Taiwan: An Island Gem

Gently wrapped by the Pacific Ocean, Taiwan has lots to offer in its fusion of cultures, variety of nature and welcoming people. Interested?

“Despite political controversy, there is no doubt Taiwan is unique in its warm, serene atmosphere and colorful, lively culture.”

Fast Facts

During the 1600s, Portuguese explorers passed by on their voyage and exclaimed, "Formosa!" This name, meaning "beautiful island," persisted through the a wave of Chinese immigration, Japanese colonization, and mass globalization in modern times. Once home to multiple indigenous tribes, Taiwan now boasts a population of 23 million on land nearly 300 times smaller than the USA. With bustling cities such as Taipei and and tranquil beaches in Hualien, Taiwan has much to offer for city-lover, adventure-addicts, culture-seekers and all alike.

Geography

At local schools, children's first introduction to Taiwan's geography is often how it's shaped like a han ji , Taiwanese for "sweet potato." A narrow Taiwan Strait, known as the "dark trench," separates it from the coast of China. For decades, Chinese migrants traveled through by rickety rafts, searching for better livelihoods on the island yet often not reaching the shore. In Taiwanese proverb, it is said that of those who dare the journey "ten attempt, six die, three succeed, one returns." To this day, some say this tragic page in history is the root cause of a general fear for ocean and water, persistent today.

Generally, the island can be separated into the eastern and western plains, sliced through by a series of jagged mountain ranges, such as the Central Mountains (中央山脈). Of these, the Jade Mountain (玉山）stands tall as Taiwan's highest peak, at a staggering altitude of near 4000m. The densely populated Taipei basin becomes rolling hills as you move south, then sliding into vast, fertile plains in the west and south. Down to the tip of the island and back the east coast, the Coastal Mountains descend into rocky valleys by the azure coast. Indigenous villages dot along the sea, intertwined in nature. Waves lap against the beaches, where boats sail off to surrounding islands: Orchid, Green, Turtle and more. On the opposite coast near China, Kinmen and Matzu offer rich heritage and culture, including remnants of bombshells hidden in sand. Further south lies Penghu, with its pristine beaches and vibrant markets. A simple 5-day trip could be a leisurely tour around the island, with evolving landscape and little adventures along the way.

Such as:

1. Dansui 淡水

I must admit I have a slight bias as this is my hometown, but who wouldn't want to call it home? Famed for stunning sunsets along the riverside, Dansui is a quaint coastal town with nature, history, and tons of mouth-watering street food. Visit the majestic Fort San Domingo, built by the Spanish in the 1600s, then stroll along Dansui Old Street for bistros, cafes, noodle bars and more. Try some local fish balls and iron eggs, or perhaps a scoop of Turkish ice cream if you're fast enough to catch the cone. Sit by the waves and listen to endless Chinese ballads by street performers. A few steps away, another puppet show is on play. Look closely and you'll find art in the most surprising places, from live shows on narrow beaches to graffiti on wooden buildings. There is something unique about Dansui, how it makes all feel at home. The calm, tranquil atmosphere is a refreshing break from the hustle and bustle of Taipei city, and offers adventures of it own. Having grown up strolling along the promenade after school, enjoying 1 dollar ice cream at the parks, and dreaming of my prince charming with seaside ballads, Dansui is where I call home, and where every sunset still seems like a wonder.

2. Nantou 南投

As the only county not bordering the sea, Nantou is a mountainous wonder with scenic trails, secluded villages, and dazzling lakes. On a recent family trip, we stayed with a host family from the Bunong tribe, an indigenous community in central Taiwan. Trying their traditional cuisine, star gazing by the woods, and staying in a bungalow-style tent was incredible, and showed us just how beautiful cultural diversity is. For a more leisurely experience, a few hours away lie large resorts equipped with camp grounds, wooden cabins, barbecue facilities, pools, hot springs, and even a bridge overlooking a peak. Alternatively, you could simply drive around the mountain paths, exploring a path of your own. The views from above are sure to amaze you, with endless rolling hills of olive, lime, and emerald green. To conclude, visit Sun Moon Lake at the foothill of the mountains, encircled by flaky, forested peaks. A cable car ride takes you across the water, allowing a 360 view for you to admire. To learn about the land and its history, the Aboriginal Culture Village is the perfect place to understand the communities that have called the island home for millions of years. If you're looking for an authentic experience in nature and a chance to connect with indigenous culture, Nantou cannot be missed.

3. Shilin 士林

For those eager to experience the maze and craze of the city, Shilin Night Market is where you must be. A favorite for locals and tourist alike, night markets are where all are welcome. From international cuisine to street-side favorites, fake-branded designer clothes to cheesy "I LOVE TW" t-shirts, Shilin has it all. As you soon as you step in the markets, an exciting blend of flavors will lure you in. Barbecue skewers sizzle on the grill, while newly-developed stinky tofu fries await daring tourists to purchase. My personal favorite, one-bite dumplings, are coated in a chili, ginger, and soy sauce, a classic Taiwanese combination. What makes Shilin Night Market special however, is not one or two well-known stalls, but the ambiance of excitement and energy. The myriad of colors, sounds and flavors are the perfect depiction of Taiwanese street culture, where every step is thrilling, and every visit in unending.

4. . Penghu 澎湖

A small crescent of land off the western coast, Penghu has endless opportunities to explore, engage, and engross in island culture. A one-hour flight from Taipei, it is almost a condensed version of mainland Taiwan, with the ocean, hills, and of course, busy streets filled with culture. Rent a scooter for a local experience, zipping through alleys for an egg roll for breakfast, fresh seafood for lunch, and cactus ice cream for refreshments. Book a snorkeling trip and visit marine life in the afternoon, then coast along hilly trails Ximei (watch out for goats!) The beaches in Xiyu are perfect for a summer swim, with one accurately named Dream Beach. Laid-back and peaceful, Penghu is a little paradise for your holiday, which we promise, will not disappoint.

Conclusion

Before diving into the complexities of politics in future posts, I hope to establish Taiwan is more than a dot on the world map, more than an island in dispute. Itself it filled with great adventures and journeys, rich culture and warm people. Taiwan can, and should be, known as an island worth visiting, worth respecting, and worth loving.