Escape to Paradise: Taylor's Motel, Ashburton's Hidden Gem
Escape to Paradise: Taylor's Motel - Ashburton's Little Slice of Heaven (Plus a Few Quirks!)
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because I'm about to spill the tea on Taylor's Motel in Ashburton. Forget those stuffy city hotels, this place? This place is a vibe. It's that hidden gem you stumble upon, the one you tell all your mates about, the one you dream about going back to. And trust me, I've got the inside scoop – the good, the slightly less good, and the utterly brilliant.
First Impressions & Accessibility (Because Let's Be Real, We All Need to Know!)
Okay, so getting there. Ashburton itself is a sweet little town, easy enough to find, and Taylor's is conveniently located… not right in the thick of things, which, honestly, is a plus. It's got that "get away from it all" feel. Access-wise? Solid. They've clearly put thought into it. Wheelchair accessible features are in place, which is fantastic. Elevator? Yep. Facilities for disabled guests are there. Boom. Making sure everyone can enjoy their little slice of paradise is a huge win in my book.
Rooms: More Than Just a Bed (And That Free Wi-Fi is a Lifesaver!)
Let's talk rooms. They're… clean. Utterly, sparkling clean. And the air conditioning? Glorious. Especially on those scorching Canterbury days. Bonus points for the blackout curtains! I'm a light sleeper, so that's a godsend. You'll find all the usual suspects – air conditioning, alarm clock, bathrobes (yes!), hair dryer, in-room safe, coffee/tea maker (essential!), free bottled water, mini-bar, satellite/cable channels. You know, the basics that make life a little more comfortable. Did I mention Free Wi-Fi in all rooms!? Seriously, I’m addicted to streaming… it let me catch up on a favorite TV show while sipping my morning coffee. Now, if only they had soundproof walls… (more on that later!). And the extra-long beds? They're a dream for anyone with a penchant for starfish sleeping (guilty!). Oh, and the additional toilet makes sharing a room with someone…well, a lot easier.
The Glorious, Glorious Internet
Okay, I'm a digital nomad, so Internet access is, like, critical. Taylor's understands. Free Wi-Fi in all rooms – already mentioned, but worth repeating! Internet [LAN] is an option if you're old school. Internet Services are just…there. You're connected! Even the Wi-Fi in public areas is decent, which is perfect for plotting your next adventure while enjoying a coffee in the lobby.
Food, Glorious Food (And That Poolside Bar!)
Right, let's get down to brass tacks: the food. Taylor's has got you covered on the sustenance front. Restaurants? Plural. A la carte in restaurant for a sit-down meal, or a quick Snack bar for grazing. Poolside bar? YES! Picture this: sun blazing, a cocktail in hand, and that impossibly blue pool sparkling invitingly. Pure bliss. The breakfast service is solid, with both Western and Asian breakfast options (a buffet is available). I dove headfirst into the buffet the first morning, grabbing everything from a full English to a plate of fresh fruit. Don't judge me. Coffee/tea in restaurant is always a plus. And if you're feeling lazy (or hungover), room service [24-hour] is your best friend.
*(Slight imperfection alert: my eggs benedict was a *tiny* bit cold one morning… but hey, nobody's perfect, right?)*
Relaxation Station: Spa, Sauna, and Pool with a View!
Okay, this is where Taylor's really shines. The pool with a view is the stuff of Instagram dreams. Picture yourself floating in cool water, gazing out at the rolling hills… It's genuinely stunning. They have a Spa, complete with a sauna, steamroom, and massage services. I splashed out on a full body massage and it was divine. Pure, unadulterated relaxation. Seriously, I think I drooled a bit. They also have a foot bath if you're just looking for a quick refresh. And for those who want to feel healthy during the holiday, they have a Fitness center.
Cleanliness and Safety: They're Taking it Seriously!
Look, let's be honest, in this day and age, we all want to feel safe. Taylor's gets it. They’re on top of their game with stuff like Anti-viral cleaning products, Daily disinfection in common areas, Hot water linen and laundry washing, Hygiene certification, Individually-wrapped food options, Physical distancing of at least 1 meter, Professional-grade sanitizing services, Rooms sanitized between stays, Safe dining setup, Sanitized kitchen and tableware items, Staff trained in safety protocol, Sterilizing equipment. You know, all the things that make you breathe a sigh of relief. And the Hand sanitizer dispensers are everywhere.
Things to Do (Beyond Lounging by the Pool, Though That's a Good Start!)
Now, Ashburton itself isn't exactly a bustling metropolis, but that's part of the charm! Taylor's can help you arrange things -- if you fancy it they can arrange an airport transfer! Plus, the motel is a good base for exploring the wider Canterbury region. There’s also a convenience store on site if you've forgotten your snacks.
Services and Conveniences: They’ve Thought of Everything!
They've got a whole host of services too: Air conditioning in public area, Cash withdrawal, Concierge, Contactless check-in/out…(thank god!), Daily housekeeping, Doorman, Dry cleaning, Elevator, Facilities for disabled guests, Food delivery… you name it, they probably have it. Laundry service? Absolutely. Need to leave your bags? Luggage storage is available. They also have car park [free of charge], which is a huge win.
(Quirky Observation Alert!)
One thing I noticed? The staff are genuinely friendly. Not just the forced hotel-staff-smile, but real, genuine smiles. They’re also super helpful. Makes the whole experience feel a lot more… human.
The Not-So-Perfect Bits (Because Honesty is the Best… Especially in Hotel Reviews!)
Right, let's be real. No place is perfect. While the rooms are clean, the soundproofing… well, it could be better. I could slightly hear the guy in the next room snoring one night. Luckily, a white noise app on my phone saved the day. And while the food is generally good, the menu isn't exactly Michelin-star material. But hey, for the price and the overall vibe, it's a steal!
For the Kids (Because Family Vacations Matter!)
They are Family/child friendly!
Check-In/Out: Smooth Sailing
The Check-in/out [express], Check-in/out [private] makes the process smooth and efficient.
Things I Didn't Personally Experience (But They're Offered!)
They offer a whole bunch of other stuff I didn’t try: Babysitting service, CCTV in common areas, CCTV outside property, Couple's room, Exterior corridor, Fire extinguisher, Front desk [24-hour].
My Verdict: Book It! (Seriously)
Listen, if you're looking for a luxurious, five-star experience, Taylor's Motel might not be your bag. But if you're after a charming, comfortable, and genuinely relaxing getaway with a super-chilled vibe in a beautiful location, then book it. Seriously. Escape to Paradise: Taylor's Motel is the perfect spot to unwind, recharge, and maybe even get a little bit lost (in a good way!). The value for money is incredible, the location is gorgeous, and the staff are lovely. Just pack your earplugs (just in case), grab your swimsuit, and prepare to be utterly charmed!
SEO-Optimized Offer: Unwind & Recharge at Taylor's Motel, Ashburton's Hidden Gem!
Headline: Escape to Paradise: Taylor's Motel - Ashburton's Best Kept Secret! (Book Your Getaway Today!)
Body:
Tired of the hustle? Craving a real escape? Discover Taylor's Motel, Ashburton's premier hidden gem, and experience the ultimate in relaxation and comfort! Nestled in the heart of Canterbury and with easy access (including wheelchair accessibility) we offer a perfect getaway for everyone. Enjoy stunning views, a sparkling outdoor swimming pool, a revitalizing spa with sauna, Steamroom and indulgent massage services, and a tranquil atmosphere that will melt your stress away.
Why Choose Taylor's Motel?
- Unbeatable Comfort: Spacious, **
Alright, buckle up buttercup, because this ain't your grandma's travel itinerary. We're going full-blown "Ashburton Adventure," and let me tell you, it's gonna be a ride. Taylors Motel, here we come… and frankly, I'm already picturing the questionable bathroom lighting.
Ashburton Awaits: A Totally Unreliable Schedule
Day 1: Arrival of the Slightly Disorganized
- 1:00 PM: (Approximate. Let's be real, I haven't packed yet. More of a "Get-Up-And-Go-Eventually" scenario.) Fly into Christchurch. Pray the flight isn't delayed. Seriously, if I have to spend another hour in an airport, I might spontaneously combust.
- Quirky Observation: Airports. Breeding grounds for overpriced coffee and existential dread.
- 2:30 PM: (Hopefully) Pick up the rental car. Fingers crossed it doesn't have a mysterious dent and that I actually remember which side the petrol is on. Anecdote time! Last time I rented a car, I spent a solid 20 minutes trying to figure out the lights. The guy in the rental office just stared. Mortifying.
- 4:00 PM: Arrive at Taylors Motel, Ashburton. Immediately assess the vibe. Is the reception desk manned by a person who enjoys a good yarn? Crucial intel.
- Emotional Reaction: Immediately check the bed. Soft sheets? Essential for survival after a flight. Hard, scratchy sheets? Instant grump alert.
- 4:30 PM: Settle in, Unpack (or throw stuff everywhere and tell yourself you'll sort it later). Evaluate the tea-making facilities. This is a critical aspect of any motel room.
- 5:00 PM: Stroll into Ashburton town. Get a lay of the land. Find the nearest, most promising coffee shop. Because, caffeine.
- Opinionated Language: Honestly, I'm expecting some pretty decent coffee. New Zealand better deliver on the caffeine.
- 6:00 PM: Dinner. Pub grub? Fish and chips? Decisions, decisions! This is where the “research” begins. (aka, Google Maps and Tripadvisor are about to become my best friends).
- Rambling: Okay, I'm already thinking about the fish and chips. The crispy batter, the creamy tartar, the… okay, focus. Dinner first, then the pub. This is good planning… isn't it?
- 7:30 PM: Find a pub. Unwind with a local ale. Observe the locals. Maybe strike up a conversation. Or, you know, hide in a corner and people-watch. Depends on my mood, honestly.
- 9:00 PM: Return to Taylors Motel. Collapse into bed. Pray for quiet neighbours.
Day 2: Ashburton Adventures (Potentially involving sheep)
- 8:00 AM: Wake up. (Or maybe lie in bed for an hour, scrolling through Instagram.) Assess the damage of the previous night. Coffee, STAT!
- Imperfection Alert: Okay, I might have eaten too many chips. Feeling a bit… puffy. Lesson learned.
- 9:00 AM: Breakfast at the motel (if they do one - check the website? That's what normal people do, right?) Or, you know, cereal from the supermarket.
- 10:00 AM: Doubling Down on a Single Experience: THE ASHBURTON MUSEUM! I read it's amazing? Well, maybe. I'm secretly really into history. I’m talking, like, super into it. And Ashburton's got a museum? Deal!
- Strong Emotional Reaction: Museums are my jam. Ancient artifacts? Old photographs? I'm so there. I’m expecting to walk out feeling like I've learned something. Or at least, that I didn't completely waste my time.
- 12:00 PM: Lunch. A casual sandwich (possibly involving cheese) to fuel the afternoon's adventures.
- 1:00 PM: Explore. Maybe wander around the town. Maybe drive out and see the landscape. Sheep are possible.
- Messy Structure: Okay. Options. There are options. Which makes me nervous. Too many choices lead to paralysis. Okay, breathe. Let's just go somewhere. It’ll be fine.
- 3:00 PM: Coffee, AGAIN. This is not just a drink; it's a life-sustaining fluid.
- 4:00 PM: Head back towards the motel. Maybe find a little shop.
- 6:00 PM: Dinner. Repeat the whole Google Maps process.
- 7:30 PM: Maybe try out the motel's TV. Or call my friend.
Day 3: Departure and the Post-Ashburton Blues (Probably)
9:00 AM: Pack. (Again. I'm getting better at this, I think.) Breakfast. Maybe another look at the museum, if there's time.
10:00 AM: Check out of Taylors Motel. Give a final assessment of the place.
- Opinionated Language: Look, I'm expecting decent. Not five-star luxury, but clean and functional. If I had to say a word, "convenient."
10:30 AM: Hit the road back to Christchurch!
12:00 PM: Lunch somewhere on the way.
2:00 PM: Go back to the airport. Check in my suitcase.
5:00 PM: (Eventually) Fly home. Reflect on the Ashburton experience.
- Stream-of-Consciousness: I bet there were some nice people in Ashburton. I hope the motel was ok. I should have spent more time outside. Did I eat enough cheese? I'll have to go back someday… but maybe in a year? Yeah, maybe.
- Strong Emotional Reaction: Overall? This has been great. I survived.
8:00 PM: (At home.) Unpack again. Immediately start planning the next adventure.
And there you have it. A completely unrealistic, but hopefully entertaining, account of a trip to Ashburton. Now, if you'll excuse me, I need to start packing. (Maybe.)
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Escape to Paradise: Taylor's Motel - Ashburton's Hidden Gem? (Or Just...Hidden?) - Your Burning Questions Answered (Probably)
Okay, so "Paradise"...is that *really* what we're talking about? Is Taylor's Motel actually...good?
Alright, let's be real. "Paradise" might be a *slight* exaggeration. I mean, unless your version of paradise involves slightly wonky plumbing, a slightly too-firm mattress, and the distinct aroma of…well, let's just say "history" in the air. I went in with high hopes, I really did. The website promised a secluded getaway, a taste of "Kiwi hospitality"...
Honestly, the photos were pretty. But the reality? Well, picture this: you're driving down a slightly dodgy road, and then...there it is. Taylor's. It's…rustic. Let's go with rustic. But maybe that's *part* of the charm? The escape from the bland sameness of chain motels?
Here’s the truth: it depends. Depends on your expectations. If you’re expecting The Ritz, you're in for a shock. If you're expecting a clean, functional place to crash for a night, then yeah, it's not *bad*. Just...manage your expectations. Seriously. I can still remember the chipped paint on the door...and that weird patch in the carpet. Eugh.
What's the location like? "Secluded" sounds promising…or worrying.
Okay, "secluded" is accurate. Maybe a *little* too accurate. Taylor's Motel is definitely off the beaten path. Which can be good! Kind of. You're not right on some busy highway, which means, potentially, less noise. Though, the sheep nearby…they can get vocal. (Seriously, those sheep. They never shut up.)
Ashburton itself is…well, it's Ashburton. Not exactly known for its buzzing nightlife. The motel is a short drive from the town though, so you *can* get to the shops. But honestly? I spent most of my time at the motel, mostly because I was too nervous to venture out after dark. Don’t ask.
The upside? Starry nights. Absolutely stunning. You can see them so clearly out there, away from the city lights. That, honestly, was worth the price of admission. But remember your insect repellent though. Those sandflies are vicious.
The rooms…what are they *really* like? The website always lies…
Alright, let's get down to brass tacks. The rooms...they're… basic. Think classic motel, but with a few extra "character" marks. I was in room 7. I think. The number was a bit faded.
The bed? Firm. Almost suspiciously firm. Like, the kind of firm that makes you question whether they’ve *actually* replaced the mattresses in the last...well, ever. The pillows were flat. Like, pancake-flat. I ended up using a rolled-up towel. Glamorous, I know.
The bathroom? Functional. The water pressure, let's just say, was "enthusiastic" at times. It was either a trickle, or it felt like you were standing under a fire hose. The cleanliness? Okay. It wasn't filthy, but it wasn't pristine either. I'm not going to lie; I packed my own sanitizing wipes. Maybe a tad paranoid, but hey, peace of mind, right?
Okay, so I'm getting the picture. But what about the *actual* experience? Like, the Taylor's Motel experience?
Oh, the *experience*. Right. Okay, buckle up. I’m just gonna tell you what happened. I will say this, it wasn't boring.
First, the check-in. Apparently, the owners are…eccentric. Let’s call it that. I arrived late, which I’d warned them about. The entire place seemed asleep. I rang the bell (which was more of a rusty clanging sound). Eventually, this very, very kind but definitely-had-been-up-for-a-while woman appeared. She mumbled something about "room keys and the sheep" and disappeared, so I went looking for my room.
Then there was the…the issue with the TV remote. Spent a good half an hour wrestling with that thing. Ultimately, it turned out that the batteries were dead. I mean, come on! I'm not going to lie; that was when I started to question my life choices. But then, I figured: it’s a cheap room, what do you expect? Maybe that was my mistake.
AND THEN…the water went out. Completely. I called. The lady said, “The pump has problems, but it happens. Just wait.” So I waited, for about three hours, in the dark, with no running water. It was…character building, I guess? Seriously though, I was so tired and miserable. So I went to bed in the dark, with only the sounds of the sheep and my own grumbling for company.
Anyway, the water came back on in the middle of the night. I found a packet of biscuits on the counter. So I ate them. Because…biscuits. They were stale. But sweet.
Look, it wasn’t a disaster. It’s a story. A slightly depressing story. But it's *a* story. In short, expect the unexpected at Taylor's Motel. That’s probably the most useful thing I can say.
Is there anything *good* about it? Besides the possibly cool sheep?
Okay, let's try to be positive for a second…The view! From my window, if I squinted *just* right, I could see the Southern Alps. It was pretty. The sheep were kind of cute on a whole.
And…the price. It's cheap. Dirt cheap. You get what you pay for, obviously, but if you're on a budget, Taylor's Motel won't break the bank. Also, when the owner emerged, after the water had been fixed, she was genuinely apologetic. The biscuits were, well, they were biscuits. And the stars? Absolutely phenomenal. That really *was* paradise.
Would you go back? Honestly?
…Maybe? Okay, probably not. At least, not anytime soon. I'd need a *very* strong reason. Maybe if I was broke and needed a place to crash. Maybe if I was writing a book about quirky motels. Maybe.
But look, I wouldn't *completely* discourage you from going. Just…go in with a sense of adventure (and maybe some extra snacks, wet wipes, and a backup flashlight). It's an experience, that's for sure.
Just…don't expect perfection. You won't find it at Taylor's. But you might find something...memorable. And hey, at least you'll have a good story toSnooze And Stay
