Unbelievable Luxury Awaits: Evergreen Laurel Hotel Taichung - Your Dream Taiwan Getaway!
Unbelievable Luxury Awaits: Evergreen Laurel Hotel Taichung - My Taiwan Getaway (and a Few Quirks!)
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because I just survived (and thrived!) a stay at the Evergreen Laurel Hotel Taichung, and I'm here to spill the tea. Or maybe the bubble tea, because, Taiwan! Forget those cookie-cutter reviews – this is the real deal, warts and all. Prepare for a rollercoaster of opinions, because honestly, it was a mixed bag of "OMG, this is heaven!" and "Wait, what?" Let's dive in.
First Impressions (and the Elevator Saga)
The initial "wow" factor is undeniable. The Evergreen Laurel Hotel Taichung is… well, it’s big. Like, seriously, you could probably get lost in the lobby. The decor is… let's say "classic." Think polished marble, chandeliers, and a general air of understated elegance. But hey, I'm here for a good time, not a museum!
Getting to my room was the first test. The elevators? A bit of a slow dance. Seriously, you might want to pack a book. There's a lot of up-and-down time, especially if you're on a high floor (which I was, thankfully!). The hotel boasts Elevator and Accessibility features.
Accessibility: A Mixed Bag
Now, about that Accessibility. The hotel does claim to be accessible, and they've clearly tried. There are Elevator to all floors, and ramps, and rooms designed with accessibility in mind. BUT. And this is a big but… the execution felt a little… inconsistent. Some areas felt wonderfully accommodating, others felt like they'd forgotten the details. I didn't personally need a wheelchair, but I could see some potential challenges. They do have Facilities for disabled guests.
Rooms: Sanctuary or Showroom?
My room? Spacious, well-appointed, and packed with amenities. We're talking Air conditioning, Blackout curtains (essential for beating jet lag!), a Coffee/tea maker (thank the heavens!), and a Refrigerator. They also have Mini bar, Free bottled water and Bathrobes. The Internet access – wireless (thank you, free Wi-Fi!), Internet access – LAN (for the tech-heads!), and the Desk were all appreciated. The Bathroom was clean, with a Bathtub, Separate shower/bathtub, and, crucially, good water pressure. I also had an Additional toilet.
Here's where the "wait, what?" moments crept in. While the room was undeniably luxurious, it felt a little… sterile. Like a showroom, not a place you could truly relax and let your hair down. The Room decorations were minimal. And, the Soundproofing was good, but not perfect, I could hear the occasional muffled noise from the hallway. They really need to improve the Soundproofing.
Cleanliness and Safety: Feeling Safe (and Sanitized!)
Okay, this is where the Evergreen Laurel shined. In a post-pandemic world, cleanliness is king, and they clearly took it seriously. I was impressed by the Anti-viral cleaning products and the Daily disinfection in common areas. They have Hygiene certification, Rooms sanitized between stays, and Professional-grade sanitizing services. They even had Individually-wrapped food options and Hand sanitizer stations everywhere. I felt genuinely safe, which is a huge win in my book. They also have CCTV in common areas, CCTV outside property, Fire extinguisher, Smoke alarms, and Security [24-hour].
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: A Culinary Adventure (Mostly!)
The Restaurants at the Evergreen Laurel are a mixed bag. They have Asian cuisine in restaurant, International cuisine in restaurant, and Western cuisine in restaurant. The Breakfast [buffet] was a highlight. I'm talking mountains of delicious food, from fresh fruit and pastries to savory Asian dishes. They also have Breakfast service, Breakfast takeaway service and Buffet in restaurant.
I'm not a morning person, so I was thrilled with the Coffee shop where I could grab a caffeine fix. There's a Poolside bar for a cheeky cocktail (perfect!), and a Snack bar for those late-night cravings. They even offered Alternative meal arrangement and Kids meal.
My personal favorite was the Happy hour. Need I say more?
Things to Do (and Ways to Relax): Spa Day, Anyone?
Okay, let's talk about relaxation. The Evergreen Laurel has some serious spa game. They have a Spa, Spa/sauna, Sauna, Steamroom, Massage, Body scrub, and Body wrap. They also have a Fitness center which I did not use, but it looked good. I spent a glorious afternoon getting pampered with the Foot bath and the Pool with view, and it was pure bliss. The Swimming pool was gorgeous. The Swimming pool [outdoor] was also a nice touch.
Services and Conveniences: The Little Things That Matter
The Evergreen Laurel offers a plethora of services. They have a Concierge, Currency exchange, Cash withdrawal, and Laundry service. Daily housekeeping was efficient and discreet. Doorman, Luggage storage, Dry cleaning, and Ironing service are also available. They even have a Convenience store on-site, which is a lifesaver when you need a midnight snack. The Car park [free of charge] was a huge bonus, especially in Taichung, where parking can be a nightmare.
Getting Around: Airport Transfer & More
Getting around was relatively easy. They offer Airport transfer, and they have Car park [on-site], Taxi service, and Bicycle parking.
For the Kids: Family-Friendly Fun
The Evergreen Laurel is surprisingly family-friendly. They have Family/child friendly, Kids facilities, and a Babysitting service.
Internet Access: Wi-Fi Nirvana (Mostly)
Free Wi-Fi in all rooms? Yes, please! The Wi-Fi [free] was generally reliable, which is crucial for staying connected. They also have Internet and Internet [LAN].
Now for the Quirks (and the Honest Truth!)
- The Elevator Angst: Seriously, pack a book. Or take the stairs (if you’re feeling brave).
- The Room Decor: A little personality wouldn't hurt! Consider adding some local artwork or a pop of color.
- The Service: The staff were generally polite and helpful, but sometimes a little… formal. A few more smiles wouldn't go amiss.
- The Location: Excellent. Close to many attractions.
The Verdict: Is This Your Dream Taiwan Getaway?
Overall, the Evergreen Laurel Hotel Taichung is a solid choice. The luxury is undeniable, the cleanliness is top-notch, and the spa is a dream. It's not perfect, but the positives far outweigh the negatives. If you're looking for a comfortable, well-equipped base for exploring Taichung, this is definitely worth considering.
My Recommendation: Book It! (But with a Few Caveats)
Unbelievable Luxury Awaits: Evergreen Laurel Hotel Taichung - Your Dream Taiwan Getaway! is a great choice for those seeking a luxurious and safe stay in Taichung.
PROS:
- Impeccable cleanliness and safety protocols.
- Fantastic spa facilities.
- Spacious and well-equipped rooms.
- Excellent breakfast buffet.
- Convenient location.
CONS:
- Elevators can be slow.
- Room decor is a little bland.
- Service can be a bit formal.
- Some accessibility inconsistencies.
My rating: 4 out of 5 stars.
Book Your Dream Taiwan Getaway NOW!
Ready to experience the Unbelievable Luxury Awaits? Book your stay at the Evergreen Laurel Hotel Taichung today!
Here's why you should book NOW:
- Exclusive Early Bird Offer: Get [Discount Percentage]% off your stay when you book at least [Number] days in advance!
- Free Upgrade: Enjoy a complimentary room upgrade to a [Room Type] (subject to availability)!
- Spa Package Deal: Treat yourself to a relaxing spa experience with our special package, including a [Spa Treatment] and a complimentary [Freebie]!
- Flexible Cancellation: Book with confidence, knowing you can cancel your reservation up to [Number] days before your stay!
Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to experience the best of Taiwan! Book your Unbelievable Luxury Awaits: Evergreen Laurel Hotel Taichung getaway today!
Escape to Paradise: Luxurious Urban Oasis Apartment in Johannesburg!
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because this ain't your grandma's sterile travel itinerary. We're heading to the Evergreen Laurel Hotel in Taichung, Taiwan, and trust me, it's gonna be a wild ride. Prepare for a rollercoaster of emotions, questionable decisions, and probably a lot of bad food photos. Here we go!
Day 1: Arrival and Jet Lagged Shenanigans (aka, "Why Did I Book a Red-Eye?")
- 6:00 AM: Arrive at Taichung International Airport. Ugh. The red-eye was a terrible idea. I swear, my brain is currently operating at about 15%. First impressions? Hot and humid. Instantly regretting the jeans.
- 6:30 AM: Taxi to Evergreen Laurel Hotel Taichung. The driver keeps pointing at things and saying… well, I have no idea what he's saying. But he seems enthusiastic! I'm just nodding and smiling, hoping he doesn't think I understand anything.
- 7:00 AM: Check-in. The lobby is… grand. Very gold. Very… shiny. I feel underdressed in my travel sweatpants. The front desk staff are impeccably polite, which makes me feel even worse for looking like a zombie.
- 7:30 AM: Attempt to check into the room, and find out it is not yet ready, so I'll be waiting.
- 8:00 AM: Finally, room! It's… spacious. And the view! Okay, maybe the jet lag isn't so bad after all. I can see the city sprawling out before me, a concrete jungle with hints of green. I take a deep breath and decide to leave my luggage and go for a walk.
- 8:30 AM: Walk around the area surrounding the hotel. It's already buzzing with life. Street vendors are setting up, the aroma of… something delicious… wafts through the air. I bravely approach a stall selling what looks like steamed buns. I point, smile, and hope for the best. The bun is soft, fluffy, and filled with… pork? I think? Delicious. I have a second one. Maybe jet lag isn't so bad after all.
- 10:00 AM: Back to the hotel. I'm starting to feel the fatigue creeping in. I need a nap. A long nap.
- 10:30 AM - 2:00 PM: Nap! Glorious, uninterrupted sleep. I dream of fluffy buns.
- 2:00 PM: Wake up feeling slightly disoriented, but also… hungry. The quest for lunch begins.
- 2:30 PM: Wander the neighborhood. The smells are intoxicating, the language barrier is a constant challenge. I find a small, crowded restaurant. Pointing and gesturing ensues. End up with a bowl of noodles with… something. Spicy, delicious, and I have no idea what I just ate. Worth it.
- 4:00 PM: Explore the hotel's amenities. The gym looks intimidating. The pool looks inviting. I go to the pool. The sun is warm, the water is cool. Bliss.
- 6:00 PM: Dinner at the hotel restaurant. It's fancy. I feel out of place. I order something that sounds safe (chicken). It's… underwhelming. Maybe the jet lag is affecting my taste buds.
- 7:30 PM: Back to the room. I have a sudden craving for instant ramen.
- 8:00 PM: Collapse into bed. This is the life.
Day 2: Culture Shock, Temple Run, and Bubble Tea Overload
- 8:00 AM: Wake up. Jet lag is still a thing. But, the sun is shining, so I get up and head to the breakfast buffet at the Evergreen Laurel Hotel. It's… overwhelming. So many choices! I try a little bit of everything, and end up with a plate that looks like a culinary crime scene. (But the pastries are amazing.)
- 9:30 AM: Head out to explore the city. First stop: a temple. I've never been to a temple before, but it's beautiful. Incense fills the air, the colors are vibrant, and people are offering prayers. I feel a sense of peace, even though I have no idea what's going on. I light a stick of incense, make a wish (world peace, duh), and try not to look too awkward.
- 11:00 AM: Wander through a local market. It's a sensory overload! The sights, the sounds, the smells… It's exhilarating and exhausting at the same time. I buy a weird fruit that looks like a dragon's egg. It's… interesting.
- 12:00 PM: Lunch. I find a small restaurant that specializes in… dumplings? Yes, please! These are the best dumplings I've ever had. Soft, juicy, and bursting with flavor. I order a second plate. And then a third. I might have a dumpling problem.
- 1:30 PM: Bubble tea time! This is non-negotiable. I find a place with a long line (a good sign, right?). I order a classic milk tea with tapioca pearls. It's… perfect. Sweet, chewy, and utterly addictive. I'm pretty sure I could survive on bubble tea alone.
- 2:30 PM - 4:30 PM: I discover a park. It's a peaceful oasis in the middle of the bustling city. I sit on a bench, watch the locals go about their day, and soak up the atmosphere. This is what traveling is all about.
- 5:00 PM: Back to the hotel to cool off and recharge.
- 6:00 PM: Dinner at a local night market. It's a chaotic, delicious, and unforgettable experience. I try everything from grilled squid to stinky tofu (which actually isn't as bad as it sounds!). I'm pretty sure I've eaten my weight in food.
- 8:00 PM: Back to the hotel, feeling full, happy, and slightly overwhelmed. This is a good day.
Day 3: The Sun Moon Lake Debacle (and a Whole Lot of Regret)
- 7:00 AM: Wake up, full of optimism. Today, we're conquering Sun Moon Lake! I've heard it's beautiful. I've seen the pictures. I'm excited!
- 8:00 AM: Breakfast. Fuel up. I grab another plate of those amazing pastries. Gotta keep the energy levels up.
- 9:00 AM: Transportation nightmare begins. I had read that the bus was a cheap option. It was also a crowded, confusing, and slightly terrifying option. The ride is long, winding, and filled with questionable driving maneuvers. I grip the seat and try not to think about the fact that I don't speak the language.
- 11:00 AM: Arrive at Sun Moon Lake. It's… crowded. And the weather? Let's just say it's not cooperating. It's overcast, drizzling, and the view is obscured by a thick fog.
- 11:30 AM: Decide to take a boat tour. It's supposed to be the best way to see the lake. We board a small, rickety boat and set off into the mist. The tour guide speaks only Mandarin, so I have no idea what he's saying. I spend the entire time trying to take pictures through the fog.
- 12:30 PM: Lunch. Find a small restaurant with a view of the lake. The food is… okay. I'm starting to suspect that my taste buds are permanently damaged by jet lag.
- 1:30 PM: Hike a short trail. It's muddy, slippery, and the fog is still relentless. I trip and almost fall. I begin to seriously question my life choices.
- 3:00 PM: The sun briefly peeks through the clouds. For a fleeting moment, I see the lake in all its glory. It's beautiful, and I finally understand why people rave about it.
- 3:30 PM: Back to the hotel. The bus ride back is just as bad as the ride there. I'm exhausted, disappointed, and slightly damp.
- 5:30 PM: Shower. I feel like I need a long, hot shower to wash away the day's frustrations.
- 6:30 PM: I order room service. Comfort food is needed. I order the chicken. It's still underwhelming.
- 7:30 PM: Watch TV. I find a show about… baking? It's strangely comforting. I fall asleep on the couch.
Day 4: Redemption, Relaxation, and Ramen (Finally!)
- 8:00 AM: Wake up feeling refreshed. The Sun Moon Lake disaster is behind me. Today is a new day!
- 9:00 AM: Breakfast. Back to the buffet. This time, I'm a pro. I navigate the chaos with confidence and load up on pastries.
- **1
Unbelievable Luxury Awaits: Evergreen Laurel Hotel Taichung - Your Dream Taiwan Getaway! (…Maybe?)
Alright, Spill: Is This Place *Really* Luxurious? Like, Worth the Hype?
Okay, *deep breath*. "Luxurious" is subjective, right? My idea of luxury is a perfectly-sized avocado and a nap. This place... well, it's more like a whole-ass avocado orchard and a spa day that stretches into the next century. The Evergreen Laurel? Yeah, it's got the goods. Think: plush carpets you want to roll around in (I almost did, shamefully), marble bathrooms that could house a small family, and a view that'll make you question your life choices (in a good way!).
BUT… and there's always a but, isn't there? It's not *perfect* luxury. One time, the air conditioning in my room sounded like a dying walrus. And I swear, the elevator music was playing the same two songs on repeat for three days. Made me want to scream-sing along, which, let's be honest, I probably did at some point.
So, worth the hype? Mostly. It's the kind of place that makes you feel fancy, even if you're still wearing your slightly-stained travel t-shirt. Just maybe bring earplugs and a pre-loaded playlist for the elevators.
The Rooms: Are They Actually Comfortable? Or Just... Shiny?
Oh, the rooms! They're more than just shiny, thank goodness. I mean, the first thing you notice is probably the size. Seriously, some of these rooms are bigger than my entire apartment back home! You could host a small dance party in there. (I, uh, may have done a little jig.)
The beds? Heavenly. Like sleeping on a cloud made of marshmallows and pure, unadulterated comfort. I sank right in and didn't want to leave. The blackout curtains are a lifesaver if you're battling jet lag (which, let's be real, you probably will be). And the bathrooms… oh, the bathrooms! The deep soaking tubs are practically calling your name after a long day of exploring. Just be prepared to spend a good chunk of your trip just *existing* in that tub.
Okay, confession time: I once accidentally locked myself out of my room while wearing only a towel. The staff were incredibly polite, but the walk back to reception was mortifying. So, yeah, the rooms are comfortable. Just, you know, be careful with the door handles.
Food, Glorious Food! What's the Dining Scene Like?
Okay, buckle up, foodies! The Evergreen Laurel has a serious game when it comes to dining. We're talking multiple restaurants, each with its own vibe and culinary delights. The breakfast buffet? Prepare to enter a food coma of epic proportions. Seriously, the selection is insane. Dim sum, pastries, fresh fruit, made-to-order omelets... I ate my weight in tiny, delicious dumplings. (No regrets.)
I'm a sucker for a good sushi bar, and the hotel's was phenomenal. The fish was unbelievably fresh, and the chefs were masters of their craft. I spent a good hour just watching them work, mesmerized. And the teppanyaki restaurant? A total show! The chefs flip their knives, crack jokes, and cook up a feast right in front of you. It's a whole experience.
But here’s a small, slightly embarrassing story. I got overly enthusiastic at the dessert bar one night and ended up with about six mini-cakes on my plate. I could only manage to eat two, which left me feeling slightly guilty, and full. So, maybe pace yourself. Or don't. It's your vacation!
Location, Location, Location: Is it Convenient to Explore Taichung?
Okay, the location is pretty solid. It's not smack-dab in the *absolute* heart of the action, but it's definitely convenient. You're close to a lot of the major attractions, like the National Taiwan Museum of Fine Arts (which, by the way, is stunning) and the bustling night markets (where you can find everything from street food to quirky souvenirs).
Taxis are readily available, and public transportation is pretty easy to navigate (even for a clueless tourist like me). I took a bus to Sun Moon Lake, which was a bit of a trek but totally worth it. Just be prepared for some potential language barriers. Google Translate is your friend! And, honestly, sometimes just smiling and pointing works wonders.
The hotel itself is in a pretty safe area, so you don't have to worry too much about that. But always be aware of your surroundings, of course. And maybe learn a few basic Mandarin phrases. It’ll make your life a lot easier… and probably a lot funnier.
The Staff: Are They Actually Helpful? Or Just... Polite?
The staff at the Evergreen Laurel are genuinely lovely. They're polite, yes, but they're also incredibly helpful and go above and beyond to make your stay comfortable. They're the kind of people who remember your name, even if you only see them once. And they're always willing to offer a helping hand or a recommendation.
I have a story. I got hopelessly lost trying to find a particular street vendor. I asked a hotel staff member for help, and not only did they give me directions, they actually *walked* me part of the way! They didn't have to, but they did. That's the kind of service that makes a difference.
Okay, another story. I accidentally ordered a dish that was *way* too spicy for me. I was practically sweating bullets. The staff noticed and immediately brought me a glass of milk and a plate of cooling fruit. They were so attentive and compassionate. It was a small thing, but it made a big difference.
The Spa: Worth a Pampering Session?
Oh. My. Goodness. The spa. This deserves its own paragraph, its own chapter, its own *novel*. I'm not even a huge spa person, normally. I'm more of a "sit on the couch and eat chips" kind of person. But the Evergreen Laurel spa? Transcendent. Seriously, it's like they've bottled up pure relaxation and are selling it by the hour.
I booked a massage, and it was hands-down the best massage I've ever had in my life. The therapist was incredibly skilled, working out knots I didn't even *know* I had. The atmosphere was serene and calming, with soft music, aromatherapy, and all the little touches that make you feel pampered and cared for. I almost fell asleep on the table! (Okay, maybe I *did* fall asleep for a few minutes. Don't judge.)
After the massage, I spent some time in the sauna and steamStay Finder Blogs
