The Lalu, Sun Moon Lake

A trip can really clear your head, and being out in nature is part of what I love about traveling. I took my family to Sun Moon Lake last week for my first visit. The hotel was beautiful and clean, the food was good, and breakfast was nice. We could see the lake from the hotel too.

We had a really enjoyable night here. The rooftop observation deck gave us a great look over the area, and our room was clean and roomy, with a comfortable bed and easy to use lighting controls right beside it. The bathroom was clean and bright too. My room didn't have a lake view from the balcony, though the higher elevation still gave us a nice outlook. Some rooms do face Sun Moon Lake. The lobby had discount coupons for bike rentals, and we used one at the designated shop to cycle around the lake. If you're staying nearby and can ride, it's a great way to spend a few hours. They also have motor scooters. Breakfast was the one weak spot, with not much choice in food or drinks, though it was acceptable.

The service was better than I expected, and the price is good for this area. I did notice dust on the curtains and sofas, though, so those details could use some attention.

The location on the peninsula beside the Lalu is the main plus, with decent views. The rooms themselves feel like a cheap roadside motel now. They weren't uncomfortable, but the hotel must have been around three-star quality when it first opened years ago. The shower had a little mould, the curtains were dirty, and the walls were cracked and need paint.