House 303

We stayed in House 303 for two nights as a base to explore Taroko Gorge. The house is located in residential area less than 1km from Hualien railway station/bus station. Close by are conveniences stores and places to eat. The house is newly renovated and has three rooms. We booked the stay via Booking.com (not sure if other sites also offer this stay). After the booking we were contacted by the hosts to confirm the right address (and the time of arrival). We communicated in English via Whatsapp. The hosts (retired couple) picked us up at the station and once we arrived we got fruits and detailed explanation (with maps) what/where to eat/what to see in Hualien and also the timetable for buses from Hualien to Taroko Gorge. The host also helped us with booking online the train from Hualien to Taipei (which by the way sells out very fast and one is left with late and slower trains!!!). While there was not issues to communicate in English via Whatsapp the hosts did not speak English (and they communicated with my friend in Mandarin). The hosts also have two very lovely small dogs. The room and bathroom were good size, comfortable and clean - very good for the price range. The room had AC, TV and the internet was fast. Breakfast was served in the kitchen and consisted of bought sandwich (I assume from a convenience store) and warm tea. The hosts insisted to drive us to the night market and to the bus (when we went to Taroko Gorge) and railway station when going back to Taipei although we really could just walk. Depending on the bus from Hualien City bus station (which I would say is about 10min walk from the House 303) to Taroko Gorge Headquarters visitor centre is about 45-60min drive). The buses are not frequent thus it is worth planning ahead. I really needs to praise the hosts for their exceptional hospitality! Would strongly recommend the place!