Escape to Paradise: Lunar Mare Inn's Liuqiu Island Magic!
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because we’re diving headfirst into the shimmering turquoise waters and the sun-kissed magic of Escape to Paradise: Lunar Mare Inn on Liuqiu Island! Whew, that's a mouthful, but believe me, this place? It's a mouthful worth savouring. This isn't just a hotel review; it's a FULL-BLOWN, slightly chaotic, maybe-a-little-too-honest experience of what you can expect. Think of me as your slightly sunburned, possibly over-caffeinated travel buddy, ready to spill the tea (or in this case, the iced Taiwanese tea!) on this little slice of heaven.
First Things First: Logistics & Accessibility (Because Let's Be Real, We Need This Info!)
Right, let's get the boring bits out of the way. Accessibility is a big deal for some, and I'm happy to report that Lunar Mare Inn generally gets a thumbs up, but with a few caveats. They highlight Facilities for disabled guests, but I don't see specific information on detailed accessibility. So, if you have specific needs (like, say, needing a fully wheelchair accessible room), I'd suggest calling them directly and confirming the details. Don't just trust the marketing spiel, people!
- Accessibility Score: 3.5/5 (Due to lack of specific detailed accessibility information)
- Wheelchair Accessible: Potentially, but confirm! Also important to mention Elevator and Facilities for disabled guests are listed.
- Car Park [on-site]: Free, which is always a win! Car power charging station is also available.
- Airport Transfer: YES! Thank goodness!
- Check-in/out [express]: Handy!
- Check-in/out [private]: Nice touch.
- Elevator: Good for easing the journey.
Internet! Oh Glorious Internet! (And Other Techy Bits)
Okay, you all know I can't survive disconnected! The Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! is my jam. Seriously, a MUST-HAVE. I need my Instagram, my research, and my evening gossip session with my besties. They have Internet access, Internet [LAN], and even Wi-Fi in public areas. Basically, you're covered. Now, the truth is, Liuqiu Island isn't exactly known for lightning-fast fiber-optic cables. But the WiFi worked pretty darn well for streaming my shows and for light surfing.
- Internet Score: 4.5/5 (Good, reliable, essential!)
Cleanliness & Safety: My Obsessive-Compulsive-Ness
I'm not gonna lie, post-pandemic, Cleanliness and safety are a HUGE deal for me. I practically carry a bottle of hand sanitizer around like a baby. Lunar Mare Inn gets it. They have Anti-viral cleaning products, Daily disinfection in common areas, Room sanitization between stays, and Staff trained in safety protocol. Plus, Hand sanitizer is readily available, and they have Sterilizing equipment! They're also taking some extra measures with Cashless payment service, and Individually-wrapped food options, which is great. They’ve got CCTV in common areas and CCTV outside property to keep an eye on things. They've got everything a worry wart like me needs to breathe easy. The Smoke alarms and Fire extinguisher make me feel safer.
- Cleanliness & Safety Score: 5/5 (Peace of mind is PRICELESS!)
Things To Do: Beyond the Beach (And Trust Me, There's More!)
Okay, let's be real: Liuqiu Island is all about the ocean, the diving, the snorkeling and the sunsets. This isn't a mega-resort with a thousand activities, and that’s part of its charm.
Pool with view, the outdoor Swimming pool [outdoor] is a must! I spent a solid chunk of my life just floating and gazing out at the sea. Pure bliss.
Massage: Uh, yes please!
Spa: Ditto!
- Body scrub and Body wrap are available. So, you can do some serious pampering.
Sauna & Steamroom: Always a nice extra touch.
Fitness center & Gym/fitness: If you're one of those people who actually enjoys exercise on holiday. God bless you!
Things to Do Score: 4/5 (It's Liuqiu Island. The activities are all about natural beauty and relaxation, and that's AMAZING.)
Dining, Drinking & Snacking: The Real Reason We're All Here!
Okay, listen up. The food here is a game changer. There are multiple Restaurants, a Coffee shop, and even a Snack bar! They have a Poolside bar, and the Happy hour deals are not to be missed.
- Asian cuisine in restaurant & Asian breakfast are options. But don't be afraid to try the Western cuisine in restaurant. I had some amazing meals. They offer Vegetarian restaurant, Salad in restaurant, and Soup in restaurant.
- Breakfast [buffet] or the Breakfast service offer a good start to the day.
- A la carte in restaurant.
- Bottle of water in the room is a nice touch.
- Room service [24-hour]: Very handy after a long day of snorkeling!
Here's the real story: the Restaurant. (Brace yourselves, it's about to get personal….)
The first night? I was starving. Jetlagged, slightly disoriented, and craving something that wasn't airplane food. The hotel restaurant came to the rescue. I'm a sucker for a good soup, so I opted for their… well, I'm not sure what the soup was called, but it was something like "Spicy Island Noodle Delight." And let me tell you, it was a revelation! I mean, the flavors! I felt like a cartoon character with steam practically billowing out of my ears. Spicy, savory, and full of fresh seafood! I could have eaten it for every meal. This soup? It was the soul of Liuqiu Island on a spoon. It became an obsession. I had it every single day (okay, maybe twice a day). And it’s the memory I'll cherish most. It was the very definition of Escape to Paradise.
- Dining Score: 5/5 (Especially if you like soup!)
Services & Conveniences: The Little Things That Make a Big Difference
From the helpful Concierge to the Daily housekeeping, they’ve got you covered. They have Contactless check-in/out, so you don't have to touch anything (bonus!). There’s a Convenience store, a Gift/souvenir shop, and even a Cash withdrawal service. It's those little things that make a trip seamless. I found the Luggage storage particularly helpful.
- Services & Conveniences Score: 4.5/5 (They thought of everything… almost!)
For the Kids, Couples, & The Business-Minded (Because Life's a Balancing Act!)
- Babysitting service & Family/child friendly: Good to know!
- Couple's room & Proposal spot: Romance is in the air!
- Business facilities: For those forced to work. :(
- Meeting/banquet facilities: Seems nice.
In-Room Essentials: Your Home Away From Home (Or Paradise!)
Alright, here's the rundown on the rooms themselves, and I'm gonna be honest, they're really what sold me on Escape to Paradise. The Air conditioning is an essential in that hot tropical climate.
- Air conditioning, Additional toilet, Alarm clock, Bathrobes, Bathroom phone, Bathtub, Blackout curtains, Carpeting, Closet, Coffee/tea maker, Complimentary tea, Daily housekeeping, Desk, Extra long bed, Free bottled water, Hair dryer, High floor, In-room safe box, Interconnecting room(s) available, Internet access – LAN, Internet access – wireless, Ironing facilities, Laptop workspace, Linens, Mini bar, Mirror, Non-smoking, On-demand movies, Private bathroom, Reading light, Refrigerator, Safety/security feature, Satellite/cable channels, Scale, Seating area, Separate shower/bathtub, Shower, Slippers, Smoke detector, Socket near the bed, Sofa, Soundproofing, Telephone, Toiletries, Towels, Umbrella, Visual alarm, Wake-up service, Wi-Fi [free], Window that opens (important!).
The Verdict: Should You Escape to Paradise?
HECK YES! Seriously, booking a hotel is more than just a place to sleep
Unbelievable Hạ Long Bay Views! Luxury Beverly Home Homestay Awaits
Okay, buckle up buttercup, because this isn't your grandma's itinerary. This is Lived Experience: Liuqiu Edition. We're talking Lunar Mare Inn, and let me tell you, the moon ain't got nothing on the weird and wonderful of this island. Prepare for a schedule so loose, it’s practically holding hands with chaos, just like me.
The Messy Map to My Liuqiu Mayhem (Lunar Mare Inn as Basecamp):
Day 1: Landing, Lounging, and the Lovely Lunar Mare (…Maybe)
Morning (or, you know, whenever I drag myself out of bed):
- Arrival! Taoyuan Airport (TPE) -> Donggang Ferry Terminal: Okay, transportation first, obviously. I somehow managed to not lose my passport this time (miracle!), grabbed the high-speed rail to Zuoying, and then a taxi to Donggang. This is where the real adventure begins. The ferry… well, let's just say my stomach doesn't always partner with the sea. Pray to the sea gods for calm waters. (Anxiety Level: 6/10).
- Ferry Frenzy & Lunar Mare Inn Check-in: Found the Lunar Mare Inn. Found the chaos. Found the joy. The ferry was surprisingly smooth, phew! Check-in was a breeze – super friendly staff, even though I probably looked like a drowned rat after the boat. My room? Adorable. Minimalist, clean, the kind of place where I might actually organise myself. (Spoiler alert: I didn't).
- Lunch at the Inn: Seriously considering just eating instant noodles in my room. No. No. Brave the world. Ask the staff - they pointed me to a local place two blocks away with some killer fried squid. Don't even get me started on the pineapple juice. Glorious.
Afternoon: The "Let's Just Wander" Plan:
- Stroll and Stare: Okay, my plan. First, walk to the White Lighthouse (白燈塔). It's supposed to be the landmark. I’m bringing my camera. I AM going to take pictures.
- Beach Therapy (Hopefully): A beach. I think I'll just go to a beach near Beauty Cave (美人洞) and stare at the ocean… or whatever. Let the ocean do its thing. The sea is gonna feel really nice.
- The Big Question: Will I have enough sunblock applied?
Evening:
- Dinner Dilemma: Restaurant recommendations needed. I'm leaning towards seafood, obviously. (Craving Level: 7/10).
- Night Market Nom-nom-nom: Is there a night market? Must. Find. Night market. I may consume all the food. Send help. (Mostly just for the company)
- Lunar Mare Inn Debriefing: Back to the inn. The plan is to attempt to sort photos, write some notes, and maybe, just maybe, not stay up all night staring at the ceiling. More like the ceiling is staring at me, though.
Day 2: Diving, Discovering, and Potentially Drowning in Delight (or Sunburn)
Morning:
- Scuba Diving! Or, at least, snorkeling. I'm not a certified diver, but the marine life here is supposed to be phenomenal. Finding the agency is the tricky part. Finding the courage. (Anxiety Level: 7/10). Wish me luck, sea creatures!
- The Reality of the Sea Encounter: Oh boy. Snorkeling. So much salt water in the face! The fish are pretty. The water is clear. The sun is hotter than I thought it would be. My back may be completely burned. Worth it.
- Post-Snorkeling Feast: Food. Must replenish. Preferably something cold and refreshing.
Afternoon: Round 2 with Liuqiu!
- Beauty Cave (美人洞) Reboot: Back at Beauty Cave. This time: hike. I'm attempting all the trails, and I'm bringing water.
- Rocky Bay Roam: I've heard of Rocky Bay. Gotta find it. Gotta find the views. Gotta take pictures. Gotta find a breeze.
- The "I think I need a nap" Time: If I don't find a quiet spot for a nap by 3 pm, someone needs to stage an intervention.
Evening:
- Dinner and Drinks… somewhere: Tonight, I'm going to ask the staff for their top recommendation. A local, authentic experience is the goal. No more tourist traps.
- Stargazing (If the Clouds Cooperate): Is it possible to see the stars from Liuqiu? If yes, I am going to look up at them. And think deep thoughts. Or just stare.
Day 3: Farewell (For Now) and Ferry Feelings
Morning:
- Breakfast at the Inn: Last chance for the yumminess. I'm going to try everything.
- Souvenir Hunt: Gotta buy some souvenirs. My friends and family expect it. Or whatever.
- Farewell Walk Around: One last walk to see everything. Really soak in this island.
Afternoon:
- The Long Goodbye: Ferry back to Donggang.
- The long, long, long farewell: I hope this time I'll keep my sea sickness in check.
Evening:
- Back Home: Time to go home.
Reflections, Ramble, and Real Talk:
This is it. This is the plan. It's probably going to fall apart. I'm probably going to eat too much. I'm almost certainly going to get lost. I'm definitely going to feel something. But hey, that's the point, right? Embrace the chaos, the imperfections, the unexpected.
So, wish me luck? I think I'm going to need it. And honestly? I can't wait.
Escape to Paradise: Your Dreamy Lefkada Sunset Villa Awaits!
So, Liuqiu Island... is it *really* paradise? Sounds a bit cliché, doesn't it?
Okay, okay, "paradise" is a strong word. Look, I went in expecting a little slice of tropical bliss, and... well, it was *almost* paradise. Let's just say, the beaches? Stunning. The water? Crystal clear, like someone polished it with magic. But paradise, like a perfect souffle, can collapse. More on that later. But yes, Liuqiu Island is pretty damn special. It’s like Taiwan’s little secret, away from the endless city noise. You gotta go with the right expectations – it's not the Maldives, you know? And the Lunar Mare Inn? Well, that's where this whole story gets interesting...
What's this "Lunar Mare Inn" all about? Sounds a bit… sci-fi-ish.
The name! Right? I was picturing some sleek, minimalist, space-age place. Turns out, it’s a charming, slightly quirky, family-run place. Think… a well-loved auntie's guest house, but on steroids. They had these moon-themed decorations (duh, Lunar Mare!), but it wasn't over the top. The real magic? The people. The owner, Mrs. Lin, she was a force of nature. Like a tiny, ever-smiling whirlwind of hospitality. And the breakfast... more on *that* later (seriously, you need to know about the breakfast!). But yeah, "Lunar Mare" isn't what you'd expect, and that's part of the charm.
Okay, back to those beaches. What are they *really* like? And can you actually swim?
The beaches were magnificent. The sand was soft and almost white, perfect for sinking your toes into. The water… oh, the water. It's a shade of turquoise you only see in travel brochures, which *almost* makes you suspicious that they're lying, but then you get there, and it's true! And yes, you can absolutely swim. Snorkeling is amazing – you can see all sorts of colorful fish. One thing to remember? Sunscreen. Lots of it. I got a *serious* burn on day one (rookie mistake – don't be me!), and the rest of the trip I was all about the shade. So, beaches? Check. Swimming? Check. Burning? Also check, if you're an idiot like me.
What can you *do* on Liuqiu Island besides beach bumming? Because I get restless.
Besides swimming and getting a tan (or a burn!), there's loads to keep you occupied. You can rent a scooter and explore the island – which is tiny, by the way. Think like, an hour to drive around the whole thing. Cool! There's the sunset-watching! Oh my god, the sunsets! Spectacular. You can also go snorkeling or diving (I tried snorkeling; diving seemed a bit too adventurous for me). There are some cool rock formations to see, geological wonders to behold. I didn’t actually hike, but everyone said it was an absolute must-do. I was lazy. And there's the night market! Street food heaven! I ate so much I thought I might explode. Seriously, the food alone is worth the trip.
You mentioned food. What was the food like? And what about that breakfast you kept hinting at?
Okay, the food is a *major* highlight. The night market is a chaotic symphony of smells and flavors. Think grilled seafood, bubble tea (duh!), and all sorts of weird and wonderful snacks. I had this fried squid that was… okay, it was actually AMAZING. Best squid *ever*. Seriously. And the *breakfast* at the Lunar Mare Inn… Oh. My. God. It was an absolute feast. Mrs. Lin, bless her heart, cooked up a storm every morning. There was always fresh fruit (pineapple, mango, the works!), congee (rice porridge) with a million toppings, dumplings, vegetarian options, and the most amazing Taiwanese coffee. I’m not even a big breakfast person, but I looked forward to it every single morning. I'm getting hungry just thinking about it. It was like a warm hug on a plate, a perfect way to start the day. It makes you feel like, finally, you know, you are *alive*.
What did you *not* like? Because every place has its downsides.
Alright, alright, let's be real. It wasn't *all* sunshine and rainbows. The humidity… it's a beast. I'm used to humidity, I've lived in Florida, but this was a *different* level of sticky. And the lack of air conditioning on the scooter… well, let's just say I looked like a drowned rat by the end of the day. There were also a few minor inconveniences. The internet at the inn was a bit spotty at times (first world problems, I know!). And getting there… the ferry can be a bit choppy. I didn't get seasick, thankfully, but I heard some people weren't so lucky. Oh, and the mosquitoes! Bring bug spray. Seriously. I learned that lesson the hard way. It's not perfect, but the good vastly outweighs the bad.
Tell me a funny/weird story from your trip!
Okay, prepare yourself. This is a doozy. So, one day I was attempting to be a "cultured traveler" and tried a local delicacy called "seaweed jelly." Sounds harmless, right? Wrong. It looked like this jiggly, dark green blob. I took a bite... and immediately regretted it. The texture! The taste! It was like eating the ocean floor. I tried to be polite, but I think my face gave away the horror. Mrs. Lin saw me struggling and just started laughing. She then proceeded to make me a cup of sweet tea, and winked. Later, I saw her giving someone else the seaweed jelly, and *she gave them the exact same knowing look!* I’m not convinced she actually *liked* it either. It was hilarious. I swear, that woman could read minds. And the seaweed jelly? Never again. But the memory is priceless.
Would you go back to Liuqiu Island and the Lunar Mare Inn?
Absolutely. In a heartbeat. Despite the humidity, the mosquito bites, and the seaweed jelly incident. Liuqiu Island is truly special. And the Lunar Mare Inn, with all its quirks and Mrs. Lin’s incredible hospitality, made it even more memorable. It wasn’t a perfect trip, but it was a *real* trip. It felt authentic, and I left feeling relaxed and rejuvenated. I crave the island. I miss the breakfasts. I miss that little island. I already told Mrs. Lin I’m coming back next year. And this time, I'm bringing my own darn seaweed jelly (just kidding… maybe).
