GGuest UserI really want to rate this hotel well but it was the worst sleep. Hd to rearrange my plans, delay early starts and survived by involuntarily falling asleep on public transport. For objectivity, I will commend the good parts while also sharing my horror.
Pros: Checked in 2hrs early w/ upgraded room. Washing machine/dryer/detergent on 3F. Kind housekeeping staff. 24hr reception. Receptionists speak good english. Big TV. Decent wifi. Fridge, hairdryer in drawer, kettle, slipers, desk/chair. Good water temperature. Smart toilet but loud. Many lights so the 'no windows' didn't bother me as I anticipated. Given 2 key cards. Provided water bottles. Comfortable pillows. Ideal location, next to Taipei Main Station, 15-20min walk from Ximendeng if you're conflicted between the two locations like I was.
Cons: Worst soundproofing ever. Not much empathy or hospitality for complaints. Limited TV channels, no streaming services or YouTube. No conditioner. Sheets + towels had holes/rips but clean.
Tips: Use the lifts at the back of the building, less busier. From Main Station, follow signs for the underground mall or exits beginning with Z. If the closest lift exit is blocked, use the next nearest lift and cross the road. Ask people for help if you are lost, don't waste your time. I preferred buses honestly. Withdraw cash from the Cathay United Bank ATM in the underground mall (no extra fees like other ATMs), defer conversion so your bank chooses the exchange rates (ook up a video online to see how it works if you are confused). Airport taxis park in the front of the hotel (at least mine did at 3am).
I am a fairly light sleeper so I packed earplugs and over-ear headphones in fear of the sound issues people reported. All I heard for the majority of my stay was my hellish neighbours going in and out their room, ringing their doorbell (each room has 1 outside, cool feature but should be disabled late night), and door slamming (if someone does not hold the door for a light close). I tend to sleep late anyway so I shrugged it off the first time. The following nights, the same noises continued, every few minutes (not exaggerating) until 2/3am. Even with earplugs AND over ear headphones AND clothes covering my ears, I was woken up anytime I was remotely close to sleep. As a solo traveller, I was scared to confront them but other neighbours (who are even further from the noisy group) complained. On my last day, I had to complain too since I had to get up before 3am for my flight. The staff said that they were aware of this and that a large group was staying next door (turns out the hotel offers rooms that fit 8 people.. lol) and that they would report it to the leader. I suggested that the door closing could be done lightly and they could call instead of use the doorbell but receptionist did not seem to care and brushed me off. I did not expect any apology but a little empathy would have meant a lot to a person who has gotten less than 7hrs sleep total the past few days. Thanks to the report I was able to sleep by 1am, a real record... I am a tolerant person but I really suffered because of bad soundproofing and lack of attentiveness from the hotel. I know it is not the hotel's fault that I had an unlucky situation. However, there are SO many complaints on soundproofing that the hotel should do something about it. Invest in soundproofing, install something to make the doors close slowly on its own. It costs nothing to remind guests (esp. big groups) during check-ins to be mindful especially after midnight, give a penalty fee for those who don't comply, offer guests who complain about noise an alternate room if available - anything... I specifically requested for a quiet room when booking - how is being next to a 6/8 people room going to be quiet? Would have paid more just to have the unupgraded room. The pros are fantastic, but decent sleep is a basic necessity for any hotel. I hope this review is helpful to others considering!
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