Taipei Travel

Palais de Chine is a short walk from the airport MRT - either underground to Taipei Main Station, to area Y, and then exit Y5, or overground, exiting from Main Station at Level 1 and walking to the overhead bridge. (The hotel website has clear instructions online). Checkin was uncomplicated. My room was upgraded because I was Expedia VIP status, which was unexpected but a very pleasant surprise. Rooms were modern with open-plan concept shower / bathtub area, but there was the possibility of a curtain to draw around the showering area if you prefer. The sink and utility areas also in the same room, separated with a mirror. Nonetheless, the layout was clever, maximising the available space, and still maintaining a sleek and luxurious feel. Beds were supremely comfortable, really soft and welcoming, with pillows to match. We heard no noise from the surrounding sity area or other rooms. Breakfast was sumptuous, with a really large choice and high quality fare. The VIP lounge at the top floor offered choice of drinks (including wine) and small snacks; pleasant enough for a short visit but possibly not worth paying the extra for. The overall decor of the hospital wasn't really my choice, with faux European, and dining areas (bit like the rooms) were quite dark. Nonetheless, the overall experience was very pleasant. Highly recommended.

Hotel location is perfect right next to the shopping mall.. Beautiful night view from VIP lounge at 17th floor. The design is elegant and posh. Each and every item from statues at corridor to the soaps in room and hand wash sink beautifully designed. You can experience Taiwan with a French touch in this elegant hotel. For Muslim guests there are prayer mats in rooms. This is a place that after a busy working day you can relax and have a good sleep. The bed and pillows are one of the most comfortable ones I had ever tried. All day French styled dining restaurant was elegant however I found it too dark for the breakfast and no natural light.

This is the second time we stayed here while visiting Taipei. It was as nice as the last time, with great services from the door man to maids. This hotel is better than the Ritz Carlton we had stayed in Europe, more personal touch and much friendlier. Hotel is perfectly located next to train station and airport metro and the city metro. Hotel has a great 3 Michelin Cantonese restaurant, we enjoyed very much both times that we had visited. But the best part is their gym as compare to gyms in hotels in Europe and other Asian country we have visited. We stayed in various 4/5 star hotels for around 5 months each year, mostly in European countries and few other Asian countries that we had visited. This hotel’s gym is fully equipped with a great city view on the 17th floor. It had really helped us control our weight while enjoying the great food in Taipei. Another thing is that there is a very nice food court and shopping center right next to the hotel within few minutes of walking. Their customer service is superb, we were greeted by their relationship executive manager when we arrived and departure. We plan to stay here next time we visit Taipei.

Overall we had a comfortable stay and the price was good value. Good attentive staff from bellhops to housekeeping, you definitely feel the Taiwanese hospitality. When we checked in, we were given complimentary upgrade to executive suites which was a very nice touch (free mini bar, although it doesn’t get replenished and access to the lounge from 7 am-10 pm. Breakfast was simple spread but we really enjoyed the congee and condiments that go with it). Room was decent size, just dimly lit and it was awkward to walk in and be right in the bathroom, but I see why it was designed that way (space limitation) If you’re not a couple or family it might be a little disturbing but there is a curtain to block off the tub and shower area for privacy. The round tub is a bit small to fully immerse yourself but gives a spa vibe. The tv should be upgraded for something new because it was pixelated. Air con worked well and was pretty quiet, but they might want to consider changing the filter, smells like mildew. Comfy robes and slippers. Bed was springy and pillows were too soft but still got good restful sleep. Our room on the 16th floor was right below the gym so we could hear dumbbells slumming to the floor. Although the location of the hotel is across Taipei main train station it was still a awkward trek to get to the hotel, be forewarned If you have lots of luggage. We ended up taking taxi to airport ($43) at the end instead of the airport express ($10 two persons). Overall we had a comfortable stay, if it wasn’t for the attentive staff and location, we probably would have booked somewhere else.

Friendly staffs, good location room is spacious and comfortable. Fully satisfied with what I paid for. Only thing I think which has to be improved is the lights in the room is too dim. Even with all lights on, it is still too dim. The hotel has to think of some ways to deal with this problem.