Taiwan is a land of rich cultural traditions, exquisite cuisine, and breathtaking landscapes. Our journey through Yilan and Taipei is a testament to the island’s deep-rooted heritage and vibrant modernity, offering a perfect blend of artistry, gastronomy, and immersive experiences.
Check out my recommended Taiwan hotels here.
Flights from London to Taiwan with EVA Air
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For travellers flying from London, EVA Air offers a convenient and comfortable option. The airline operates direct flights from London Heathrow (LHR) to Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (TPE), with a flight time of approximately 13 hours. EVA Air is renowned for its excellent service, spacious seating, and high-quality in-flight entertainment. Passengers can choose from Economy, Premium Economy, and Business Class options, ensuring a comfortable journey to Taiwan.
Flights can be booked through the EVA Air website, travel agencies, or online platforms such as Expedia and Skyscanner. It’s advisable to book tickets at least three months in advance to secure the best fares.
Currency
The official currency in Taiwan is the New Taiwan Dollar (TWD). ATMs are widely available across the country, and many accept international cards such as Visa and Mastercard. However, some small shops and night markets may only accept cash, so it’s a good idea to have some local currency on hand.
Exchange rates can vary, but currency can be exchanged at airports, banks, and authorised money changers. For better rates, consider using exchange services in Taipei rather than the airport. Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, department stores, and restaurants, but using a prepaid travel card can also be a smart option to avoid foreign transaction fees.
Getting Around Taiwan
Taiwan has an efficient and affordable public transport system, making it easy to explore the country.
- Taipei Metro (MRT): A clean, fast, and reliable way to navigate the capital.
- Taiwan High-Speed Rail (HSR): The quickest way to travel between major cities such as Taipei, Taichung, and Kaohsiung.
- Taiwan Railways (TRA): A scenic option for exploring smaller towns and coastal areas.
- Buses and Taxis: Widely available, though taxis may not always accept card payments.
- EasyCard: A rechargeable travel card used for MRT, buses, and even some convenience stores.
Language and Communication
The official language of Taiwan is Mandarin Chinese, but English is widely understood in major cities, tourist areas, and hotels. Signage in Taipei and at transport hubs is usually bilingual (Chinese and English). For a smoother experience, consider downloading a translation app or learning a few basic Mandarin phrases.
Weather and Best Time to Visit
Taiwan has a subtropical climate, meaning mild winters and hot, humid summers. The best time to visit is:
- Spring (March to May): Pleasant weather and beautiful cherry blossoms.
- Autumn (September to November): Cooler temperatures and stunning autumn foliage.
- Summer (June to August): Ideal for beach trips but can be humid and prone to typhoons.
- Winter (December to February): Mild temperatures in Taipei, but colder in mountainous regions.
Food and Dining Tips
Taiwan is a food lover’s paradise, famous for its night markets, street food, and Michelin-starred restaurants. Must-try dishes include:
- Beef Noodle Soup – A Taiwanese staple.
- Xiao Long Bao – Soup dumplings, best enjoyed at Din Tai Fung.
- Bubble Tea – Originating from Taiwan, available in countless flavours.
- Oyster Omelette – A popular night market snack.
- Scallion Pancakes – Crispy and savoury street food favourite.
Essential Travel Tips
- Visa: British passport holders can visit Taiwan visa-free for up to 90 days.
- SIM Cards & WiFi: Would recommend downloading the Airlao App. Use my code and get GBP £2.50 off your first eSIM package from Airalo. Use code BINITA8112 when you sign up or check out. https://ref.airalo.com/kgpW
- Power Sockets: Taiwan uses Type A and Type B plugs (110V). A travel adapter is recommended.
- Safety: Taiwan is one of the safest countries to visit, with low crime rates and friendly locals.
- Cultural Etiquette: Tipping is not expected in restaurants but is appreciated for exceptional service.
Yilan
National Center for Traditional Arts, Yilan
Yilan, known for its natural beauty and dedication to preserving traditional arts, offers an inspiring glimpse into Taiwan’s cultural past. The National Center for Traditional Arts is a treasure trove of creativity, where visitors can witness live performances, explore handicraft exhibitions, and even try their hand at traditional arts.
Whilst there partake in a herbal remedy workshop which provides insight into Taiwan’s centuries-old wellness practices, where locally sourced herbs are transformed into medicinal blends used for health and relaxation.
A stay at HOTEL PIN Jiaoxi completes the day, providing a tranquil retreat enhanced by its rejuvenating hot spring baths.
Beyond cultural heritage, Yilan also fosters creativity through hands-on experiences. A tea-making workshop unravels the intricacies of brewing the perfect cup, highlighting the importance of tea culture in Taiwan from picking to brewing!
The vibrant atmosphere of Luodong Night Market is a sensory delight, where the enticing aroma of street food fills the air. From the famous scallion pancakes to mouth-watering grilled seafood, the market offers an authentic taste of Taiwan’s street food culture.
Another superb hotel to stay in Yilan is Wellspring by Silks, a boutique retreat offering a blend of comfort and luxury. You also get your own hot spring baths in the room and it is a short walk away from the natural hot springs which are free to visit.
Tea culture takes centre stage at Ikken House, where a curated tea-tasting session allows visitors to appreciate the subtleties of different brews.
Taiwan’s famous sky lantern tradition is another highlight, where participants can write their wishes on lanterns before releasing them into the sky, creating an unforgettable and symbolic moment.
Taiwan Lantern Festival
We took a High-Speed Rail (HSR) to Taoyuan, home to the dazzling Taiwan Lantern Festival. This annual celebration transforms the city into an illuminated wonderland, with artistic lantern displays, cultural performances, and immersive exhibits that captivate visitors of all ages. The return trip to Taipei on the HSR offers a moment of reflection on the festival’s spectacular visual feast.
Taipei
Taipei, the bustling capital, invites visitors to explore its culinary and cultural gems.
At CookInn Taiwan, a hands-on cooking experience introduces the art of making bubble tea and xiao long bao, providing a deeper appreciation of Taiwan’s culinary craftsmanship.
A traditional reflexology foot massage is amazing, allowing travellers to unwind and experience the therapeutic benefits of this ancient practice.
No trip to Taipei is complete without dining at the legendary Din Tai Fung, where expertly crafted dumplings take centre stage.
The visit to Taipei 101 offers unparalleled panoramic views, showcasing the city’s dynamic blend of modern architecture and traditional charm.
Buy your Taipei 101 tickets here
I would also recommend taking a whimsical stop at the Hello Kitty-themed Seven Eleven, a collector’s haven at POP MART, and a creative session at Tak Café, where visitors design their own bag charms as a unique souvenir.
For the best view of Taipei 101, Songren Road (松仁路) is one of the top spots. This road runs parallel to Taipei 101 and offers a stunning, unobstructed view of the skyscraper, especially at night when the tower is illuminated. The intersection of Songren Road and Xinyi Road is a great place to capture photos, and nearby parks like Xiangshan Park or the Four Four South Village (四四南村) provide excellent vantage points with a mix of urban and natural scenery.
Both Episode Daan and The Grand Hotel Taipei are excellent choices, but they offer very different experiences depending on what you’re looking for.
Episode Daan – A stylish, modern boutique hotel in the Daan District. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy a minimalist, contemporary design with smart technology features. The location is fantastic, close to MRT stations, trendy cafes, and shopping areas like Dongmen and Yongkang Street.
The Grand Hotel Taipei – A historic and iconic hotel with stunning traditional Chinese architecture. If you want a luxurious stay with a cultural experience, this is a great option. It’s located near Yuanshan MRT and offers beautiful city views, elegant rooms, and a grand atmosphere with a rich history.
Taiwan is a dynamic and welcoming destination that caters to all types of travellers. Whether you’re embarking on a cultural journey, indulging in world-class cuisine, or soaking in breathtaking landscapes, Taiwan promises an unforgettable adventure.
Plan ahead, pack wisely, and get ready to explore this beautiful island!
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