Launched in Amsterdam in 2008, citizenM is a young hotel chain that’s out to disrupt the offerings of traditional luxury properties by stripping things back to what really matters – a good night’s sleep in a prime location at a smart price. Add to that a sleek design concept, art-filled public spaces and technology that renders a genuinely effortless experience, and it’s easy to understand how the brand has expanded its footprint to three continents in less than a decade – marked by the opening of its inaugural hotel in Asia, citizenM Taipei North Gate.

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We checked in to the first citizenM in this part of the world, and here’s why you should, too:

1. Deep sleep

Breaking with classic hotel convention, citizenM does away with standards and suites to present guests with a single room category that’s been carefully considered to maximise comfort, relaxation and promote a proper night’s sleep, in large part thanks to an enormous bed and super soft Italian linen.

2. Seriously smart technology

Forget fumbling with switches and trying desperately to figure out how to extinguish that last, stubborn light, citizenM centralises all tech concerns onto your room’s iPad mini, making it easy to open and close blinds, set the mood and control the temperature. The wifi is also, fast, free and password-less, and you can stream any of your favourite series or movies from your devices onto the television.

3. Designer living room

Instead of the traditional lobby, citizenM Taipei North Gate invites guests to ascend a spiral staircase and enter its living room, which is home to iconic pieces by Vitra and a vast collection of books, local artifacts and artworks by Taiwanese talents including Chou Ching-hui and Hung Tung-Lu.

4. Privileged perspectives

citizenM’s signature facades are modular, with large glass windows that, in Taipei at least, boast spectacular, open views across the Tamsui River and mountains beyond, perfect for Instagrammable snaps of the sun sinking over the city.

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5. Constant convenience

Self-check-in kiosks and a 24-hour dining and drinks space, canteenM, ensure a round the clock experience for guests at citizenM. Enjoy barista-made coffee, fresh fare, beer on tap and champagne and cocktails to order from any one of the hotel ambassadors, who are also your go-to for need-to-know information or assistance.

6. Excellent illumination

We’ve all stayed in hotels that deny us adequate daylight – not so at citizenM Taipei North Gate. Those generous wall-to-wall windows bathe each room in natural light, and the rooms are even well illuminated long after the sun has set, meaning no more makeup mishaps on account of not being able to see well.

7. Prime position

A stone’s throw from Taipei Main Station and the Airport Express terminal (which transports you to Taoyuan International Airport in just 35 minutes) and within walking distance of once-traditional, now-trendy Dihua Street and Zhongshan District – both excellent for artisanal wares, independent boutiques and a cracking cup of coffee – citizenM Taipei Noth Gate is an excellent base from which to explore the many delights of Taiwan’s capital.

8. Mood-boosting amenities

The powerful rain showers are furnished with not one, but two types of shower gel – one to invigorate you and the other to soothe – so regardless of whether you have a long day ahead or are coming to the end of one, there’s a scent for you that’s been specially developed by the nose behind Comme des Garcons, Viktor & Rolf and Helmut Lang fragrances.

The post 8 reasons to check in to Asia’s first citizenM hotel in Taipei appeared first on Home Journal.