Long Hong Taiwan: The Hidden Gem You NEED to Discover!
Okay, buckle up, buttercups! Because I'm about to spill the Taiwan tea on Long Hong, the place nobody told you about, but everyone should know. Forget those cookie-cutter resorts, this place is… well, it's got personality. And it’s got Wi-Fi. Thank the gods of connectivity! (Seriously, I need it to work.)
Long Hong Taiwan: The Hidden Gem You NEED to Discover! (Because Honestly, It’s Weirdly Wonderful – and That’s a Compliment)
Let's be honest, planning a trip is exhausting. Finding a good hotel that actually works for you? Even harder. So, I'm here to cut through the BS and give you the real deal on Long Hong. This isn't your average, sanitized travel brochure. This is the unvarnished… well, the slightly polished, but still real, truth.
(Accessibility - Let's Get Down to Brass Tacks)
Okay, first things first: Accessibility. I'm not a wheelchair user, but I did wander around, and frankly, it seemed pretty decent. Elevator is a major win, and they have facilities for disabled guests. (I saw the little blue signs!) It's not going to be perfect, but it's trying. Look, not every place in Taiwan is built with full accessibility in mind, so I appreciate the effort. Car park [on-site] and Car park [free of charge] make things easier.
(On-site Eats and Drinks – Fueling the Adventure)
This is where things get interesting. Restaurants, restaurants, restaurants! And not just the same boring continental stuff. They've got Asian cuisine in restaurant (duh, you're in Taiwan!), plus Western cuisine in restaurant if you're craving a burger. There's a buffet in restaurant (I’m a sucker for a buffet!), and also the holy grail, a Poolside bar! Imagine: sun, a cold drink, and questionable life choices. Heavenly. Coffee/tea in restaurant (essential!), and a Snack bar for those midnight cravings. There's a Bar too, by the way, great for knocking back a drink before you dive into the Pool with view and Swimming pool [outdoor].
Let me just pause for a second. I had the BEST dumplings at one of their restaurants. Seriously, melt-in-your-mouth, the kind that makes you want to hug the chef (I restrained myself). The A la carte in restaurant option let me sample everything. And the Happy hour… well, let's just say I have a vague recollection of karaoke and a questionable dance-off. Worth it.
(A Little Pampering and Zen – Because You Deserve It)
Okay, you’re on vacation. You’ve earned this. The Spa is legit. They’ve got pretty much everything you could want: Body scrub, Body wrap, Massage, Sauna, Steamroom… The works. I nearly fell asleep during the massage. It was pure bliss. They have a Foot bath, which my tired travel feet loved. The Gym/fitness is there if you feel guilty about eating all the dumplings, and a Pool with view to relax in. Consider it your reward.
(Cleanliness and Keeping it Safe (And Maybe a Bit Paranoid, But Hey, That's Okay))
This is the important stuff. Let's be clear: I'm a germaphobe. But, Long Hong seems to take safety seriously. They have Anti-viral cleaning products, Daily disinfection in common areas, Hand sanitizer everywhere (thank god), and Rooms sanitized between stays. I could breathe easy, which is a huge plus. Staff trained in safety protocol, Safe dining setup, Sanitized kitchen and tableware items. They even removed Shared stationery. The extra care is obvious. There’s also a Doctor/nurse on call and a First aid kit. I felt safe, which is, you know, kind of important.
(Dining, Drinking, and Snacking – The Fuel of Life!)
Okay, I already raved about the restaurants, but let's drive this home. Breakfast [buffet]. YES! Asian breakfast, Western breakfast, all the carbs and caffeine you could ever dream of. Coffee/tea in restaurant. Bottle of water (hydration is crucial). And, if you're feeling fancy, room service [24-hour]. The Desserts in restaurant are dangerous – seriously, bring your stretchy pants. They also have a Vegetarian restaurant.
(Services and Conveniences – Because Life Should Be Easy)
Okay, let's quickly highlight some of the other helpful things. Air conditioning in public area, Air conditioning, (essential in Taiwan!), cash withdrawal, concierge, currency exchange, daily housekeeping, dry cleaning, elevator, gift/souvenir shop, ironing service, laundry service, luggage storage, safety deposit boxes, terrace, taxi service, and valet parking. Need I say more? This place thinks of everything! They even have Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! (Seriously. Bless them.)
(For the Kids – Keeping the Little Ones Happy)
They have Babysitting service, which is a godsend, and they are Family/child friendly, Kids facilities, Kids meal. I didn’t bring any kids with me, but I saw them having fun, so that's a win.
(Rooms – Your Home Away From Home (Except With Better Service))
The rooms are comfy and clean, with all the usual suspects: air conditioning, alarm clock, bathrobe, bathtub, black-out curtains, coffee/tea maker, desk, hair dryer, in-room safe box, internet access -wireless, iron facilities, laptop workspace, mini bar, non-smoking room, private bathroom, refrigerator, safety/security features, satellite/cable channels, shower, slippers, smoke detector, telephone, toiletries, towels, wake up service, and Wi-Fi [free] (I can’t stress this enough how important that is). My room had a window that opens which is crucial for fresh air, and a Sofa also, perfect for crashing after a long day! I mean it's not the Ritz, but it's comfortable and gets the job done.
(Let's Talk About the Little Things)
Sometimes, it’s the small details that make or break a place. They offer Complimentary tea, Extra long bed, Free bottled water, Internet access – LAN, Internet access – wireless, Interconnecting room(s), On-demand movies, and On-site event hosting. I was especially impressed by the Daily housekeeping and Room sanitization opt-out available. I mean, it comes down to what you need as a guest.
(Getting Around – Navigating the Urban Jungle)
They've got Airport transfer, Car park [free of charge], Car park [on-site], Taxi service… getting around is easy.
(And Now, For The Really Good Stuff… My Personal Anecdote)
Okay, so here's the moment I fell in love with Long Hong. I went for a massage (as you do). The masseuse was this tiny, incredibly skilled woman named Mei. She didn't speak much English, but she had the most amazing energy. She worked out knots I didn't even know I had, and afterwards, she brought me a cup of ginger tea and just… smiled. That felt SO genuine. It's those little moments, those human connections, that make a trip memorable. And, it made me realize, this hotel isn't just a place to stay; it's a place where people genuinely care.
(The Imperfections, Because Nothing's Perfect)
Look, it wasn’t perfect. The Wi-Fi sometimes cut out (which made me very grumpy), and one of the elevators was a little slow. And the decor is… well, it's got character. The carpet in the hallway had a faded floral pattern that looked straight out of the 80s. But honestly, it added to the charm. The place is not the newest! Those aren't dealbreakers. You get used to them. I would have liked a bigger gym. But hey, can't have everything, right?
(Final Verdict: Book This Place! Seriously.)
Overall: Long Hong Taiwan is a hidden treasure. It's not flawless, but it's full of heart and soul. It’s clean, safe, and the staff genuinely cares about making your stay amazing. The things to do, amenities, and restaurants are there!
Here's Why YOU Need to Book and a Special Offer
Why You Should Book Now:
- Authenticity: Forget generic hotels; Long Hong is real, quirky, and genuinely Taiwanese. You’ll experience the local culture.
- Value for Money: You get so much for your money with the amenities, and it's a steal compared to the big, soulless chains.
- Relaxation Guaranteed: From the spa to the pool to the amazing food, this place is all about unwinding.
- Safety First: They take cleanliness and safety seriously, so you can relax and enjoy your vacation.
- Convenience: It's got everything! All you
Alright, buckle up, buttercups, because we're diving headfirst into my slightly-less-than-perfect, gloriously messy, and probably-slightly-over-caffeinated itinerary for Long Hong Taiwan. Consider this less a rigid schedule and more a loose suggestion with a hefty dose of my inner monologue.
Day 1: Arrival & Taipei - The Concrete Jungle Blues (and Noodles!)
- Morning (Like, really early): Flight lands in Taoyuan International Airport. Seriously, can someone invent travel-sized anti-gravity pills? My back already hates me. Customs: Smooth as silk, surprisingly. Then… the airport MRT. Okay, here’s the first test: can I figure out the EasyCard and not become a public transportation menace? (Spoiler: I probably will.)
- Rambling digression: Why is airport lighting always so aggressively fluorescent? It instantly makes me feel like a slightly-wilted office plant.
- Mid-Morning: Arrive at my hotel in Taipei (fingers crossed it's not a haunted closet), quickly drop my things (and maybe cry a little about the lack of personal space) before hitting the streets. First impressions? Taipei hits you over the head with a kaleidoscope of smells and sounds. Motorcycles are the true emperors of the road here.
- Quirky observation: The Taiwanese, in my limited observation, seem unfazed by chaos. Cars honking, people bustling, scooters weaving – it's a symphony of organized mayhem.
- Lunch: Ding Tai Fung - I know, I know, everyone raves about it. But the soup dumplings (xiao long bao)? Pure, unfettered, dumpling perfection. I'm talking near-religious experience. I practically inhaled them, scalding my tongue in my eagerness. Worth it. Every. Single. Scald.
- Strong emotional reaction: Okay, THAT was better than I ever imagined. Seriously, I want to marry a dumpling.
- Afternoon: Taipei 101. Okay, the views are breathtaking; panoramic, awe-inspiring, all the clichés. But…the lines? The crowds? Honestly, I spent more time navigating the gift shop than actually enjoying the view. Maybe I should have pre-booked tickets. Note to self: Research things properly before going.
- Opinionated language: Tourist trap, with a view. Still, glad I went.
- Evening: Shilin Night Market – Sensory overload achieved! The sheer volume of food stalls is mind-boggling. I sampled everything from stinky tofu (…let’s just say it’s an acquired taste. I haven't really acquired it.) to ridiculously delicious fried chicken. I walked around with my camera, trying to capture the energy and the sheer messiness of it all. Found a random dude with a really cool fish tank. Also got hopelessly lost and had to ask a very patient, and very handsome, Taiwanese woman for directions. #blessed
- Messier structure: Seriously, the night market is a world unto itself. The noise, the smells, the crazy food… it's overwhelming in the best kind of way. I even attempted to play a game for a stuffed animal, but, predictably, failed spectacularly. I think I got scammed.
- Anecdote: The stinky tofu nearly did me in, but as I was trying to fight back the urge to vomit, the person next to me was happily devouring theirs. Cultural differences, indeed.
- Dinner: Stinky tofu (lol). But then some delicious beef noodles to cleanse the "palate".
- Bedtime: I think I'm exhausted. Jet lag is a cruel mistress.
Day 2: Taipei - Temples, Teahouses & a Touch of Culture (and a Lot of Walking)
- Morning: Longshan Temple. Stunning. Absolutely stunning. The incense, the carvings, the air of serenity amidst the bustling city… It was genuinely moving. Spent some time people-watching, which, let's be honest, is one of my favorite hobbies.
- Emotional reaction: Feeling a bit overwhelmed by the sheer beauty of the place. I almost teared up a little. The energy here is palpable.
- Mid-Morning: National Palace Museum. A treasure trove of Chinese art and artifacts. I got lost in the jade carvings and calligraphy scrolls. Seriously, how did they make this stuff? My brain hurts, but in a good way.
- Imperfection: The museum was HUGE. I only saw a tiny fraction of what was on offer. I'm already plotting a return trip.
- Lunch: A cute little vegetarian restaurant near the museum. Surprisingly delicious and healthy (a welcome change from the fried food fest of the night market).
- Afternoon: Maokong Gondola & Tea tasting. The gondola ride offered amazing city views, a little bit of vertigo, and some good photo opportunities. Then, tea tasting at a traditional teahouse. It's a very calming experience. My cup runneth over with beautiful tea.
- Doubling down on the experience: Sitting in the teahouse, listening to the silence, sipping tea, overlooking the tea gardens felt like a full-circle moment.
- Evening: Dinner in the Ximending district. Trendy, colorful, full of shops, and street performers. Ate some more noodles, and somehow found myself buying an anime keychain. (Don't judge me!)
- Rambling: Why does my wallet always feel lighter at the start of a trip, despite the fact that I swore I'd budget better this time?
- Bedtime: Another long day. My feet are screaming. I'm starting to think I actually like Taiwan.
Day 3: Taroko Gorge & Hualien - Nature's Grandeur (and a Slightly-Panicked Train Ride)
- Morning: Early train to Hualien, the gateway to Taroko National Park. The train was an experience. (Not a bad one!) I managed to snag a window seat and just watched the landscape fly by.
- Mid-Morning: Arrive in Hualien. (The train was delayed!) Rent a scooter (gulp). Okay, I'm not a scooter person, but this seemed the best way to explore the gorge. Wish me luck.
- Afternoon: Taroko Gorge: Holy Mother of God. The marble cliffs, the rushing river, the tunnels carved into the mountains… it's breathtaking.
- Anecdote: I almost drove off a cliff taking a picture. (Just kidding! Mostly.) I almost got run over by a truck though. It was scary.
- Opinionated language: The sheer majesty of Taroko is almost overwhelming. It’s a must-see.
- Evening: Dinner in Hualien city: more delicious food!
- Note to self: I need to invest in a food journal - and a bigger stomach.
- Bedtime: Exhausted, slightly traumatized by the scooter incident, but humbled by nature's beauty.
(I'll leave it here, simply because my attention span has vanished; however, I hope this is a good starting point. The remaining days would involve, as you see, exploring other cities, beaches, and hot springs, but I'm exhausted.)
Remember, this is my messy, wonderful version of Taiwan. Yours will, hopefully, be just as chaotic… and perhaps a little less reliant on near-death scooter experiences. Enjoy your trip! And eat all the dumplings!
Unbelievable Luxury Awaits: Muong Thanh Dien Lam's Hidden Gem!
Long Hong Taiwan: Seriously, You're Missing Out! (And I Kinda Love That!)
Wait, Where IS Long Hong? I've Never Heard of It! Is it Even on the Map?
Okay, first of all, breathe. You're not alone. Before I went, I was pretty much the same. Long Hong (sometimes written as "Longgang") is in Taiwan. But NOT Taipei, or Taichung, or even those *other* touristy places. It's in the south of Taiwan! Seriously south, like, where the palm trees actually feel the sun kind of south. Think near Kaohsiung, but even *more* off the beaten path. Honestly, part of me loves that it's a secret. Less crowds! Although, also, it makes explaining where you're going a real pain in the a**.
Okay, Okay, So Why Long Hong? What's the Big Deal? (Besides Being Hard to Find, Apparently!)
Alright, here's the deal. Long Hong is… *authentic*. Think less flashy, Instagram-perfect, and more… real life. It's got this incredible coastline, with these *beaches*, dude. Not those manicured, packed-with-loungers beaches. These are… wild. And the food! Oh, the food. Forget Michelin stars, you're talking about secret family recipes, street food so good it’ll make you weep, and seafood… straight from the ocean, literally! And the people! Seriously, the people. They're so welcoming... even if your Mandarin is about as good as, well, mine was before I went. (Spoiler alert: it's still not stellar, but they *get it*.)
What's the Best Time to Visit? I Hate Crowds (and Rain!)
Hmm, crowds are usually minimal in Long Hong, so you're good there. Weather-wise... well, avoiding the typhoon season (summer/early fall) is a smart move. Spring and autumn are lovely, with pleasant temperatures. Winter can be mild, but be prepared for some potentially drizzly days. Honestly? I went in Spring, and it was absolutely PERFECT. Not too hot, not too cold, and everything was blooming. The one time I went back was in typhoon season, and I was basically trapped. That was a bit much. So, Spring or Autumn!
Okay, Sold! But How Do I ACTUALLY Get There? It Sounds Tricky.
Alright, so here's where it gets a *little* less perfect. You'll probably fly into Kaohsiung International Airport (KHH). From there, you can take a taxi (probably the easiest, though potentially the most expensive), a high-speed rail to a nearby station then a taxi, or, if you're feeling adventurous (and have a good GPS), rent a car. Public transport within and around Long Hong is… *limited*. Be prepared for a bit of a trek. But hey, the journey is part of the adventure, right? (I say that knowing full well that I spent like, three hours lost once, but still... the adventure!).
What Can I *DO* in Long Hong? I’m Not Just Going To Sit on a Beach ALL Day, Am I? (Although…)
Okay, first of all, YES, you could absolutely sit on the beach all day. And honestly, I wouldn't blame you. But there’s more! There’s surfing (the waves aren't *massive*, but they're fun!), you can explore the coastline, find hidden coves, and wander through the local markets. They'll try to feed you everything. Don't resist. There is diving and snorkeling. You can also just chill out and chat with the locals. They are amazing story tellers. The temples are really fascinating... one of them is really ancient and I spent like, an entire afternoon there. It was amazing. Oh! And the food tours! Do the food tours. Seriously. One, I'm still dreaming about the dumplings...
The Food! Tell Me About the Food! I'm Already Hungry.
Oh, the food! This is where Long Hong *really* shines. Think fresh seafood, grilled to perfection. Night markets overflowing with all sorts of amazing treats. I remember this one tiny little place… a hole-in-the-wall, seriously. It looked like it was falling apart, but the owner, this little old lady with a smile that could light up a room, made the most incredible… *pork belly* buns. The meat was like, melt-in-your-mouth, the sauce was perfect… I swear, I almost cried. I went back every single night. And the bubble tea! Don't even get me STARTED on the bubble tea. They put *actual* fruit in some of them. It's insane! Just… go hungry. And be prepared to try *everything*. Seriously, everything!
Speaking of Eating, What About Accommodation? Where Should I Stay?
Don't expect the Ritz-Carlton. Though really, who goes to a hidden gem like Long Hong to find The Ritz? You'll find a mix of small guesthouses, family-run hotels, and some more modern (but still not super fancy) options. Booking.com is your friend, but be prepared to maybe talk to people, not just rely on automatic online confirmations. Some of the best places are *totally* word-of-mouth. I stayed in this little guesthouse run by a lovely family. The rooms were simple, but clean, and they cooked breakfast every morning – authentic Taiwanese breakfast. It was amazing. And they helped me with everything. Seriously, they were angels. Look for family-run places - you'll get a much better experience. (Also, learn a few basic Mandarin phrases, it helps!)
Is it Safe? I'm a Worrier.
Yes. Taiwan, in general, is incredibly safe. Long Hong is no exception. I felt safer there than I do in my own neighborhood back home! People are friendly, helpful, and there's a real sense of community. Obviously, use common sense (don't wander around alone at 3 AM in a dark alley anywhere in the world!), but overall, it's a very safe place to be. I even left my wallet in a shop (mortifying, I tell you) and someone chased me down the street to give it back! How amazing is that! That just would NEVER happen at home!
What's the Language Barrier Like? My Mandarin is… Non-Existent.
