Taipei's Hidden Gem: Zhongshan N. APT - Unbelievable Views & Luxury!
Taipei's Hidden Gem: Zhongshan N. APT - Unbelievable Views & Luxury! - A Review That’s Actually Honest (And Maybe A Little Messy)
Okay, folks, buckle up. Forget those sterile, cookie-cutter hotel reviews you usually read. I just got back from Taipei, and I'm here to spill the tea (and maybe a little bit of bubble tea) on Zhongshan N. APT - Unbelievable Views & Luxury! Seriously, the name alone has a certain… swagger, right? Is it a hidden gem? Is it luxurious? Are the views really unbelievable? Let's dive in, shall we?
Accessibility: Getting There Without Becoming a Hot Mess
First things first: getting there. This might be important for some of you, and I'll be frank, it can be a nightmare! But honestly, Zhongshan N. APT is actually pretty darn accessible. The area itself – Zhongshan district – is well-connected, major advantage.
- Accessibility: The hotel itself boasts an elevator, which is an absolute lifesaver, especially if you're lugging around a suitcase the size of a small… well, a small room. I really didn't need it but the thought that it's there is comforting. They also offer facilities for disabled guests, which you'd hope for in a modern place.
- Getting Around: Taxi service is readily available. I ended up taking the airport transfer. They're a bit pricey, but after that long flight, it's a godsend. And they have car park [free of charge], a bonus for those who decide to rent a car.
(Rambling interlude: Seriously, finding a decent taxi in peak hour in some places? It's like trying to catch a unicorn riding a rollercoaster. So, kudos to the airport transfer for saving my sanity… and my bank account a tiny bit.)
Cleanliness and Safety: Are They Actually Keeping Germs at Bay? (Because COVID, Yikes!)
Alright, let's talk about the elephant in the room: those pesky germs. I'm a bit of a germaphobe lately, so this was a big one for me.
- Anti-viral cleaning products: Yes! Good start.
- Daily disinfection in common areas: Yup, you could smell the clean. Which, let's be honest, is a good thing in a hotel.
- Individual-wrapped food options: I'm a fan of this. Safe is important.
- Staff trained in safety protocol: They seemed to know what they were doing!
- Rooms sanitized between stays: The real test, and they didn't fail.
- Hand sanitizer: Everywhere. Bless them.
- Hot water linen and laundry washing: Always a must.
- Rooms sanitized between stays: The real test, and they met expectations.
- Professional-grade sanitizing services: This place is serious about being safe.
- Safe dining setup: No worries here.
- Sanitized kitchen and tableware items: Peace of mind while eating.
(Anecdote: I actually saw a staff member scrubbing a high-touch light switch in the elevator TWICE in one day. Made me feel like I was finally safe) (Side Eye: It's a little excessive but I'll take it!)
The Rooms: Unbelievable Views? Let's See…
Okay, the real test. The rooms. This is where the "luxury" part better show up.
- Available in all rooms: The room was a treasure cove as you could say, featuring air conditioning, air conditioning (thank God), alarm clock, bathrobes (yes!), bathtub, blackout curtains (essential for beating jet lag), carpeting, closet (needed), coffee/tea maker (praise the tea gods!), complimentary tea, daily housekeeping, desk, extra-long bed, free bottled water, hair dryer, high floor (check!), in-room safe box, internet access – wireless (thank goodness!), ironing facilities, laptop workspace, linens, mini bar, mirror, non-smoking (duh), private bathroom, reading light, refrigerator, satellite/cable channels, scale (brutal, yet necessary), seating area, separate shower/bathtub, shower, slippers, smoke detector, socket near the bed, sofa, soundproofing, telephone, toiletries, towels, umbrella, wake-up service, Wi-Fi [free], window that opens (for some sweet Taipei air).
- Internet : Fast and furious, as you would expect from an hotel of this reputation.
- Amenities:
- In-room safe box: Useful. Definitely.
- High floor: Yes! Amazing views, even during midday.
- Blackout Curtains: Crucial and fantastic.
(Quirky Observation: The mini-bar wasn't quite as stocked as I'd hoped, but hey, I can't complain about the complimentary bottled water. I'm cheap, and it was hot.)
The View: Okay, the moment of truth… The view from my room was, UNBELIEVABLE. I mean, seriously. Picture this: a sprawling cityscape, shimmering skyscrapers kissed by the setting sun, a million twinkling lights… It was honestly breathtaking. Worth the price of admission alone.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: Fueling the Adventure (Or Just Napping)
So, what about the food? You can't survive on views and good vibes alone, right?
- Restaurant: The hotel has a restaurant with an Asian cuisine in restaurant option I didn't brave, also offering western cuisine in restaurant which I loved with salad in restaurant, soup in restaurant, and of course, desserts in restaurant. There's a bar for pre-dinner cocktails or post-sightseeing drinks.
- Breakfast: The breakfast [buffet] was a feast. Asian breakfast AND Western breakfast, so plenty of options for all sorts of visitors.
- Room service: Room service is available 24-hour, which is a win in my book. Sometimes you’re just too tired to venture out.
- Snack Bar: The snack bar was helpful and convenient for a quick bite and something to munch on.
- Coffee/tea in restaurant: Caffeine, a must-have to keep going.
- Poolside bar: A plus for those who take advantage of that pool.
(Strong Emotional Reaction: The breakfast? OMFG. The pastries alone were worth the calories. I may have gained five pounds, but hey, totally worth it.)
Ways to Relax: Spa Day or Bust?
Let's face it, travel can be exhausting. So, how about unwinding?
- Features: The hotel has a Spa, body scrub, body wrap, foot bath, massage, sauna, spa/sauna, steamroom, and Swimming pool [outdoor].
- Pool: The swimming pool looked amazing, especially with that stunning view. I’m a pool person, and I was in heaven there.
(Messy Structure and occasional rambles: I didn't actually get around to using the spa, which is a massive regret. Next time! I heard good things. Also, I was too busy stuffing my face with pastries at breakfast, which I regret slightly less.)
Services and Conveniences: Making Life Easier (Because Travel Should Be!)
- Services: They have a concierge, daily housekeeping, doorman, dry cleaning, elevator.
- Business facilities: They have business facilities.
(Opinionated Language and natural pacing: The staff were incredibly helpful and friendly. I felt like they genuinely cared about making my stay enjoyable. Which is a win after travel.)
For the Kids:
- Family/child friendly Seems like a great place to have a vacation with the little ones.
- Baby sitting service: A very welcome help for the parents in the hotel.
(Stronger emotional reactions: I didn't have kids, but I saw plenty of families having a blast. It seemed like a very family-friendly place.)
The Bottom Line: Should You Book?
YES.
Zhongshan N. APT - Unbelievable Views & Luxury! is a fantastic choice. The views are genuinely stunning, the rooms are comfortable and well-equipped, the location is convenient, and the staff are wonderful. It's not the cheapest option, but the quality and experience are worth the splurge.
My Offer (Because You Deserve It!):
Book your stay at Zhongshan N. APT - Unbelievable Views & Luxury! using the link below and get:
- A complimentary upgrade to a room with a balcony (subject to availability).
- Free access to the sauna and steam room.
- A welcome drink at the bar.
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because we're about to dive headfirst into my chaotic, probably-slightly-over-optimistic Taipei adventure. Forget your pristine, bullet-pointed itineraries – this is the real deal. Zhongshan N. APT, Taipei, here we come! (And pray for my sanity).
The "Maybe I'll Actually Get Out of Bed" Taipei Itinerary: Day 1
07:00 - 08:00 AM: Alarm Clock Hell & Existential Dread. Seriously, why do alarm clocks exist? My inner monologue usually sounds like a grumpy bear wrestling with a sugar rush at this ungodly hour. This morning, I’m pretty sure I spent a good 15 minutes just staring at the ceiling debating the meaning of life…or at least, the meaning of getting up for a trip.
08:00 - 09:00 AM: The Pre-Flight Frenzy & Airport Debacle Round 1. Okay, deep breaths. Shower, throw on something that vaguely resembles an outfit, and try to remember where I put my passport. (Spoiler: It was in the fridge. Don't ask.) I’m aiming for the airport express but I am a walking disaster. I anticipate some serious public transport blunders.
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM: Airport Arrival & Initial Culture Shock (aka: "Where's the Bubble Tea?!"). Finally! I’m at the airport – after nearly missing my flight due to my legendary ability to get lost in a phone booth (figuratively, of course). First impressions: Everything is clean… suspiciously clean. And the airport staff? They're way too polite for this rabble-rouser. But the crucial question: WHERE. IS. THE. BUBBLE. TEA?!
12:00 PM - 2:00 PM: Arrival in Taipei & Apartment Complications. The flight went fine. Smoother than I'd expected, actually. Now for the fun part: figuring out the public transport and finding my apartment Zhongshan N. APT. Google maps is my best friend right now. Wait, did I book the right place? Did I get the key? Am I hallucinating from lack of sleep, or is that a tiny, suspiciously judgy cat eyeing me from behind a potted plant?
2:00 PM - 5:00 PM: Exploration of Street Food Heaven (and Possible Stomach Aches). First things first: FOOD! I'm hitting the local markets. Expect to become a dumpling and stinky tofu connoisseur by nightfall. Probably. I'm going to try everything. Even the stuff that looks questionable, because hey, YOLO. (And also, I'm easily influenced by smells). The only problem is… I might eat too much. And then the tummy rumbles begin!
5:00 PM - 7:00 PM: Relaxation/Nap Time (aka: The Great Recharge). Okay, I might have overdone it on the street food. I'm currently experiencing a mild food coma. Time for a power nap back at the rented apartment, because I'm only a human! I might actually skip this, or not if I’m feeling lazy.
7:00 PM - late: Night Market Mayhem & Karaoke Dreams (or Nightmares). Okay, powered by nap! Now, time for the night market! Lights, smells, crowds… sensory overload! And if I'm feeling brave (and after a few Taiwanese beers), karaoke. Pray for my voice…and the ears of anyone within a five-mile radius. This area around Zhongshan district is amazing for shopping, eating, and generally soaking up the Taipei vibe. This will definitely be the high point, or the moment I publicly embarrass myself.
Day 2: Focus on Zhongshan and Beyond (with frequent tangents)
Morning: Coffee & a Deep Breath (and a Side of Existential Crisis). Morning! I'm not a morning person, but I am a coffee person. Finding a decent caffeine fix is priority number one. Plus, time to stare out the window, pretend to be a sophisticated traveler, and quietly question all my life choices.
Mid-morning: The Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hall & a Dose of Grandeur. Time to see some history! I'm off to the Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hall. I have a vague idea of who Sun Yat-Sen was (thanks, Wikipedia!), but I'm mostly going for the pretty architecture and the photo ops for Instagram. I'm expecting to be impressed and a little overwhelmed. Maybe I will write a deep poem. Or maybe I’ll just trip over my own feet.
Lunch: The Great Dumpling Pilgrimage - Okay, I have to go find the best dumplings in Taipei. It's my mission. I shall eat my way through every dumpling. I promise to return with a complete list of the best dumpling shops. At least, I hope I will because if I can't, it would be a travesty.
Afternoon: Exploring the Zhongshan District - Shopping, Art, and Maybe a Massage. The Zhongshan district is known for its boutiques, art galleries, and generally cool vibes. I may get slightly lost (again), but you'll have to forgive me. I'm prone to wandering. And let's be honest, a foot massage sounds amazing after all that walking. I might actually fall asleep during it, or even snore.
Early Evening: Dinner & a Temple Visit (and a Moment of Reflection). Tonight, I'm looking for a good dinner and a quick temple trip for some reflection. Or maybe I'll just take some selfies and browse the shops, not sure yet. But I am aware this is going to be the point where I might get a little tired of museums and start craving street food.
Day 3: Into the Hills (and Potentially Up a Mountain!)
Morning: Errands and a Dose of Reality - Before the day trip, I'll be doing some errands. I need to replenish supplies like water, and sunscreen, and maybe some tissues for the inevitable crying over how beautiful everything is. Also, I'm going to make a few calls to confirm the hike is doable.
Mid-morning: Up into Yangmingshan National Park & Hiking Blunders. Today, I'm braving Yangmingshan National Park. I'm expecting lush scenery, gorgeous views, and a healthy dose of "Am I going to die?" My fitness level is… questionable. So, the hike will probably be a series of short bursts of energy followed by periods of dramatic panting and demands for water. Wish me luck! This will either be a triumph or a total disaster.
Afternoon: Waterfall & Spa Time (If I Survive the Hike). If and only if I survive the hike, I will be rewarded with waterfalls! And if I really deserve it, I'll find a hot spring to soak my weary bones. Fingers crossed!
Evening: Back to Zhongshan & Final Feast. Back to the city, and one last dinner! Considering what I've been through (possibly nearly dying on a mountain), I'm going to treat myself to something extravagant. Sushi? Ramen? A mountain of dumplings? The possibilities are endless!
The "Will I Actually Leave Taipei?" Finale (and post-trip ramblings)
Departure Day (or, The Art of Delaying the Inevitable): One last breakfast, one last frantic packing session where I can’t find anything. Maybe a quick visit to the night market to snatch some last-minute souvenirs. Then, it's off to the airport, hoping I don't miss my flight.
Post-Trip Reflections (aka: The Emotional Fallout): Back home, and I will be feeling a mixture of jet lag, elation, and post-vacation blues. I will have a ton of photos to edit, stories to tell, and a longing to go back! I might even start planning my next trip… even though I haven't even unpacked this one yet.
Zhongshan N. APT: Ask Me Anything (Because I've, Uh, Been There)
So, what *is* this "Zhongshan N. APT" everyone's whispering about? Is it actually worth the hype?
Okay, brace yourself. The hype? Yeah, it's… mostly deserved. Zhongshan North Road Apartment. I mean, the name itself is bland, right? Sounds like your grandma's place. But the reality? HUGE difference. Think: panoramic views that’ll make you question your life choices (in a good way, hopefully). And luxury? Oh, honey. Think marble, think walk-in closets bigger than my first apartment, think… stuff I can't afford, basically.
Is it worth it? Depends on your bank account, your tolerance for breathtaking scenery, and how much you like feeling like you're living in a (very fancy) movie. I've been there, and let me tell you... seeing Taipei at night from that height? It's a religious experience. Honestly. I almost cried.
What kind of views are we talking about here? Give it to me straight.
Straight? Okay. Imagine Taipei 101… *but* you’re not packed in with a zillion tourists. You’re *above* it. Yeah. Let that sink in. I spent a good hour just drooling at the cityscape below. There was an incredible sunset the day I was there – reds, oranges, purples… I'm not even a sunset person, but this one… it was like the sky was on fire, in the most gorgeous, Instagrammable way possible. You can probably see the mountains in the distance, even on a hazy day. And at night? The lights are just… *chef's kiss*. Seriously, I think I forgot to blink.
Alright, alright, the views sound great. But what about the *apartment* itself? Is it all flash and no substance?
Okay, this is where it gets interesting. Flash and substance? Yes. Both. Let me tell you a story. The first thing I remember is walking into this place. It's someone's *home*. The lobby? Marble. Gleaming. And the elevator? Not just a metal box; it's a *statement*. Like, "Welcome, you poor people, to our luxury!" I'm not even kidding, I felt slightly underdressed in my wrinkled t-shirt and jeans. The apartment itself was…well. I felt so intimidated that I nearly tripped over the ridiculously plush rug (which, by the way, probably cost more than my car). The artwork? I’m guessing original. Or at least, *really* good fakes. The kitchen? Stainless steel, of course, and bigger than my entire living room. I was more comfortable with the views than the kitchen. And the bathroom? *Giant* soaking tub. I could have swum laps in it. (I didn't. I'm not that comfortable around strangers' tubs, even if they're fancy.)
Seriously, the *details* are mind-blowing. Like, they thought of *everything*. Except, maybe, a 'don't-be-a-complete-idiot' manual for guests like me. I'm pretty sure I touched something I shouldn't have. Oops.
Is it actually liveable? Cause sometimes luxury feels like a prison. Cold and soulless.
Okay, good question. I’d say, maybe. See, I only visited. I didn’t live there. But it *felt* liveable. Like, if you are used to the finer things in life. It wasn’t stark, not fully. There were personal touches, like family photos, a few well-worn books on a shelf, and a vase of flowers that looked suspiciously real (but, hey, I’m no florist!). It felt like the owner had a secret life.
It’s definitely not cozy, though. It’s not a place you would *nest* in. But… it’s impressive. Let's put it that way. I think I would feel very self-conscious making toast.
What's the biggest drawback or downside? Spill the tea!
Okay, the tea. Honestly? The cost. Unless you're a lottery winner, a tech billionaire, or secretly a prince, you probably can’t afford to *live* there. Unless… have I mentioned I'm looking for a roommate? (Kidding! ... Mostly.)
And the other downside? It might make you a little bitter about your own, significantly less glamorous, living situation. I’m still recovering. It’s like, you see perfection, and then you have to go back to your normal, slightly-stained-carpet life. It's a brutal contrast. You'll likely be judging every other building you see *forever* after.
Is it suitable for families? Or more like a bachelor pad with fancy gadgets?
Hmm. Good question. It *could* be for families, but it felt more… sleek. More “art-collecting, world-traveling” than “finger-painting and sticky-fingered toddlers.” The design felt a little too… precious. I didn't see any kid-friendly stuff, which says a lot, honestly. I imagine there's a "no throwing balls in the living room" rule. I’m sure there are some apartments that fit that criteria, but in the one I saw. I would say, maybe the families who hire help?
What's the neighborhood like? Anything interesting to do nearby?
Zhongshan North Road? That's where it gets cool. It's a relatively good neighbourhood. There are restaurants, boutiques, and coffee shops. You're not far from the MRT, so getting around Taipei is a breeze. There's a good balance - not too touristy, not too… boring. It's a nice spot to get your bearings in Taipei. It's definitely upper-class living, so that comes with its own perks. The amenities aren’t half-bad, and you're close to everything. You can see a movie, grab some food, or window shop – all within a few minutes. It’s not like you have to be in the city to get the city experience. You *are* in the city!
Would you recommend it? And to whom?
Would I recommend it? Absolutely. If you can *afford* it. If you love views that knock your socks off. If you enjoy… a certain level of "fancy." It’s a splurge, for sure. But if you're celebrating something special, or just want a ridiculous, unforgettable experience? Go for it. Just… try not to break anything. And if you accidentally eat a piece of art, please don't tell me. Kidding! (Mostly.)
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