Taiwan | Taipei, Kaohsiung, Hualien
Every few years, I visit Taiwan since my parents are from Taiwan and I have many relatives that still live there. In total, I have been to Taiwan six times - mainly staying in Taipei and more recently splitting time between Taipei/Kaohsiung.
What is remarkable about Taiwan is the abundance of things to find on a tiny island that is smaller than the state of New York. One thing Taiwan is most known for is its food scene, especially the night markets dotting the streets with cheap and delicious street snacks that spring to life at night.
As I learned more about the country and what the island offers with each visit, I became surprised by the breadth of the natural gems on the island. Just 30 min outside Taipei you can find mountains, gorges, hot/cold springs, forests, grasslands, etc. As you venture to the East side of the island, you can find Taroko National Park where mountain ranges tower over the Pacific Ocean. On the South side of the island near Kaohsiung, there are beaches that line the coastline.
Taiwanese people are also friendly, welcoming, and treat others as if they are family. Grabbing a turnip cake at the mom/pop food stall down the block that has been there for 3 generations feels like your own parents serving you breakfast.
Places Visited:
Taipei:
- Taipei 101
- Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall
- Wulai District (mountains/hot springs outside Taipei)
- National Taiwan University (台大)
Kaohsiung:
- Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum
- Chengcing Lake
- Cijin Park
- Taiwan Sugar Museum (Qiaotou)
- 85 Sky Tower
- China Steel Corporation Headquarters
Hualien:
- Taroko National Park
