When we checked in on 6-Nov for a 4D3N stay, we noticed that the hostel was going through a floor-by-floor renovation. Manager Lee (who checked in my group of three friends) was quick to offer us a minor discount for the inconvenience and also set expectations that we may have to change rooms on our last night in the hostel since our floor was designated for start of renovation works on that day. I truly am appreciative of the transparency given upfront.
Additionally, Manager Lee and his staff were really helpful and accommodating. They made arrangements for us to pick up our key card from the 7-11 next door on one of the nights when we were unable to get back by 10pm to collect it from their temporary front desk on the 3rd floor (...and in case you’re wondering, you need to know the security passcode to enter the hostel building after 10pm). Not to forget, we also loved that our room for three had an ample number of power points to feed all our tech gadgetry. A little on the downside was that it can be a little noisy if we don’t close the windows. The late night drinkers walking along the streets can be quite a loud bunch.
There’s one thing I’d like to point out as well. This Hostel has an elevator! This is an important facility since there are many other hostels in Seoul that expect you to lug your baggage up floor-after-floor of staircases... this is something I appreciate if I have to lug 20-30Kgs of baggage around... (those who intend to shop heavily in Myeong-Dong will understand this ^_^)
Transportation-wise, the hostel is a convenient and short walking distance from the airport limousine drop-off/pick-up point in front of Changdeokgung. It’s also a major transit point to access the buses that can take you to wherever you need to be at in Seoul. In terms of trains, the hostel is close to the Anguk and Jongno-3(ga) stations.
Location-wise, we are in the heart of foodie heaven and nearby all the key palace grounds in Seoul.
Food and beverage-wise, we were spoiled for choice between the endless food and cafe options scattered all around the royal palaces and shrines around Gwanghwamun (Sejong-daero), Jongno-3(ga), Insadong...
Do go into the side streets off Insadong’s Main Street if you’re looking for authentic Korean food cooked closely to the old royal recipes; and if you’d like to go for some traditional Korean tea and snacks.
Do find your way to Gwangjang Market (광장시장) to look for mungbean pancakes (빈대떡 bindaetteok); Mini Gimbap locally nicknamed as “Drug Gimbap” because you can’t stop eating them once you pop one into your mouth (마약김밥 mayak gimbap); and more!
Just walk into any of the many cafes that can be found anywhere and everywhere you walk into. Pick one that calls out to you and head on in to sit back and relax - enjoy your coffee... the ambience... and whatever snacks that may have caught your fancy in the shop.