Jin Lon Hotel

We got there early, but they gave us a room right away and upgraded us for free to one a little bigger than the one we paid for. It still wasn’t very big, but it was enough. The bathroom had plenty of space, and everything was really clean. They provided basics like toothbrushes, shampoo and soap, and there was a hot and cold water machine in the corridor. The hosts were very helpful with maps and information, and even lent us bicycles at no charge. There was a coin-operated washing machine, plus lots of room and facilities for hanging clothes to dry. The hotel is right across from the bus station, in a very central spot. Amazing value for money.

The hotel is cheap and good for a budget stay. We were here for two days, and I loved the place and how accommodating the people were. You can borrow their bikes to explore a nearby park, and they have laundry too. Ask them for help if you’re unsure how to use it.

This is an old, run-down hotel, and at $850/night the room felt overpriced. The hot water was turned off from 8am to 5pm. You had to take a cold shower or ask reception to turn it back on, then wait 15 minutes and let the water run for five minutes. I also found uncovered, uninsulated wires above the bathtub, which seemed dangerous. As for the location, it doesn’t make much difference in Taitung since you’d hire a scooter or car anyway. You can find somewhere nicer for less.

There were mosquitoes everywhere, and the blankets didn’t smell or feel clean. I found random hairs on the bedroom and bathroom floors, and the rooms were moldy. The water pressure and hot water were inadequate. The ground-floor lobby had been turned into a messy living area for workers, and nobody was awake to handle our 6:15 checkout. I don’t recommend it.