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 […]
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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 […]
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Despite Coronavirus, Taiwan Remains Safe and Healthy (Updated April 8)
February 8th, 2020
Taiwan’s front-line medical staff, epidemiologists and policy-makers have been doing sterling work containing the outbreak. Everyone I’ve spoken with – citizens, residents and visitors – greatly appreciates the efforts being made to keep us safe. – Mark Pemberton, Life of Taiwan founder and managing director Life of Taiwan is ready to resume normal operations as […]
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Sustainable Mountain Tourism
January 6th, 2020
This year’s International Mountain Day theme is sustainable mountain tourism, a matter close to our hearts at Life of Taiwan and cherished by Taiwan’s hiking community. Due to Taiwan’s high population density and growing interest in outdoor activities, authorities diligently manage tourism’s ecological impact in sensitive regions. Scaling Peaks: Yushan and Xueshan To reach the […]
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The Vibrant Significance of Red in Taiwan
December 26th, 2019
In Taiwan, the colour red transcends mere aesthetics; it is an emblem of festivity, good fortune, and tradition. While Western countries often associate red with Christmas due to Santa’s iconic outfit, Taiwan’s cultural roots trace back to China, where red symbolises happiness and prosperity. Traditional Taiwanese weddings used to feature striking red bridal garments, embodying […]
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Birdwatching in Taiwan: A Natural Haven for Avian Enthusiasts
December 15th, 2019
Taiwan’s Winter Bird Migration Spectacle Taiwan’s cooler months, spanning from October to April, offer a comfortable respite not just for humans but also for millions of migrating birds. These feathered visitors flock to the island via the East Asian–Australasian Flyway, enticed by the abundant food sources and lowland temperatures rarely dropping below 12 degrees Celsius. […]
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The Purple Butterfly Valley: Taiwan’s Unique Natural Wonders, Part 2
November 16th, 2019
Between now and next March, a mountainous district in Greater Kaohsiung will justify its alternative name. Maolin is also known as ‘the Purple Butterfly Valley’ because late each autumn hundreds of thousands of lepidopterans migrate from the colder northern half of Taiwan to this perennially sunny corner of the island. For some of the butterflies, […]
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The Formosan Landlocked Salmon: Taiwan’s Unique Natural Wonders, Part 1
November 5th, 2019
In the heart of Taiwan’s mountainous interior, an extraordinary creature has captivated the world for over a century: the Formosan landlocked salmon, known to scientists as Oncorhynchus formosanus. Residing in a pristine corner of the highlands, this species is not only the southernmost salmon globally but also the sole salmon found at altitudes exceeding 1,700 […]
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New Guidebook: Taiwan: The Bradt Travel Guide (3rd edition)
October 26th, 2019
In the third edition of Bradt’s guide to Taiwan, the beguiling island’s ever-evolving nature is meticulously unveiled. Written by the author, this comprehensive guide is now available for travelers in the UK, the US, and numerous other countries. Taiwan’s rapid transformations, coupled with significant government investments in tourism infrastructure, have necessitated a thorough refresh of […]
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Taiwan’s Lush Green Landscape
October 5th, 2019
Taiwan’s natural beauty comes alive as you venture beyond its bustling cities. This island nation, straddling the Tropic of Cancer, enjoys abundant sunshine and rainfall, fostering a vibrant, green landscape. Lands left untouched by urbanisation or agriculture quickly transform, with grasses, weeds, bushes, and fast-growing trees reclaiming their space. A Rice Legacy in […]
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Interview with Mark Pemberton: Boosting Taiwan’s Tourism
September 18th, 2019
Taiwan’s growing popularity among Western travellers is evident from the increasing number of visitors from the US, Europe, and Australia. In an interview with Mark Pemberton, the founder and managing director of Life of Taiwan, we gain insights into the surge of interest in Taiwan and the opportunities it presents for tourism professionals. Mark Pemberton […]
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Jason Cole Mager: An American Artist Inspired by Taiwan
August 29th, 2019
In 2012, Jason Cole Mager, a professional artist from New York, opened his home to travellers. Little did he know that this simple decision would ultimately lead him to the vibrant city of Taipei. Mager found that hosting travellers breathed new life into his perspective, as their enthusiasm for his surroundings reignited his appreciation for […]
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