I was in Taipei for a few days and got to stay in one of the best hotel chains in the world, Shangri-La. The best hotels are all about the details and a personal, customized experience, Shangri-La Far Eastern Plaza Hotel offers these among other top-notch facilities.
The Room
The room was big, it felt like having my own apartment. There were several chairs and a couch to laze around and rest on. This was the kind of room where you don't want to go out much, since all the comforts you need are right here. The interior was simple, yet elegant, with enough open spaces to allow guests to take it all in and feel comfortable throughout their stay.
As a person who travels while working having my own desk was a definite plus, and it had a great view of Taipei's cityscape, in the morning and at night.
The room had its own couch and table, which were a nice touch, making the room nice and cozy, much like home.
There was plenty of room to hang jackets and coats on, the umbrella was a nice addition. It shows that management thinks of possible things that a guest may need, especially during inclement weather. Guests can also iron their clothes, if they need to.
The refrigerator had a good selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, there are also snacks that you can consumer during your stay.
The bathroom had its own sink, shower, toilet and bathtub. It was quite spacious and stylishly made, it also had its own TV.
The bathtub was a good alternative to swimming in the pool or using the Jacuzzi, both of which were outdoors. In the cold weather, I wouldn't want to be outside in just swimming trunks. I was able to just sink in, relax and watch TV in one of the days I stayed in the hotel.
Overall, the room was excellent, everything a guest would need for a comfortable stay was there.
Facilities
As a first-class hotel Shangri-La has all the facilities you need for a comfortable and fulfilling stay.
Swimming Pool
The outdoor swimming pool was big enough for several guests to swim in simultaneously. The pool is also heated, which is a plus for those who want to dip in the water even if the weather is cold.
After swimming or if you just want to relax and unwind, the pool area provides great views of the city and Taipei 101.
During your stay, you can break a sweat or burn the calories you just ate at the gym. It has adequate equipment to get a good work out in. There are free weights, machines and other things you need. There are also instructors willing to help, if you need them; they also provide complimentary bottle of water and towel for guests.
It's in the Details
The hallways aren't just hallways in Shangri-La, space isn't wasted here, each detail contributes to the overall design and ambiance that the hotel wants to create. I loved the mixture of old and new while walking through the hotel's hallways.
Rating: 5/5
Dining
Buffet Breakfast
Shangri-La included complimentary buffet breakfast during my stay with them.
There was a wide selection of food, from western to eastern; you can have bread, rice, noodles, salad, fruits and vegetables, and bacon! There were also plenty of options for drinks such as different flavored juices, milk, chocolate milk, coffee and others. The food was fresh and delicious, kudos to the kitchen staff of the dining area.
Horizon Club
I was also given access to the Horizon Club during my stay. It's a swanky lounge with great views and a comfortable atmosphere. The chairs were cozy and the lights set at an intimate level for good conversation over wine, dessert and other finger food.
The club had a good selection of alcoholic drinks, but I settled for white and red wine during the times I was in it. The dessert was also good and had different varieties.
Restaurants
Shangri-La Far Eastern Plaza Hotel has different themed restaurants for intimate gatherings, business meetings or family occasions. Each restaurant is distinct and gives diners a unique ambiance suited to the them. I wasn't able to try eating at all of them, but I found the design of each one impressive.
I was able to try one of the restaurants before checking out, it served delicious Chinese food using only the best ingredients.
It's gestures like this handwritten note that separate the best hotels from the rest. It's all about detail and the little things that add to the experience of guests. The moment I arrived, the staff was courteous and immediately asked if I needed any help or if the taxi driver got lost getting to the hotel. When I dialed the phone to speak to the operator, I was greeted with a 'Mr. Berida', which was a testament to the hotel's aim to personalize the experience of guests. The staff was friendly and attentive throughout my stay, whether it was the waiters or the people at the reception of each area.
Rating 5/5
Pricing
The bottom line is staying at this hotel will cost you, it is expensive to spend a night in the room with the amenities and services that came with it. However, you get your money's worth. The room is excellent, the staff are friendly and attentive, and you get to eat buffet breakfast and at the Horizon Club.
Rating 5/5
Would I recommend Shangri-La Far Eastern Plaza Hotel?
Yes, the hotel is good value for money, even if it is expensive. Guests get what they pay for; from the excellent customer service to the comfortable rooms and the dining experience. Shangri-La pays attention to detail and finds ways to personalize the experience for each guest.
Contact Details
DISCLAIMER: This is a sponsored post, but opinions are my own.
