The Hills are Alive
Yushan is Taiwan's highest peak at 3,952m. This majestic mountain offers amazing views and challenging hikes for outdoor enthusiasts. The mountain is part of Yushan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its rich biodiversity and unique ecosystems. The name "Yushan" means "Jade Mountain" in Chinese, and it is named for the jade-like color of the mountain's rocks.
Alishan is a mountain range in Chiayi County, famous for its stunning sunrise views over a sea of clouds and ancient cypress trees. Mind you, you do need a bit of luck if you’re after the sunrise. I vividly remember waking up at 3 a.m. on a chilly March morning, hiking to one of Alishan's famed "sunrise spots," only to be greeted by nothing but fog.
EXPECTATION.
Photo from Tourism Administration, MOTC
REALITY.
Photo by Lilian
I still managed to enjoy Alishan tremendously despite the “fog rise”. The Alishan Forest Railway, built during the Japanese colonial period, is a popular attraction that takes visitors through the lush forests of Alishan. Hiking trails, waterfalls and tea plantations are also must-sees in the Alishan National Scenic Area.
Yangmingshan is a volcanic mountain range located to the north of Taipei City. It is known for its beautiful cherry blossoms in spring and its hot springs, hiking trails and scenic vistas. Yangmingshan National Park is a popular destination for day trips from Taipei, offering visitors a chance to escape the city and enjoy nature.
As someone who has worked in the aviation industry for more than a decade, I find it hard to keep my feet on solid ground. Paragliding is one of my favorite travel activities, and it is surprisingly accessible in Taiwan. With just an hour's drive from Taipei city center, you'll find yourself in Yilan County, which boasts two of the longest-established paragliding clubs in Taiwan. Yilan is also home to famous hot springs, themed farms and rejuvenating excursions with the Pacific Ocean as the backdrop.
Tea for Every Mood and Occasion
Located just 45 minutes from Taipei City Center, Maokong is a haven for tea enthusiasts. This mountainous area is famous for its tea plantations, traditional tea houses, and picturesque views of Taipei City. The Maokong Gondola is a popular attraction that takes visitors on a scenic ride up the mountain. Visitors can also learn about tea production and sample a variety of local tea. The tea aroma in the air and tranquillity make it one of my favourite day trips from Taipei.
Tea plays a central role in Taiwanese culture, with many rituals and traditions surrounding its preparation and consumption. One such tradition is the Gongfu tea ceremony, a formal and elaborate way of brewing tea that emphasizes the appreciation of tea as an art form. Another tradition is the offering of tea to senior family members when a couple get married. Tea is also indispensable in community gatherings and celebrations, where it is often served as a symbol of unity and friendship.
Taiwan is the birthplace of bubble tea, a popular beverage made with sweetened tea, milk, and chewy tapioca pearls. The drink originated in the 1980s and has since become a global phenomenon, with countless variations and flavors available. Bubble tea is not only a delicious treat but also a cultural icon, representing Taiwan's creativity and innovation in the culinary world. In addition to bubble tea, Taiwan is home to a vibrant cafe culture, with cafes serving a wide range of handcrafted teas and coffees. Whether you're craving for a classic bubble tea, a cozy afternoon in a tea cafe or a zen experience with tea and retreat, Taiwan has something for every tea lover.
Belonging without Blending
If you’re interested in learning more, the Shung Ye Museum of Formosan Aborigines is a good starting point. You may also head for immersive cultural experiences by actually visiting the tribes, joining an aboriginal cooking class, or even a hunting class.
Photos from Topology Travel
Taiwan is a trailblazer in LGBTQ+ rights in Asia, making history by legalizing same-sex marriage in 2019 after years of relentless advocacy and activism within the local LGBTQ+ community. Since 2023, same-sex couples have been able to jointly adopt children. Taipei Pride, one of Asia's largest LGBTQ+ events, is a colorful testament to Taiwan's inclusive spirit.
There are currently more than 800,000 foreigners living in Taiwan (technically speaking I’m one of them). According to the Expat Insider 2021 Survey, Taiwan scored 100% in safety, meaning not a single expat out of over 12,000 respondents feels personally unsafe in Taiwan. Taiwan also clinched the top spot for local friendliness, scoring an impressive 96%. These accolades have ranked Taiwan as the best destination in the world for expats for three consecutive years.
I can go on and on with all the Formosan delights (and don't even get me started on the food—that’ll be another 20 pages), but nothing compares to experiencing it all firsthand. While your IAPCO 2025 trip might only allow for visits to areas near Taipei, I believe it's more than enough to get a taste of Taiwan's charm: natural wonders, cultural diversity, and genuine warmth. This incredible destination will always welcome you back with open arms (and a table full of delicious food).
