• Northern Taiwan
• Information
• Traveler Advice
• Forums

48HourVisit.com

Planning a short visit? Check out 48HourVisit.com, your online guide for short stays and weekend getaways.

Ad

The physical contrasts of Northern Taiwan—with its lofty mountain ranges and vast sprawling lowlands, the diverse collection of rustic villages and bustling cities, and the plethora of rejuvenating hot springs and thrilling urban attractions—offer tourists a truly holistic holiday. Each one of these destinations reflects the country's colorful past of colonial invasions and age-old crafts and traditions.

No doubt, the first stop that comes to tourists' minds is the raucous and cosmopolitan capital Taipei, the country's prime international gateway. Found near the northwestern coasts, this booming metropolis is an ideal place to get to know the local history, as well as the latest gadgets in the market. Taipei's crown jewel is the Taipei International Financial Center, popularly known as the Taipei 101, officially the world's tallest skyscraper. The city also has a vast collection of historical-themed landmarks such as the memorials for two renowned revolutionary icons Sun Yat-Sen and Chiang Kai-shek. A very interesting attraction (especially for the kids) is found south, the Window of China which is a 1:25 scale model of a Chinese settlement.

Those who would rather commune with nature can head out to the numerous ridge settlements such as Shitoushan and Wulai, where mountain and river treks can be arranged for the avid backpackers. Those who brave the rugged terrain can reward themselves with either a dip in the nearby rivers' cool waters or head out to the hot spring towns, notably Beitou.

The more remote settlements of Jiufen and Jiguashi not only reek with the remains of their gold mining industry, but are also invigorating retreats from the city rush. One can also find rest and relaxation, as well as great food items in the port town of Keelung. On the other hand, the quaint villages of Sanyi, Hsinchu, and Pinglin still thrive with their impeccable crafts. Sanyi's wood sculptures and Hsinchu's glassworks make for unique souvenirs, while Pinglin's tea promises refreshment for the weary traveler.

User blogs:

Cheaper galactic spaceliner unveiled

News from http://news.ph.msn.com/top-stories/article.aspx?cp-documentid=3737940 Richard Branson unveiled Monday a commercial spaceliner offering tourists a cheaper chance to experience the thrill of weightlessness and view the splendor of the Earth from space.   The British billionaire hopes to offer tickets aboard his spacecraft at a cost of 200,000 dollars each, giving adventurous ... Read full Blog post

Indonesia Eco Tourism

 Tour Itenaray Day 01 BALI - LABUAN BAJO – RINCA ISLAND – KOMODO ISLAND (L.D) Pick up from your hotel in Bali and transfer to the airport, for flight to Labuan Bajo (West Flores) for approximately one and half hours. On arrival in Labuan Bajo airport, will be welcomed and met with our local representative or tour guide. Than transfer to the harbour to catch a boat cross to Rinca ... Read full Blog post

San Gimignano and San Pellegrino

Night falls on the flourishing and industrious San Gimignano, its 72 towers stand on the low roofs of the houses lit by the moon. This is not a luxury travel spot but is something you don't see every day. In the distance the clatter of hooves echoed tired in the Via Francigena. The hand of the blacksmith stops beating, the frame of the weaver becomes silent, the streets of the tank only a concert ... Read full Blog post

An Aerial fiesta in Clark Pampanga

Its a party in the sky as multi colored hot air balloons piloted ny different pilots from various partso of the world participated in this annual gathering. As early as 5am, the 2,500 hectare aviation complex at Clar Economic Zone in Pampanga was already crammedi with excitement. Clusters of hot air balloon participants busily prepare their own balloons for liftoff as they need to take advantage of ... Read full Blog post