So who's been to Taipei, Taiwan? - Tilted Forum Project Discussion Community

Gabbyness · 06-10-2008, 02:15 AM

TFP,

So, thanks to some serendipitous luck, I happen to be going to Taipei, Taiwan, for a couple days on business. You know, the kind of business where you maybe work for an hour/day and then just goof off on the company's dime the rest of the time, that sort of business (I said I was lucky!).

I'm wondering if anyone has been to this great city, and if so, what are the hotspots? I've been doing some research over the net and am considering buying a travel guide, but wanted to check with the well-traveled, (sic) well-groomed folks at TFP to see if they had any recommendations. Looking for the standard tourist drudgery, but more importantly, any cool off-the-path places you might know. Thanks!

Cheers!

Charlatan · 06-10-2008, 06:24 AM

It's been a few years since I visited... definitely hit the night market. The food is great!

dlish · 06-10-2008, 07:06 AM

thats one place i havent visited...yet.

i was going to say try charlatan, but i guess he's beat me to it. ive been to quite a few SE asian countries in the last few years. i take it that most of the nigt markets are pretty similar? but as cheesy as they are, they are quite good. i found myself in one on chinese new year! was great!

hope you have fun and we look forward to the pics!

Gabbyness · 06-10-2008, 02:36 PM

I've already heard lots about the night market, I'm excited to hit it up. I was at one in Chiang Mai, Thailand, and it was a blast. Quite a fruity collection, so to speak. Thanks for the tip!

jorgelito · 06-10-2008, 05:25 PM

I lived there for six years during my trip around the world after high school. Some of the best years of my life; it screwed up the rest of my travel itinerary.

Taiwan is known as the Economic Miracle. Also called the Isla Formosa or Beautiful Island, you will see the contrast of tremendous natural beauty and modern urbanization.

Must see:

1. National Palace Museum - one of the best museums bar none, of the world as it houses the premier collection of Chinese treasures and art. Makes the Louvre look like a garden shed. It is said the museum is designed to withstand a nuclear attack and indeed, the warehouse section lies ddep within the mountain. Don't forget the Chinese garden that's attached. Stunningly beautiful.

2. Taipei 101 - Currently the tallest building in the world but not for long so see it while it still holds the title. Nice little area; go ahead and walk around Warner Entertainment Complex (not sure of the name).

3. Ride the metro - awesome subway system. Very efficient, organized, comfortable. Also includes an underground mall.

4. Mucha Tea Plantation. Check out this tea plantation and traditional tea house. Very interesting and relaxing. Some of the finest teas in the world (not that shitty low-grade British schwag) comes from Taiwan so trying the tea here is a must.

5. Taroko Gorge - one of the natural wonders. It is essentially a highway build into the side of a cliff. Majestic and breathtaking views. If you are a car enthusiast, you can rent a car and drive it but you have to have nerves of steel. Google this for some pics.

6. Yang Ming Shan hot springs. I can't recommend a specific one but going to the hot springs in Taipei (mountains of Taipei) is a great experience. Get a full package if you can - hot springs, massage, tea, and food. It's worth it.

7. Night Market - many choices here but Shi Lin Might Market is great and/or Snake Alley (but I'm not a big fan of Snake alley, kind of a racist tourist trap).

8. Hsi Men Ting - this is a fun area full of shops, promenades, people etc. It's on the west side and a very popular place for young people.

9. Chung Hsiao/Tun Hua is another area that's awesome - more yuppie and upscale. It's on the east side.

10. Dan Sui - take the metro (red line) out there, a great way to see some scenery by the way and walk around the waterfront. It's gorgeous out there. If you are adventurous and have the time, hope on one of the boats out there and see where it goes. Look for the Turkish guy selling ice cream, he is quite and act and character.

11. Food, food, food - Taiwan has great food, especially if you like Chinese, Asian food. Try everything and I do mean everything. Street food, stall, restaurants, especially at the night markets. No seriously, eat 6 meals a day if you have too. Even the airport food is awesome.

By the way, most of these activities, except Taroko Gorge can be done via the subway system and many of these can be combined.

EX: National Palace Museum in the morning (it's huge you can;t see it all - make sure to see the jade stuff though). Hit the hot springs for a late lunch and to recharge, then go to Shi Lin night market. These three places are in the general vicinity of each other (loosely speaking).

Culture - The Taiwanese are extremely friendly and nice. They will go out of their way to help you and make you feel welcome. Be respectful and culturally sensitive. Asians are very proud and sensitive about face. Make sure you never embarrass or insult one and you will do fine.

Good luck, take lots of pictures and post them here when you get back.

Gabbyness · 06-11-2008, 02:21 AM

Wow, umm . . . That was bananas! Thanks!

I'll post some pics when I head there, but it won't be for a few weeks. Plus, I just found out, I'll be heading to Manila right thereafter! Maybe I should change the topic of the post

dlish · 06-11-2008, 11:05 AM

great post Jorgelito.

see gabby..someone always pulls through on TFP!

have fun in the philliphines! im so envious!

Gabbyness · 06-11-2008, 03:55 PM

I'll be sure to post plenty of pics!

Dlish - I'm headed down your way in late July, to Oz! I'll be sure to get with you on some hot-spots in Brizzy.

jorgelito · 06-11-2008, 04:24 PM

Let me or us know if you need any more info. I am interested to hear how things turn out and how your experiences are. I'm also curious to get your opinion on the suggested sites too.

dlish · 06-12-2008, 04:30 AM

Gabby - im actually from sydney, but theres a few people here from brizzy that could give you pointers. i could tell you the touristy stuff though, but for the kind of detail that Jordelito went to, only a local could help you! if ure in sydney i can give you a list that wont finish. you can check out my 'g'day from sydney' thread too.

im actually living in dubai now as most around here already know. if by any chance you (or anyone else for that matter) are in the area..let us know! will be glad to play host.

Gabbyness · 06-13-2008, 09:17 PM

Yeah D, I remember your story about the impending internet censorship. It appears you've made it through!

There's quite a few Ex-Pats in Dubai, eh? I know a Aussie who works for Emirates Airlines there, she loves it.

I will definitely check out your thread, thanks man!

Charlatan · 06-13-2008, 10:45 PM

Gabbyness, if you make it to Singpore, let me know. I can give you all sorts of advice and even take you out for an overpriced beer.

Gabbyness · 06-14-2008, 12:32 AM

C,

There's a damn good chance I'll make it out that way eventually. We have plenty of dealings in Singapore. They relaxed the chewing gum laws I hear?

match000 · 06-16-2008, 09:14 PM

Don't forget the nightlife.

Luxy -- in the summers, mostly ABC's (american born chinese) - and some locals. Not bad and very nice environment. Get there off the blue line MRT (subway) -- head east (right) on the MRT and get off at "dong xiao something something" <-- forgot lol

Room 18 - havent been there but heard its good.

Plush - havent been there but also heard its good.

A zillion more but those are the main ones us ABC's talk about.

jorgelito · 06-16-2008, 10:03 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by match000

Don't forget the nightlife.

Luxy -- in the summers, mostly ABC's (american born chinese) - and some locals. Not bad and very nice environment. Get there off the blue line MRT (subway) -- head east (right) on the MRT and get off at "dong xiao something something" <-- forgot lol

Room 18 - havent been there but heard its good.

Plush - havent been there but also heard its good.

A zillion more but those are the main ones us ABC's talk about.

Damn, I haven't been clubbing in Taipei in almost a decade. Good times.

Room 18 is pretty nice (down by the City Hall, Warner Entertainment complex area I think). It's the same ownership consortium as the old Opium Den. Those guys ran some nice clubs.

Plush is interesting: I haven't been either but apparently it's a sphere and a unique architectural experience.

But if the OP is a foreigner, then he may not like going to those places where all the ABC's, local cosmopolitan people hang out. When I used to club, I noticed very few foreigners hanging out at those places. They were deterred by the high prices and "high class" clientele. It's hard for a foreigner to blend in, especially if they are the back packing type. He could always stick with the old "white guy" areas instead if he's more comfortable with that scene.

match000 · 06-16-2008, 10:34 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jorgelito

But if the OP is a foreigner, then he may not like going to those places where all the ABC's, local cosmopolitan people hang out. When I used to club, I noticed very few foreigners hanging out at those places. They were deterred by the high prices and "high class" clientele. It's hard for a foreigner to blend in, especially if they are the back packing type. He could always stick with the old "white guy" areas instead if he's more comfortable with that scene.

Hum yea, thats true. only go if you are used to clubs and the club scene, otherwise you will definitely feel out of place. esp. since you will be the only non-chinese person in a sea of chinese. most of those chinese will speak englihs fluently, since they are just back to tw for some summer vacation'ing, but yea, wouldnt go unless u r the party type and know how to handle urself in those situations.

good point.

Charlatan · 06-16-2008, 10:58 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Gabbyness

C,

There's a damn good chance I'll make it out that way eventually. We have plenty of dealings in Singpore. They relaxed the chewing gum laws I hear?

Yes, you are allowed to bring in some for personal use. You can also by limited amounts over the counter at drug stores...

Besides that, I know a few people who bring in boxes of the stuff from Malaysia. If you're desperate I can hook you up (the first taste is free...

)

Gabbyness · 06-19-2008, 12:36 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by match000

Hum yea, thats true. only go if you are used to clubs and the club scene, otherwise you will definitely feel out of place. esp. since you will be the only non-chinese person in a sea of chinese. most of those chinese will speak englihs fluently, since they are just back to tw for some summer vacation'ing, but yea, wouldnt go unless u r the party type and know how to handle urself in those situations.

good point.

I've lived in Japan for quite some time and so I'm used to be the large, gangly, absurd-looking white guy in a sea of Asian people. As long as the people aren't unfriendly or rude I have no problem being a spectacle at a club. Frankly, it's hilarious.

Thanks for the updates on the nightlife, I was hoping to squeeze a little of that into the evenings

Are these bona-fide dress-up nightclubs like I might expect to see in Vegas or LA? You know, like no jeans etc etc?

jorgelito · 06-19-2008, 06:15 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Gabbyness

I've lived in Japan for quite some time and so I'm used to be the large, gangly, absurd-looking white guy in a sea of Asian people. As long as the people aren't unfriendly or rude I have no problem being a spectacle at a club. Frankly, it's hilarious.

Thanks for the updates on the nightlife, I was hoping to squeeze a little of that into the evenings

Are these bona-fide dress-up nightclubs like I might expect to see in Vegas or LA? You know, like no jeans etc etc?

No, not necessarily. It's more like LA casual. Depends on the night too. You will see suits, yuppies, and hipsters all mingling. Lots of celebrities frequent these places too. I've seen Jewel, Jackie Chan, Keanu Reeves, etc and professional athletes too. Taipei is pretty sophisticated and cosmo these days. Plus for some reason, the people there have gotten much taller. I used to be on the tall side there but now I'm just average or below.

You will only "stand out" if you are the dirty seedy backpacker type in these places. If that's your scene, then there are other places you can go.

Taipei is fun and the people are real friendly. They are embracing of foreigners (as long as you show respect) and will most likely end up buying you drinks. Return the favor, as it helps us foreigners and reduces the negative effects of the Ugly American Syndrome.

06-10-2008, 02:15 AM	#1 (permalink)
Gabbyness Chicken scratch. Location: Japan!!!	So who's been to Taipei, Taiwan? TFP, So, thanks to some serendipitous luck, I happen to be going to Taipei, Taiwan, for a couple days on business. You know, the kind of business where you maybe work for an hour/day and then just goof off on the company's dime the rest of the time, that sort of business (I said I was lucky!). I'm wondering if anyone has been to this great city, and if so, what are the hotspots? I've been doing some research over the net and am considering buying a travel guide, but wanted to check with the well-traveled, (sic) well-groomed folks at TFP to see if they had any recommendations. Looking for the standard tourist drudgery, but more importantly, any cool off-the-path places you might know. Thanks! Cheers! __________________ One, two, three, four, fiiiiiiiifth.

06-10-2008, 06:24 AM	#2 (permalink)
Charlatan Getting it. Super Moderator Location: Lion City	It's been a few years since I visited... definitely hit the night market. The food is great! __________________ "My hands are on fire. Hands are on fire. Ain't got no more time for all you charlatans and liars." - Old Man Luedecke

06-10-2008, 07:06 AM	#3 (permalink)
dlish Currently sour but formerly Dlishs Super Moderator Location: Australia/UAE	thats one place i havent visited...yet. i was going to say try charlatan, but i guess he's beat me to it. ive been to quite a few SE asian countries in the last few years. i take it that most of the nigt markets are pretty similar? but as cheesy as they are, they are quite good. i found myself in one on chinese new year! was great! hope you have fun and we look forward to the pics! __________________ An injustice anywhere, is an injustice everywhere I always sign my facebook comments with ()()===========(}. Does that make me gay? - Filthy

06-10-2008, 02:36 PM	#4 (permalink)
Gabbyness Chicken scratch. Location: Japan!!!	I've already heard lots about the night market, I'm excited to hit it up. I was at one in Chiang Mai, Thailand, and it was a blast. Quite a fruity collection, so to speak. Thanks for the tip! __________________ One, two, three, four, fiiiiiiiifth.

06-11-2008, 02:21 AM	#6 (permalink)
Gabbyness Chicken scratch. Location: Japan!!!	Wow, umm . . . That was bananas! Thanks! I'll post some pics when I head there, but it won't be for a few weeks. Plus, I just found out, I'll be heading to Manila right thereafter! Maybe I should change the topic of the post __________________ One, two, three, four, fiiiiiiiifth. Last edited by Gabbyness; 06-11-2008 at 02:28 AM.. Reason: Automerged Doublepost

06-10-2008, 05:25 PM	#5 (permalink)
jorgelito All important elusive independent swing voter... Location: People's Republic of KKKalifornia	I lived there for six years during my trip around the world after high school. Some of the best years of my life; it screwed up the rest of my travel itinerary. Taiwan is known as the Economic Miracle. Also called the Isla Formosa or Beautiful Island, you will see the contrast of tremendous natural beauty and modern urbanization. Must see: 1. National Palace Museum - one of the best museums bar none, of the world as it houses the premier collection of Chinese treasures and art. Makes the Louvre look like a garden shed. It is said the museum is designed to withstand a nuclear attack and indeed, the warehouse section lies ddep within the mountain. Don't forget the Chinese garden that's attached. Stunningly beautiful. 2. Taipei 101 - Currently the tallest building in the world but not for long so see it while it still holds the title. Nice little area; go ahead and walk around Warner Entertainment Complex (not sure of the name). 3. Ride the metro - awesome subway system. Very efficient, organized, comfortable. Also includes an underground mall. 4. Mucha Tea Plantation. Check out this tea plantation and traditional tea house. Very interesting and relaxing. Some of the finest teas in the world (not that shitty low-grade British schwag) comes from Taiwan so trying the tea here is a must. 5. Taroko Gorge - one of the natural wonders. It is essentially a highway build into the side of a cliff. Majestic and breathtaking views. If you are a car enthusiast, you can rent a car and drive it but you have to have nerves of steel. Google this for some pics. 6. Yang Ming Shan hot springs. I can't recommend a specific one but going to the hot springs in Taipei (mountains of Taipei) is a great experience. Get a full package if you can - hot springs, massage, tea, and food. It's worth it. 7. Night Market - many choices here but Shi Lin Might Market is great and/or Snake Alley (but I'm not a big fan of Snake alley, kind of a racist tourist trap). 8. Hsi Men Ting - this is a fun area full of shops, promenades, people etc. It's on the west side and a very popular place for young people. 9. Chung Hsiao/Tun Hua is another area that's awesome - more yuppie and upscale. It's on the east side. 10. Dan Sui - take the metro (red line) out there, a great way to see some scenery by the way and walk around the waterfront. It's gorgeous out there. If you are adventurous and have the time, hope on one of the boats out there and see where it goes. Look for the Turkish guy selling ice cream, he is quite and act and character. 11. Food, food, food - Taiwan has great food, especially if you like Chinese, Asian food. Try everything and I do mean everything. Street food, stall, restaurants, especially at the night markets. No seriously, eat 6 meals a day if you have too. Even the airport food is awesome. By the way, most of these activities, except Taroko Gorge can be done via the subway system and many of these can be combined. EX: National Palace Museum in the morning (it's huge you can;t see it all - make sure to see the jade stuff though). Hit the hot springs for a late lunch and to recharge, then go to Shi Lin night market. These three places are in the general vicinity of each other (loosely speaking). Culture - The Taiwanese are extremely friendly and nice. They will go out of their way to help you and make you feel welcome. Be respectful and culturally sensitive. Asians are very proud and sensitive about face. Make sure you never embarrass or insult one and you will do fine. Good luck, take lots of pictures and post them here when you get back.

06-11-2008, 11:05 AM	#7 (permalink)
dlish Currently sour but formerly Dlishs Super Moderator Location: Australia/UAE	great post Jorgelito. see gabby..someone always pulls through on TFP! have fun in the philliphines! im so envious! __________________ An injustice anywhere, is an injustice everywhere I always sign my facebook comments with ()()===========(}. Does that make me gay? - Filthy

06-11-2008, 03:55 PM	#8 (permalink)
Gabbyness Chicken scratch. Location: Japan!!!	I'll be sure to post plenty of pics! Dlish - I'm headed down your way in late July, to Oz! I'll be sure to get with you on some hot-spots in Brizzy. __________________ One, two, three, four, fiiiiiiiifth.

06-11-2008, 04:24 PM	#9 (permalink)
jorgelito All important elusive independent swing voter... Location: People's Republic of KKKalifornia	Let me or us know if you need any more info. I am interested to hear how things turn out and how your experiences are. I'm also curious to get your opinion on the suggested sites too.

06-12-2008, 04:30 AM	#10 (permalink)
dlish Currently sour but formerly Dlishs Super Moderator Location: Australia/UAE	Gabby - im actually from sydney, but theres a few people here from brizzy that could give you pointers. i could tell you the touristy stuff though, but for the kind of detail that Jordelito went to, only a local could help you! if ure in sydney i can give you a list that wont finish. you can check out my 'g'day from sydney' thread too. im actually living in dubai now as most around here already know. if by any chance you (or anyone else for that matter) are in the area..let us know! will be glad to play host. __________________ An injustice anywhere, is an injustice everywhere I always sign my facebook comments with ()()===========(}. Does that make me gay? - Filthy

06-13-2008, 09:17 PM	#11 (permalink)
Gabbyness Chicken scratch. Location: Japan!!!	Yeah D, I remember your story about the impending internet censorship. It appears you've made it through! There's quite a few Ex-Pats in Dubai, eh? I know a Aussie who works for Emirates Airlines there, she loves it. I will definitely check out your thread, thanks man! __________________ One, two, three, four, fiiiiiiiifth.

06-13-2008, 10:45 PM	#12 (permalink)
Charlatan Getting it. Super Moderator Location: Lion City	Gabbyness, if you make it to Singpore, let me know. I can give you all sorts of advice and even take you out for an overpriced beer. __________________ "My hands are on fire. Hands are on fire. Ain't got no more time for all you charlatans and liars." - Old Man Luedecke

06-14-2008, 12:32 AM	#13 (permalink)
Gabbyness Chicken scratch. Location: Japan!!!	C, There's a damn good chance I'll make it out that way eventually. We have plenty of dealings in Singapore. They relaxed the chewing gum laws I hear? __________________ One, two, three, four, fiiiiiiiifth.

06-16-2008, 09:14 PM	#14 (permalink)
match000 Psycho	Don't forget the nightlife. Luxy -- in the summers, mostly ABC's (american born chinese) - and some locals. Not bad and very nice environment. Get there off the blue line MRT (subway) -- head east (right) on the MRT and get off at "dong xiao something something" <-- forgot lol Room 18 - havent been there but heard its good. Plush - havent been there but also heard its good. A zillion more but those are the main ones us ABC's talk about.