Tailormade Tour Guide Taiwan

taiwan tailormade tour guide

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Taiwan Brief Introduction Weather and Map Taiwan Top 5 Recommended tourism destination Taiwan Top 5 Recommended visiting sites Taiwan Top 5 Recommended National Park Taiwan Top 5 Recommended Night Markets Tastes of Taiwan Shopping Free Internet – iTaiwan Currency Voltage Transportation Information Common Chinese phrases

Flexible, Time-saving, Fast & Easy Tailor-making Procedure Novaland Tours Clients’ Photos Taiwan Brief Introduction

Taiwan is located in between the southeastern coast of the Asian continent and the East Asian islands distributed among the western Pacific Rim. To the north lie Japan and the Ryukyu Islands; to the south are the Philippine Islands; to the west is Mainland China. Taiwan is a long and narrow island stretching from north to south. The island is about 395 km long vertically and about 144 km in width with a total land area of around 36,000 square kilometers (about 14,400 square miles).

Weather and Map

Most of Taiwan has beautiful warm climate all year round. You can leave your winter coat behind but are advised to bring an umbrella.

The north part of Taiwan belongs to sub-tropical climate zone, while the south part belongs to the tropical climate zone. Winters are warm and summers are hot and wet, with typhoons and thunderstorms. Because Taiwan is a relatively small island, the ocean breezes have a cooling effect so it never feels too hot. Please note that the high alpine areas like Alishan do get cold. The annual average temperature is a comfortable 22 °C, with lowest temperatures ranging from 12 to 17 °C (54-63 °F).

Spring Weather: Spring is from March to May. In Taipei, the average high temperatures average about 25 degrees Celsius or 78 degrees Fahrenheit. Summer Weather: Summer is from June to August. It is usually hot and humid, and there are occasional thunderstorms and typhoons. The average temperature in summer is about 30 °C (86 °F). Autumn Weather: Autumn is from September to November. The weather is cooler but still warm and sunny, and October and November has relatively less rainfall, and it is still warm. Winter Weather: Winter is from December to February. Winters mild and often foggy due to the northeast- erly winds from Siberia. Around Taipei, low temperatures can approach 8 °C (46 °F) at night, but there may be warm spells also.

Taiwan Average Climate by Month

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

High (ºC) 17 17 19 24 27 27 29 31 30 27 27 18

Low (ºC) 13 14 15 19 22 24 26 28 27 24 18 13

Rain (mm) 93.98 142.24 177.8 182.88 208.28 284.48 208.28 238.76 203.2 129.54 76.2 76.2

High (ºF) 61 61 65 74 79 80 83 87 85 79 80 64

Low (ºF) 55 56 58 66 71 75 78 82 80 74 64 55

Rain (in) 3.7 5.6 7 7.2 8.2 11.2 8.2 9.4 8 5.1 3 3

I’d love travel very much, every well planned and enjoyable trips became a unforgettable experience in part of my life. After hard works, I was always dreaming to visit different cities in different countries, it is not necessary to be a luxury and expensive trip, but a leisure and budget tour. In my mind, traveling is life's most luxurious enjoyment, so I want to arrange a wonderful trip for my parents.

I cannot wait to share my idea with my parents, I believe they would love of my plan. When I announce travel proposals, my father interrupted me, said he doesn't like to travel, he don't want to go out. I am very surprised why he is so against to it. They are not young, it is the time to enjoy life.

"My dear dad, you used to travel a lot, why you want to quit this time?" I asked.

He answer: “You are right, I’ve done lots of travel before, but none of them could really let me enjoy the time. I had to wake up early morning every day, and rush to each so-call must-to-visit tourism site with very short visiting time or only a photo time; also, I had been forced to shopping, without any consumes, you would receive anger from tour guide immediately. I would rather staying at home than paying money for nothing. Most importantly, many of the tour attractions arranged factually are not what I love. I don’t think I enjoyed them but wasted my time and money.

Now, I see what my dad worry about. He always took very old fashioned traveling: Group Depar- ture, which provides economic price with shopping sites, but everything is fixed, you have to stick to all arrangements provided, and there is no chance to have your own time for your favorites, and follow your own interested itinerary.

I explained my dad, we will choose a totally different style of traveling, a Tailor-made itinerary as per our requests, there will be no forced shopping, no rushing, we see what we would like to see, we go where we are really interested in. Finally, dad agreed to go.

Since then, I was thinking what if there was a travel company could do things as below: to tailor made very travel enthusiasts a unique trip, which will be enjoyable, leisure, full of fun and unforgettable memories. The traveling supposed not to be the way as my dad’s through; it ought to be : a road full of fun and happiness; a place where you could totally relax; very spots and destination will inspire you; experiencing a different life, which could be beautiful, warm or delightful; it will be unforgettable even you've return home. I guess, it might be the biggest enjoyment of travel.

The Tailor-made Tour Specialist(TTS) In Novaland Tours (NLT), who are familiar in every tourism spots, hotels, transportation, food, attractions in every destinations you are willing to go; fully understand what are your interests; provides you a one-on-one service, design you an exclusive trip ; arrange you appropriate tour guide, driver and hotel ect. let you totally out of tedious prepared and bad experience in the line

So right now, do not waste your time, let’s traveling out, to see the world attentively. Let’s bring real enjoyments back. This is what NTL’s goal is and what we insist to reach.

10 Reasons Why Novaland Tours is #1 in Tailor-making Tour and You Should Choose Our Good Tour Service in

1. Tailor-making What You Really Love 2. Tailor-made Tour Specialist 3. Flexible, Time-saving, Fast, and Easy Tailor-making Procedure 4. Tailor-made Travel Price According to Your Personal Needs 5. See a Real Taiwan 6. In-depth Experience Distinctive Taiwan Culture 7. Worry Free Customer Service 8. 4 Principles of Reception in Travel 9. Standardized and Experienced Management of Reception 10. Wonderful Membership Benefits

Tailor-made Travel / Tailor-making What You Really Love Novaland Tours are very proud to give you a better travel experience. We specialize in tailor-made tour service based on your personal interests, tastes and budget. Your entire holiday is designed around your personal needs. Explore your interests at your own speed. Enjoy the tour what you really love. Tailor-made Tour Specialist Our Tailor-made Tour Specialists (TTS) are experienced and well-trained. Your 1-on-1 TTS pays attention to knowing you — your goals, desires, preferences, etc. He/she is patient, on standby 24-7, and full of useful suggestions. He/she wants to become your friend, think what you think, to arrange your best unique tailor-made tour. Flexible, Time-saving, Fast, and Easy Tailor-making Procedure It could be so painful to plan a wonderful tour before journey. You need to do so much studying during your busy daytime job & life. In the end, you probably found that you still have not studied well to arrange a really good tour. In Novaland, you don’t need much time to study but just tell us your favorites, and we do the rest. It is flexible, time-saving, fast and easy. Tailor-made Travel Price According to Your Personal Needs Tailor-making tour according to your travel budget. For us, tailor-making is not equal to high price. One enjoyable tour must be operated in a reasonable and worthy budget. Although it is truth that you get what you pay for, but it needs the help of professional judgment of what are really suitable for you. How much you spend is closely bound up the tour characteristics you choose. If you are comfortably fixed for money, we can provide more choice and more noble experience. But if you don’t want to live frugally after finishing travel, we will definitely recommend you cost-effective, affordable characteristic experience.

In-depth Experience Distinctive Taiwan Culture in-depth experience distinctive Taiwan culture Get beyond the tourist facade of the countries and enjoy a cultural holiday. Focus on the local culture, past and present, and discover the lifeblood of any country (people) Worry Free Customer Service Over 98% good & excellent satisfaction. 24/7 care while in travel. First time responses and 100% satisfaction of problem-solving. Money back guarantee.

4 Principles of Reception in Travel 4 Principles of Reception for local tour guides, drivers and other suppliers to stan- dardize and ensure service quality and improving customer satisfaction. Principle 1: Who Serves, Who Answers for; Principle 2: Integral Cooperation Service; Principle 3: Standard Excellent Service, Customer First; Principle 4: People First, Safe Tour.

Standardized and Experienced Management of Reception We are strongly capable of managing every parts of travelling, tour guides, drivers, cars, meals, etc. We have strict, experienced and the whole instructions, rules and specifications to supervise our tour guides, drivers, etc to serve our guests better. Even for emergency problems, we have concluded for a long time and full of experience how to deal with them well. Our operation team are full of passion of never-stop-pursing best service. We don’t fear problems or dissatisfactions but will deem them the pedals to be the best one.

Wonderful Membership Benefits After booking one tour with us, get long-term benefits of Novaland Travel Club. For example: Free-design tailor-made itineraries whenever you need. Free travel guide books regularly elaborately designed for many countries. Freely join in membership activities. Membership club points for gifts. Exclusive tour packages for members. One community for making new friends with same interests. And many other Nova- land Travel Club benefits.

Taipei From the world's tallest building(2004-2010) to the biggest collection of Chinese art, Taipei invites you into a world of fascinating contrasts - a mix of the modern and traditional, with a generous dash of energy and friendly smiles to make this one of your most memorable trips to Asia.

Kaohsiung A thriving international metropolis at the southern tip of Taiwan, Kaohsiung was the host city for the 2009 World Games. Due to the regulating effects of the marine climate, Kaohsiung is generally sunny and enjoys pleasant weather year-round. Known as "Taiwan's Maritime Capital," the city has worked hard in recent years to develop its tourism industry, including through beautification of the urban landscape.

Hualien Hualien County is home to several world-class scenic attractions. In 1590, Portuguese sailors passed by the eastern coast of Taiwan and were so moved by the grandeur of what they saw that they named this land "Formosa," the beautiful island. Since that time, the majestic views of Hualien have come to represent Taiwan.

Formerly known as Qilai, Hualien's current name derives from the phrase "huilan"(eddying water), a reference to the swirling currents of the Hualien River where it meets the sea.

Hualien is Taiwan's biggest county, with an area of about 4,628 square kilometers and a population of 350,000. The county borders the Pacific Ocean to the east and is hemmed in by the Central Range to the west. With its towering peaks, azure skies, vast seas, scenic valleys, cultural diversity, and friendly kindhearted people, Hualien has become one of Taiwan's first-choice travel destinations for local and international visitors alike.

With all of its natural beauty, most of Hualien is a national scenic area. Visitors to the county can enjoy the impressive gorges at Taroko National Park, the magnificence of Yushan National Park, the stunning natural landscapes of the East Coast National Scenic Area, and the rustic charms of the East Rift Valley National Scenic Area. Wherever you go in Hualien, nature is there to greet you.

Knowing what you really love is important. Your preferences, interests, favorite attractions, habits, travel purpose & www.novalandtours.com www.novalandtours.com www.novalandtours.com www.novalandtours.com budget, etc, please feel free to www.novalandtours.comfill in thewww.novalandtours.com form. Or send email to [email protected]. Then we can tailor-make _6 your most suitable tour proposal free of charge. Easy & save your time! Tainan Tainan City is the cradle of Taiwan’s history. In 1624, the Dutch colonized Taiwan and built Fort Zeelandia and Fort Provintia as their administrative base. In 1664, after the Dutch were driven out by Zheng Cheng-gong(Koxinga), Tainan became an important power base for Zheng as he expanded northward. Tainan is also well known as a Cultural Capital. There are many first class historic sites in the city. Tainan Confucius Temple is the oldest temple in Taiwan, and is often referred as the Scholarly Temple. The Eternal Fortress was the first western-style fort in Taiwan and an important milestone in Taiwan’s military history. Anping Old Fort - Taiwan’s oldest fort - was originally named Fort Zeelandia. The Dutch style architectural structures that once stood here are all ruins now, and only about 70 meters of the outer wall on the south side remain standing to show us what was once here.

Kenting

Located in Pingtung, a beautiful city in southern Taiwan, Kenting is a popular, enchanting holiday destination popular among travelers. Having a tropical climate, summer in Kenting is usually hot and mild in winter making Kenting a pleasant Taiwan holiday getaway all year round for the locals and foreign visitors.

Sun Moon Lake National Scenic Area Situated in Yuchi Township, Nantou County, Sun Moon Lake is the most beautiful alpine lake in Taiwan. Look- ing from the east side, the lake is shaped like the sun, but looking from the west side, it’s shaped like a crescent moon, hence the name. The bikeway surrounding the lake was listed among 10 of the world’s top bikeways by the US cable TV network, CNN, in 2012. Besides enjoying the lake by biking, you can also hike up a mountain trail or take a yacht or the cable car. Every option is there to offer you a comprehensive view of the beautiful Sun Moon Lake. Facing the lake with the mountain behind it is Wenwu Temple. Its majestic presence is surrounded by beautiful landscapes. A climb up the observation deck of the back hall allows you to see Sun Moon Lake in the distance. The vast view feels like the world is in your embrace.

Alishan National Scenic Area Alishan National Scenic Area covers 41,520 hectares, with an altitude between 1,400 to 2,600 meters. Its sub-climates include tropical, warm, temperate and frigid zones, which nurture rich natural plants and animals. Hiking in the dense forest feels like being in a natural spa. The zigzag-shape railway was built in the old days for the logging business and is now one of three such railways left in the world. Along with the views of the sunrise, sea of clouds, sunset and forest, the zigzag-shaped railway makes up one of the five wonders of Alishan. It is an important attraction that tourists should see and experience.

Jiufen Old Street Jiufen (meaning 9 portions) got its name because in the early days there were only 9 families that lived here. Due to transportation difficulties in the mountain area, whomever went to town to buy goods would always divide the goods into 9 portions to share among the 9 families. During the late 18th century when gold was discovered here, the area became very prosper- ous. Taiwan’s first theater – Shengping Theater is located on Jiufen Old Street. During the 1950s, as gold mining decreased, the area slowly declined. Visitors can still get a glimpse of the glorious old days when they pass by the old architectures and teahouses along Jiufen Street. Some of the must-not-miss old-time favorite local snacks in Jiufen are taro balls, taro cakes, caozaiguo (sweet glutinous rice dough filled with mug- wort herbs) and A-Po’s fish balls.

Taipei 101 was once the world’s tallest building, reaching 508 meters in height. The inspiration for the building comes from the bamboo plant, as each segment resembles a section of bamboo, symbolizing continuous growth. Visitors here can take a ride on the world’s fastest elevator and enjoy the exhilarating sensation of going to the top in 37 seconds. The Observatory on the 89th floor offers a 360-degree field of vision and a birds-eye view of Taipei. The brilliant scene at nighttime is especially dazzling.

National Museum of Marine Biology and Aquarium

The National Museum of Marine Biology and Aquarium has an 81-meter underwater tunnel, the longest in Asia, where you will find cute clown fish, beluga whales and many other sea creatures living in the vibrant, brilliant underwater world. The aquarium’s sleepover option allows visitors to stay overnight and fall asleep among fish and other sea creatures. Being able to witness the different atmospheres of the aquarium from day to night makes the trip worthwhile.

Yangmingshan National Park

Yangmingshan National Park is located in northern Taipei City, and easily accessible from downtown. Spanning 114SQ. KM the area is home to numerous parks, hiking trails, interesting plants and wildlife. Yangmingshan National Park is the only park in Taiwan that has volcanic geography and hot springs. The magnificent mountainous scenery and comfortable weather have made Yangmingshan National Park a perfect summer resort. The natural beauty of the part has won it the reputation as urban forest and the Taipei garden.

Each season brings a different type of beauty to the area. February and March are the flowering season, and rhododendrons and cherry blossoms cover the mountain slopes to welcome the spring. Summer brings winds from the southwest with occasional showers and thunder in the afternoon, creating amazing weather effects in the mountains. By October, the mountains are covered with silver grass and the golden red colour of maple leaves. Rainbows can be seen after misty autumn rains. Winter time has unique scenery as well since monsoons bring a cold drizzle that create seas of clouds that look like a fantasy world, with the possibility of snow falling on cold days.

Yehliu Geopark

Entirely formed by nature, Yehliu Geopark is a popular scenic spot on the North Coast with unique geological terrains and strange rock formations. Erosion, weathering and crustal movement have all contributed to the strange rock formations such as sea trenches, candle rocks, mushroom rock, tofu rock, honeycomb rock, potholes, and melting erosion panels. The popular Queen’s Head, fairy’s shoe and candlestick rocks are famous representations of the world’s sea erosion landscapes.

Taroko National Park was established in 1986. Stretching across Hualien, Nantou and Taichung, it’s the second-largest national park in Taiwan. The main attractions within the park are around the Taroko Gorge area. The gorge becomes increasing- ly narrow as you travel westward from the Taroko arch on the eastern section. Traveling upward on the Central Cross-Island Highway, you will pass by Changchun Temple, Ning’an Old Bridge, Yanzikou (Swallows' Grottos), and Jiuqudong (Tunnel of Nine Turns). Everywhere you turn, you’ll see cliffs, deep valleys with rapid streams, and twisting and turn- ing tunnels. Jiuqudong Trail, covering a distance of 2 kilometers, is considered the most fascinating section of Taroko Gorge. The mountains that sandwich Liwu River leave a narrow passage, making the terrain precipitous. The narrow passage allows only a thin band of light from the sky above. These amazing sceneries are prime examples of nature’s magnificence.

Kenting National Park

Kenting National Park is located on the southern edge of Hengchun Peninsula in Taiwan. Surrounded by water on three sides, it’s the only national park in Taiwan that boasts both land and sea areas. With over 1,000 species of tropical trees, it has one of the 8 major experimental forests in the world. Every year from autumn to winter, large flocks of migrating birds fly here from the north to spend their winter. The sheer number of birds is spectacular. The special terrain, rich and diverse plant and animal life, and unique local customs make this an ideal natural science museum and recreational spot for visitors whether their interest is in conservation, research or environmental education.

South Penghu Marine National Park South Penghu Marine National Park is the ninth of Taiwan's national parks and the second marine national park. South Penghu Marine National Park comprises the Dongji, Xiji, Dongyuping and Xiyuping islets as well as other smaller peripheral islets and waters. This area features precious ecological resources and great biodiversity with coral reef concentrations comparable to international standards, offering up a magnificent snorkeling paradise. Amongst these, Toujin Islet's intertidal area below the high tide line offers up a natural aquarium at low tide in which you can enjoy the diverse ecology of tidal pools without having to get in the water.

Taiwan Lantern Festival The 15th of the 1st lunar month, known as “Minor New Year,” is the Lantern Festival and the tail end of New Year activities. This day is a joyful occasion for each and every family, who all “celebrate the Lantern Festival.” Traditionally, firecrackers and colorful fireworks are set off and hand-held lanterns or torches are lit. Amidst the noise and excitement, a picture of national prosperity and tranquility and a people enjoying themselves together is revealed. As they feast on rice dumplings in an auspicious atmosphere, they come together to welcome in the New Year. In the past, festive lanterns were displayed in front of every major temple, and if people wanted to appreciate these lanterns they had to run from one temple to the next.

Pingxi Sky Lantern Festival Taichung City Mazu International Festival

Pingxi Sky Lantern Festival was voted by the The Mazu Pilgrimage can be counted as one of the Discovery Channel as the second biggest New most important and largest folk culture events in Year’s Eve celebration in the world, a festival Taiwan. The “Taichung City Mazu International whose sky lanterns carry the prayers and vows of Festival.” By interweaving religion, opera, martial the people and by which they seek the purifica- arts, industrial culture, the arts, tourism, and tion of their souls, a festival that advertises the academic culture, the intent on launching the Taiwan spirit to the world. event in 2004 was to promote the local area with In the ancient times, due to the difficulties in events related to tourism, religious worship, communicating with neighbors in the remote performing arts, academic study, and the upgrad- mountain area, villagers used to light sky lanterns ing of local industry. Furthermore, using interna- as a way to signal for help when bandits come to tional culture as an appeal, the Festival put on cause trouble. This custom has lasted until now, every type and variety of exhibition and engaged and has become a symbol of blessings for locals. in cultural and artistic exchanges. The actual date Every year during the Lantern Festival, Pingxi’s and time for offering incense to Buddha during the lantern blessing event attracts thousands of Taichung Dajia District Pilgrimage is not fixed but visitors, who gather in the area to release is determined by casting moon-shaped divination lanterns in the sky and pray for good fortune. blocks during the Lantern Festival.Dublin’s In accordance Connolly When thousands of lanterns slowly rise to the with tradition, during the 8-day, 7-night pilgrim- sky, the view is amazing and unforgettable. age there are eight primary ceremonies: prayers for peace, mounting the palanquins, the departure of the procession, the arrival of the procession, prayers for prosperity, wishes for longevity, the return of the procession, and the safe reinstalla- tion of the statues.

The “Yanshuei (Yanshui) Beehive Fireworks” is ranked as the third largest folk celebration in the world and is one of the most representative religious events in all of Taiwan. With hundreds of thousands of firecrackers all going off at the same time, it is a cacophony like hundreds of thousands of bees streaming out of their hives. The event attracts huge numbers of onlookers every year and is paired with the “Pingxi Sky Lanterns” in describing Lantern Festival activities: “Sky lanterns in the north, beehive fireworks in the south.”

National Yimin Festival

Traditional ceremonies of the Yimin Festival include raising lantern poles, releasing water lanterns, carrying shoulder poles, returning black banners to the woman’s parents’ home, and Da Shi Ye. 15 villages in Hsinchu and Taoyuan take turns hosting the event, which has a history of 220 years.

These ceremonies became a unique form of belief for the Hakka people and turned Yimin Ye into one of Taiwan’s main deities. Since the festival occurs during the seventh month of the lunar calendar, it is often organized along with the Ghost Festival, combining the spirit of compassion for departed spirits with respect for those who gave their lives in defense of their homeland.

During the seventh month, Taiwan’s Yimin Temples organize events to pay the proper respects, and as Xinpu Yimin Temple is the country’s main one, it represents the Hakka’s religious center. The worship ceremonies organized here have a long history, are held on a large scale, are representative of Taiwan, and are overall highly regarded. The branch temples will gather and return to the woman’s parents’ home, carrying on Yimin Ye’s spirit of loyalty and righteousness.

The top ten night markets in Taiwan are selected base on popularity, uniqueness and special local cuisines according to TravelKing editor’s choice, search history and reference from top ten chart of Taiwan food reality show. They are all popular, rich in diversity, and have their own unique cuisine waiting for you to experience!

Tainan City ─ Tainan Flowers Night Market

Located on HaiAn Rd of Tainan, the city which is notable for its historical sites and mouth-watering delicacies, the Tainan Flowers Night Market is where visitors may experience non-stop eating! Unlike the night markets in Taipei, Tainan night markets are displayed only on partial days. Each night market has a different schedule with opening just two or three days per week. Being the largest night market in Tainan, Flower Garden Night Market is also one of the most popular Tainan night markets along with Da Dong Night Market, Lovers’ Night Market, Wusheng Night Market, and Yonghua Night Market.

Taichung City ─ Feng Chia Night Market

Fengjia Night Market has a wide range of creative food items and has been popular with foreign visitors for quite some time. Taiwanese have also voted it one of Taichung City’s top 10 tourism attractions. There are theme shops everywhere and each has specially designed LED signs. It’s definitely a night market that should not be missed for those of you who like to try new things. The variety of snacks – fried chicken cutlets, octopus balls, hujiaobing (meat filled with flaky biscuit-like bread), crepes, cactus ice and an array of other inexpensive international snacks – allows you to enjoy the fun night-market atmosphere and have energy to shop at the department stores nearby.

Shilin Night Market was originally near the ferry crossing in Keelung River. All the business transactions and farm produce that were shipped from Shilin to Mengjia and Dadaocheng were sourced here. Since its establishment in 1909, it has become one of the largest night markets in Taipei. It’s close to Jiantan Metro Station and there’s a large crowd of visitors all the time.

There are many food vendors and a large variety of food items to choose from. Strolling along the winding alleys often brings pleasant surprises. Besides the famous Shilin snacks such as crispy pancake wrapped in large pancake, stir-fried squid and Shilin sausage, there are also other delicious Taiwanese snacks here.

Kaohsiung City ─ Liouhe Tourist Night Market

Liouhe Night Market is one of the most famous night markets in Taiwan, also a noted tourism spot of Kaohsiung. Liouhe Night Market occupied Zhongsan road to Zili road, Kaohsiung City, which is not far from Kaohsiung train station. Covering variety of street food, local flavor snacks and fresh seafood, restaurants and vendors are full of both side of the road. The area of night market has been programmed for pedes- trians only in the evening; the government also rebuilt the entire area to create a international tourism night market . You are able to find any kind of dishes here, the papaya milk and steamed shrimps are the signature of Kaohsiung City, a tropical and ocean city.

Steak houses providing low-price and set menu for families, visitors’ favorite seafood cuisines are another highlight of Liuho Night Market. You are able to tour nearby Kaohsiung spots like Urban Spotlight, Love River, Sizih Bay and Cijin Scenic Area.

Taipei City ─ Raohe St. Night Market

One of the most popular night markets in Taipei City is the Raohe St. Night Market.

During every weekend and holiday, the famous Raohe St. Night Market is often filled with crowds of tourists and local Taipei citizens.In Taiwan, night markets are well embedded in the lives of Taiwanese people. During their leisure time, Taiwanese people enjoy spending their time at night markets, where there is a variety of local food available as well as a wide array of fashionable stores to shop from. Bar- gaining for something you like made an exciting shopping experience at Raohe St. Night Market.

The most special feature here is the variety of local snacks, including pork feet noodle string, beef noodle soup, herbal stew of ribs, bubble tea, etc. You may also enjoy some exotic food, such as Aladdin’s India and Pakistani cuisines at the Raohe St. Night Market.

Taiwanese people like to put food on their priority list. It is said that when you are on a street here, walk three steps and you shall find a small bistro. Walk five steps and you shall see a big restaurant. These places serve all kinds of cuisine, from northern-style to southern-style. Any food you think of can virtually be found in this country. Due to rapid industrial and commercial devel- opment, other than traditional oriental food places, chain stores have emerged, making dining culture in Taiwan more complicated.

Also, because many different cultures have been introduced to this country, a vast range of foreign food has appeared, such as American hamburgers, Italian pizza, Japanese sashimi, German pork knuckles and Swiss cheese. Such culinary diversity makes Taiwan a gourmets’ heaven. Of course, Taiwanese cuisine is craved by food fans around the world. You shall never forget its resounding taste once you try it.

Danzai Noodles

Oil noodles and bean sprouts are the main ingredients in this Tainan specialty dish. The noodles are served in a small bowl and usually topped with meat or an egg boiled in soy sauce for an extra flavor boost.

Shrimp Pork Soup

This dish is made mostly of shrimp potage flavored with stewed pork and a thickening dash of potato starch to add flavor and chewiness. Add a splash of black vinegar to increase the sweetness of the soup and make this tasty dish even more delicious.

Pig's Knuckle

In northern Taiwan, pig's knuckle is generally stewed in light broth, whereas soy sauce braising predominates in the south. The best-known version of this dish is the soy-stewed pig's knuckle Wanluan Township in Pingtung County. Wanluan pig's knuckles are braised in soy sauce using special techniques and ingredients to give them their delicious taste.

Coffin Board

This Tainan specialty often turns peoples’ heads for its very unusual name. The sandwich is a thick slice of toast with a hollow center filled with a mixture of chicken meat and liver, shrimp, carrots, potatoes, and milk. The filling is then covered with another piece of toast and cut into four pieces. The coffin board tastes best when served hot.

Changhua and Hsinchu counties are the most famous places for Taiwanese meatballs. The meatballs are cooked in an outer wrapper made of tapioca powder, rice powder, potato starch, and water, while the filling includes pork, mushroom, bamboo shoots and other ingredients. The chewy outer skin and fragrant filling make a perfectly delicious match.

Steamed Sandwich

Steamed sandwiches ("guabao") were originally eaten during employee dinner parties held on the 16th day of the 12th lunar month, but today they can be enjoyed at night markets throughout the year. The sandwiches resemble a kind of hamburger made with a soft white bun. The bun is stuffed with melt-in-your-mouth pork and garnished with pickled vegetables, peanut powder and cilantro, creating a nose-pleasing and tasty combination.

Stinky Tofu

Stinky tofu is known as "the stronger the smell, the tastier the results." And while many people are put off by the smell, those who take the plunge are usually won over by this distinctively yummy treat. Stinky tofu is made of large squares of fermented tofu fried in oil and then cut into four smaller pieces and served with a garnish of pickled cabbage. The crispy skin of the tofu and the soft inside are the best parts of this dish's charm.

Oyster Omelet

Sea-fresh oysters are an important ingredient in this popular snack, available at just about every night market in Taiwan. The oysters are coated in potato starch and tapioca. Eggs and leafy vegetables are added to the mixture, which is skillet fried over a high flame. A sweet and sour sauce further adds to the addictively delicious taste.

Brown Sugar Cake

Brown sugar cake evolved from a type of steamed sponge cake presented as an ancestral offering. The brown sugar version is believed to have been brought to Penghu by early immigrants from Okinawa, an island well known for its brown sugar. The brown sugar cake famous in Penghu today was first produced by a Ryukyu baker surnamed Maruhachi.

While brown sugar cake was originally used strictly as an offering, local bakeries now make this treat to meet growing tourist demand. Made with new techniques, the cakes today are softer and less sugary than their predecessors. They are also beautifully packaged, making them a popular souvenir gift in Penghu.

Pineapple is widely grown here in Taiwan, which is also known for producing canned pineapple, pineapple drinks, and pineapple jams. Pineapple is also made into pineapple cake, with the pineapple's sweet and sour taste mingling with the loose, soft outer skin that seems to melt in your mouth; definitely worth giving it a taste... and more!

Lei-cha (Ground tea)

Lei-cha (ground tea) is a traditional tea-based Hakka beverage made with grains, dried fruit, and legumes. These materials are ground, dried into a oil-free powder mixture, and then served with hot water, creating a convenient and healthy dish. Lei-cha is still part of the diet in Hakka communi- ties today and is often served for dinner with a generous garnish of puffed rice and stir-fried side dishes. For most people, however, lei-cha is generally eaten as a banquet refreshment. Authentic style lei-cha can be enjoyed in Beipu Township in Hsinchu County, Nanzhuang Township in Miaoli County, and Meinong District in Kaohsiung City.

Pearl Milk Tea

Also known as "Bubble milk tea," pearl milk tea origi- nates from Taichung and is made of a mixture of black tea, milk, and sago pearls. The combination of fragrant tea and chewy sago has made this beverage popular not only in Taiwan but in other countries as well. In many Chinatowns across the world, you can find this refreshing beverage.

Crushed Ice Dessert

This popular dessert has a base of crushed ice flavored with mung beans, adzuki beans, starch balls, taro, jelly, and other toppings, which are sprinkled with sugar water, offering sweet and cool relief on a hot summer day. Today, you can also find creative new variations with toppings of mangoes, strawber- ries and other seasonal fruit.

Taipei City-Xinyi Shopping District

The Xinyi Plan Area is a new business zone and is currently Taipei’s landmark shopping district. Besides Taipei 101, there are many department stores, trendy restaurants and international 5-star hotels such as Grand Hyatt, W, and Le Meridien. During the day, Xinyi Shopping District is a fast-paced business and finan- cial district, but at night it’s a dazzling urban entertainment area. No wonder that it’s known as “Taipei’s Manhattan”.

Taipei City-Ximending Youth Shopping District

The "Harajuku" of Taipei, this pedestrian shopping haven is one of the city's culture centres, hosting a mas- sive variety of fashion clothing shops, eclectic restaurants, clubs, and bars. Located just west of Taipei Main Station in the historic Wanhua District, Ximending was founded during the Japanese colonisation era as a recreation district, and today has grown into a cultural icon with inspiration drawn from its Japanese roots. One of the most popular destination for tourists, the Ximending Pedestrian Area is the centre of the district, and accessible from Exit 6 of Ximen Station. The area is very popular with tourists and Taipei youth, and, along with shopping and restaurants, also hosts street performances and exhibitions.

Taichung City-Yizhong Business District

Yizhong Business District's clientele is teens and adolescents, and the business model is based on pop culture. This youthful area features the latest trends, recreational activities and dining options. You can buy delicious snacks at Yizhong Street and get the most popular and trendy merchandise at great prices. If you have a chance, you must come and take a look!

Knowing what you really love is important. Your preferences, interests, favorite attractions, habits, travel purpose & www.novalandtours.com www.novalandtours.com www.novalandtours.com www.novalandtours.com budget, etc, please feel free to www.novalandtours.comfill in thewww.novalandtours.com form. Or send email to [email protected]. Then we can tailor-make _19 your most suitable tour proposal free of charge. Easy & save your time! Free Internet – iTaiwan iTaiwan has about 5,000 WiFi locations throughout Taiwan, including tourist attractions and transportation spots. International travelers need to register online (http://itaiwan. taiwan.net.tw) before departure from home, and then go to the Help Desk at the Tourism Bureau or various iCenters to activate their iTaiwan account by showing their passport. The accounts are valid for 30 days; but if necessary, the service can be extended to 60 or 90 days. To register after arrival: After entry to Taiwan, go to a nearby tourist service center and inform an iTaiwan staff member that you’d like to sign up. A passport is necessary for this process. Currency The Republic of China's unit of currency is the New Taiwan Dollar (NT$), which has five denominations in paper money and five in coins. Paper money comes in NT$2000, NT$1000, NT$500, NT$200, and NT$100 denominations. Coins come in NT$50, NT$20, NT$10, NT$5 and NT$1 denominations.

NT$2000 NT$1000

NT$500 NT$200 NT$100

Voltage Electricity in Taiwan is 110V, at 60Hz. Outlet requires a plug with 2 flat blades (picture A), or plug with 2 flat blades + a round pin grounded 3-prong outlet (picture B).

(Picture A) 2-flat blade outlet (Picture B) 3-prong outlet

Taiwan Railways Taiwan Railways’ transportation network is spread throughout the island with many sub lines reaching big and small towns. There are many stations, which make it convenient for transferring to different transportation systems. The fares vary depending on speed. There are Ziqiang Limited Express, Juguang Limited Express, Fuxing Limited Express, local trains, and basic trains. Passengers can decide which one to choose based on their destination, schedule and travel budget.

High Speed Rail Taiwan High Speed Rail is one of the major transportation modes in western Taiwan. There are 8 stations along the route – Taipei, Banqiao, Taoyuan, Hsinchu, Taichung, Chiayi, Tainan, and Zuoying. The Taoyuan, Hsinchu, Taichung, Chiayi, and Tainan stations have fast bus connections for transferring passengers, a convenient and thoughtful service for everyone.

Taxi Taiwan’s taxis are yellow and easy to recognize. The taxi fares differ between each city and county. Major cities like Taipei and New Taipei usually use meters, and the fare is NT$70 for the first 1.25 km and then increases by NT$5.00 every 250 meters. At nighttime (11:00 pm – 6:00 am), the fare is increased by NT$20. In some cities, the rate drops at night. It’s best to determine the fare with the driver before getting in the taxi.

Taipei Metro The 5 lines covered by Taipei Metro are Wenhu, Tamsui-Xinyi, Songshan-Xindian, Zhonghe-Xinlu and Banqiao South. Each metro station has coin-operated ticket machines for purchasing tickets (each station also has change machines). Fares for oneway tickets (depending on the distance travelled between stations) vary from NT$20 to NT$65.

Kaohsiung Metro Kaohsiung Metro currently has two operating lines – red line and orange line. Fares vary from NT$20 to NT$60. Both Taipei and Kaohsiung stations have a “One-day ticket” for sale at NT$150 each. The ticket has to be used on the day of purchase between 6:00 am to 12:00 pm, with unlimited rides, limited to one person per ride.

Bus Buses are reliable, cheap and comfortable. Some companies offer very large, cosy airplane-style reclining seats. Reservations are advisable on weekends and holidays. Buses are severely air-conditioned so pack a blanket or warm clothes. The easiest way to buy a ticket is either from the bus station itself or from a conve- nience store, such as 7-Eleven. For routes and companies see Taiwan Bus (www.taiwanbus.tw/). Two of the biggest companies are Kuo Kuang and UBus.

Fares vary by city. For example, a single zone fare in Taipei is NT$15, while in Kaohsiung it's NT$12. The cost of travelling in two zones is double the price of a one-zone fare. Sometimes you pay when you get on and sometimes when you get off. If you cross a zone, you pay when you get on and again later when you get off. As a general rule, follow the passengers ahead of you or look for the characters 上 or 下 on the screen to the left of the driver. The character 上 (up) means pay when you get on; 下 (down) means pay when you get off. If you make a mistake the driver will let you know (or likely just shrug it off).

早安 (zao an) Good morning 謝謝 (xie xie) Thank you 不客氣 (bu ke qi) You are welcome 對不起 (dui bu qi) Excuse me 多少錢 (duo shao qian) How much? 再見 (zai jian) See you ---- 在哪裡 ? (----zai na li ) Where is the ---- ? 請帶我去 ---- (qing zai wo qu ---- ) Please take me to ----

Step 1 Know Your Personal Needs & Interests

Tell us as much as possible about your ideal tour, such as your tour purpose, your special needs and interest, and your approximate travel budget, etc.

Step 2 Tailor-made Tour Proposal from Your 1-On-1 Tailor-made Tour Specialist(TTS) Email you within 24 hours (it may take up to 48 hrs on weekends or major public festivals).

Step 3 Based Our Communications, Get Several Prices Proposal.

Several prices according to different types of tour, then revise pricing according to your travel budget and personal needs. Step 4 Choose the Most Suitable Price & Tour Proposal

Step 5 Arrange Tour According to Your Preferences

Your preferences include food, tour guides, sleeping habits, etc, to ensure the best travel experienc- es for you. Step 6 Enjoy Your Most Unique Tailor-made Travel.

Step 7 Your TTS Call You in Tour and Ask for Your Valuable Feedbacks After Travel.

Your TTS will call you 2-3 days after your tour started to see if everything is in good hands. Please feel free to communicate with your TTS during your tour.