So we thought of having our last trip for 2014 outside PH. We only had a really short prep and we made sure that all activities were squeezed in to make our stay worthwhile.
Since we’re only having this on one weekend, we thought of a closer city, which of course has lots of things to do and beers to drink. The first place that we pictured….. Taipei! So for all of you who no longer have leave credits in the office and plan to spend a weekend here, hope this writing helps. :)
First thing to do is get your Taiwan visa. For more info, visit the embassy’s official website at http://www.roc-taiwan.org/PH/mp.asp?mp=272. If you have a valid US entry visa, you may skip this part. It helped us do away with the paperworks with our so little time. You just have to go to this link - https://niaspeedy.immigration.gov.tw/nia_southeast , enter your personal info and poof, get the travel authorization approval.
Next is find a flight and hotel. Us cheapskates chose Cebu Pacific and Agoda. I just have to rant however, how the airline changed the return flight schedule on such short notice – just when you thought you’d have enough rest. Anyway, thanks still, they’re able to bring us there and back safely.
Once all is set, prepare yourself for a leg-breaking and literally breathtaking journey. I had like three (3) Red Bulls to keep me going and going and going. Plus make sure that you preload your Google Map as it is big big help in getting directions.
Before we go to the spots, let me say that this place is close/ comparable to S. Korea. At least as to people, building structures, lights (yeaa a lot of LEDs), and transportation. Just from what I’ve seen.
Food and Drinks. Street food here goes so well with the Taiwan Beer. Became my favorite! As for the stinky tofu…. Uhm, by the time you smell it, you won’t continue imagining yourself eating it. It smells exactly like p*op. I heard it’s good though – that’s all I need to know. Also, Milk Tea is everywhere!
People. Very nice and accommodating. Ask them a direction to somewhere, they’ll walk you there with a smile. When you talk to a person who does not understand English and someone who does hears you, he’ll answer right away. They are also calm and disciplined. Yes, MRTs have long lines, but they do not rush going into carts because they know that another train is arriving just few minutes after one leaves -- they do not have habits of cutting queue on platform.
Transportation. One of the most convenient ones I’ve experienced. We bought this 1 day pass for TWD150 (abt PhP255) which gives unlimited rides to all trains and buses within the city. We took advantage of this to get around Taipei. It is recommended for tourists who won’t be staying that long.
Taipei Metro One-Day Pass
Hate to tell this but, if only Philippines has the same system and discipline, NO ONE WILL EVER BE LATE FOR WORK! When??? When??? When??? Are they really that ahead of us??
Haaanyway, now you know what to expect, let’s start this weekend itinerary:
Late Friday
We arrived past midnight at Fu Chang Hotel. Its cost, room and location… Surprisingly GREAT! I wasn’t looking for a very spacious room but this hotel provided a comfy stay for the three of us. The best part of it was it’s within Ximending, a famous night place in Taipei.
Saturday
Longshan Temple
Chiang Kai Shek Memoral
Yongkang Street
Taipei 101
Pingxi
Shihlin Night Market
Ximending
Sunday
Peace Park
Xinyi Shopping District
Miramar Entertainment Park
We went back to Ximending to go around and have some beer while waiting for our trip back home.
Sadly, airport and then back. BTW, always be cautious of people around the airport. Yes, you may be sleepless, tired or disoriented, but don't just agree on someone's favor. This guy wanted us to carry one of his bags because he did not have check-in baggage. He said his bags are too many that attendant would for sure call his attention. Of course we disagreed so he looked for someone else who's "kind" enough to take it.I’m not saying that ALL guys who do that have bad intentions. Sometimes it’s just obvious that something’s not right – not to judge but mann, why would you bring too much stuff when you already knew that you’d be apprehended by doing such. Hmm, wonder what’s inside that bag.:)
Just like Vietnam, I never expected Taiwan to be that exciting. I wish I could spend as many weekends there. I don't know if my pictures justified how beautiful the city was, but one thing's for sure, it is not a lot like Philippines. :) Well there are some things that are "fun" to do in Taiwan, but "more fun" to do in the Philippines --- yes, some. :)
So if you guys go there, tell me what you think. :)
