We stayed at Hotel Aura for a total of 4 nights and it was an okay experience, not outstanding. Some of the staff members were kind and helpful. A few of them were not fluent in English, but it’s not an issue in my opinion. We were able to communicate using Google Translate.
We picked a plan with Expedia in which only one free breakfast/day was offered per room and we paid for the second one (we’re a couple) upon check-in. As we didn’t receive any receipts, it was a hassle to pick up our vouchers every morning at the reception and having to explain that we had already paid for it. :/
Pros: the hotel is very close to a subway station; there are tons of dining options nearby. You don’t have to walk much to get to restaurants, coffee shops, drugstores, convenience stores; the size of the room and bathroom was quite impressive if you consider the price point; the hotel, despite being a bit outdated, was very clean! Amenities were also very good!
Cons: it is VERY FAR from the main attractions in Seoul. The train ride was over one hour long (one way)! Looking back, it would’ve probably been better off spending a bit more money and staying at a closer accommodation to downtown Seoul; the breakfast buffet was exactly the same every morning. No variation whatsoever. At times, the food seemed preheated from the day before. :/
The area around the hotel was quiet, but sketchy. If traveling with children, you’d be better off skipping it.