Discovering the Charms of Tamsui: A Historic Town in Taiwan
June 8th, 2023
Explore the rich history and captivating essence of Tamsui, a town that once rivalled Taipei in importance Tamsui’s historical significance Tamsui, historically larger and more significant than Taipei, served as a treaty port in the 19th century, attracting traders and pioneers from Western countries. Today, it retains much of its old-world charm, complete with a […]
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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 […]
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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 […]
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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 […]
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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 […]
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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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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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Island of Trees: Taiwan’s Magnificent Woodlands
June 20th, 2019
Here’s a statistic that astounds many who’ve never visited Taiwan: About 58 percent of the main island is covered by trees or bamboo, with stands of hardwoods accounting for over half that area. That’s a higher percentage than in the US, Canada, or Brazil. The figure for the UK is a mere 12 percent. This […]
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The Rich Tapestry of Taiwan’s Place Names, Part 2
April 25th, 2019
Many places in southern Taiwan, like those in the north, have names that trace their origins to the island’s Austronesian indigenous languages. For instance, the historic port town of Lukang, often referred to as ‘Deer Harbour,’ may have derived its name from the herds of sika deer that once roamed the nearby lowlands. However, modern […]
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The Rich Tapestry of Taiwan’s Place Names, Part 1
April 20th, 2019
Tour guides in Taiwan must be well-prepared to answer all kinds of intriguing questions, including “Why does this place have that particular name?” Many Taiwanese place names hold captivating stories of their origins. Some are very straightforward. Taipei, meaning ‘North Taiwan,’ and Tainan, translating to ‘South Taiwan,’ are geographical references. Roughly halfway between the current […]
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Tainan: The City That Never Changes (But Keeps Getting Better)
November 8th, 2018
The ancient city of Tainan is very close to Life of Taiwan’s heart. Between them, the founding team has lived in Tainan for well over half a century. The great appeal of Tainan, the reason why visitors come back again and again, is that it never changes. The former capital’s most famous landmarks, such as […]
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New Taiwan Food Book: A Culinary History of Taipei
October 10th, 2018
This is a very personal entry. I’m delighted to announce that this week sees the publication of A Culinary History of Taipei: Beyond Pork and Ponlai by Rowman & Littlefield. This book, which I co-wrote with Katy Hui-wen Hung, is the first English-language book that attempts to answer the questions: What do the Taiwanese eat, […]
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