Taipei Taiwan

If you are an avid traveler and discover yourself in the beautiful city of Taipei, Taiwan, we want to share a couple of hidden gems that will allow you to experience the beauty of this city, like a local. Taipei is primarily known for its beautiful architecture, small bite sized snacks and foods, and of course, high rise city buildings that resemble the New York Skyline. However, this city has much more to offer than city views, high rise bars, and the hustle and bustle of Taiwan. We want to share what we think are some of the most beautiful sights, experiences, and areas to visit in Taipei. Let’s begin!

The Santorini of Taiwan – For The View

Santorini is known as one of the most beautiful areas in the world to visit. However, how would you like to enjoy a version of Santorini, with all of the flare and culture of Taiwan. We want to share the Santorini of Taiwan, also known as Jiu Fen Old Street. The views are not only spectacular, but you can grab delicious bites to eat while overlooking the sunset ocean below. Let hues of yellow, orange, and red immerse you alongside culture filled mountain streets filled with plenty of delicious bites. Try a delicious egg pudding the moment you step foot into Taipei city, refresh yourself with a cup of freshly brewed coffee, the Taipei way, or enjoy the sun with a Dorayaki Ice Cream.

Golden Waterfall Beauty – For The Natural Wonder

If you are more of a nature lover and want to escape the city life of Taipei, then you need to step foot in a one of a kind waterfall, known as the Golden Waterfall. This beautiful treasure is in an area of Taiwan that is primarily known for copper and gold mines. Although the mine is non-operational, an individual can still visit the waterfalls and gaze upon their beauty. Now, this golden waterfall is set against Mt Keelung and overlooks the gorgeous Yin Yang Sea, where all water from the waterfall eventually flows. With this in mind, an individual can enjoy a scenic walk through nature trails, hikes, and enjoy mountainous landscapes.

The Yin Yang Sea – For The Ocean Lover

If you have ever wanted to visit the Yin Yang Sea, then you are in for a treat in Taipei. This beautiful sea is known for its delightful hues of blues and yellows. This major contrast results from the mining of gold and copper from the mountain regions above, where water flows down into the ocean. In fact, it is a natural occurrence of a geological feature that is stationed nearby that contains trace amounts of iron pyrite. With this, an individual can enjoy one of the many small restaurants nearby or be amazed at a gorgeous sunset view from miles above while hiking the greenery of the mountain region nearby. In any case, the Yin Yang Sea is to not be missed when visiting the gorgeous city of Taipei.

Mt.Keelung

Well, now that we have talked about Mt Keelung, it is about time we introduce this beautiful mountain on our list today. In Mt. Keelung it has been mentioned that an individual will receive the illusion of a bird cage, King Kong, and a pregnant lady. The views from Mt. Keelung are beautiful. Not only do they exhibit the Yin Yang Sea below exquisitely, an individual can get a birds eye view of the mountain towns and small villages below. At 588m above sea level, this extinct volcano boasts a panoramic view. However, the beauty is truly awe-inspiring from the very top. Of course, the hike is about forty-five minutes, but it is completely unprecedented. With that in mind, bring water bottles, snacks, and towels because the humidity makes Florida a walk in the park.

Long Shan Temple – For The History Lover

If you visit Taipei and you want a truly cultural experience alongside a time-travel pass into the past, an individual needs to visit the Long Shan Temple. Although the temple has survived the modern era movement and has been stepped into the modern 21st century, individual can still get a clear understanding of what life was like bac in the day. In fact, an individual will be able to receive a clear glimpse of the daily life of Taiwanese locals and their religious customs. This temple was built in the 5th year of Qing Dynasty and has retained much of its beauty, culture, art, and aesthetic appeal. With walkways, temple, cultural classes, and even culture-rich meals, an individual can both practice mindfulness and study the history of the Taiwanese people in this beautiful temple.

Starbucks – For The Coffee Lover

So, what is so special about a Taipei Starbucks? This Starbucks is not just any Starbucks. This Starbucks is manned by around the clock security, you need a special pass to get in, and it is also in one of the tallest buildings in all over the world. In fact, this Starbucks is known as the highest Starbucks ever created. Now, to get there is somewhat of a challenge because it is not marketed nor on any map. This Starbucks is to the left of the Taipei 101 Mall. An individual here will see two huge glass doors with security guards. From here, you can turn left at the entrance and head to an ATM-like machine where an individual can purchase a secured Starbucks pass at Level 35. Phew, that is quiet a trip to try and visit a Starbucks! However, the view is beautiful, and you can overlook all of Taipei and more.

The Niagara Falls of Taiwan – For The Adrenaline Junkie

 

How can viewing a beautiful waterfall release adrenaline? Well, you have to pass by quiet a large suspension bridge to get there. The Shi Fen waterfall is known as one of the most magnificent sights of all of Taipei and an individual can visit any time, as long as they are not fearful of heights or suspension bridges. This is, in fact, the largest natural waterfall along the Pingxi Line, and although not quiet as large as Niagara Falls, it is still a beautiful sight to see. Now, what may intrigue an individual even more is that they can get a water, a juice, or a coffee at the Level 2 Café near the waterfall while enjoy the unobstructed views of the falls. To get there, take a train to Shi Fen Train Station and the signs will clearly point you to the waterfall.

Yang Ming Shan National Park – The Volcano Visit

When it comes to the Yang Ming Shan National Park, city dwellers will escape to this natural retreat to not only take in the picturesque beauty, but also soak in sulphuric baths and relax their senses. In fact, this national park is unlike any national park in the world. The park itself has hot springs, mountain views, areas to relax, natural trails, flower exhibits, and a volcano. Yes, we said, a volcano! However, if you are adventurous enough to visit this gorgeous place, then a five-hour trek through mountainous trails will lead you to Volcanic vent, also known as Xiao You Keng.

Visiting Taipei in Taiwan

Visiting this beautiful place is unlike any other city near the sea, this is one of the most historic, culturally rich, and pure authentic cities that an individual can visit. Travel like a local, visit a volcano, taste their cultural rich foods, take a trip to the past, and enjoy a sunset while balancing your yin and yang by the Yin Yang Sea. Visit Taipei today!

 


Hong Kong

Take a deep breath and get ready for what may be the most thrilling vacation spot in the world. In fact, this particular vacation-paradise for city lovers makes New York the most relaxing place on the Earth. We are talking about Hong Kong, a place where delicious dim sum meets New York City skyscrapers alongside a vast area of photographic scenery that is absolutely stunning. If you appreciate Asian architecture alongside western world amenities, Hong Kong is the place to visit. Therefore, we are eager to bring you the most thrilling, exciting, and sight-worthy places to visit if you happen to be in this bustling city. Let’s begin!

  1. Victoria Peak – For The View

If you are looking for picturesque views that are worthy of your favorite Instagram filter, then this is the place to be. Victoria Peak may be the most iconic neighborhood in all of Hong Kong. With stunning views of the city below, this is known as Hong Kong Island’s tallest point and wealthiest neighborhood. The streets are adorned with posh mansion and beautiful landscaping. However, travelers are here for the view. Far ahead an individual can catch a gorgeous glimpse of the stunning Hong Kong towers peaking through clouds. However, the most beautiful sight is the outlying islands to the south of Hong Kong, which welcome the beautiful Hong Kong sunset with a warm glimmer. This is the place to be to make your friends a bit jealous!

  1. Dragon’s Back – For The Hike

If you happen to enjoy an early hike, then this is the place for you to visit if you come to Hong Kong. Resembling a dragons back, individuals can visit the Collinson Crematorium in Chai Wan and enjoy a beautiful hike through the mountains to reach Dragons Back. Now, what makes this spectacular hike even more beautiful is the views to the right, left, and in front of you when enjoying the short walk. You will be filled with ocean views, reservoir views, and towards the end of the course, as you approach Shek O, individuals will be adorned with golf course views of the Shek O country Club alongside empty beaches. If lucky, you may get a glimpse of rare birds, paragliders, and individuals enjoying the sunny day ahead. This is the place to visit for the hiker of the family.

  1. Ozone – For The Luxurious View

If you happen to want a worthy view while being air conditioned and adorned with warm smiles and delicious drinks, then you have to visit Ozone. Ozone is known as the highest bar in the world, atop the Ritz-Carlton in Hong Kong. This specialty bar has terrace seating, indoor seating, and unobstructed views of the Hong Kong skyline, mountains, beaches and more. Now, you can visit during the weekdays and enjoy a specialty drink. However, the best time to visit is on Sundays, where individuals can enjoy a free-flowing Dom Perignon while taking in the beauty of the skyline below.

  1. 10,000 Buddhas Monastery – For The Serenity

If you are seeking a more relaxing experience that will take your breath away, this is the place to visit while in Hong Kong. Not only will your breath be taken away by the beauty, but also by the hike. It is quiet a trek up hundreds of steps. However, it is gorgeous once you are at the top. Now, the most interesting and beautiful aspect of it is that an individual can take in the glare and welcome of over hundreds of Buddhas while on the walk. All of the Buddhas are adorned in Gold and at the top an individual can relax and enjoy the views, temples, and pavilions. What is even more calming, and relaxing is turtle pond and the gardens at the top, where an individual can sit and listen to the sounds of fountains, streams, and the nature surrounding their seclusion. If you want to escape the city life of Hong Kong, this is the most relaxing place to visit.

  1. Tai O Fishing Village – For The Authenticity

Individuals think that Hong Kong is a simple island city with plenty of hustle and bustle, and it is. However, Hong Kong is actually composed of hundreds of islands and one of these is the Lantau Island, where one of the most authentic villages is located, the Tai O Fishing Village. This unique village was once the start of Hong Kong and boasted a large fishing empire where locals enjoyed the fisherman’s way of life. However, now it is being moved into the western era with the addition of big businesses and skyscrapers. Individuals need to visit the Tai O Fishing Village is you want to understand a simpler way of life. You can walk through charming districts, take snapshots of stilt houses, and walk through a village that has stayed true to it’s lifestyle hundreds of years ago.

  1. The Star Ferry – For A Romantic Evening

For a romantic evening taking in the city skyline and stars above, individuals need to take a ride on the Star Ferry. For as little as .25 cents per seven-minute ride, individuals can enjoy one of the most authentic transport experiences of Hong Kong. The Star Ferry was in fact, a ferry that used to carry passengers from Hong Kong Island to Kowloon in the late 1888. Simple embark from Tsim Sha Tsui Pier in Kowloon and voyage to Wan Chai Pier. In the evening, you can enjoy a romantic sunset while taking in the breathtaking view and the calm water. Lastly, at 8pm Hong Kong has an evening light show that individuals can enjoy from the ferry.

  1. Man Mo Temple – To Make A Wish

As one of the most popular places of worship in Hong Kong, individuals can take in the earthy smells and beautiful sights of the Man Mo Temple. Built in 1847 by wealth Chinese business men, this temple is dedicated to honor the wielding God of Literature and the God of War. This temple now serves as a place to take in the local religious culture and show respects to the Chinese community. However, the true spirit of this space is held by the coil-incense, which give off an awe-inspiring aroma. Visitors can buy a red ribbon, attach a wish to the end of the coil via the ribbon, and once burned, the wish will float through the smoke to the Gods above. Located on Hollywood Road, the Man Mo Temple is one of the most beautiful places to visit when it comes to worship, prayer, serenity in all of Hong Kong.

Visit Hong Kong Today

If you happen to be visiting Hong Kong, these beautiful places and sights are worth every minute. Although Hong Kong makes New York appear like a beach in the Maldives, it can still be a relaxing and inspiring place to visit. Whether you are taking in the sights from the mountains above, shopping in one of their wealthiest malls, or taking a ride on the largest escalator, Hong Kong is on the bucket list, and these seven locations should be ‘must-visit’ to any individual. Indulge in some dim sum, show your respects to the Gods above, and shop like you are home. Enjoy Hong Kong!