When it comes to overseas traveling, one of my favorite places to visit is Taiwan.
- It has a wide array of culinary delights that hold certain similarities to dishes we have in Singapore.
- The locals are generally friendly and ready to offer assistance as long as you are not shy to ask.
- It has an excellent and efficient public transportation system, making it easy for tourists to explore the island.
- It has a vibrant cultural scene with a mix of traditional and modern influences, mostly evident from its architecture.
Night Markets
Exploring a night market is a must for any visitor to Taiwan, as it provides an authentic and enjoyable experience of the local culture and culinary scene. You can witness the vibrant and bustling energy throughout the market.
Ningxia Night Market (宁夏夜市）is located at 103, Taiwan, Taipei City, Datong District, Ningxia Rd, No. 58.
The Omelette is softer and “wetter”, whereas it is fried with more charred here in Singapore, giving it a slightly crispy bite.
The beef is quite fatty and tender to the bite. The grilled charred taste makes it a must-eat. I would have bought 2 portions if I had more space in my stomach.
The braised pork rice is a common dish and a very simple one as well. It is plain rice mixed with some braised minced pork. Paired with a freshly boiled pork ribs soup at 16 degrees temperature is truly satisfying.
Taipei Main Station Underground Shopping Street
The underground shopping street seems less crowded compared to my previous visits. Fewer shops are operating but you can still get women’s apparel, anime toys and figurines, video game stations, souvenirs, and pastries.
Taipei Bike Works Tour
After enjoying the various delicacies for the past couple of days, it is time for some exercise in the form of cycling. This is my first ever cycling tour in a busy city like Taipei and I was pretty excited.
Our starting point is at this bicycle rental/repair shop located just next to Chaoyang Tea Park. The route is about 8 miles or 13 kilometers. The guide planned for a 4-hour cycle through 4 districts, namely Datong, Zhongshan, Zhongzheng, and Wanhua. He gave a detailed brief of the functions of the bike and allowed us to get used to it by cycling around the park before setting off.
One of the 5 historic gates in Taipei is the Taipei East Gate or 景福门. It was constructed in 1884 by the Qing government as a measure to expedite urban development by encouraging businessmen to invest in or build houses/streets in Taipei City.
Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall
The highlight of the memorial hall is the elaborate changing of guard ceremony which happens every hour on the hour from 10 am to 4 pm daily except during Chinese New Year. The process is highly formal and professional. All who are present are to maintain silence as a form of respect.
An interesting phenomenon at Liberty Square located just about 100 metres from the memorial hall, is the spot where this young boy is standing. When you stand on that spot (and nowhere else) and clap your hands, it produces a squeaky pingy sound instead of your usual clapping sound. Is it the distance from the surrounding architecture? Or is some kind of magnetic field produced from the metal below the ground? Make your guess.
This cycling path stretches along the Tamsui River for about 100 miles and it leads to Tamsui itself. Across the river is the New Taipei City accesible by several bridges and train lines. A great spot for enthusiast cyclists to fall in love with.
Live Bands
I visited 2 live bands in 4 days and both did not disappoint. There is a requirement of minimum spending per pax depending on the popularity of the performing bands, ranging from NT$900-NT$1100.
I would recommend calling in advance to book your seats. Both joints were swiftly filled with guests shortly after my arrival. After a few drinks, you will surely hear some familiar songs to sing to. At least I did :D.
Watch our full video here and book your tickets for Taiwan now!!
