Mark’s flat in Taipei is in an ideal location in a trendy, hip area that is located in a lane between Civic blvd (shimin blvd) and Zhongxiao Road. It is actually just steps south of Civic Blvd, despite its Zhongxiao address. The metro stop is Zhongxiao Dunhua, a short hike south of the flat. The unit itself is just delightful – newly renovated, high tech, and very clean with modern kitchen, roomy bedroom, living room, functional work station, and luxurious bathroom. The flat is ideal for the solo business traveler or for a couple. It truly feels like a home away from home. The kitchen has full size 2 burner gas range with exhaust fan, huge new refrigerator, professional water filter system, rice cooker, blender, toaster oven, hot water maker The balcony off the kitchen has a full size washing machine which really comes in handy. Bedroom has wonderful queen bed with soft headboard as well as a vanity for getting ready in the morning. The living room is equipped with full size leather couch, ottoman, and big flat screen tv entertainment system with many English speaking stations. The wifi is blazing fast. For those who are here on business, the work station is very much appreciated, allowing pc set up, charging station for all the electronic devices we travel with these days, lots of space to spread out papers, etc. there are also speakers to hook up iPod for stereo music while you work. Bathroom has huge sink, and roomy shower with rainforest shower head. There are high quality brand name shampoo, conditioner and shower wash for guests to use. As well, there are state of the art AC units and fans to keep one comfortable in Taiwan’s sub-tropical climate
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Taiwan is one of the safest cities in the world, so walking around at night is no problem. By walking toward the metro stop, there are a number of food concession stands including a nice lady who makes fresh yummy pot stickers and scallion pancakes for under 2 USD per box . there are also the ubiquitous Taiwan 7-11 shops which are open all night which provides basic necessities including my favorite tea eggs, perfect for breakfast or snacks. The Taipei metro system is safe, fast, and inexpensive making it the best way to get around. In fact, the metro stations in Taipei have some of the cleanest bathrooms in the world, so I would never hesitate to use them.
Check in was seamless. Mark himself speaks fluent English and is very responsive. He was waiting for me at the entrance of the flat when my taxi arrived from the airport in the evening. Then he helped me carry my luggage up to the flat, giving me some valuable pointers on the features in the place, and then telling me to call him if I need anything. Mark is a perfect gentleman and host.