Taiwan Hotels

Taiwan has gone under the radar of a lot of tourists for so long. It was only recently that the country has been noticed by travelers from around the globe. People always thought that it might be similar to the city-state of Hong Kong, but while similar, they are also different from each other. Taiwan has its own distinct personality that’s traditional, modern, and quirky at the same time. It’s certainly worth more than one visit because of all the new surprises the country has every time.

How to Go

Taiwan has several airports that service different regions of the country. If Taipei is the first thing on your itinerary, then Taoyuan International Airport is the likely start to your journey. It’s an hour away from the city. Traveling to and from the airport is easy with an efficient train and bus system. Taxis are also available. If you’re traveling to the south of the country, Kaohsiung International Airport is where you’ll find yourself. Similar modes of transportation are available for you here.

Getting Around

Going around the different cities in Taiwan is easy and foreigner-friendly. It’s not hard to navigate because of the comprehensive bus and train routes in the cities. Most of them are also pedestrianized so it won’t be difficult to go around as well. Make sure you buy the metro cards that are also usable in the bus or other forms of transportation in the cities.

Top Things to Do

Everyone loves the bustling metropolis of Taipei, with all of its night markets and vibrant shopping areas. Aside from this, it also has an amazing blend of nature and development, tradition and modernity. You’ll find Taipei 101, one of the greatest hallmarks of Taiwan, in the city center. Other popular attractions found here include Chiang Kai Shek Memorial Palace and the National Palace Museum. These both serve as a testament and reminder to the country’s progressive government and history.

A bit of a distance away from the city is Taroko Gorge. If you want to see more of the country’s stunning cliffs and ranges, then this is the perfect trip for you. You’ll find impressive hiking trails with beautiful views of the cliffside and river. The city of Hualien is also popular among the locals who love to cycle. It’s easy to understand because places like the Rift Valley is what greets you in the sparsely populated east coast. You’ll find a campground, seaside dining, and hot springs here that are all a great getaway from the busy city.

Beitou which is a few minutes away from the city is an amazing place to relax. Hot springs are everywhere in this area, with different public baths modeled after those in Japan. The city of Taichung is the second biggest city in the country and possibly the quirkiest. You’ll find the pretty Rainbow Village here whose homes are covered in the most amazing colorful art. The scenic Sun Moon Lake is also a quick ride away by bus and best appreciated by riding the gondola service.

At the southernmost tip of Taiwan is Kaohsiung, the second biggest city in Taiwan. It is said to be the most underrated destination in the country. It’s similar yet different from the capital mainly because it’s at the seaside. You’ll find attractions such as the Lotus Pond where it’s said to reverse someone’s luck. Street Pier 2 is a quirky hub that has its own rustic charm. It’s a good spot for families to enjoy the seaside and beautiful street arts.

What to Eat

Taiwan clearly values its cuisine and it permeates even in customs and language. Locals often ask each other the phrase jia ba buay, which translates to ‘have you eaten? It’s easy to say that they uphold dining to a certain level. It shows with their dishes that are distinctly their own.

Often referred to as a foodie’s paradise, you’ll encounter all sorts that would tantalize your taste buds in this country. Most if not all cities have night markets in every corner that comes with a variety of dishes like chicken chops, beef noodles, and oyster omelettes. If you prefer sweets, then try anything pineapple especially their popular pineapple cakes. You will also find peanut brittle ice cream and the ever so popular milk tea in every corner. You will never miss them.

Where to Stay

Depending on where you go, booking a hotel in Taiwan won’t be difficult. It would be a matter of where you want to base yourself in. If you want to be near the shopping and dining then cities like Taipei, Taichung, and Kaohsiung should be at the top of your list. You’ll find hotels and hostels that would suit your needs. If you want to explore more of the countryside, then the district of Hualien is ideal because of its proximity to nature. You’ll find many camping grounds here.

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