Taiwan, Heart of Asia

If you are looking for your next travel destination and you want to discover somewhere extraordinary, head to Taiwan. A beautiful state in East Asia, Taiwan is also commonly referred to as the “heart of Asia”. One of the most diverse places to visit filled with tropical forests, bustling cities and an incredible history, whatever time of year you decide to visit this incredible state it will be unforgettable. 

Wherever you go in Taiwan you will be met with friendly people, delicious food and breathtaking scenery. If you want to hike throughout your getaway, make your way to Yushan, North-eastern Asia’s tallest peak. Proud of their culture and maintaining many of its roots, Taiwan is a unique destination. Religion also plays a large role in the state, with an abundance of monasteries and temples spread across it dedicated to Confucian, Buddhist and Taoist faiths. 

Travelling to Taiwan 

When planning a Taiwan vacation, it’s important to research what you need to get into the state and other aspects you will need to know for your Taiwan travel itinerary. In terms of international airports, there are four: Taichung, Kaohsiung International, Taipei Songshan and Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport. 

if you are from a western country, you should be able to enter the state visa-free for 90 days. If you are from another country you may have to apply for an eVisa. Ensure you know which applies to you and what documents you need before you travel there by checking the official ministry website. 

Enjoy Some Delicious Food 

Taiwan has an abundance of mouth-watering snacks, hot foods and local dishes for you to enjoy. From the traditional beef noodle soup to wontons, hot pot, boba tea, mango shaved ice and oyster pancakes, you won’t be lost on finding adventurous food to indulge in. Taiwan is also known for creating scrumptious breakfast dishes, from soup dumplings to egg pancakes – the perfect start to the day before you head out to explore. 

Top Five Tourist Hot Spots You Should Visit 

Discover Longshan Temple 

Located in the Wanhua District in Taipei, Longshan Temple dates to the 18th Century and is adorned with grand architecture and opulent furnishings. A place of religious worship for Confucian, Buddhist and Taoist faiths, it is spread over 10,000 sq metres. An incredible place to visit when in Taiwan, it has a breathtaking front mountain gate and a Hall of Five Gates (that features carved dragons) amongst other elegant features that showcases Taiwan’s rich history and culture. 

Explore Taiwan’s National Park in Southern Penghu

Consisting of four islands, the beautiful and newest national park is filled with sea cliffs, platforms that have been sculpted by the waves and dramatic ocean basalts. Covering over 370 hectares, it makes for an awe-inspiring visit – just keep in mind, however, that you can only get to here by boat. 

See the ‘Blue Tears’ of Kinmen 

A phenomenon that has gained acclaim across the world, Kinmen’s ‘Blue Tears’ are a mysterious blue light display that occurs on the shore of the islands each spring. Created by algae, the blue glow makes for a fascinating watch at night. 

Get Cultured at the National Place Museum

Located in Taipei city, Taiwan’s National Place Museum has a vast collection of Chinese art, including ceramics, statues and paintings. The world’s largest collection, when you are there you can spot the jade cabbage amongst other extraordinary pieces. 

Reach for the Sky at Taipei 101 

Internationally known as being one of the world’s tallest buildings (and at one time the tallest before the Burj Khalifa was constructed), Taipei 101 is situated in the Xinyi district. Standing at 1,667 ft tall, you can observe the city from its mind-blowing observation tower. 

Quick Facts About Taiwan 

• Its capital is Taipei
• Its currency is new Taiwan dollar
• Its top festivals are Taiwanese New Year, the Ching Ming Festival and the Dragon Boat Festival