SeekerHotel-Sanchong

The spacious room and cold air conditioning were the good parts, and the location was okay, within walking distance of public transport, convenience stores, and restaurants. Check-in was straightforward. I was glad we only stayed two nights last weekend, though. The hotel was hard to find on floors 10 to 12 of the building, and its shared elevator was dirty and smelly, probably because other businesses use it too. The room hit me with a strong cigarette smell as soon as I walked in, despite all the no-smoking signs in the hallway. The rooms are large but badly need renovation. There were stains on the carpet and dirt on the tabletops, so it seemed they hadn't been cleaned properly, if at all. The toilet, bath, and tub looked old and needed refurbishment, though there was plenty of space, hot water, and strong water pressure. I found a small cockroach by the sink on my last day. The Wi-Fi was usable, but I had trouble connecting at first. I won't consider this hotel again when I visit Taipei.

The location is fantastic, the staff truly wonderful, and the neighborhood and property felt exceptionally safe. The facility is older and worn, but it does have modern flat-screen TVs rather than CRT sets with dial controls. Rooms badly lack modern conveniences like electrical outlets, and instead of disposable slippers there are reusable rubber ones. The lobby is on the 10th floor, and the shared elevator also serves places like elderly care and a karaoke bar, which adds a local feel. It's an affordable option, popular with budget travelers, especially the influx of foreigners. Many locals seem to have chosen newer places in other districts with more attention-focused attractions. Sanchong may not have the newest facilities, but it offers a genuine, unpretentious experience. The MRT line is an easy walk away, and the safety felt comparable to pricier places in other cities. The rooms carry a tobacco smell that seems to have built up over many years, so that may bother people sensitive to it. The biggest problem for me was the Wi-Fi. The hotel provides access instructions, but they don't work and I couldn't get usable internet.

We spent five days and four nights at Seeker Sanchong with our children and elderly family members, and found it very convenient. The room was spacious, had a private bathroom and toilet, and was clean. The staff were friendly and helpful, though their English was moderate. The location is close to the MRT, so it's easy to get around, but it's not in the middle of a night market. We don't like staying in busy areas, so that suited my family. The only downside was the smoke smell in the elevator, since the hotel is inside a building with other businesses. I'd book it again for a trip with kids and family. Young people who just need a place to sleep could skip it.

The receptionist got us a free upgrade, and the service was great. The location isn't the best, but the metro and bus stops nearby connect to other parts of Taipei. Our upgraded room was huge and had a massage chair, making it amazing value at an affordable price.