Apart from searching the best airline ticket deals, I look forward to choosing what I call "swak sa budget" accommodation. Choosing a clean, comfortable, accessible, and affordable place to stay takes a lot of time and patience. Recommendations and online reviews are also helpful in getting to know the possible choices you have. There are also few sites that offer a list of hotels -- from budget to 5 stars, outskirt to central locations. 

It's spring time during March in Taiwan and according to the weather forecast it will be raining in some of the days. I was thinking of booking a room comfy enough for me to just lounge the whole day while enjoying a my bubble tea. A colleague of mine suggested to search for Minsu, also known as homestay.  This is a popular accommodation in Taiwan with rooms of different themes. 

While searching for this type of accommodation, I stumbled upon a blog site that recommended Jogging Bear. Jogging Bear is located in Ximending and it's just a 3-minute walk from Ximen MRT. The place is owned by a couple who is very accommodating and helpful. They offer rooms with different themes (you can check their blog site for room pictures and descriptions), and during our stay, I booked the Greek Romance.


The place is located on the 5th floor of the building. The room has a queen-size bed, air conditioning, LCD TV, mini fridge, and en suite bathroom with tub. It is clean, well-maintained, and towels are provided, too. Jogging Bear is accessible to some of Taipei's tourist attractions and must-try food.


Transportation Guide to Jogging Bear, provided by our hosts:

Transportation A:
1.Please take bus (kuokuang 1819) to Taipei main station from Taoyuan airport. (http://www.taoyuan-airport.com/english/Publish.jsp?cnid=100150)
巴士125台幣，1小時20分鐘
2. Please walk to MRT Taipei station when you alight at final bus stop.
3. Please take MRT from Taipei main station to Xi Men station and leave station by exit no.6 (http://fangshiushiu.files.wordpress.com/2011/04/webbl18.jpg)
4. Please call me immediately, and I will show up within 3 minutes.
5. If you come here by Taxi or private van, please tell driver send you to the junction of 台北市中華路一段 and 武昌街二段, and please give me a call as u arrive.

Transportation B:
1. Please take the shuttle bus at airport which bound for Taoyuan HSR (high speed railway) station. 15~20 min
2. Please take HSR for Taipei main station and leave platform by east exit for MRT Taipei station.
3. Please take MRT from Taipei main station to Xi Men station and leave station by exit no.6 (http://fangshiushiu.files.wordpress.com/2011/04/webbl18.jpg)
4. Please give me a call immediately, and I will show up within 3 minutes.