a cheap, rough stay.