Refinement Motel Taichung: Taiwan's Hidden Gem? (You Won't Believe Room #7!)
Refinement Motel Taichung: Taiwan's Hidden Gem? (You Won't Believe Room #7!) - A Messy, Honest Review
Okay, people. Buckle up. Because I just got back from Refinement Motel Taichung, and my brain is still buzzing. "Hidden Gem?" Maybe. "Unforgettable experience?" Definitely. But let's be real – it's not all roses and perfectly folded towels. This is a review, not a brochure.
First things first: Accessibility. This is important, and I'm happy to report… it's complicated. They do have Facilities for disabled guests, which is a huge plus. And the Elevator is a lifesaver, especially since I’m pretty sure I ended up on the very top floor (more on that later). But navigating the place felt a little… disjointed. Some areas seemed perfectly designed for mobility, others… not so much. Like, why is there a sudden step right before the pool? Seriously? Need more specifics? Ask, but honestly, this one needs more attention.
On-site accessible restaurants / lounges: Hmm. Limited, from what I saw. The vibe leans more… in-room dining, I guess? Which, hey, depending on your mood, can be amazing.
Wheelchair accessible: See above. Some areas, yes. Others… a bit of a challenge.
Internet Access: Ah, yes. The digital lifeblood. Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! – Hallelujah! And it actually worked. A miracle! I mean, I needed it to upload those Instagram selfies from Room #7. More on that later. Seriously. You won’t BELIEVE it. They also offer Internet [LAN], which, honestly, who uses that anymore? Internet services were decent, but really, the free Wi-Fi across the entire property was the star. I even got some work done. Don’t judge.
Things to Do, Ways to Relax: Oh, BABY!
This is where Refinement Motel shines. Let's start with the Spa/sauna, Sauna, Steamroom, and Spa. Seriously, I spent a solid afternoon melting into the everything. Pool with view, Swimming pool (outdoor, don't worry), and the Poolside bar? Pure bliss. Picture this: a humid afternoon, a cocktail in hand, and that stunning Taichung skyline… It was pure, unadulterated relaxation. They also have a Fitness center and Gym/fitness, if you're into that sort of thing. I walked past. Twice. (Spoiler alert: I opted for more poolside cocktails.) They even do Body scrub and Body wrap, but I ran out of time (and, admittedly, energy) to try those.
Massage was… heavenly. Just do it. Book it. Seriously, my back thanked me for days.
Body scrub / Body wrap: Missed out on this, but I'm considering it on my next trip!
Cleanliness and Safety: The COVID-19 Edition
Look, I'm a bit of a germaphobe, okay? So, I was very attentive to this. And I was impressed. The Daily disinfection in common areas was noticeable. Hand sanitizer was everywhere. They use Anti-viral cleaning products, and the staff seemed to be following the Staff trained in safety protocol religiously. Rooms sanitized between stays, too. All good things.
They also offered things like Individually-wrapped food options for breakfast. Sanitized kitchen and tableware items. Physical distancing of at least 1 meter in the dining areas. Pretty damn good.
I DID appreciate the lack of Shared stationery removed and that they had a First aid kit on hand.
They also had some of the newer things like Room sanitization opt-out available.
So, bottom line: I felt safe. Maybe overly safe, considering all the options for relaxation!
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: Food Glorious Food!
Okay, let's talk food. The Breakfast [buffet] was pretty standard fare, but the Asian breakfast, the Asian cuisine in restaurant were a nice touch. The Coffee/tea in restaurant was decent. Nothing mind-blowing. But the Room service [24-hour]? GAME CHANGER. Seriously. After a long day of lounging, the ability to order a delicious meal directly to your room…Pure luxury.
There's a Bar, and a Coffee shop, but I spent most of my time poolside (see above). The Snack bar was handy for grabbing a quick bite. They also have a Vegetarian restaurant—good to know! The Western breakfast and Western cuisine in restaurant options are also there.
Services and Conveniences: The Little Things That Matter
Okay, so here's where Refinement Motel really amps up the experience. Air conditioning in public area, check. Cash withdrawal (very useful). Concierge (super helpful with suggestions). Daily housekeeping (my room was sparkling clean every day, even in the immediate aftermath of my cocktail-induced nap). Elevator (bless it!). Ironing service (because wrinkles are the enemy). Laundry service (thank you, sweet baby Jesus!). Luggage storage (essential). Safety deposit boxes (always a good idea). Taxi service (readily available). And… Wi-Fi for special events! (I wasn't there for one, but still!)
There's also a Convenience store. They have a Gift/souvenir shop (grabbed some tea!) Doorman. The Front desk [24-hour] was super helpful.
There’s even an Airport transfer.
Getting around: The hotel offers Car park [free of charge], which is amazing. They also offer Valet parking which makes you feel like you’re worth more than a few days of not doing dishes.
Available in all rooms: The Nitty Gritty
Okay, here's where it gets down to the brass tacks. Or, in this case, the plush robes, because yes, they have Bathrobes included! I'm not going to list everything, because that's just boring, but here are the highlights (and lowlights):
- Air conditioning: Essential.
- Alarm clock: Yes, but it's on your phone, which is annoying.
- Bathtub: Some rooms have a bathtub + a Separate shower/bathtub.
- Blackout curtains: Yessssss.
- Coffee/tea maker: Nice.
- Free bottled water: Crucial. Hydration is key.
- Hair dryer: Saved my life.
- In-room safe box: Peace of mind.
- Internet access – wireless: See above. Miraculous.
- Ironing facilities: Good.
- Mini bar: A little pricey, but convenient.
- Non-smoking: Excellent.
- Private bathroom: Obvi.
- Refrigerator: Useful for… well, everything.
- Satellite/cable channels: Yay.
- Seating area: Comfy.
- Shower: Thank you.
- Slippers: Nice touch.
- Soundproofing: Necessary.
- Telephone: Old school, but functional.
- Toiletries: Basic, but fine.
- Wake-up service: Never used it, but good to know.
- Wi-Fi [free]: Still the best!
- Window that opens: This is a huge plus for me! I like fresh air!
And Now… Room #7. The Story That Deserves Its Own Movie.
Okay, so… Room #7. Let me paint you a picture. I'm not kidding when I say this place is Absolutely stunning, with amazing room decorations. Picture a sprawling suite, bathed in soft mood lighting. Huge Extra long bed, sink-into-it soft. An In-room safe box for all your valuables. A Sofa that could comfortably seat a small family (which, after my third cocktail, I felt like I was part of). A HUGE, gorgeous, Separate shower/bathtub with rainfall shower (and a bathroom phone!). And… a personal Pool with view! Private! Just for ME!
But here's the thing. When I booked "Refinement Motel", I thought it was going to be a regular motel. I did NOT expect what felt like a private palace carved into the sky.
This Couple's room? Absolutely perfect for couples, friends, solo travelers, anyone who just wants to feel special.
The decor was… well, let's just say it was an EXPERIENCE. Think modern chic meets… a touch of extravagance. Like, imagine a Hollywood mansion, filled with everything you need to not leave your suite for the entire weekend.
I'm not exaggerating when I say I spent at least half my trip just holed up in Room #7. It was THAT good. Soundproof rooms were a lifesaver for my occasional
Escape to Paradise: Yin Shui Han Motel's Kaohsiung Oasis Awaits!
Alright, buckle up, buttercups, because this isn't your sterile, perfectly-planned itinerary. This is a chaotic, heart-on-your-sleeve, likely-to-get-lost-and-eat-too-much-pineapple-cake version of my trip to the Refinement Motel in Taichung, Taiwan. Prepare for a rollercoaster.
Day 1: Arrival, Jet Lag Haze, and the Urgent Need for Taiwanese Fried Chicken
- Morning (or, what I think is morning): Landed in Taichung. Or, rather, stumbled out of the airport looking like a zombie. Jet lag is a beast. My brain feels like cotton candy – all fluffy and useless. Finding the taxi was a victory in itself. Already sweating. Already doubting all my life choices that led me here.
- Getting to the Motel: The Refinement Motel… okay, the pictures online were slightly misleading. It's not a palatial estate, but hey, it’s clean (so far!) and that’s a win. The lobby smells vaguely of air freshener and something suspiciously like…bubblegum? Someone needs to tell them to upgrade the playlist though, I'm pretty sure I'm listening to the same elevator music loop from the last 10 years.
- The Room: Okay, the room is better than I expected. The "mood lighting" is a bit… intense. Like a disco that spontaneously combusted. It's clearly designed for… ahem… more intimate moments. But hey! Huge bathtub! I'm sold. Though I'm starting to suspect the mirror above the bed is judging my travel-weary soul…
- The GREAT Fried Chicken Quest: My stomach is a bottomless pit, and my survival hinges on finding legendary Taiwanese fried chicken. Google maps be my trusty steed! Unfortunately, I also forgot to charge, so I hope to keep running into public Wi-Fi. After the first 3 places are closed or mysteriously "out of service" I lose a bit of myself, but that's life in the big city. Eventually, after many wrong turns and the intense humidity trying to melt me, I found the holy grail. Oh. My. God. Tender, crispy, spicy, everything! I am no longer a jet-lagged, hangry mess, but a fried-chicken-goddess. The memory of those places where I had to turn back still haunts me to this day.
Day 2: Temples, Tea, and the Terrifying (But Tasty) Night Market
- Morning: Woke up still disoriented but refreshed in the bathtub. The lighting is still… intense. Seriously, are they trying to make me think it's still dark? I had a bit of trouble operating the TV but I figure it out after a good while (though I will never understand how those remotes are even supposed to work). Then it's off to that really cool-looking, not-too-far-away temple.
- Temple Time: The temples are magnificent, vibrant, and way more peaceful than I expected. The air is thick with incense, and the sights and sounds are overwhelming in the best possible way. I accidentally bowed the wrong way while trying to copy the locals. I think I might have offended someone. Oops.
- Lunch (and Tea, Obviously): Found a sweet little teahouse tucked away in the hills. The tea ceremony was incredibly soothing. I feel like I now have a better understanding of where I am. I also got utterly destroyed in a game of mahjong played with some very friendly, but also very competitive, grandmas. They were delighted. I was humiliated. But the tea was glorious.
- Night Market Mayhem: The night market. Oh, the night market. It's a sensory explosion. The smells alone…fried things, barbecued things, things I can’t even identify but want to eat. I saw a lady make a thing I think I'll never know what it is. I bravely embraced the chaos. Ate things I shouldn't have. Regretted nothing. Except possibly the "stinky tofu," which lived up to its name. But, like, in a fascinating, almost addictive way. I did get lost, again. And probably spent way too much money on novelty chopsticks. But hey, it's an experience.
Day 3: Art, Architecture, and Mild Meltdown (and More Food)
- Morning: Decided I deserve a lie-in. Slept right through breakfast (probably for the best, considering the food-coma situation from last night).
- The Rainbow Village (AKA: Pretty Things That Make Me Want to Cry): This place… wow. Colorful, whimsical, beautiful. And so incredibly sad at the same time. The story behind it is heartbreaking. The whole place feels… fragile. I want to wrap it in cotton wool and keep it safe. Just the thoughts make me emotional.
- National Taiwan Museum of Fine Arts: Impressed. The exhibit was good, though after a while I felt the need to sit.
- Afternoon-ish: Found a tiny cafe with the most exquisite coffee. Perfect for nursing my mounting travel fatigue.
- The Moment of Truth (and possible existential crisis): Stared at the hotel mirror, really staring. Okay, so I needed a haircut. I was also out of clean socks. And I was suddenly overwhelmed with a feeling of being… lost. Not geographically lost (though that was also true), but generally lost. Like, what am I even doing with my life? Luckily, I saw a place to get my hair cut.
- More Eating! (Always. It's the Law): Needed comfort, obviously. More street food, but this time specifically, the local sweets. Had the softest, fluffiest, most amazing pineapple cake. And then promptly ate another one. And then two more. I have no regrets.
Day 4: Reflections, Reluctant Departure, and the Unshakeable Memory of Fried Chicken
- Morning: Did a final walk around the local area. Re-visited the temple, and managed to finally figure out the taxi app.
- Packing (A Disaster): My bag is a mess of souvenirs, half-eaten snacks, and clothes that have clearly seen better days. Packing is my nemesis. Always.
- Final Reflections: This trip was everything I expected, and nothing at all. The Refinement Motel wasn't perfect, but it was… home. The food was phenomenal. The people were incredibly friendly. The whole experience felt… real. Messy. Human.
- The Departure: Back to the airport. Bye bye Taichung! But, before I go, a final craving hits. I'm going to find fried chicken. I have to.
Final Thoughts:
I'm not going to lie, this trip had its moments. The jet lag was brutal. I got lost more than a few times. I probably ate things that weren't entirely good for me. But, I lived. I laughed. I ate so much fried chicken. And for that, I'm incredibly grateful. This isn't just a trip; it's a collection of memories, both beautiful and a bit… messy. And it was perfect.
Hyderabad's Hidden Gem: Hotel Suprabhat Residency - Unbelievable Comfort!
Refinement Motel Taichung: The Real Deal? My Brain Has Opinions! (Spoiler: Probably Yes)
Okay, so you *heard* about the Refinement Motel in Taichung, Taiwan, right? The one everyone whispers about? With the legendary Room #7? Look, I'm gonna be honest, I'm a pretty discerning traveller. I've seen it ALL, from five-star luxury to hostels you wouldn't wish on your worst enemy. So, when I tell you this place is something special, you should probably listen. But, also, remember, I'm just one weirdo with a strong opinion. Here's the lowdown... and it's a bit of a ramble, fair warning!
Is Refinement Motel actually… refined? Or just cleverly marketed?
Honestly? Both. The marketing is brilliant. The website photos? Instagram-worthy. The reality? Mostly lives up to it. The lobby is seriously impressive – think sleek, minimalist, and totally Instagrammable. But, and this is a big BUT, the 'refined' part isn't just about the decor. It's the little things. The amazing rainfall shower (seriously, best shower EVER!), the ridiculously comfortable bed (I swear, I didn't want to leave!), the complimentary snacks and drinks (yes, proper coffee too!).
However... and I'm getting to my first real gripe... the "refinement" doesn't extend to *everything*. I *did* find a slightly smudged mirror at first. Not a huge deal, but hey, paying for perfection, I expect a bit more than a hastily wiped wipe. And the music in the elevator got old quickly. Minor, I know, but I'm holding onto it for the drama.
Let's talk about Room #7. Seriously, what's the deal? Does it *live up* to the hype!?
Okay, buckle up, folks. Room #7. The legend. The reason everyone whispers about this motel. The rumors are true. It's... well, it's an experience. I'm not going to give away *everything* (part of the fun is the surprise!), but let's just say it involves a *very* large jacuzzi, an entertainment system that a Bond villain would envy, and... a certain level of privacy you might not expect.
I spent a whole afternoon in Room #7, and honestly? I think I came out a slightly better person. Seriously. It’s a level of escapism I didn’t know I needed. One of my first thoughts was: *“I could live here. I could happily live here and never leave.”* The sheer indulgence of it all! It was… liberating. Then, about 2 hours in, I was slightly bored. Too much luxury? Or did I need some air? I’m still not sure. I think I’d spend a whole week in the thing, but I am unsure if my ego would be able to handle this. (The answer is probably no.)
The only negative thing to say about it is that it kind of ruined all other hotel rooms for me. I'm not sure I can ever go back to a regular hotel room again. My life has been forever changed and tainted by this experience.
Is it *expensive*? Because I'm not exactly dripping in cash.
It's not *cheap*, let's be honest. But for what you get, it's surprisingly decent value. Seriously, compared to some other hotels I've stayed in (and been bitterly disappointed by), Refinement Motel is worth the splurge. Think about it: You're paying for an experience, not just a room. And trust me, it's an experience you won't soon forget. Plus, hello free snacks and drinks! Every penny counts, right? (My bank account wept a little, but I'd do it again in a heartbeat.)
Pro tip: Look out for deals. Sometimes they have special offers, especially during off-peak seasons. And be prepared to book well in advance for Room #7. It's a hot commodity (pun intended!).
What about the location? Is it easy to get around?
Taichung is a great city! Refinement Motel felt central, even though it's not smack-bang in the middle of the action. We walked to a few places. I’d say it was relatively easy to get around via taxi or Uber (which were super cheap, btw). There are also some decent restaurants and cafes nearby – perfect for grabbing a quick bite before you get back to your luxurious prison... I mean, your room. I found myself preferring to stay in the area rather than travelling. I think I'd get cabin fever eventually.
Any downsides? (Besides my slightly smudged mirror obsession?)
Okay, I'm going to be brutally honest. Aside from that mirror, which I may or may not have taken a photo of (just to document the injustice, of course), the only thing I regret is not staying longer. Seriously. I’d stay for weeks if my bank account could handle it.
The fact that it kind of ruins other hotel rooms is also an issue. Every other hotel will now pale in comparison. It's a real problem, but I guess that's a "me" problem, not a "Refinement Motel" problem!
Would you recommend it? Be honest!
HELL YES. Absolutely. Without a doubt. Go. Book it. Indulge. Even if it means skipping a few lattes for a month. You won't regret it. Especially if you can snag Room #7. Just... be prepared to never look at hotel rooms the same way again. And maybe bring a friend, because I'm not sure I'd want to be alone for the whole duration! It’s a luxurious experience. And I, personally, loved every second of the experience. Seriously. Just go.
