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The 20 Best Things to See in Taipei
In an ocean of East Asian powerhouses, the plucky little self-governed nation of Taiwan punches far above its weight. Its blossoming beacon of a capital is the crowning jewel of a culture which has evolved from its old brother-in-arms across the Taiwan Strait. What might feel like a fast-paced, crowded metropolis at first, with the flashing lights and buzzing scooters, a closer look at Taipei reveals the deeper core of tradition, religion and a progressive nature. Woven amongst the skyscrapers are beating arteries of religious institutions, bustling night markets and a palpable energy of a free-thinking youth. It’s a city which deeply respects its past but has its eyes set…
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Travel Plan: Eating Snake in Hanoi’s Snake Village (Le Mat)
Squeezed between culinary powerhouses like China, Thailand, and Japan, Vietnamese cuisine has always punched above its weight. Scintillating phở and irresistible bánh mì are just some of the tastes and aromas that have left a deep impression on foreign palates, surprising travellers with flavours and textures they didn’t even know they craved. Hanoi’s bright lights and buzzing streets may already include a spectrum of Vietnamese cuisine, but venture beyond the city’s limits, and you’ll stumble upon a humble village home to a cultural icon and a dark tourist rite-of-passage. It’s a corner of Vietnam where culture, courage, and curiosity collide; a place that asks one simple question of every visitor…
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A Complete Transport Guide: Tokyo
Few cities can appear as daunting as Tokyo. Holding the title of the biggest and most populous city in the world doesn’t really ease the anxiety of new arrivals all that much. Yet, despite the enormous layout of this sprawling metropolis, this city of megalithic skyscrapers and dazzling lights has one of the best transport systems in the world. From bullet trains to a spiderweb of subways, Tokyo’s transport system is surprisingly much easier to decipher than you would think. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about transportation in and around Tokyo. So, here’s your complete guide to Tokyo transport! This article may contain affiliate…
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A Complete Transport Guide: Taipei
So, you’ve found yourself in the beating heart of Taiwanese culture, history and heritage, and have no idea how to navigate your way through the mazes of bubble tea stores and night markets. Fortunately, figuring out transport in a bustling metropolis like Taipei doesn’t have to be so overwhelming. As Taiwan’s vibrant capital, Taipei boasts a highly efficient and well-connected transportation system that makes exploring its mix of modern skyscrapers, historic temples, and lush green spaces easier than most places in Asia! Whether you’re planning to visit the iconic Taipei 101, indulge in night market delights, or escape to serene mountain trails, this guide will provide you with everything you…
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The Ultimate Travel Guide: Jeju Island
Welcome to South Korea’s own little slice of paradise! While affectionate names like “Hawaii of Korea” and the “Island of the Gods” only go some way to highlight the gem that is Jeju Island, this little gem can only ever be truly savoured in person. Across its mighty peaks and cliff-lined shores are dramatic landscapes shaped by roaring volcanoes, crystal-clear waters and a culture uniquely distinct from its mainland counterparts. Above all else, it’s Korea’s one-stop-shop for adventure, fun, food and love! Whatever brought you here, Jeju has something to make it worthwhile. So in that case, here’s your ultimate guide to exploring every hidden gem, must-try food, and jaw-dropping…
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What is it Like Living in China?
China is one of the most misunderstood nations on Earth. Tales of mysticism and peculiar oriental traditions travelled far and wide along the Silk Road and beyond, creating a cultural mythology like no other. Foreign nationals are few and far between in the lands of China, thus a perspective on life in the beating heart of Maoist communism is more exclusive than a list of potential Premier candidates. As one of the few wai guo ren who has lived and worked amongst the hallowed streets that were once considered forbidden, what was life like living in China? As a bright-eyed, clueless Brit, I was equally uninformed and completely naive to…
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Why Do Asian Temples Have Nazi Symbols?
In the cultural and religious melting pots of Asian cultures, temples have always represented a tranquil oasis in the midst of an ever-changing world. These houses of worship have always been considered a place of serenity, peace and most importantly of all, love for thy fellow man. Thus, you can imagine my surprise when I first came across an unmistakable symbol that has long been associated with the fascist Nazi regime – the swastika. It turns out that temples across this stunning continent are covered with this notorious symbol. Not only that, they feature prominently in many religious designs to this very day! How could this be? Is there a…
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The Ultimate Travel Itinerary: Fenqihu in 1 Day
Regarded amongst locals as one of Taiwan’s greatest national parks, the region of Alishan boasts dramatic landscapes, misty climates and in the case of Fenqihu, charming mountain villages worthy of being on any itinerary. Becoming prominent during the peak of the Alishan Forest Railway, the little logging village of Fenqihu is looking back at a time when Japanese colonialism and a blossoming tourist industry were created. Quaint streets lined with traditional teahouses, old wooden buildings, and shops selling local handicrafts. This little hidden gem is the perfect stop on your way to Alishan National Park, providing a delightful escape from the bustling cities and provides an opportunity to lose oneself…
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The 20 Strangest Chinese Superstitions
The mythical nation of China is one that’s steeped in ancient traditions and belief systems. As such, superstitions and the supernatural have played a role in the lives of Chinese citizens for centuries, with many of these practices still being observed today! While stepping on a crack or a broken mirror might bring bad fortune in the West, there are plenty more mystical dos and don’ts that are followed in China! So, in that case, here are the 20 strangest and most unique superstitions in China! This article may contain affiliate links which I may be compensated at no extra cost to you, dear readers! The Number 4 The number…
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What Is KTV? Asia’s Favourite Pastime
Who hasn’t spent an alcohol-fuelled evening in front of a run-down karaoke machine with a microphone in hand? Though this may be a once-in-a-blue-moon affair for us Westerners, for many countries in Asia, this is a national pastime. The art of karaoke is taken so seriously that there are places specifically designed to do it! From private disco booths and family-friendly venues to fully-stocked bars and scantily clad KTV girls, these places have it all! If you ever find yourself in Asia, it’s a rite of passage to visit one! So, in that case, let me show you everything you need to know about the KTV industry. This article may…
