Ya-Ling's apartment is wonderful! It's sparkling clean; equipped with every amenity so that you feel at home and relaxed; and perfectly located near restaurants, a gigantic Carrefour store, a 7-11 (where you can use your credit or ATM card to withdraw cash) and the Zhishan MRT station.
But there are three things that I particularly love about this apartment and that make it stand out in from other apartments in Taipei.
First, Ya-Ling and her husband Ye-Ye are magnificent hosts. They respond quickly to every message, call or text -- usually immediately or within a couple of hours -- and they are always polite, gracious and warm. When I had some difficulty nailing down dates, Ya-Ling was incredibly understanding. It's obvious that Ya-Ling and Ye-Ye love their apartment and love being hosts. They are model Airbnb hosts!
Second, the apartment is rare among big city apartments in that it manages to be both spacious and cozy, thanks to its beautiful lay-out. Five people can easily live there without feeling crowded or like they are falling over one another. My family members and I definitely felt like we had plenty of room; there was enough room for everyone to have their own private space. But the apartment was also cozy enough so that it naturally encouraged us to spend time together over breakfast or after a day of sightseeing.
Third, Ya-Ling and Ye-Ye have managed to create a peaceful little haven in the midst of a busy city. It is obvious that they have placed a great amount of thought into the furniture, linens and decorations used in their apartment; and the result is a home that has a clean and modern, but warm, zen-like quality. The lovely park and tiny temple just outside, as well as the walking/running path alongside the pretty stream just across the street (lined with beautiful blossoming trees in the spring!) all contribute to making this apartment a welcome and calm place of respite.
I have loved being Ya-Ling's guest -- so much so that I hesitated to write this review so that I could keep this jewel of an apartment my own little secret for any time my husband and I return to Taipei!
Thank you, Ya-Ling and Ye-Ye, for being such fantastic hosts and sharing your lovely home. I hope to stay with you again soon!