Business Traveller (Asia-Pacific)
A fresh face
Shangri-La’s Far Eastern Plaza Hotel revitalises and upgrades its offering in Taiwan’s capital city
Taipei’s tallest hotel, Shangri-La’s Far Eastern Plaza Hotel, recently completed a NT$1.5 billion renovation to all its rooms and suites, as well as the Horizon Club Lounge and many other areas of the hotel. This major refurbishment, which lasted 18 months, has added exciting new elements to a hotel that is already famous for its elegance and welcoming atmosphere.
Sung dynasty-inspired custom artwork can be found throughout the hotel, from the highlight Along the River during the
Qing Ming Festival by Taiwanese artist Shen Cheen, to a fresh new twist on woodwork within the rooms, which is fashioned after traditional Chinese-inspired window frames into eye-catching detailing around the entrance, on the ceiling and in the minibar area. Large picture windows in each of the spacious, well-appointed guestrooms allow sunlight to flood in and also offer unparalleled views over Taipei. Meanwhile, the 36th-floor Horizon Club
Lounge has been reimagined and now offers a luxuriously understated ambience in tones of shimmering grey, with oversized windows that maximise the city panorama. It’s a great place for guests to enjoy daily breakfast, refreshments or cocktails from the central bar, or for business travellers to host small meetings in the private meeting room.
One of the hotel’s great strengths is the diversity of its dining options, with something for every culinary taste. Creative flair is on show at ibuki by Takagi Kazuo, Taiwan’s first Japanese restaurant to operate with a Michelin-starred approach; meanwhile, Shangri-La’s signature Shang Palace serves authentic Cantonese cuisine, and Shanghai
Pavilion on the 39th floor is reputed to be the best Shanghainese restaurant in the city. One floor below on level 38, Marco
Polo is a trendy Italian eatery, and all-day dining is available in Café at Far Eastern on the sixth floor, boasting a dazzling buffet and à la carte specialities. Relaxing drinks are available in Li Bai Lounge and the charming Lobby Court, while in the
Marco Polo Lounge a wide selection of creative cocktails are prepared by resident mixologist Kevin Luo, who can also conjure up tailor-made concoctions for all tastes and preferences.
Head to level 40 and you’ll find our spectacular rooftop swimming pool with panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains, as well as Qi Shiseido Salon and Spa, a serene space offering therapeutic treatments to soothe body and soul.
Seeing the city from on high is inspiring, so take the time to venture into vibrant Daan district that surrounds the hotel. Within easy walking distance you can find shops selling fascinating local handicrafts, antiques and furniture, bookstores, and imaginative paper and stationery stores. There’s also a host of restaurants serving delicious snacks, Taiwanese and Japanese cuisine in stunning architectural locations, as well as stylish bars and cafés, plus, of course, a bustling night market. All on your doorstep.