Kaohsiung Marriott Hotel

This is a functional hotel, but as a Marriott status holder I wouldn't expect the usual level of Marriott service. It feels like an international brand managed locally, with inconsistent service and a clear gap from Marriott standards. At check-in I was wrongly told status holders didn't get a dining discount, then learned at the restaurant that 10% off does apply. The Executive Lounge feels like a crowded, noisy restaurant, with poor food and no chance to relax. The room was spacious, the bed comfortable, and the view from the high floors was great. Housekeeping did an excellent job throughout our 6-night stay. Turn-down service appeared only one night, so I can't tell if it's normally offered. There were no amenities in the room; when I asked for a shaving kit, I was told it cost NTD 15. I understand the government initiative, but the way it's handled feels like a revenue exercise and is inconvenient. Large tour groups and group diners make the lifts slow, restaurants packed, and lobby feel like a marketplace. It's a very noisy place that can give you anxiety. Concierge and front desk staff rarely greeted guests or made eye contact. I only saw that from the Executive Lounge and health club reception staff when they needed my room number to let me in. If nothing goes wrong, there's barely any interaction with anyone.

The pool area was a highlight, and the kids had a great time there. Bring swimming caps, since they're required. The spa pool is a must-try too. The hotel has amazing facilities, and breakfast in the lounge was wonderful. We were glad the lounge is kid-friendly, like at Courtyard by Marriott Taipei, since my husband and I had to take turns going there.

The breakfast was the one real letdown. Most hot dishes, even the porridge, were cold or undercooked, and some buns seemed frozen rather than freshly made. Yogurt and fruit were the only consistently good buffet items. As a frequent traveler and Marriott member, I was surprised by that, especially given the high standards of the hotel and brand and the positive reviews I'd seen. I'd book without breakfast next time. The rest of my stay at Kaohsiung Marriott was excellent: spacious, comfortable, well-designed rooms, impressive spa and gym facilities, and one of the largest hotel gyms I've seen in a Taiwanese city. Guests also get a complimentary yoga class, a thoughtful wellness touch. The service team was warm, professional, and attentive, and the location is great, connected to a shopping mall for easy dining and shopping, especially on rainy days.

We loved the heated spa pools and will definitely stay again for them. There was one lap pool plus 10 small heated spa pools, so you don't have to freeze, and there's a sauna too. Our room was upgraded to a higher floor with a great view. Breakfast was great, Costco is next door, and the train station is around the block as others have said. The hotel connects to the mall, making shopping and the food court easy to reach. Everyone was friendly. They gave us a card for our anniversary trip, and that was all, which felt kind of weird.