It may seem surprising that the world’s third-largest city could be a relaxing place for a weekend getaway, but Shanghai has spectacular spots to slip away for an afternoon or two. China’s restrictive entry policies curtailed most short-stay vacations in the past few years. But cities across the country are now resurfacing as excellent weekend…
As Shangri-La Far Eastern, Taipei marks its 30th anniversary, the renowned hotel invites guests and visitors to partake in a year filled with exceptional experiences and celebrations. Located in the heart of Taipei, Shangri-La Far Eastern, Taipei stands as a testament to the city’s transformative journey. When the hotel opened, it was one of the…
As more professionals seek to enrich their work journeys with personal exploration, Taiwan is using its growing status as a business hub to boost international tourism. In an era of remote and hybrid work, bleisure travel – the practice of extending business trips for relaxation – is flourishing. This trend, already on the rise pre-pandemic,…
Situated on the border of Miaoli and Hsinchu counties, this mountainside temple complex and network of hiking trails remain woefully under-promoted. But to those in the know, it’s one of Taiwan’s most captivating destinations. Back in 2009, I pitched a tourism piece to the in-flight magazine of a Taiwanese airline. Tired of seeing articles on…
Embark on an affordable and culturally rich city break to Tokyo, where a long weekend can unfold into an exploration of Japan’s enigmatic capital. The next time you are planning a long weekend away, consider thinking a bit further afield than Taipei or Kaohsiung. Direct flights connecting the central airports of Taipei’s Songshan and Tokyo’s…
Challenge Taipei’s Beautiful Peaks and Enjoy Pre and Post-Hike Privileges As summer heats up, it’s the perfect time for a refreshing mountain adventure away from the bustling city. Regent Taipei’s “Taipei Grand Trail – the Hidden Beauty of Taipei” room package offers a three-day, two-night stay showcasing the beauty of Taipei through the perspectives of…
Just north of Taipei between Tamsui, a historic town that’s a first-tier destination in its own right, and the superb natural harbor of Keelung, Taiwan’s stunning north coast welcomes visitors with an alluring mix of scenery, culture, watersports, and seafood. For those keen to get away from the bustle of the big city, the coast…
Though not technically legal, off-road driving and motorcycling are popular activities among certain outdoor enthusiasts in Taiwan, where rugged jungle and mountainous terrain still constitute a significant portion of the land. When it comes to taking his 1993 Jeep Wrangler off the beaten track in Taiwan’s remote wilderness, Dave Johnson is the first to admit…
“The industry of fun” – travel and tourism – is given its own annual issue of TOPICS. I look forward to the articles and images each July but am disappointed to see the sector largely neglected by Taiwan. Taiwan is no “tourism country,” we hear. The sector is not among the “Six Core Strategic Industries,”…
Though domestic tourism is doing well outside Taiwan’s major cities, a lack of clarity on border reopening has left businesses dependent on the international market in limbo. For the past two-and-a-half years, Taiwan’s travel industry has grappled with an uncomfortable truth: Its reliance on international visitors has become a liability amid broad public support for…
