Taipei's Hidden Gem: North Country Motel - Unbelievable Comfort & Views!
Okay, buckle up, because we're about to unearth the real truth about Taipei's North Country Motel. Forget the polished brochures, because this is the unfiltered experience. And trust me, it's got more layers than a Taiwanese pineapple cake. Let's get this messy, beautiful, and potentially rambling review started!
Taipei's Hidden Gem: North Country Motel - Unbelievable Comfort & Views! - The Unvarnished Truth
Alright, alright, let's be honest, my expectations weren't exactly sky-high. I'd seen the pictures – those perfect shots of the pool with the Taipei skyline in the distance. Let me tell you, reality is a bit, shall we say, different. But hey, that's part of the fun, right? And the North Country Motel? It's got more grit and charm than you'd expect.
First Impressions & Accessibility: The Good News (and the Slightly Less Good)
Accessibility: Right off the bat, let's talk practicality. They claim to have facilities for disabled guests. I'm personally not in a wheelchair but I gave the front desk a call - the helpful staff confirmed they have a few accessible rooms and elevators. That's a massive win for inclusivity, always a plus. However, accessibility within the entire property? I'd give it a solid B. Some areas might require a bit of maneuvering. Still, a good start!
Getting There: Easy access to public transport is always a godsend, and the motel has a car park. Driving in Taipei can be a white-knuckle experience, so having free parking is definitely a plus. 🚗 (And, if you're feeling fancy, airport transfer is an option.)
Check-in/out: Now, this is interesting. They offer contactless and private check-in/out. I love that. No waiting in line, no awkward small talk. Just smooth, efficient service. That suits me!
The Room: Comfort, Views, and a Hint of Mystery
Okay, let's get down to brass tacks: the room. Yes, the view is stunning. Seriously, the Taipei skyline at night… breathtaking. And, let's be real, that's what they're selling. But the room itself? It's got that motel vibe – but in a good way, and it had all amenities the hotel claimed to have.
Inside the Room:
- The Essentials: Air conditioning? Check. Free Wi-Fi (a godsend! You can't live without it 😠)? Check. (And hey, Wi-Fi even extends to the public areas!) A mini-bar/refrigerator situation? Check. Desk, so you can pretend to work while actually staring at the view? Check. The usual hotel features, including a safety deposit box, are available.
- The Details: They've thought of the little things. Extra long bed? Tick. Bathrobes and slippers? Comfy. And they even had an umbrella. Always a good thing when the Taipei skies decide to open up. The room also had a private bathroom.
- The "Huh?" Moments: The blackout curtains were fantastic. They could block out the sun even if it was noon.
Safety First: The rooms have smoke alarms, a fire extinguisher, and a lot of safety features. Peace of mind is always worth it and you will find all the necessary facilities
Dining, Drinking & Snacking: Fueling the Adventure
Alright, food. This is where things get… interesting.
- The Breakfast Scene: I did the "Breakfast in Room" option one morning. It was…fine. It wasn't Michelin-star quality, I'll be honest, but it was hot and it was nice to eat in my bathrobe with the view. You can also get a buffet, but the breakfast takeaway service is available. And listen, there’s also an Asian breakfast option that's worth exploring if you're feeling adventurous.
- Beyond Breakfast: They have a restaurant (thank god!), a coffee shop (always welcome), and a snack bar. There's also a poolside bar – a lifesaver after a long day of exploring the city. You could also take advantage of room service, which is available 24 hours.
- Restaurant Realities: There are Asian & international cuisine options, and hey, they even boast a vegetarian restaurant. And, while I wasn't expecting much, they offered options like a la carte & buffet which was a pleasant surprise.
Relaxation: Time to De-Stress (Or Fake It 'Til You Make It)
Here's where the North Country Motel really shines.
- The Pool with a View: Okay, this is the money shot. The pool is gorgeous. And, yes, you actually can see the Taipei skyline. The water was clean, the sun loungers were comfy, and it was the perfect way to spend an afternoon. It's truly Instagram-worthy (if you have the patience for that).
- Spa, Sauna & Steamroom: After spending a day in the city, a spa/sauna session is non-negotiable. The spa services - including body scrubs and wraps, are a dream. They have a sauna and a steamroom.
- Fitness Center: The fitness center is well-equipped.
- The Important Stuff: They have a foot bath, and a massage options.
Cleanliness & Safety: The Modern Imperative
Let's get real here. In the age of you-know-what, this is everything.
- Cleanliness: Hand sanitizer everywhere. Anti-viral cleaning products? Check. Rooms sanitized between stays? Absolutely. They've got hygiene certifications and professional-grade sanitizing services.
- Safety: 24-hour security. CCTV cameras. Individual-wrapped food options. It means a lot.
Services and Conveniences: The Little Things Matter
- Essentials: Daily housekeeping. Laundry service. Dry cleaning. Ironing service. All the standard stuff that makes life easier.
- The Extras: They have a concierge. A convenience store. Luggage storage. And they'll even provide an invoice.
- Business Traveler Approved: If you have to work, they've got meeting rooms, business facilities, and a Xerox/fax machine. Also, they have audio-visual equipment for special events.
For the Kids: Family Fun (Maybe) They market themselves as family-friendly, but to be candid, I didn't see much evidence of it. But the Babysitting service, Kids meal, and Kids facilities are great to have
The Verdict: Would I Go Back?
Look, the North Country Motel isn't perfect. It has flaws – a slightly generic room, maybe, or some of the quirkiness of a motel. But it has undeniable charm, unbelievable views, and a genuine commitment to cleanliness and safety. And honestly, it's a steal for the price.
Final Word: If you're looking for a comfortable, convenient base for exploring Taipei, with stunning views and a touch of luxury, the North Country Motel is absolutely worth a look. Embrace the imperfections, soak up the view, and get ready for an unforgettable experience.
Now for the hard sell, the offer! - Because sometimes you just need a little push…
Unleash Your Inner Explorer: Exclusive Offer for the North Country Motel!
Tired of cookie-cutter hotels? Craving a view that will make your jaw drop? Then ditch the ordinary and dive into the extraordinary! The North Country Motel, your hidden gem in the heart of Taipei, is calling your name.
- Exclusive Offer for a Limited Time! Book your stay within the next 14 days and receive:
- Free Upgrade: Subject to availability, enjoy a complimentary upgrade to a room with a premium view.
- Complimentary Breakfast: Wake up to a delicious breakfast in your room, with those breathtaking skyline views!
- Spa Day Delight: Enjoy a 15% discount on all spa treatments, including the luxurious body wraps and invigorating massages.
- Early Bird Bonus: Book in advance and get access to complimentary pool.
- Why North Country Motel?
- Unforgettable Views: Wake up to the Taipei skyline. Your Instagram feed will thank you!
- Unbeatable Comfort: Luxurious rooms, comfy beds, and all the amenities you need for a perfect stay.
- Unwavering Safety: Rest easy with our rigorous cleaning protocols and 24/7 security.
- Spa Escape: Unwind and rejuvenate in our spa, complete with a sauna and steamroom.
- Convenient Location: Explore Taipei with ease, with easy access to transportation and all the city has to offer.
Click here to book your stay and unlock this incredible offer! [Insert booking link here]
Don't miss out! This offer won't last forever. Book now and discover the magic of the North Country Motel!
Cebu Paradise: Sophia's Cozy 1BR Condo Awaits! (8NT C4-8B)
Okay, buckle up, buttercups! This isn't your sanitized, picture-perfect travel itinerary. This is real life, Taipei-style, through the lens of a gloriously messy human, trying to navigate a North Country Motel adventure. Grab your passport, your anxiety meds (just kidding… mostly), and let's do this.
NORTH COUNTRY MOTEL: TAIPEI - A Messy, Opinionated Adventure
Day 1: Arrival & Ramen Reality Check (aka, Jet Lag is a Bitch)
Time: 6:00 AM (give or take… sleep? What's sleep?)
- Action: Land in Taoyuan International Airport. Pray to the travel gods my luggage made it. (Spoiler alert: they usually do, but the anxiety is real).
- Transportation: Airport MRT to Taipei Main Station. The sheer volume of people already is a sensory overload - good start!
- Anecdote: Last time I landed, I almost lost my passport in a vending machine. Don't ask. Okay, fine, I dropped my phone. Okay, the vending machine ate my phone. Okay I was also delirious from the flight on the way there.
- Reaction: Whew! Airport smells like… well, airports. A mix of disinfectant, stale air, and the faint promise of something delicious. Hope my phone survives this airport and the whole trip.
Time: 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM
- Action: Taxi (negotiated poorly) to the North Country Motel. Hopefully, they take card.
- Transportation: Taxis, the bane of my existence sometimes.
- Structure/Pacing: This is where the wheels might start to fall off. Getting lost is a given. Detours are mandatory.
- Anecdote: Remembered booking the motel, it's a cute place, right? Fingers crossed it's not a total dive. I’m not a hotel snob but, let’s face it, an awful room can really kill your vibe. I need a solid base camp.
- Reaction: Found the check-in counter, so far, it's a win, and now I smell the coffee.
Time: 10:00 AM - 12:00 AM
- Action: Unpack, collapse on the bed (hopefully, it's not a concrete slab), and try to fight off the jet lag monster.
- Transportation: My own two feet (mostly).
- Opinion: The sheer lack of English descriptions in the vending machine scared the hell out of me.
- Anecdote: The first time I traveled solo in a foreign country, I accidentally ordered a soup with a whole fish staring up at me. I think I might have cried. Now, I'm more battle-hardened.
- Reaction: Nap time, I think. Then potentially find a decent coffee and a ramen shop.
Time: 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM
- Action: Locate a ramen restaurant. (Google Maps, my friend. Or, at least, my potential friend).
- Transportation: Walking, mostly. Maybe the MRT if I'm feeling adventurous.
- Quirky observation: I'm pretty sure every street corner in Taipei is an potential food stall. The aroma is a constant assault on the senses. In a good way!
- Anecdote: Last trip I walked so much that my feet basically staged a revolt. Invest in comfy shoes, people!
- Emotional reaction: Ravenous. Hangry. Must. Find. Ramen. Now.
Time: 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM
- Action: Eat the ramen. Savor it. It will be life-changing.
- Categories: Food, Happiness, Regret (potentially, if I eat too much)
- Rambling & Imperfection: Okay, so, ramen. It's not just a meal; it's an experience. The broth, the noodles, the egg… it’s all a symphony of salty, savory goodness. I kind of hope I find a place with one of those soft boiled eggs.
- Emotional reaction: Pure. Bliss.
- Doubling down: Okay, so, the ramen: I need every bite. I want the tears of happiness, the broth on my chin, the noodles that slide down my throat. I need this moment. This is why I travel. This is why I live. This one bowl of ramen might just be better than the reason I came here.
Time: 3:00 PM - 7:00 PM
- Action: Wander around. Soak it in. Get a massage, maybe?
- Categories: Culture shock, sensory overload, general bewilderment.
- Opinion: Taiwanese friendliness? Apparently, it's a real thing. People are so damn nice.
- Anecdote: Found a local market! Maybe I'll find some souvenirs. And maybe I won't get scammed.
- Reaction: Tired, but happy. My feet are starting to throb a little.
Time: 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
- Action: Night market exploration!
- Transportation: More walking. More delicious smells.
- Quirky observation: The scooters! They're everywhere! A constant, buzzing, two-wheeled ballet of controlled chaos.
- Anecdote: Avoided that street vendor who looked like he was selling questionable meat skewers.
- Emotional reaction: Overwhelmed, but in the best possible way.
Time: 9:00 PM - Bedtime
- Action: Back to the motel, crash, and dream of ramen.
- Structure: Repeat days will have similar structure, but with different experiences.
- Rambling: Sleep is for the weak. I'm going to go wander a little more.
- Emotional Reaction: Exhausted, happy.
- Imperfection: Probably forgot to pack sunscreen. Again.
Day 2 - 4 (The Chaotic Aftermath)
- This is where things get really unpredictable. The itinerary becomes a suggestion. I might spend a whole day at the National Palace Museum (amazing!), or I might get hopelessly lost in a vintage record store (also amazing!). I might conquer the Taipei 101, or I might spend an hour staring at a street cat.
- Key goals:
- Eat all the food. Seriously, all of it.
- Embrace the unexpected.
- Don't be afraid to get lost. Get lost often.
- Make (and break) plans.
- Document the beautiful mess.
Day 5: Departure (The Sad/Happy Shuffle)
- Action: Drag myself to the airport. Say goodbye to the ramen. Vow to return.
- Emotional Reaction: Bittersweet. A mix of relief (jet lag is real) and sadness.
- Imperfection: Probably still forgot to buy that souvenir. Oh well, next time.
- Rambling: Next time, I'm bringing earplugs. And maybe a translator app. And maybe some comfortable shoes. And…
The End (For Now)
This is just a starting point, people. This is your invitation to ditch the polished travel guides and embrace the glorious chaos of travel. Go forth, get lost, eat everything, and, most importantly, have fun. And remember, the best travel stories are the ones that didn't go according to plan. Now go make me some stories!!!!
Indonesian Paradise: Magnolia 6's Luxury Awaits in Jakarta!
North Country Motel: Taipei's Secret Sanctuary - Uh... You *Really* Wanna Know?
Okay, What's the Big Deal? Why "Hidden Gem"? Is it *REALLY* that good? Like, even for *me*?
And, the 'hidden' part? Well…finding it IS a little adventure. It's not in the heart of Ximending, or near the MRT. But honestly? That's part of the charm.
Location, Location, Location! Where IS this magical place? And is it actually *convenient*? Because I hate inconvenient.
The downside? Okay, there were a couple of times I ended up hoofing it a bit further than I wanted. The MRT is your friend, but sometimes you gotta take the plunge and just hail a cab. But trust me, that view from your room when you get back makes the extra travel *totally* worthwhile. And, good restaurants are around in Shilin district. Just... don't try walking after a night on the Taiwanese beers.
What About the Rooms? Are they as luxurious as they seem? 'Cause I've been burned before.
The bathroom? Spotless. The beds? So comfortable I nearly missed my flight because I didn't want to get up. Okay, maybe I *did* miss my flight. Don't judge me. I was exhausted from eating all the dumplings. Anyway... the point is, yeah, they are as luxurious as they seem. Maybe even *more*. I'm not usually a luxury kind of person, but North Country Motel? Changed my mind.
One tiny, TINY gripe… the coffee situation in the rooms could be better. But hey, there's a 7-Eleven on every corner in Taipei. So, I survived.
The View! You Keep Mentioning the View! Is it really *that* spectacular? What's the deal?
Imagine this: Sunset in Taipei. The sky bleeding oranges and purples. Traffic slowly winding down the roads. The city lights start to twinkle like a million fallen stars. You're perched in your ridiculously comfortable armchair, possibly with a glass of Taiwanese whiskey (strongly recommended).
I'm getting emotional *just thinking about it.* I’ve stayed in a lot of hotels. I have travelled a lot. I've seen some amazing things. But the view from North Country Motel consistently blew me away. I'm telling you, just for the view alone, it's worth the price of admission. It is a memory worth holding on to.
What about the Service? Is it friendly, or are they just robotic hotel employees?
I wouldn't quite call it "warm and fuzzy" service, but believe me, after a few days of dealing with the sheer chaos of some other parts of Taipei, the gentle professionalism was refreshing. It's less about 'wowing' you and more about making sure everything is in place. I'd give it a solid B+. And hey, they delivered extra towels when I asked. That's a win in my book.
Is there anything I *didn't* like? You can't possibly have loved *everything*...
The breakfast? It's… fine. A basic continental breakfast. Nothing to write home about. But honestly, with the food scene in Taipei, why would you even *eat* breakfast at the hotel? Seriously, go explore the food stalls! The walk to the MRT can feel a bit longer at times, especially after you've spent all day exploring and your feet are screaming. I had to get a taxi a couple of times, because I'd walked too much.
And one SMALL thing: sometimes, if you’re on a lower floor facing the road, you can *vaguely* hear the distant sounds of traffic. Very faint. But I am a light sleeper. If this bothers you, request a room on a higher floor. Seriously, those are the only things.
Would you recommend North Country Motel? And if so, for *who*?
