Happy Taipei Hostel - Share House - Monthly

Incredible value for money: For a hostel in such a prime location in Taipei, the rates are almost unbelievably low. This massive price advantage completely outweighs any minor inconveniences. As they only offer monthly rates, it is a perfect choice specifically for those planning a long-term stay. Prime location: Being so close to Shilin Station is a massive advantage. Excellent facilities: There are plenty of shower rooms, so I never had to wait. The provision of two free-to-use washing machines—including free detergent—was a fantastic bonus. Ample workspace: Each floor of the four-storey building has its own common area with plenty of tables. I never struggled to find a spot to work. Lovely host: The owner is very kind and speaks fluent English.

Kitchen limitations: There is only one induction hob, which makes it a bit of a challenge to prepare multi-course meals or anything that requires simultaneous cooking (like making curry and rice at the same time). Some residents managed to cook more complex meals, but for me, it felt a bit too time-consuming for daily use. Having said that, there are plenty of affordable eateries, convenience stores, and a 24-hour supermarket within walking distance, so it isn't a major issue unless you intend to cook daily. Linen changes: My bedsheets weren't changed once during my month-long stay. In hindsight, I should have asked if I could pay for a fresh set, but it’s something to keep in mind for long stays. Lack of natural light in bedrooms: The bedrooms don't have windows, which was a bit of a downside for me. Furthermore, having to climb down from a top bunk to go to the toilet in the middle of the night was quite tiring, especially while trying to be quiet in the dark. It is part of the hostel experience, though, and I was fortunate to have great roommates.

The renters are extremely nice. They'll help you to check in, find keys, find rooms, carry your luggage and even share food. Everyone seems civilized and friendly, so you don't have to worry about burglary (and there's a police station right opposite). The place is close to family mart, 7 Eleven and Shilin night market, so don't worry about empty stomach at night (also close to the Shilin station - MRT red line, where you can also get milk teas from 6-7 different shops in Exit 1). The owner already prepared laundry detergents, shampoo, shower gels, clothing hangers and basic kitchenware so you do not need to bring those things with you. The bill included all the things mentioned above, as well as water and electricity, which makes this place so affordable. Plus, the air conditioners in the room function well. There are also tables and sofas in shared spaces to work, study and chat with other people.

The room is a bit tight and therefore, not much space to organize things. And while there are lamps at the tables in shared spaces, there should also be some fans in the summer.

Price Location near Shilin metro and night market Friendly people around Equipped with all everyday stuff like free washing machine

Kitchen would be equiped better (missing rice cooker, just one fridge for all the people)

Despite its shortcomings, the hostel is conveniently located, provides ample common areas, and functional showers and laundry - all at an extremely competitive price, which is especially interesting if you are looking for a “Plan B” accommodation to use during breaks from backpacking, or in case of unexpected changes in circumstances. I only interacted with the host via phone, and he was very helpful, friendly, and quite flexible, since my schedule upon arrival was not well aligned with their office hours.

The place was generally not clean; the room was extremely humid, and had no natural light or air sources - AC was running 24/7 in it, during my stay, and the way it was positioned (almost directly over my bed) had my bedding (which I had to change myself , after requesting a change of bedding after a while) and bed curtains moist, if not downright wet, and the room was often quite dank. The floor ended up being quite dirty, as the cleaner would not enter to sweep if there were any occupants still asleep/lights off - understandable, but the result was unpleasant, especially after rather extensive periods of time. I am fairly certain the (rather large) place was just broom-swept, with rather persistently dusty result. The kitchen has poor natural ventilation, and no added ventilation, so cooking smells linger quite persistently; as a result, I have never used the kitchen during my stay. Also, the laundry area is located directly adjacent to the kitchen, which probably does not bode well for the freshness of the laundry - but thankfully there was another drying area on the other side of the top floor, away from the kitchen.