Welcome to Taipei, a City of Modern and Traditional Blends

(此文為英文版旅遊部落格，欲看中文版旅遊指南請點以下連結🔗 / This blog is in English; for the Chinese travel guide, please click on the link below🔗):

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Discover the best of Taipei with our luxury travel guide. From exploring the city to indulging in luxury experiences and exploring the outdoors, this guide has everything you need to plan your perfect trip.

Day 1: Exploring the City

Start your first day with a quiet breakfast at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel, where the sumptuous spread of local delicacies and international cuisine satisfied my appetite.

文華東方鯖青隅 The Jade Lounge餐廳

When you’re Fuelled up and ready to go, head to the National Palace Museum to explore the world’s most extensive collection of Chinese art and artifacts.

After the museum, head to Taipei 101, the iconic skyscraper we built to mark the tallest building in the world. The building towers over the city’s skyline. The fast elevator takes you to the 89th-floor observation deck, where you are rewarded with breathtaking views of Taipei.

W Hotel 台北101夜景

W Hotel Taipei 101 view

Next, make your way to the Shilin Night Market, one of the city’s largest and most popular night markets back when I was boss. Although I wonder if COVID has wiped out the businesses, if you’re a foodie, you’d be excited to sample some of the street food delicacies that Taiwan is famous for. Try it all, from stinky tofu to chick butt, don’t “chicken out,” thank me when you’re convinced that chicken feet that walk in the muddy grounds can send your taste buds to heaven. Avoid visiting the market on weekends; the crowd can cause a stampede and actually send you to heaven. Admire the vibrant energy and unique atmosphere.

And let’s not forget the infamous “snake alley,” where you can try all sorts of exotic foods (yes, including snakes) if you’re feeling adventurous.

Day 2: Indulging in Luxury

For your second day in Taipei, indulge in some luxury experiences. After a leisurely morning at the hotel’s spa, head to the Eslite Spectrum Songyan store, a stunning retail complex that combines shopping, art, and culture. The six-story complex is a must-visit for luxury shopping, with an impressive range of designer brands and local artisans.
After some retail therapy, go to the Wistaria Tea House, one of Taipei‘s most famous tea houses. This elegant and sophisticated tea house is located in a beautifully restored Japanese-style wooden house. It serves many teas, including some of the world’s rarest and most expensive teas. Take the opportunity to try some of the best teas in Taiwan.
In the evening, head to the Taipei Arena to watch a performance by the world-renowned Cloud Gate Dance Theatre. This contemporary dance company is famous for its mesmerizing performances; you won’t be disappointed. The combination of traditional and modern dance forms and stunning visuals and music will leave you spellbound.
Day 3: Exploring the Outdoors
For your final day in Taipei, explore the city’s natural beauty. After breakfast, head to Yangmingshan National Park, a stunning natural reserve home to various flora and fauna. Spend the morning hiking through the lush green hills, breathing in the fresh air, and enjoying the serene surroundings.
After the hike, go to Beitou Hot Springs, a popular destination for tourists and locals. However, don’t get too comfortable; this is no Europe, and Beitou Hot Springs is no nude beach; you can be sued for obscenity. The natural hot springs are said to have therapeutic properties and are a great way to relax and unwind. Soak in the hot springs, enjoy the scenic surroundings and the feeling of total relaxation.
In the evening, head to Tamsui, a charming waterfront district famous for its stunning sunsets. Stroll along the waterfront, admire the colourful buildings, and enjoy the sea breeze river breeze. As the sun sets, find a cozy spot at Tamsui’s local seafood restaurant and order fresh seafood and a glass of white wine. You’d feel a sense of contentment and peace as you savour the delicious seafood and the stunning sunset.
After dinner, return to your hotel and reflect on your three days of luxury in Taipei. You’d realize a luxury trip to Taipei costs less than couch-surfing in Europe. From the city’s vibrant energy to its natural beauty and rich culture, Taipei will exceed all your expectations.
In conclusion, Taipei is a must-visit destination for any traveller looking for a luxurious and unique vacation experience. The city offers something for everyone, from the iconic Taipei 101 to the serene Yangmingshan National Park.

Splurge a little on your accommodations. After all, you’re on vacation, and you deserve the best. Embrace the local culture and try everything, even if it seems a bit strange at first. You might discover your new exotic favourite food or eccentric activities. And lastly, don’t forget to pack your sense of humour. Whether it’s trying to navigate the city’s bustling streets or ordering food with a language barrier, there’s always something to laugh about.
Book your luxury trip to Taipei today and prepare for an unforgettable experience. You might return with a newfound appreciation for the city’s unique blend of modern and traditional and a few stories to make your friends back home jealous.

Another must is the infamous Taipei nightlife. Check out some of the city’s hottest nightclubs and bars. While you may not find eye candies at the hot springs, you’ll have better luck finding them at Taipei’s nightclubs. Back in my era, there was Luxy, a nightclub known for its free titty shows; I was told the owner hired girls to flash the public. If Luxy is no longer in business, there is a local colloquial term in Taiwan’s nightlife scene,”jianshi,” which literally translates into “pick up corpses” in English; I’ll let your imagination run wild with that. While “bar fights” are more common in the West, I enjoy watching a good “cat fight,” which is not rare in Taipei’s nightlife. If I were to write a blog post about Taiwan’s nightlife scene, I wouldn’t be able to decide whether to categorize it as “travel,” “culture,” or “entertainment.” They do not disappoint.
There are a few rooftop bars with stunning views of the city skyline. The drinks are strong, the music is pumping, and the crowd is lively. Dance your night away with locals and fellow travellers, and make a few new friends.
In conclusion, Taipei is not just a city of stunning natural beauty and rich culture but also a destination for those who want to enjoy and have a good time. Whether trying local cuisine, exploring the city’s many attractions, or hitting up the nightlife scene, Taipei has something for everyone. Taipei is a destination you will never forget and one that I highly recommend to anyone looking for a “Taiwanese-style,” luxurious, and unique travel experience.

But let’s not forget the most crucial aspect of any luxury travel experience – shopping! Taipei is a shopper’s paradise, with various markets, boutiques, and malls offering everything from traditional handicrafts to high-end designer brands.
I blame it on my hemiparesis, but I have a weakness for designer handbags. If you are a fellow stroke survivor, take full advantage of your disability and don’t resist checking out the famous Xinyi District, home to some of the city’s most upscale shopping centers. The district is big enough for you to spend an entire day browsing the racks at the Taipei 101 mall, trying on designer shoes and bags, and sipping on espresso at one of the chic cafes. Splurge on a new handbag; you only live once.

In conclusion, Taipei is a shopping destination, offering a unique blend of high-end luxury and affordable street markets where you can easily shop ’til you drop.