Taipei

Taipei, the vibrant capital of Taiwan, is where futuristic skyscrapers meet centuries-old temples, and gourmet experiences span from Michelin-star dumplings to late-night street food. It's a city full of contrasts: quiet mountain villages like Maokong offer tea culture and serene views, while bustling districts such as Ximending burst with youth culture and neon-lit entertainment. From ascending Taipei 101 to discovering geological wonders at Yeliu Geopark, Taipei delivers an impressive range of experiences. Quirky themed cafés, hot pot feasts, karaoke bars, and even indoor shrimp fishing make it a fun and unforgettable destination for all kinds of travellers.

Taking the gondola ride to Maokong was a serene start, with crystal-floor cabins revealing lush green hills. The village at the top was peaceful, perfect for tea lovers. Descending back into the city, we tried indoor shrimp fishing – catching and grilling our own dinner added a playful twist to the meal. Making pineapple cakes was a delightful hands-on activity, and visiting Taipei 101 offered sweeping city views along with a peek at the massive damper sphere. We enjoyed soup dumplings at Din Tai Fung and explored Longshan Temple’s spiritual atmosphere. Ximending was full of energy, colour, and entertainment, while night markets delivered unmatched snacking experiences. Yeliu’s otherworldly rock formations amazed us, and the Shifen Waterfall and blue-toned Nanshan Village were picturesque. We wrapped up our evenings at themed cafés and quirky bars, fully immersed in Taipei’s unique charm.