Ancient customs meet contemporary living in Taipei, making for a fascinating city break. The soaring heights of Taipei 101, traditional teahouses, bustling markets and designer boutiques vie for your attention in this urban nerve centre. Just wait until the sun goes down and the neon flickers into life.
LANDMARKS
For once in a lifetime views, you might like to start with a lightning fast bullet lift trip up 89 floors to the observation deck of the famous Taipei 101 skyscraper – the world’s tallest ‘green’ building. By contrast, the Longshan Temple is an ornate and beautiful 18th-century masterpiece. Step inside for a moment of calm.
DAY TRIPS
Venture beyond the city limits. A short way outside Taipei you will find the volcanic Yangmingshan National Park, filled with vivid butterflies and birdlife. The marble cliffs and sacred sites of Taroko Gorge are captivating sights, too.
FOOD & DRINK
Taipei is now very much on the radar for food lovers across the world. Your luxury hotel will offer exquisite local cuisine, such as a Hakka-style banquet. Don’t miss the night markets, though – like Ningxia. Expect spicy flavours and strong smells, from fermented tofu to chilli-roasted crab.
For high-end souvenirs, try Zhongxiao East Road’s sophisticated boutiques.