Small Town Portraits: Dajia and the Million-Pilgrim March
April 18th, 2023
Dajia, sometimes spelled Tachia, stands as a focal point of Taiwan’s profound religious heritage, anchored by its renowned temple and an extraordinary annual pilgrimage. Jenn Lann Temple: A Beacon of Matsu Worship Jenn Lann Temple proudly claims its status as Taiwan’s wealthiest and most significant shrine dedicated to Matsu, the revered sea goddess. Each […]
Read more »
24 Hours in Kaohsiung, Taiwan’s Maritime Metropolis
March 31st, 2023
Explore Kaohsiung: A Day Filled with Hidden Gems Whether you’re concluding a journey through Taiwan’s unspoiled east or wrapping up an exploration of historic Tainan, a day in Kaohsiung before your departure is a treasure trove of unique experiences. While Kaohsiung may not have the international fame of Taroko Gorge or Taipei 101, it offers […]
Read more »
Exploring Taiwan’s Underwater Marvels with Wesley Oosthuizen
March 23rd, 2023
Wesley Oosthuizen, a South African resident in Taiwan for nearly two decades, finds his heart drawn to the ocean, despite the island’s captivating mountains. His journey to Taiwan began as an English teacher, but he later returned as a video editor. Today, Wesley’s time is divided between teaching and his passion for diving and underwater […]
Read more »
Taiwanese Breakfast Delights: Savouring Taipei’s Culinary Gems
January 15th, 2023
Why settle for a run-of-the-mill hotel breakfast when you’re in Taipei? Taiwan’s vibrant capital boasts a rich culinary heritage that extends to its breakfast offerings. Exploring Taipei’s breakfast scene unveils a fascinating journey through history, reflecting the changing tastes and influences that have shaped Taiwanese cuisine. A Century Ago: Rice, Carbs, and Necessity Over a […]
Read more »
International Mountain Day and the Glories of Taiwan’s Uplands
December 9th, 2021
Exploring Taiwan’s Majestic Mountains on International Mountain Day Taiwan’s Towering Peaks When it comes to celebrating International Mountain Day, few places are as relevant as Taiwan, a land often described as two-thirds mountains. These rugged hills embrace Taipei, and on clear days, the Central Mountain Range is visible from Taichung. Nearly one-third of the island […]
Read more »
Why You Should Choose Train Travel in Taiwan
November 14th, 2021
Choosing a mode of transport to get around your travel destination is a more important decision than you might first think. In Taiwan, planes, private vehicles, and bicycles are all highly feasible ways of exploring the island. Depending on your travel style and length of trip, all have their benefits and tradeoffs. But have you […]
Read more »
Taiwan’s Evolution into a Captivating Travel Destination
September 27th, 2021
In recent years, Taiwan has emerged from the shadows of being primarily a business travel hub to become an enticing vacation destination for individuals from Europe and North America. A Century-Long Quest to Attract Travelers Taiwan’s quest to allure foreign tourists began over a century ago during the era of Japanese rule, which commenced in […]
Read more »
Taiwan in 100 Books
November 2nd, 2020
If you’re considering a visit to Taiwan and want to dive into its rich tapestry of culture and history beforehand, there’s an array of English-language books to guide your exploration. However, with such a vast selection, you might find yourself wondering where to begin. Navigating the World of Taiwan Literature Having relocated from New Zealand […]
Read more »
Embracing Yellow and Its Cultural Significance
September 22nd, 2020
In Taiwan, the sweltering heat of the year’s peak is finally giving way to the refreshing embrace of autumn. As the season transitions, the colour yellow takes centre stage, both as a symbol and a vibrant presence in the island’s temples and shrines. This hue, deeply rooted in tradition, particularly shines in the Buddhist facets […]
Read more »
Taiwan’s Delectable Dumplings
June 17th, 2020
Taiwan beckons the adventurous gourmet with an array of mouthwatering dumplings that come in various tantalizing forms. Whether you prefer them boiled, fried, or steamed, stuffed with succulent pork, shrimp paste, vegetables, or even a flavorful soup, Taiwan’s dumpling diversity knows no bounds. These delightful parcels are often enveloped in a thin skin or dough, […]
Read more »
Exploring Taiwan’s Rich Variety of Local Vegetables
April 8th, 2020
Official statistics fail to capture the full extent of vegetable cultivation in Taiwan. Beyond the rice paddies and orchards, many farmers also tend to seasonal greens, often sharing their harvest with family rather than selling it. Even city-dwellers get in on the action, cultivating scallions or cilantro in balcony boxes. In Taiwan, few opt for […]
Read more »
Nature in a Nutshell: Taiwan’s Botanical Gardens
February 28th, 2020
An Oasis of Nature in the Heart of Taipei: Taipei Botanical Garden For nature enthusiasts with limited time or a preference for curated ecosystems, Taiwan’s botanical gardens offer a unique opportunity to explore the island’s biodiversity. The well-known Taipei Botanical Garden, located just a short metro ride from central Taipei, has served as a research […]
Read more »