Host: Simon was very keen to respond to emails and messages from the get go. This is a plus especially for those traveling to a foreign country. We actually did not meet Simon in person as he was on travel at the time of our day. His brother checked us in, and the directions provided for doing so was seamless. It helped that my husband knew enough conversational Mandarin to communicate. The security guard at the complex was very helpful and was "in the know" that we were to arrive. Simon had made arrangements for the security guard to use his phone to get in to contact with his brother as we did not have any other means of communication. We look the bus from the airport to Taipei main station and a short taxi trip to the place (total cost was about 15USD for two people). This worked out fine.

Area: If you are a down-right foodie (like us) looking to book a place near the Shilin night market, look no further. Shilin is literally steps away. There is also a 7-11 across the street. 85 degrees bakery is also located right underneath, on the bottom floor. For traditional Taiwanese breakfast fare, the security guard directed us to a mom and pop shop across the street where they served piping hot homemade soy bean drinks along with the Chinese doughnut.

Room: The room was sufficient and clean, but certainly older and could benefit from a facelift. I attribute this to the overall age of the building itself. It's adequate if you are looking for a place to crash for the night. Perhaps a point higher than a condition of a motel. When we travel, we typically stay at hostels and/or bed and breakfasts. Even so, I'm a stickler for modern decor and certain standards of "cleanliness." This place falls a bit short of that. But again, the location is prime. I'm not sure if you can find anything better unless you are willing to shell out a bit more. It comes equipped with a nice sized fridge. Quite secure and the lock on the doors locks multiple times.