It's time for Taiwan known as the "Heart of Asia", one of the best travel destinations in Asia. It may not be one of the cheapest to visit but it is a must-visit for its great food and of course incredible national parks, as well as much more!
Yehliu Geopark, Taiwan ©MDHarding
A to Z Travel Blog - Taiwan
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Reaching Taiwan
We flew with Eva Air (Evergreen Airlines) Taiwan's no 1 airline, from London Heathrow. Flying to more than 40 countries worldwide including destinations in Australia, Europe, and North America. Part of the star alliance group with a 5-star airline rating, It will come as no surprise that it was a great flight. The flight is not a short one at 17 hours but in the premium economy, it was very comfortable. The cabin felt very spacious and there was plenty of legroom. (The flight time includes a short change in Thailand's Bangkok International Airport).
For more flight options and the best prices check out Skyscanner.
Did you know Skyscanner now has an app?
The top Tip for balancing jet lag is to arrive during daylight hours. Find out more here.
Sunrise with Eva Air ©MDHarding
Accommodation
We love to try out different styles of accommodation while we travel from Airbnb, homestays to luxury hotels and resorts.
Taipei: Airbnb was perfect for the first few days in Taiwan's capital Taipei. It was very central with lots of restaurants, shops and very close to the metro station. Our hosts were very friendly and keen to assist us with our travels. Have you ever tried Airbnb? What was your experience like? If you would like to try it here is a link to save £25.00 on your first stay and £9.00 off your first experience.
Taroko National Park: We stayed at Liwu Hotel in Fushi. The train station is only 10 minutes by taxi from the hotel or you can also take the local bus. Only a few minutes' walk away from the entrance to Taroko National Park. Ideal for exploring and seeing the many sights within the park including the Eternal Spring Shine.
Hualien - Promisedland Resort 5-star resort. Relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings, spa, and even afternoon tea at the beautiful Promisedland Resort. Take the train to Hualien and the shuttle will be waiting to transfer you to the Promisedland Resort.
Alishan National Park: This is one location where I would recommend spending more on accommodation. Where we stayed was really disgusting! After speaking to another traveler seemingly the other small hotels are all the same. If you can, stay at the 4-star Alishan House Hotel. They offer complimentary shuttle service to and from the hotel. You will want to stay as close as possible for the early start. Sunrise trip of course, via the Alishan Forest Railway. Not to be missed!
Sun Moon Lake: Sun Moon Lake was one of the places we should have planned to stay longer. It is so beautiful at the lake, with boat trips, bike riding, and the cable car. Highly recommend the Lakeside Hotel. It's a modern building with contemporary rooms and the hosts are very friendly and can't wait to help. On the edge of the lake with beautiful views and only 20 minute walk to the bus station.
Taipei: On return to the bustling city of Taipei we decided to stay in a hotel for our remaining nights. The Moshamanla Hotel-Main Station was conveniently located by the main Taipei Railway Station. We didn't have a window but the room was very comfortable and quiet. Each morning a large buffet breakfast awaited you. Delicious!
Booking.com is one of our favourite accommodation providers it's easy to use, has very competitive pricing and you know the booking has been generated there and then (be aware some third-party accommodation reservation sites have to confirm your reservation before confirming with you).
The top Tip to get the best accommodation rates is to use comparison websites such as TripAdvisor and cashback websites. For more top tips check out: How To Get The Best Travel Deals.
Lakeside Hotel, Sun Moon Lake ©MDHarding
Traveling Throughout Taiwan
Getting around Taiwan is really easy. I would recommend purchasing the travel card (easycard) which can be topped up at any Seven-Eleven store. It saves time and looking for small change for local transport. There is also the Taipei Fun Pass. Upon arriving at the airport we purchased a sim card for the duration of our stay, which was really beneficial - google maps etc. For longer and high-speed train journeys the ticket office and tourist information desk inside the main railway station was a breath of fresh air. Couldn't be more helpful. Awesome experience.
Top Tip: Get the best train tickets at the lowest cost by booking in advance.
One of The Many Trains In Taiwan ©MDHarding
Inexpensive Day Trips From Taipei
Taipei is a great base for the first few days to explore both the capital and also the surrounding areas such as Yehliu Geopark and take the Maokong Gondola.
Yehliu Geopark ©MDHarding
Scenic Destinations For Nature Lovers
Do you love nature, walking, and exploring? Read more here about Taiwan's hot springs in Beitou, Alishan National Forest, Tarako National Park, and Yehliu Geopark.
Sun Moon Lake, Taiwan ©MDHarding
Architecture
From temples to shrines, pagodas, and even one of the world's tallest buildings - 101 Taipei has the “Ferrari” of elevators zooming passengers from the fifth floor to the 89th floor in only 37 seconds, traveling at 60.6 km/h or 1,010 metres per second.
Shouzhen Temple, Alishan National Park, Taiwan ©MDHarding
Food
You will not be stuck for delicious dishes to try in Taiwan from street stalls to the famous night markets and everything in between. Here are some of the dishes not to be missed! Beef noodles are one of the most liked common cuisines in Taiwan. There are also soup dumplings and stinky tofu. Recommend the shaved mango ice and bubble tea (Pearl Milk Tea). What will you try first?
The Highest Served Mango Ice - 101 Taipei, Taiwan ©MDHarding
I hope you have enjoyed reading and are inspired to visit Taiwan. Until next time, happy travels:)