Trc Hotel

On hindsight, it was a blessing in disguise I didn't have time to look at reviews here before I made a last minute booking after some changes to my travel plans. I had never stayed in a budget pub hotel so I was initially a tad taken aback. The taxi dropped me off the street where the pub side of the hotel was located. I dragged my suitcase up and down the street trying to find the front of house/reception but couldn't. Eventually a kind diner saw me looking lost and weary and opened the door for me. Turns out the reception is in fact the order counter at the pub! I was then promptly though rather unceremoniously (didn't feel very welcomed) checked in, i.e. note old-fashion pen and paper form fill in and I think they need better check-in SOP as I wasn't informed of the password for the complimentary wi-fi and had to march back down later to ask for it. Would have had to drag my 20kg suitcase up two flights of stairs on my own had another staff, a kind gentleman Stewart not intervened and offered to take me up to my room - special thanks Stewart, you have no idea how much your act of chivalry and kindness meant and I can only hope kindness begets kindness! Up in my room (managed to book the Double Room with Private Bathroom), I was initially overwhelmed by the mis-matched furniture and no-frillsness but once I got past that, everything actually works and I had one of the comfiest showers during the trip, beating pricier hotels. Housekeeping could be more thorough as while the room was clean, some items were not plugged in, e.g. bedside lamp and humidifier. I think the TRC's best attribute is its proximity to the Cataract Gorge for which entrance is a mere 5mins' walk away! Also, the convenience of the pub which opens from 12pm onwards, the pub grub was ok and relatively cheaper compared to nearby restaurants. If you are a local traveller and self-driving, for sure the TRC could be a budget option for a basic night or two's stay. However, if you would require more hospitality services and support, with no proper reception and concierge at the TRC, you may be better at more full-fledged hotels.