Exploring the Best of Taiwan: A Comprehensive Destination Review
Taiwan, the land of tea, temples, and traditions, is a haven for visitors looking for an immersive experience. From stunning national parks to bustling city streets and serene countryside, Taiwan has something to offer for everyone.
What to See and Do in Taiwan?
1. Visit Taipei 101: Taipei’s iconic skyscraper, Taipei 101, offers breathtaking views of the city and beyond. The tower boasts a total of 101 floors and is one of the world’s tallest buildings.
2. Explore Taroko National Park: Taroko National Park, located in the northern part of Hualien County in Eastern Taiwan, is a natural wonder. It is home to marble cliffs, gorges, waterfalls, and hot springs.
3. Experience Jiufen Old Street: This charming mountain town is an ultimate destination for food lovers. Jiufen Old Street offers a glimpse of Taiwan’s teahouse culture and street food delights.
4. Visit Sun Moon Lake: Sun Moon Lake, located in the mountainous region in central Taiwan, is the largest natural lake in Taiwan. It is surrounded by biking and hiking trails, temples, and historical landmarks.
5. Discover the night markets: Taiwan’s night markets are an experience like no other. Try the local delicacies, shop for souvenirs, and soak up the local culture. Some famous night markets include Shilin Night Market, Raohe Night Market, and Fengjia Night Market.
Taiwan’s Rich Culture and Heritage
Taiwan is a melting pot of cultures, religions, and traditions. Some of the top cultural attractions include:
1. National Palace Museum: Located in Taipei, the National Palace Museum is home to the world’s largest collection of Chinese art and artifacts. It features over 700,000 pieces of art, some of which date back to the Neolithic era.
2. Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall: This grand monument is dedicated to Taiwan’s former president, Chiang Kai-Shek. The building boasts traditional Chinese architecture and is surrounded by perfectly manicured gardens.
3. Fo Guang Shan Monastery: Fo Guang Shan Monastery, located in Kaohsiung, is one of Taiwan’s most significant Buddhist temples. Built in 1967, the temple boasts intricate carvings, statues, and meditation halls.
Tasting Taiwan – Food and Drink Delights
Taiwan’s cuisine is a blend of Chinese, Japanese, and indigenous influences. Here are some typical dishes and drinks to try:
1. Bubble tea: An iconic Taiwanese drink that originated in the 1980s. It is a milky tea-based drink with chewy tapioca balls or fruit jelly.
2. Beef Noodle Soup: A hearty and flavorful soup made with beef broth, noodles, and tender beef chunks.
3. Stinky Tofu: A pungent street food delight made with fermented tofu and served fried or boiled.
4. Pineapple Cake: A sweet and crumbly pastry filled with pineapple jam.
The Verdict – Taiwan is an Unforgettable Destination
Taiwan is a destination that has it all – breathtaking natural beauty, rich culture and heritage, delicious food, and friendly people. If you are looking for a destination that is off the beaten path, Taiwan is the perfect place to explore. Make sure to add Taiwan to your travel bucket list!
