Taiwan

Taipei 101 is a must-visit for its breathtaking views of the city. Taroko National Park is also a popular destination due to its stunning scenery, including the famous Taroko Gorge. The Chimei Museum is a great option for art lovers, and the National Palace Museum has an impressive collection of Chinese artifacts. For something more traditional, the Jiufen Old Street is a charming area to explore, and the Sun Moon Lake in central Taiwan offers beautiful views.

One popular activity in Taiwan is hiking. There are many beautiful trails to explore, including the famous Elephant Mountain Trail in Taipei. Night markets are also a must-visit for the food and atmosphere. The Shilin Night Market in Taipei is one of the largest and most popular. For those interested in history, a visit to the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall is a great option. Finally, a trip to the hot springs in Beitou is a relaxing and rejuvenating experience.

Visiting the Rainbow Village in Taichung is a unique and colorful experience. The Pingxi Sky Lantern Festival is also a popular event, where visitors can write their wishes on a lantern and release it into the sky. For those interested in tea, visiting a tea farm in the mountains is a unique experience. Finally, a visit to the Yehliu Geopark is a great way to see unique rock formations and learn about the geology of the area.

For a luxurious stay, the Mandarin Oriental Taipei is a great option. The Grand Hyatt Taipei is also highly rated. For those on a budget, the Flip Flop Hostel in Taipei is a popular option. For something more traditional, staying in a homestay in Jiufen is a unique experience. Finally, the Hotel Royal Chiaohsi offers hot springs and beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.

The best time to visit Taiwan is in the spring (March to May) or fall (September to November), when the weather is mild and comfortable. The summer months (June to August) can be hot and humid, and typhoons are common. Winter (December to February) can be cold and rainy, but offers a chance to see cherry blossoms in bloom.

Taiwanese cuisine is diverse and delicious. Some must-try dishes include beef noodle soup, stinky tofu, and xiaolongbao (soup dumplings). Night markets are a great way to sample a variety of street food, including fried chicken, oyster omelets, and bubble tea. For something more traditional, a visit to a restaurant serving Taiwanese seafood is a great option.

The Taipei Metro is a convenient and affordable way to get around Taipei. For traveling outside of Taipei, the Taiwan High-Speed Rail (THSR) is a fast and efficient option. Renting a scooter is also a popular way to see the sights. It's important to be aware of the local driving laws and to wear a helmet. Finally, taxis and buses are also available, but may be less convenient.

Taiwan has a subtropical climate, so it's important to pack light and breathable clothing. A light jacket or sweater is recommended for cooler evenings. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring the city and hiking. Sunscreen and insect repellent are also recommended. Finally, if you plan to visit hot springs, don't forget to pack a swimsuit and towel.

The currency in Taiwan is the New Taiwan Dollar (TWD). Major credit cards are accepted in many places, but it's always a good idea to carry cash, especially when visiting night markets and smaller shops.

In Taiwan, it's customary to remove your shoes when entering a home or temple. It's also important to respect elders and authority figures. When visiting a temple, it's important to dress modestly and to be respectful of those who are praying. Finally, when eating a meal, it's polite to wait until everyone has been served before beginning to eat.