It is hard to imagine that a city like Taipei has always remained under the radar of Filipino travellers for so long. I recall the first time I visited Taiwan’s capital back in high school and remember the fun I had exploring the vastness of the city by bus, its vibrant night markets and its world-renowned National Palace Museum. But once I returned home to Durianburg, it may seem that no one was interested in visiting Taipei.
Fast forward to 2019 and with the extension of visa-free entry to Taiwan for Filipino passport holders it can be said that Taipei (and Taiwan for that matter) is now fast becoming a popular destination for Filipinos.
Last December, I was able to return to Taipei after an almost two-decade long absence and the feeling and excitement of arriving in Taipei’s Taoyuan International Airport felt like the first time I set foot on Taiwan. Although many things have changed in Taiwan’s capital city, the heartbeat of Taipei is still as vibrant as ever as I explored what the city had to offer.
A dash of history
Taipei is the place to be when one want to learn more about Chinese antiquities. Hosting hundreds of thousands of artefacts collected by the past emperors of China, the National Palace Museum is the largest collection of Chinese antiquities in the world.
Another museum to visit is the Chiang Kai Shek Memorial Hall, built as a tribute to the founding father of the Republic of China, the main hall is one of the most prominent landmarks of Taipei and underneath it is a museum that document’s Chiang’s life and career, as well as exhibits about Taiwan’s history, pan-Chinese culture and history, and the Republic of China’s development after moving to Taiwan.
For the more spiritual traveller, Buddhist and Confucian temples also dot the city, accentuating the cityscape with traditional Chinese architecture.
Foodie heaven
If there is one thing that Taiwan is known for, is its vibrant food scene and Taipei is definitely no exception. With its many night markets, department store food courts, food takeaway kiosks, milktea stalls and eat-all-you-can restaurants (some located on the second or third floors of buildings in the downtown area), there is always something to taste and eat.
When at a night market look for Taiwan’s famous Oyster Omelettes and grilled Pork Sausages just follow the queue. For the more adventurous, there is Taiwan’s infamous Stinky Tofu which can be a turn off for some due to its strong smell or heaven for others. Whatever the case, when in Taiwan, a short walk around the many night markets and food streets is sure to find something tasty.
A unique shopping thrill
With its many massive department stores and malls, Taipei is a shopper’s dream with international brands, Japanese brands, and well-made local products competing for your attention. What makes Taiwan a dream is its VAT-free shopping for foreign passport holders. Just present your passport when purchasing at a VAT-free establishment and you get your rebate immediately, no long queues at the airport.
Aside from the usual stores, you can also check out Taipei’s Jianguo Holiday Jade Market which is open on Saturdays and Sundays from 9 in the morning until 5 in the afternoon. Here, you can find various Chinese trinkets, jewellery and tea implements. If you are looking for something unique to bring home, then this is the place to be.
Oftentimes, the biggest deterrent to shopping abroad is the currency cost, but with the Taiwan dollar priced very close to the Philippine peso (Php1.70 to a New Taiwan Dollar as of this writing), shopping and dining in Taiwan is relatively inexpensive.
Endless exploration
Taipei is a city with a massive sprawl and first-timers may find it a daunting task to get from one point to another, but with its efficient bus lines, multiple MRT and LRT lines, going around Taipei is quick and easy.
Another unique way to explore Taipei is using its YouBike, bike sharing system. With a seemingly countless amount of bicycle parking stations located around the city, many of which are located within walking distance of MRT stations and tourist destinations, YouBike is an excellent way to get around the city, complementing the MRT and public bus systems, giving travellers the convenience of renting a bicycle to explore the city or one of Taipei’s many bicycle paths.
