5 Taipei Quickies

According to this article, Taipei was listed as the 17th most popular tourist destination! Taipei City is the capital city of Taiwan and is home to about 2.6 million people. Since the word about this little island is getting out fast, I thought I'd get you better acquainted. There are hundreds of things to do in Taipei, but here are 5 quickies that you just might be able to squeeze in to a day or two.

1. Taipei 101
The 101 was once the tallest building in the world; it's now number two after the new building in Dubai. It, not surprisingly, is 101 storeys and brags an impressive view of the whole city. It towers over all the surrounding buildings, sometimes even the clouds. Try to go on a clear day or you'll be looking at a wall of white clouds, which isn't very exciting, or worth your money.

$500NT/Adult
2. Shilin Night Market
Shilin is one of the biggest night market on the island. Grab a papaya milk and a bag full of fried chicken, and brave the crowds for a real taste of Taiwan. You can see and smell just about anything at a night market, so expect to be surprised. This is the place to find weird souvenirs and t-shirts with terrible English, and a host of fried delicious treats.

3. LongShan Temple
If you're in Taiwan, even for a day, you've got to check out one of their famous temples; it's really an experience not to be missed. Taiwanese temples are everywhere, but LongShan is one of the oldest and most interesting. It was built in 1738, and worships the quintessential Taiwanese combination of Buddhist, Taoist, and folk deities like Matsu.

4. MaoKong Gondola
Head up a couple of hours before sunset, that way you'll have plenty of time to wander the tea shops and grab a bite before taking the gondola back down for a beautiful sunset ride. Hop in a "crystal cabin" and watch the sky change from blue to pink over the mountains as the lush green forests pass by beneath your feet.

$50NT for All Stops
5. Chiang Kai Shek Memorial Hall

The CKS Memorial Hall was built in honour of the former president of the Republic if China, Chiang Kai Shek. The memorial is surrounded by a park and is framed by the National Theatre and National Concert Hall. It's a beautiful example of Taiwanese history and architecture- perfect for an afternoon wander. If you're lucky you can catch the changing of the guards in the main hall.