Buzz
TRANSPORTATION IN TAIWAN:
Getting around is a breeze with MRT and buses. Simply grab a 4G SIM card (pre-order through Klook for a great deal) and download Google Maps for easy navigation. Upon arrival at the airport, make sure to purchase an Easy card for 100 NTD, which can be used for both MRT and buses. Exploring Taiwan is incomplete without experiencing these public transportation options. Alternatively, you can opt for a taxi (7-seater at the price of a 4-seater), slightly more expensive than in Vietnam, around 1.5 times more, for those tired feet not wanting to make it to the MRT station.
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DINING EXPERIENCE:
A plethora of dishes awaits your taste buds. Our recommendations include Mala Hot Pot (a must-try), Mango Ice Shaved at Smoothie House (absolutely delicious), Yong Kang Beef Noodle, 50 Lan Bubble Tea, night market sausages, 1973 Fried Chicken, Xiao Long Bao at Din Tai Fung, and Irving's Salted Egg Popcorn in Taipei 101. You can also challenge yourself with the infamous stinky tofu - not for the faint of heart. Keep in mind that popular spots will have long queues, so be patient.
My favorite dish in Taiwan: Mango Ice Shaved at Smoothie House
Embark on a thrilling bus journey to Da Leu Park, Cuu Phan, and Thap Phan with Klook
Discover the enchanting beauty of Da Leu Park
Release sky lanterns in the mesmerizing Cuu Phan
+ Xin Beitou: Due to frequent earthquakes in Taiwan, there are numerous hot springs. Xin Beitou is a picturesque destination with cool vibes, lush greenery, azure skies, and a magical mist-covered lake. We didn't plan ahead, missing out on swim gear and a resort reservation. Definitely trying this place again with better preparation next time.
Capture the essence of Xin Beitou's picturesque spots for some Instagram-worthy moments
National Library with a touch of Japanese architecture on the way to Xin Beitou
Beitou Hot Springs Area: A mesmerizing oasis of thermal waters in Xinbeitou
+ Taipei 101: Once the tallest building globally for 5 years (its elevators held the record for the fastest in the world), from 2004-2009, before being surpassed in both height and elevator speed by a series of other skyscrapers. We skipped the 89th floor as the tickets were exorbitant; the view probably wouldn't differ much from looking down from Keangnam. Around this area, there are several other shopping malls with more affordable brands. Inside Taipei 101, the renowned Din Tai Fung restaurant is located, but it's always crowded, so we opted for takeout. Don't forget to try their famous Xiao Long Bao!
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+ Ximending: Our base – the most bustling shopping district in Taipei. Every night, we'd return with tired feet but still wander around because of the numerous enticing shops. Oh, and there are loads of adorable pet cafes in this area, with a remarkably high chance of spotting your favorite furry friend!
+ Shilin Night Market: Taipei's largest night market, resembling an ancient city night market. It offers everything imaginable, and the variety of mouth-watering food is overwhelming; be prepared to wait in line for 20-30 minutes along the roadside stalls.
Shilin Night Market
+ Forbidden City Museum: housing over 600,000 artifacts from the Forbidden City. Admission is 350 CNY, but the sheer number of ancient treasures and exquisite royal jewelry is absolutely breathtaking.
Artifacts within the Forbidden City Museum
+ Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall: a memorial hall dedicated to Chiang Kai-shek – located within an expansive square. The surrounding garden is home to numerous squirrels. You can bring some treats for them; they are quite lured by snacks. When we fed them, even mice were tempted. The squirrels almost look like mice, especially with their tails – easily mistaken.
Memorializing Chiang Kai-shek
+ Long Son Pagoda: One of the most renowned temples in Taipei, attracting a diverse crowd of locals and tourists alike for worship.
+ HUASHAN 1914 CREATIVE PARK: An artistic and recreational hub for the youth. Pretty cool with plenty of picturesque corners for photo ops.
The total damage, not including shopping expenses, is around 10 - 11 million per person. For me, Taiwan provided a memorable and enjoyable experience. It might be a while before I return to Taiwan, but if possible, I would love to explore Kaohsiung and Taichung next time. Thank you all for following along.
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