Mini-break barometer
The dos and don’ts of a whistlestop weekend away
A classic reborn
grand hyatt taipei Twenty-five years after opening, the Grand Hyatt Taipei underwent a major renovation last year, which saw a total redesign of its 853 rooms and suites, the Club Lounge and many of its indoor and outdoor facilities. Two new restaurants—yun Jin (serving Chinese cuisine) and a steakhouse—have been added to its impressive roster of nine dining venues. A highlight is the breakfast buffet, where three dozen chefs helm a plethora of show kitchens, with 168 culinary options on offer—not one for the indecisive breakfaster! If you can, book the stunning new 2,400-square-foot presidential suite, which offers fairy-tale views of the iconic Taipei 101 Tower. All in all, it’s a super-slick and civilised city-break destination. taipei.grand.hyatt.com pack like a pro Roll your clothes, stuff your shoes and, ladies, to prevent your pressed powder or eyeshadow from cracking, place a flat cotton wool pad between the pressed powder and the lid. You’re welcome.
a stitch in time... Time is of the essence on a short break, along with comfort. Forget shuttle buses, trains and taxi queues at the airport. You’re not backpacking! That uniformed chauffeur with your name on a card—he’s got an idling Bentley waiting for you.
...saves nine And why not keep the car at your beck and call for the whole weekend? You deserve it. Even if you never use it, just knowing it’s there will drive your stress levels south. brekkie buffet snobs Look, we all know a good breakfast buffet is the most joyous thing about a hotel stay. So ignore the etiquette sticklers and feel free to mix sweet with savoury, pile multiple plates, and get up and down like a yo-yo. It’s all part of the fun.
know-it-alls Don’t forget to put the concierge to the test. They can get tickets to sold-out shows, and organise personal guides for museums, galleries and private shopping.
monday skivers Your colleagues know you left at lunchtime on Friday to catch a flight. Don’t magically develop a Monday-morning illness just so you can extend your trip a little longer. Nobody likes a fibber.