This trip is truly unforgettable! It's definitely one of the best birthday celebrations I've ever had. I've dreamed of visiting this place ever since my childhood F4 obsession began—yes, I was a die-hard fan! Spending the Christmas holiday in Taiwan with my loved ones made my birthday even more special.
Taipei City is famous for its vibrant shopping streets, modern architecture, delicious street food, bustling night markets, and, of course, Taipei 101, which was once the tallest building in the world. I especially enjoyed the food-hunting adventure that Allen and I embarked on at Shilin Night Market, as well as the breathtaking views of the city from Taipei 101.
Although December is typically their winter season, climate change made our visit surprisingly warm. It was chilly at night, but not as freezing as we had anticipated. Checking the weather beforehand is essential to avoid packing the wrong clothes!
How to get there?
We booked our flight from Dec 21 - 25, 2016 via Cebu Pacific for P 7,879.00. Flight to Taipei is actually expensive even if it is on seat sale, and it is not everyday Cebu Pac flies to Taipei.
Visa is needed upon entering Taiwan for Filipinos. There are 2 options:
1. You can apply directly to the embassy or with the assistant of your preferred travel agency. Click here for visa requirements
2. Visa free entry if you are currently holding one of the following valid documents issued (visa) by the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Japan, Australia, or New Zealand, or any of the signatories to the Schengen Agreement. You just need to type in your personal information and current visa information from the countries I mentioned. You just need to print out the certificate, and you are good to go! Click here for authorization certificate form
Where to stay?
We stayed at Hotel B located at Songshan District. It is a 15-min walk goint to the nearest MRT station. The rooms are clean, big, and comfortable to stay at. I highly recommend this hotel.
Getting around the city
It would be easy and convenient if you buy an MRT pass. They have an unlimited MRT pass that is perfect for travellers/tourists.
1 day pass - NT $150
2 day pass - NT $180
3 day pass - NT $280
4 day pass - NT $380
Places we visited in Taipei, Taiwan
1. Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall
2. Huashan 1914 Creative Park
It’s a versatile park situated in the heart of Taipei City, offering a modern-retro vibe that’s perfect for relaxing with family and friends. The park features restaurants, shops, art galleries, cafes, and much more! I came across a group of creative individuals using a 3D printer. You can step inside to observe their work, but just remember not to distract them or touch anything that might cause a ruckus! Hihi!
3. Taipei 101
Taipei 101 holds the title of the "World's Tallest Green Building" and was once the tallest building globally until the Burj Khalifa in Dubai was completed. Taipei 101 is dedicated to significant eco-upgrades aimed at reducing energy costs and saving money—what a brilliant initiative, right?
The lower levels of Taipei 101 feature luxury shops, including Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Prada, Dior, Miu Miu, and many more!
4. National Revolutionary Martyr's Shrine
5. Fort San Domingo
6. National Palace Museum
7. Shilin Night Market
I super love this place since it has everything - food, clothes, shoes, pasalubongs, and more! Spent the night here with my boyfriend filling up our stomach with delicious street food! We just took a taxi from our hotel because we were too tired to take the train. Haha!
8. Taipei Zoo
It is literally far away from the city! It took as 1 hr to get to the zoo via train.Entrance fee: NT $60
9. Hello Kitty Kitchen and Dining
For the sake of my sister, I joined Martha for a dine-in experience to enjoy the place. Although I wasn't entirely comfortable with all the pink decor since it's not really my style, the food was excellent, even if it was a bit pricey!
All photos are owned by the writer and owner of this blog.
© Monica Peralta
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