Just Sleep Ximending

The Just Sleep is a small hotel with simple, but modern interiors. The building's conservative lobby is shared with another hotel that occupies the top floors. Almost everything is labeled with stick-figure icons that are normally reserved for gender specific bathroom doors -- a life-sized figure with drink in hand indicates the vending machine in a central lounge area, with smaller icons emblazoned on everything from garbage cans to mirrors. It's part of a chain owned by Regent Hotels & Resorts, and Just Sleeps are typically no-nonsense business hotels, but this one is popular with younger tourists, most of whom hail from Hong Kong.

The Just Sleep is located in Ximending, a vibrant, pedestrian-friendly neighborhood known for its clothing shops, hip restaurants, and nightlife. Local attractions within close walking distance include Camera Street, Theater Street, and the historic Red House Theater. The hotel is surrounded by plenty of dining and shopping options, and there's a 7-Eleven right next to the entrance. It's a four-minute walk to the nearby Ximen MRT Station, or about a 15-minute walk to the Taipei Railway Station (high-speed rail) and Taipei Main station (MRT).  The National Taiwan Museum is also just 12 minutes away on foot. Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport is 35 minutes away by car or about an hour and a half via high-speed rail.  

Each of the hotel's 150 rooms features the quirky universal-language iconography found throughout the common areas, with added emphasis. The modern white and gray, and/or black decor is dressed up with little icons, some more absurd than others. Small pictures depicting cups show where cups are found (some cups are even in cup-sized cut outs in the walls) and bed icons appear above the beds, for good measure. Extensive pillow menus have feather, foam, and aromatherapy options. Furnishings are white or in a natural wood style, with small desks that come with attractive white chairs. All rooms have mini-fridges and electric kettles (but no coffeemakers), along with flat-screen TVs. Upgraded rooms have sitting areas with tables and chairs, and there are family-friendly options with three single, or two double beds. The tiled bathrooms have lighted vanities, electronic toilets, and walk-in showers. 

For the budget hotel category, there are a number of welcome surprises here, though don't expect a lively bar and lounge scene -- this isn't that kind of place. The hotel's Just Cafe is on the fifth floor, and a free hot breakfast buffet is served here every morning. It stays open throughout the day, with self-service drinks and a variety of free snacks. There's a 24-hour internet corner and a guest laundry with free detergent and the free use of machines. The staff also provide free services ranging from tour guidance complete with maps and reviews of the nearby markets, to a shopping service that helps guests buy gifts and local souvenirs. Guests can borrow numerous small items such as phone chargers, mobile power packs, iPads, and table lamps, free of charge. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property.