My 14-Day Taiwan Spin: My Biased Views – Roast Me!
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Sure! I'll translate the given Chinese article into English with a focus on readability and staying true to the original content, while also retaining the details and emotional expression.
Impression of Taiwan (Travel Tips for Foreign Friends)
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About Airline Meals and Airports
- The airline I flew was China Airlines. The mapo tofu lobster meal wasn’t bad, but honestly, they really outdid themselves with their side dishes compared to the main course. Breakfast was better than dinner as well! The flight attendants did an exceptional job - no complaints here.
- If you’re at Taoyuan International Airport’s terminal T2, their VIP lounges can get too crowded at night and rather noisy.
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Misty Rain in Jiu Fen's Mountain Town
- Whenever you go to Jiufen (a mountain town famous for traditional tea houses and the ambiance reminiscent of Spirited Away), there’s a high possibility of carrying a raincoat — Jiufen is quite humid, and it often rains there.
- The small alleys with cobblestone roads are unique as the sky can't be seen above them. There is plenty of delicious food, but I’d suggest eating less and appreciating more of the scenery; it feels familiar, reminiscent of the South-Eastern water towns in my childhood memory.
️ Note: For the sake of convenience, stay over in Taipei at night, instead of Jiu Fen. There are fewer options for rest and accommodation along the mountain roads could result in some night inconvenience.
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Temples Etiquette
- When visiting temples, avoid making inappropriate gestures towards deities.
Reminder: Before entering, remove your hat. And never take photos taken at statues. It’s a basic sign of respect when visiting temples; keep in mind that there should always be a sense of reverence towards deities.
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Taipei Music Center: A Must for Gen X and Gen Y
- The Taipei Music Center, which has so much historical music memorabilia, is truly worth visiting if you are between Generation X and Generation Y (i.e., born from 1970-1989). There will always be some sweet or bitter memories tied to music.
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The Martyrs' Shrine: A Mark of History
- The Martyrs' Shrine is in Taipei at the city’s northern part, with a small site but highly recommended. It commemorates those military personnel who sacrificed their lives for the country.
- Though history may be altered in textbooks, its imprints will never be removed. What we have today would not exist without the efforts and sacrifices of our predecessors.
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Taipei Palace Museum & Taiwanese Culture
- Speaking of the Taipei Palace Museum, no introduction is necessary about the precious valuables in Chinese culture it possesses.
- Nonetheless, I’d say the local population better represents Taiwanese culture – they are mild-mannered and respectful towards others. This is an area with deep faith that has wonderfully preserved traditional Chinese Culture.
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Suggestions for Accommodation: Give New Hotels a Try!
- While you’re planning your trip, why not consider new smaller hotels? It might bring pleasant surprises!
- I recommend small hotels that have been open for around 3 years or so and have a 4-star score according to online reviews (out of most 5 stars reviews) - with about a couple hundred reviews. They often yield unexpected bonuses.
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Taichung’s Coffee & Alcohol Scene
- I met a barista at the Shenji New Village (a cultural and creative park originating from old government residences that have now been renovated).
- Taiwan's not only famous for its tapioca pearl milk tea but has developed their own distinct coffee and alcohol culture, where many passionate young people work hard. You may even get quality coffee beverages there in the evening!
- Besides, Taiwan's Kavalan has won numerous international awards as Whiskey!
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There’s plenty to see in Taichung too!
- Some say Taichung “has nothing particularly special to offer.” I disagree; the Rainbow Village (a colorful village whose buildings are painted by local residents), Shunji New Village, and the old train station in Taichung are all special. It doesn't always mean a place needs to be popular, and the crowds have something amazing.
- These places represent the slow lifestyle in central and southern Taiwan. Isn’t travel meant to experience different lifestyles?
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Taiwan Railways Bento Box Tastes
- The Taiwan Railways Bento Box must be tasted!
- Put away your luggage at home, sit steadily in the seat, pull down the small table, open the box, take out chopsticks, and gaze out the window at the fast-receding urban scenery – the real flavor of the bento box comes half way through the journey.
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Tainan's Surprise: Chimei Museum
- The biggest surprise of this trip was Chimei Museum in Tainan – it's a private museum with rich collection. I actually find it more interesting than Taipei Palace Museum! Furthermore, the pineapple cake they sell in the museum is absolutely delectable, and the memory of its sweetness still lingers.
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Street Observations in a New Year’s Eve Festival
- In Taiwan, temple fairs can serve as venues for celebrating New Year’s Eve, making it interesting!
- Young people abound in the street, giving it a very vivid atmosphere. Personally, I think youths in the southern region are more rooted, while young men in Taipei might tend to be a bit more docile. Yet, now young people seem generally more reserved across various Asian regions? Perhaps they need a workout to loosen up a bit, huh?
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Round Island Tips
- ️ Important Notice: My biggest mistake this time was failing to bring my International Driving Permit! Those who want to rent a car and drive around the island, remember to prepare it beforehand.
- I ended up rushing through my schedule as I had to rely purely on high-speed rail, aircrafts, and local trains. Once Taroko gorge reopens after natural disasters, I will fly directly to Hualien in eastern province to enjoy!
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My Personal Favorites
- There are photos documenting what I believe are the best instant noodles in Taiwan, plus stunning street performers by my knowledge!
- This, naturally, is just my personal opinion—welcome to any debate in the comments section if you don't share the same view!
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Improving Perception of Taiwan Public Services
- The last photo was intended to capture the facade of the local government building in Hualien.
- Since moving to China’s public press in the past, I held that the news from Taipei was chaotic and frequently debated. However, after chatting with locals, I realized that they were quite well-managed in public health, income tax system, stock market management, anti-corruption measures, and various other public services, which might outshine those from some other regions populated by residents of Chinese origin.
(Translation ends)
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This century-old bookstore is a must-visit for me every time I'm in Taiwan.
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Thanks for sharing! It looks great. I'll check it out next time.
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This is really well-written! Great observations. Friends are always welcome to visit again.
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Thanks for reading the article. We'll definitely come back once Taroko Gorge reopens.
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For instant noodles, you absolutely have to try the TTL Hua Diao Chicken Noodles! ~~~
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Thanks for sharing! I'll give it a try next time.
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Winter in Northern Taiwan is perfect for hot springs!! Especially the outdoor private pools~
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Absolutely! We tried hot springs in Beitou and Yilan, and both were great, though quite different. The ones in Yilan didn't have that sulfur smell.
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Actually, the morning mist is what makes Jiufen most charming.
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Thanks for the tips! I'll check it out next time.
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What's actually in those Taiwan Railways bento boxes? It was pretty underwhelming.
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They have chicken drumstick, salmon, and tofu bento boxes. The chicken drumstick is my favorite.
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Thank you for sharing these !