Howard RESORT Xitou

The buffet had lots of good food to choose from, though there weren't many drinks. The restaurant is separate from the rooms, so you have to walk over when you want to eat. The natural setting makes the place feel peaceful. Some buildings have older-looking rooms and design, while others are newer and have good furniture.

We really liked the hotel and its nice, spacious room. The hot pot restaurant, though, was the worst hot pot I've had in Taiwan. The broth was bland, the meat was blah, and the meal was just terrible. The servers were unfriendly and unhelpful. I'd rate the hotel 5 stars and the hot pot place 0, which averages out to 2.5 stars.

The night tour is worth considering. The guide shares lots about Xitou and might even take you to see fireflies. If you have time afterward, walk somewhere dark to take in the breathtaking stars. I also appreciated the friendly employees, and we had a great stay. The hotel is in Xitou Nature Eduction Area, with crisp air, mountain views, and relaxing forest walks that can ease stress from work or life. The room was spacious, quiet, and cozy for resting. Check-in after 4PM felt a little late since we're used to napping after lunch, though they had told us beforehand, so I can't complain. The check-in counter is small, and having more employees help there might be better. I'd visit again if I get the chance.

The room was okay and the surroundings were perfectly fine, but communication and customer service need a lot of work. I was told after asking about a shuttle that a golf cart could take us from our building to the exit after checkout, and we were asked to wait outside the building. After 20 minutes, my friend who booked the room got a call from reception saying they couldn't provide it after all. The information had changed within 30 minutes, and we'd been left waiting. The phone was never answered during the day and only rarely in the evening. We were very disappointed by the poor communication. If the service wasn't available, they shouldn't have promised it. The resort needs a better plan for this, since not everyone travels by car. They shouldn't neglect customers who pay around NT.5000 per night.