Taiwan. Honestly, we didn’t have much expectations going on our trip to Taipei. We knew that they have good street food and it’s a good place to go shopping. Apart from that, Taiwan is our neighbor up north and is a small island nation. Now, after having spent five days in Taipei, we can’t wait to go back!
Not expecting much, we were pleasantly surprised that Taipei is such a cool and bustling city with a plethora of things to do, day and night. This destination is the answer to both your weekend escapade and your month-long soul searching.
GETTING THERE
A number of airlines fly non-stop from Manila to Taipei such as KLM, China Airlines and more but we were lucky to score cheap flights with Cebu Pacific Air. Check out Skyscanner for the cheapest airfares.
VISAS
A visa is required for Filipino passport holders; however, you may also qualify for a visa-free entry (only Travel Authorization Certificate needed) if you have a valid visa or residence permit from the following countries: U.S.A., Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Japan, U.K. and EU Schengen. Here’s our step-by-step guide on How To Get a Visa for your Taiwan Travel.
GETTING AROUND
The Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport is outside Taipei and is around a 45-minute bus ride that will take you to different drop-off points in the city. There are several stops to choose from and we chose to be dropped off at the Taipei Main Station where the Taipei Metro is connected. Alternatively, there are taxis and cars for rent available but will of course cost you more.
The Taipei Metro is one of the best transit systems we’ve tried. Everything is well connected and there are English signs as well so it’s tourist-friendly. Make sure to purchase an EasyCard at the airport for your convenience. You can use this card for most of the transportation systems in Taipei such as buses and the trains, you can even use it at convenience stores and some attractions. Read more about the EasyCard here.
Taipei Main Station
