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Tainan, often regarded as Taiwan’s cultural capital, offers a fascinating mix of history, heritage, and modernity. As the island’s oldest city, Tainan carries the distinct marks of Dutch colonization, the Qing dynasty, and Japanese rule, creating a unique tapestry of cultures to explore. Just 1.5 hours by High-Speed Rail from Taipei, Tainan is a perfect destination for those keen to immerse themselves in its rich history. And for families looking for a comfortable, family-friendly hotel in the heart of the city, Silks Place Tainan is an excellent choice.

As far as I can remember, this was my first visit to Tainan, and I had the pleasure of staying at Silks Place Tainan. Tainan, Taiwan’s oldest city, is a captivating blend of rich history and modern charm. Founded in the 1600s during the Dutch colonization era, it was once the capital of Taiwan and continues to carry the title of the island’s cultural capital. With over 400 years of heritage, Tainan offers a fascinating mix of colonial Dutch, Qing dynasty, and Japanese influences, all woven into the fabric of the city.

A mere 1.5-hour ride from Taipei via the High-Speed Rail makes Tainan an easy escape for travelers seeking to explore the past while enjoying the convenience of modern-day amenities.

TIPS: You can always pre-purchase your train ticket here.

Location

The hotel is conveniently located in the city center. The location is an ideal base for both sightseeing and unwinding. It’s positioned close to a major department store and just a 15-minute drive from the airport, making it easy to access transportation and shopping.

The Stay

Silks Place Tainan boasts 255 well-appointed rooms, making it an ideal choice for families with its spacious accommodations and a variety of amenities for both adults and children. The rooms are offered in Regular and Silks Floors, with the latter providing access to the exclusive Silks Lounge.

For families, the Junior Family Suite stands out with its generous 52.9 sqm layout, featuring a King-sized bed, a tatami-inspired sitting area, and modern amenities such as a virtual concierge (Aiello Spot), smart TVs, and a minibar stocked with complimentary water and coffee. I had the pleasure of staying in this suite during my recent visit.

The suite’s design beautifully blends contemporary style with Japanese-inspired touches. The living area includes a large sitting space and a walk-in wardrobe, while the bedroom is separated by a sliding Japanese partition, offering a sense of privacy and tranquility.

The complimentary sparkling tea and winter melon tea ale, crafted in collaboration with local partners, were wonderfully refreshing. I love their sparkling tea!

In addition to the usual toiletries, I appreciated the thoughtful touches at Silks Place Tainan, such as the inclusion of complimentary face masks.

A Family-Friendly Hotel

At Silks Place Tainan, there’s no shortage of amenities for both adults and kids. The Kids Club is a haven for younger guests, offering games, PS4 consoles, and a variety of activities to keep them entertained. Adults can unwind at the fitness center, enjoy a refreshing dip in the pool, or simply relax in the lounge areas.

Hotel Facilities

Rooftop Infinity Pool
The temperature-controlled rooftop infinity pool offers stunning views of the city. During my visit around 5pm, it was a popular spot, with guests lounging by the pool and children enjoying the water. With cozy seating areas and even a fireplace nearby, I can easily imagine this as an ideal venue for a poolside gathering or event.

Gym
The gym at Silks Place Tainan is well-equipped, offering a good selection of free weights and cardio machines, including treadmills and bikes, making it a great spot to stay active during your stay.

Dining Experiences

Silks Place Tainan offers a variety of dining options to satisfy every taste. Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at Robin’s Grill, where a buffet featuring both Western and local specialties, including the renowned Tainan Beef Soup, awaits. Alternatively, hotel guests can enjoy a more traditional breakfast experience on the ballroom’s Level 2..

For dinner, we had the pleasure of dining at Silks House, where a team of expert chefs masterfully prepares exquisite Cantonese and Taiwanese fine-dining dishes that are sure to delight any connoisseur. The menu features a curated selection of Cantonese signature dishes, Hong Kong-style dim sum, and beloved Taiwanese classics, offering guests a top-tier dining experience. It truly was a feast for the senses.

T-Bar, located adjacent to the hotel reception, is an artisanal café offering specialty coffee along with a selection of organic Chinese and British teas. During our stay, we also had the unique experience of a perfume-making session, where the fragrance was infused with the rich scent of coffee.

During our visit, we also stopped by the Glass House bar, located beside the pool. The bar offers a playful and interactive drinking experience, featuring a 108-shot tower and a roulette-style game with shots inspired by the 36 Stratagems, a classic Chinese strategy text.

Nearby Attractions

Beyond the comforts of Silks Place Tainan, the city offers a rich tapestry of experiences that beautifully blend tradition and modernity. Just next door, you’ll find Shinkong Mitsukoshi, a popular department store for those looking to indulge in some shopping. For an authentic taste of local culture, a visit to Yongle Market is a must—here, you can savor traditional Tainan street food like pig tongue dumplings.

Tainan is also famed for its vibrant night markets, and Dadong Night Market is the perfect place to sample delicious street food, enjoy games, and soak in the lively atmosphere. To delve deeper into the city’s past, don’t miss the Old Tainan Magistrate Residence, a historical gem that now houses exhibitions, a charming café, and a boutique store. Tainan, with its unique blend of cultural attractions, delectable food, and historical sites, offers something for every traveler.

In conclusion, Tainan effortlessly weaves together the charm of its history, rich culture, and modern conveniences. Silks Place Tainan is the ideal base for exploring this fascinating city, offering luxurious accommodations, family-friendly amenities, and a central location that makes discovering Tainan’s hidden gems a breeze. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning to experience more, a stay at Silks Place Tainan guarantees a memorable and enriching getaway.

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Nestled in the serene hot spring district of Beitou, Wellspring by Silks offers a haven of relaxation and modern comfort. Among its various accommodations, the Hollywood King Room stands out for its spacious design and thoughtful amenities, promising a rejuvenating stay for couples and solo travellers alike. This is the latest property under Silks Group that opened few months ago.

Location

The hotel is ideally situated just a 3-minute walk from Xinbeitou MRT Station, offering easy and convenient access for travelers. For added convenience, guests can also choose to pre-book a charter bus ride directly from the airport to the hotel.

Room Experience: Hollywood King Room

Among the hotel’s offerings, the Hollywood King Room stands out for its spacious layout and refined touches, making it a top choice for those seeking relaxation in style.

Situated on the 7th to 15th floors, the Hollywood King Room spans 43 square meters and features a plush Hollywood King Bed (240 x 200 cm) for ultimate comfort. The sleek, modern interiors are perfectly paired with the surrounding natural beauty, creating a peaceful and inviting ambiance.
The Hollywood King Room is designed to elevate your stay with a range of premium amenities:

• Dual Bathtubs: Indulge in both a hot spring bath and a cold water bath in the privacy of your room, complemented by an independent shower and a TOTO electronic toilet seat for added convenience.
• Pillow Menu: Tailor your sleep experience with options such as tea pillows, memory foam, hypoallergenic, or Dupont pillows.
• In-Room Entertainment: A Panasonic LED TV with English and Chinese programs, as well as digital streaming options, ensures endless entertainment.
• Personal Touches: Yukata robes, faux-rush slippers, personal toiletries, a hair dryer, and plush towels enhance the luxurious experience.
• Beverage Options: Enjoy complimentary spring water, Nespresso coffee, pyramid tea bags, and a one-time complimentary minibar selection.

Tech-Forward Features

Designed for the modern traveler, the room offers a multi-media sockets panel, an electronic safe, and complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the property, providing ultimate convenience and connectivity. What’s even more impressive is the ability to check daily flight timings directly from the TV, with Netflix and other streaming services readily available as well.

The Hollywood King Room effortlessly combines luxury and comfort, offering private hot spring tubs that serve as a perfect retreat after a day of exploration. With its thoughtfully curated amenities and elegant design, it’s an excellent choice for anyone looking to unwind in style. Personally, I appreciated the privacy of having my own hot spring tub within the room, allowing me to relax without needing to visit the public baths. The spacious layout and cozy ambiance of the room added to the overall comfort, making my stay even more enjoyable.

What I appreciate about the room is the thoughtful inclusion of a full set of amenities, which even features a facial mask sheet and yukata for hotel guests. It’s such a considerate and charming gesture.

Hotel Facilities

Wellspring by Silks Beitou offers a curated selection of facilities designed to enhance your stay with relaxation and comfort. The Sky Garden provides a serene space to unwind while enjoying stunning views of Beitou’s natural landscape, complete with a hot spring pool for guests to soak in the region’s renowned thermal waters.

Guests can also take advantage of the gym facilities and a dedicated yoga area for their enjoyment. A dedicated kids’ corner for families who are traveling with children.

For those seeking leisure and entertainment, the hotel features a Reading Lounge, perfect for quiet moments with a book, and a cozy Coffee Corner offering refreshments. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the property, ensuring you stay connected during your visit. Each facility is thoughtfully crafted to complement the tranquil atmosphere, making your stay an enriching and rejuvenating experience.

Interesting Fact:

For those planning a day trip to Beitou for a hot spring experience, Wellspring by Silks Beitou offers hourly rate hot spring services. Guests can choose between the public bath or a private bathhouse, with the latter providing a serene ambiance and customized settings to suit individual preferences. For added convenience, you can pre-purchase your hot spring experience directly through here.

Dining Experience

Wellspring by Silks Beitou offers an exceptional dining experience with its two standout venues, Mihan and Bando Club. At Mihan, guests can indulge in authentic Japanese-style hot pot dining, featuring premium ingredients and flavorful broths that highlight the essence of seasonal produce. The serene ambiance and impeccable service make it a perfect choice for a relaxed and intimate meal.

For those looking to explore diverse flavors, the Bando Club offers an elevated dining experience with its thoughtfully curated selection of Taiwanese fusion dishes. Blending traditional flavors with modern culinary techniques, the menu showcases the rich heritage of Taiwanese cuisine, turning each meal into a memorable gastronomic journey. We enjoyed a delightful feast during dinner, with every dish tasting exceptional and beautifully presented. The restaurant’s inviting ambiance also makes it an excellent choice for gatherings with friends.

Things to Do Around the Hotel

The Wellsprings by Silks Beitou is perfectly situated to explore some of Beitou’s most popular attractions, offering guests a variety of activities to enjoy during their stay. Literature enthusiasts can visit the charming Beitou Library, while nature lovers will appreciate the stunning Thermal Valley and the serene beauty of Yangmingshan National Park. For those seeking adventure, hiking trails at Mount Datun promise breathtaking views. The hotel is also conveniently close to train station, making it easy to explore the vibrant local market and other nearby areas. This strategic location ensures guests can immerse themselves in the cultural and natural wonders of Beitou with ease.

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It’s been almost a decade since my last visit to Yilan, and I’m thrilled to be back, even if it’s just for a short one-night trip. This time, I had the pleasure of staying at Silks Place Yilan, a charming family-friendly retreat nestled in the heart of Yilan. Known for its exceptional hospitality, well-curated amenities, and engaging activities, the hotel offers a perfect blend of luxury and relaxation, making it an ideal getaway for both parents and kids.

The Location

Situated within the Luna Plaza shopping complex, Silks Place Yilan boasts a prime location with convenient access to shopping, dining, and entertainment options. The hotel features spacious, modern rooms thoughtfully designed with families in mind, offering large beds and inviting interiors that ensure a restful stay. Each room comes equipped with child-friendly amenities, ensuring young guests are as well-cared-for as their parents. Additionally, the hotel’s proximity to key attractions in Yilan makes it an excellent base for exploring the area.

The Stay

During my stay at Silks Place Yilan, which boasts 193 well-appointed guestrooms with 15 different suite and room layouts designed for maximum comfort and space, I stayed in the Superior Room with a balcony overlooking the swimming pool and cityscape. The modern and stylish room design reflects local artistic influences, embracing the concept of “a hotel within a hotel.”

The spacious room features an open-concept bathtub, complete amenities including a Dyson hairdryer, and thoughtful welcome gifts such as Yilan’s specialty tea bags, stickers and local snacks.

While I appreciated the overall comfort, I found the bed too soft for my preference, though my friend enjoyed it. Personally, I prefer firmer beds like the ones at Regent Taipei. The room also includes charming stickers and high-quality slippers designed for families, which guests can bring home as keepsakes.

Hotel Facilities

Silks Place Yilan offers an array of luxurious facilities to elevate the guest experience. Highlights include a rooftop swimming pool and Jacuzzi with breathtaking city views, a modern fitness center, and a rejuvenating spa blending Eastern and Western wellness therapies.

Families will appreciate the dedicated children’s play area filled with interactive activities, while the on-site movie theater provides a unique entertainment option. Guests can check the day’s movie schedule and pre-book tickets at the reception. Once collected, they can conveniently access the cinema directly via the hotel’s lift.

A Wonderland for Kids

Silks Place Yilan is a haven for families, offering a dedicated Kids’ Play Area and Children’s Pool to keep young guests happily entertained for hours. The Silks Kid’s Club provides a variety of interactive activities, including workshops, arts and crafts, and storytelling sessions that inspire creativity and imagination. Families can also enjoy outdoor bonding activities like cycling or relaxing in the hotel’s lush gardens. It’s the ultimate destination for families with children—a one-stop hub of fun and entertainment to keep the little ones engaged throughout the holiday.

Dining Experience

Dining at Silks Place Yilan is a culinary journey that delights the senses. The on-site restaurants offer a diverse selection of cuisines, from authentic Taiwanese dishes to international flavors, ensuring something for every palate. For younger guests, specially curated kids’ menus provide tasty and nutritious options.

One of the hotel’s highlights is Red Lantern Chinese Restaurant, renowned for its signature Cherry Roasted Duck. During our stay, we had the pleasure of indulging in their exquisite ten-course menu, featuring various ways to savor the roast duck—a true feast for duck lovers. Due to its popularity, the restaurant is often fully booked, with reservations required months in advance. If you’re planning to try this iconic dish, be sure to secure your reservation well ahead of time, as walk-ins are rarely accommodated.

Exclusive Perks for Families

One standout feature is the Family Package, which includes perks like access to the children’s play areas, complimentary meals for kids, and special discounts on workshops and activities. This thoughtful approach enhances the experience, making Silks Place Yilan a standout among family-friendly hotels in Taiwan.

Another memorable activity is the opportunity to create personalized postcards and send them to friends or family back home, offering a thoughtful way to commemorate your stay at the hotel.

Things to Do Around Yilan

While the hotel is a destination, its location in Yilan makes it an excellent base for exploring nearby attractions. Visit the Yilan Dongshan River Water Park, marvel at the Jimmy Plaza art installations, or enjoy a day at the National Center for Traditional Arts. These experiences offer a deeper connection to Taiwanese culture and nature. You can read more about the places to visit in Yilan from my previous post.

Silks Place Yilan strikes a perfect balance between elegance and family fun. Its well-thought-out amenities and activities cater to every member of the family, ensuring a memorable stay. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or an extended holiday, this hotel promises an experience where luxury meets family warmth.

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During my recent 6D5N trip to Taiwan, I had the pleasure of staying at The Regent Taipei, a luxurious haven nestled in the heart of Taipei’s vibrant Zhongshan District. Renowned for its impeccable service and exquisite attention to detail, this five-star gem offers an unrivalled blend of elegance, comfort, and convenience.

Location

Situated in a prime location just a short walk from Zhongshan Station, Regent Taipei offers unmatched convenience for both business and leisure travellers. The hotel has the seamless access to Taipei’s MRT network.

The Stay
Regent Taipei impresses with its expansive rooms, some of the largest in the city, averaging 45 square meters. Upon entering, I was immediately enveloped in the room’s warm ambiance and luxurious amenities, setting the stage for a truly indulgent stay.

For those desiring an elevated experience, the Tai Pan Club Rooms offer a premium stay. Guests gain exclusive access to the Tai Pan Lounge on the 19th floor, complete with private check-ins, personal butler service, and a complimentary minibar. The lounge also features private meeting spaces, business facilities, and sweeping views of Taipei.

With offerings like a private breakfast, afternoon tea, and evening cocktails, the lounge provides an intimate, high-end experience. During my stay in a Tai Pan Room, these exclusive perks made for an unforgettable experience.

Hotel Facilities

Regent Taipei offers two distinct lounges. The Tai Pan Lounge is reserved for Tai Pan and suite guests, offering a refined space with premium services. Meanwhile, the Balcony Lounge on the 5th floor is available for IHG elite members, offering a cozy atmosphere with afternoon tea and evening cocktails. Families will also appreciate the nearby Kids Club, where dedicated staff ensure children are well cared for, allowing parents to relax.

For fitness enthusiasts, the fitness center on the basement level is open daily, featuring a sauna and personalized workout sessions. The hotel’s standout feature is its rooftop pool, open until 10:30 pm, offering poolside service and even evening outdoor cinema screenings—a unique and memorable experience in Taipei.

Dining Experience

During our stay, we had the pleasure of dining at Robin’s Grill, a Michelin Guide-recommended teppanyaki restaurant that offers an exceptional culinary experience. The menu, featuring seasonal ingredients, showcases the finest cuts of meat and fresh produce, prepared with precision and skill. We opted for the six-course dinner, perfectly complemented by a thoughtful tea pairing. Each dish was crafted with premium ingredients, delivering an upscale dining experience that combines exquisite flavors with impeccable service and ambiance.

Another standout dining option is the Brasserie, a popular buffet restaurant beloved by both locals and hotel guests. Known for its impressive variety, the Brasserie offers a wide selection of dishes that cater to diverse tastes. The hotel’s breakfast buffet is equally impressive, offering an international spread with something to satisfy every palate, from freshly prepared delicacies to hearty options for a fulfilling start to the day.

We also had the opportunity to dine at Silks Palace, which offers a unique selection of dishes inspired by the treasures of the National Palace Museum (NPM). The restaurant provides an immersive dining experience where the cuisine mirrors the museum’s prized artifacts, engaging all five senses. It’s fascinating to see these iconic pieces come to life in the form of food, creating a dynamic connection between art and gastronomy. This interactive experience is especially meaningful for guests who have visited the museum, allowing them to relate to the artifacts in a new and creative way.

Pre-book your visit to National Palace Museum via here.

Before lunch, we also participated in a Lady Bun DIY session, where we had the fun opportunity to ‘create’ our own Lady Bun before steaming it. It was a delightful and hands-on experience that added a touch of creativity to our visit!

Website: https://www.silkspalace.com.tw/en/theclassics-en

Regent Taipei offers guests the option of a guided tour to Chifeng Street, though you can also choose to explore the surrounding neighborhood at your own pace. Just a 16-minute walk from Ningxia Night Market, the hotel places you in close proximity to local gems and cultural landmarks.

If luxury shopping is your weakness, Regent Taipei is your ultimate haven. The hotel boasts The Galleria, a premier shopping destination where you can indulge in high-end retail therapy without stepping out of the property.

More than just accommodation, Regent Taipei transforms your trip into an exceptional experience. Whether you’re in town for leisure, business, or a romantic getaway, the hotel effortlessly combines comfort, sophistication, and outstanding service. Ready to treat yourself to a luxurious escape? Book your stay at Regent Taipei and create unforgettable memories in the vibrant heart of Taipei.

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Discovering the hidden gems of Keelung on a day trip from Taipei is recommended to any frequent travelers in Taiwan. Situated northeast of Taipei along the picturesque north coast, Keelung is referred to as the “Port of Taipei” offers a blend of cultural experiences, culinary delights, and scenic landscapes that are sure to captivate your interest.  

Here is my guide to making the most of your Taipei to Keelung day trip goes:

By Train: There are several ways to travel from Taipei to Keelung, catering to different preferences and budgets. The most popular option is by train, with frequent services departing from Taipei Main Station, Songshan Station, or Nangang Station. The journey takes approximately 45 minutes to one hour, offering scenic views along the way.

By Bus: Alternatively, you can opt for a bus ride, with routes departing from various stations in Taipei City. We opt for the 30 minutes bus ride (Bus 1800) from Taipei City Hall Bus Staton to Keelung City. We went on a weekday, so the road traffic was smooth. It is not recommended to take the bus on weekends or public holidays as the road traffic can be congested.

TIPS: Since the bus will go through the highway route, there will be a seat for every passenger. So, no need to worry about standing on the bus throughout the journey. The bus driver will not accept standing passengers. 
Your Easycard can be used for bus ride too. You can pre-purchase it here.
Quote "HAZELOFFKLOOK" to enjoy S$5 off when you book with KLOOK.

By Car:If you prefer the flexibility of driving, you can pre-book your private car here or check with hotel to assist you on getting a taxi/cab allowing you to explore Keelung at your own pace.

Immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture at Ren’ai Market, a bustling marketplace teeming with activity. Here, you’ll discover an array of fresh produce, local delicacies, and unique souvenirs waiting to be explored. Take your time navigating the market, indulging in authentic Taiwanese snacks, and engaging with the welcoming vendors.

Venture to the second level of the market, where a plethora of stalls beckon with fresh sashimi and seafood delights. Don’t miss the opportunity to sample fresh oysters and prawns at affordable prices from one of the stalls. For those craving sashimi treats, there are plenty of options to satisfy your palate.

Additionally, explore the classic and modern coffee shops located on the same level. Treat yourself to a satisfying lunch before the next stop.

Opening Hours: Daily 8:00AM-5:00PM

Address: No. 21號, Aisan Rd, Ren’ai District, Keelung City, Taiwan 200

Begin your exploration at the vibrant Keelung Harbour, where you can stroll along the Maritime Plaza and admire the breathtaking views of the coastline. Take a moment to relax by the water, soaking in the bustling atmosphere of this historic port city.

Originally named Takasago, Zhongshan Bridge stands as Taiwan’s oldest railway bridge, connecting the immigrant settlement of Seine-Tsai-Liu to Keelung Train Station. Its distinctive blue structure, reminiscent of the historical passage in Takasagomachi during Japanese occupation, has been a witness to over 40 years of Keelung’s history. For locals, it holds cherished childhood memories of trains arriving and departing, though now its role has shifted with the construction of a semi-underground railway.

Today, Zhongshan Bridge serves as a nostalgic shortcut from Keelung Train Station to An 1st Road, inviting visitors to explore the area’s local cuisine. In the cinematic masterpiece “Millennium Mambo,” directed by Hou Hsiao-hsien, the bridge takes on a mesmerizing allure, especially in the iconic opening scene featuring actress Shu Qi dancing in the midnight air, embodying a sense of freedom against the dreamy backdrop of Zhongshan Bridge.

To reach Zhengbin Fishing Harbor, a scenic waterfront area renowned for its vibrant buildings and breathtaking vistas, you have the option to either catch a bus from the main station or hail a cab. Once there, take your time exploring the harbor’s picturesque surroundings and capturing memorable photos against the beautiful backdrop.

After capturing your desired shots, consider taking a stroll around and visiting one of the cozy cafes nestled nearby for a cup of tea or coffee. The cafes here are nice to chill and savor the tranquil ambiance before the next stop.

Conclude your day with a visit to Zhongzheng Park, where you can enjoy panoramic views of Keelung and beyond. Marvel at the towering Guan Yin statue and soak in the tranquil ambiance of this scenic park before heading back to Taipei. We decided not to visit the park and went back to the station and took a bus back to Taipei city.

No trip to Keelung is truly complete without immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Miaokou Night Market. With some stalls opening as early as 4pm, embark on a culinary journey through a plethora of street food delights. From delectable oyster omelets to refreshing peanut ice, there’s something to tantalize every palate.

For an unforgettable experience, plan your visit on a Saturday or Sunday night to witness the mesmerizing glow of the iconic yellow lanterns illuminating the lively streets.

In summary, embarking on a day trip to Keelung from Taipei offers an enriching opportunity to immerse yourself in the allure and heritage of this historic port city. Diverging from the typical tourist attractions of Taipei, Keelung provides a tranquil escape where you can savor moments of serenity and embrace the local culture.

Moreover, Keelung’s proximity to Jiufen Old Street and the hiking trails of Yangmingshan Mountain presents the perfect opportunity for a comprehensive exploration of the region. If you’re traveling by private car, you can easily incorporate these destinations into your Taiwan itinerary for a day of discovery.