Taiwan had always felt like a familiar neighbor, yet it remained one of those destinations we often overlooked. Located just a short flight away from the Philippines, it seemed surprising that we had not visited sooner. If not for a friend who traveled to Taiwan and encouraged us to experience the country ourselves, our little Taiwan adventure might have remained only a dream.
Looking back, I remember how Taiwan frequently appeared in conversations among friends years ago, especially during the peak of the popularity of Meteor Garden and the boy group F4. The country became associated with youthful romance, catchy songs, and beautiful scenery. Eventually, those casual discussions transformed into an actual journey.
Taiwan: A Nearby Island Full of Surprises
Taiwan sits just north of Batanes, making it one of the most accessible international destinations from the Philippines. A flight from Manila to Taiwan takes only around two hours, making it ideal for a quick getaway.
Officially called the Republic of China, Taiwan is a relatively small island with an area of about 36,000 square kilometers. Despite its size, it has a population of more than 23 million people and offers a fascinating mix of modern cities, historic sites, natural landscapes, and rich culinary traditions.
For first-time travelers from the Philippines, Taiwan feels both familiar and exciting. Its proximity makes the journey easy, but its culture, language, and attractions provide a completely different experience.
Our Arrival in Taipei
Our Taiwan adventure began when we landed at Taoyuan International Airport at around eight in the evening. As our plane approached the airport, I looked out the window and saw the sparkling city lights below. The view immediately gave us a glimpse of the energetic metropolis waiting outside.
Because it was our first time in Taiwan, we needed some guidance on how to reach our hotel. We checked several booths, ticket counters, and transportation options while figuring out the best way to get into Taipei.
Then, a driver approached us and offered to take us directly to the city for NT$1,000. Considering that there were five of us, the cost came out to only NT$200 per person. Although taking the MRT and bus would have been cheaper, we realized that the convenience of being brought straight to our hotel was worth the additional expense, especially with luggage in tow after a long flight.
Our driver, Mr. Hong, turned out to be more than just a driver. During the ride, he recommended a local noodle restaurant near our hotel, proudly saying it was one of the best places to eat in Taipei. His suggestion became our first food adventure in Taiwan.
After checking in at Go Sleep Hotel and leaving our bags in our rooms, we immediately followed his recommendation. Only two blocks away, we found the noodle shop and enjoyed our first taste of Taiwanese flavors.
Getting Around Taipei Made Traveling Easy
One thing that immediately impressed me about Taipei was its efficient transportation system. The city’s Taipei Metro made exploring the city convenient, affordable, and stress-free.
The MRT has multiple lines connecting major attractions, shopping areas, and neighborhoods. The stations were clean, organized, and easy to navigate even for first-time visitors. Unlike many busy metropolitan train systems, the rides did not feel overwhelmingly crowded during our trip.
For travelers arriving at Taoyuan International Airport, taking the airport MRT is another practical option if the operating hours match your arrival time. It provides a fast connection to Taipei while avoiding traffic. Taxis and private transfers are also convenient choices, especially for groups or travelers carrying heavy luggage.
Beyond transportation, I also appreciated how safe Taipei felt. The city maintained a strong sense of order, and security cameras were visible even in many public areas. Whether walking through busy streets or exploring quieter neighborhoods, we felt comfortable moving around.
Taipei: A City That Feels Modern Yet Warm
During our stay, Taipei reminded me of Seoul in some ways, with its combination of technology, shopping districts, and vibrant city life. However, Taipei had a more relaxed and homey atmosphere that made it especially charming.
The city’s most recognizable landmark was Taipei 101, which held the title of the world’s tallest building from 2004 to 2010. Seeing it rise above the city skyline was an unforgettable sight, especially when illuminated at night.
Of course, no visit to Taipei would be complete without experiencing its famous night markets. These lively streets showcase Taiwan’s love for food, shopping, and community gatherings. From street snacks to local specialties, night markets offer travelers a chance to experience everyday Taiwanese life.
Since we stayed near Ximending, we found ourselves enjoying the convenience of having a lively area nearby. After spending the entire day walking around and sightseeing, exploring the closest night market was the perfect way to end our evenings.
Why Taipei Left a Lasting Impression
What I loved most about Taipei was its balance. The city was modern but not overwhelming, efficient but still welcoming. It offered the convenience of a highly developed urban destination while maintaining a warm and approachable atmosphere.
From the moment we arrived, Taiwan surprised us with its cleanliness, reliable transportation, delicious food, and friendly people. What started as a destination suggested by a friend became a memorable journey filled with discoveries.
Our first Taiwan trip was only the beginning. There were still many places to explore, flavors to taste, and stories to experience. The sights we visited during our stay became unforgettable chapters of our Taiwan adventure.
Check my succeeding posts for the sights we visited while in Taiwan.
The Smoky Pits Of Xiaoyoukeng, Taiwan
The EcoArk At The Taipei Expo Park
First-Time In Taipei’s The Red House
First-Time In Taiwan’s Martyr’s Shrine
Taiwan’s National Palace Museum
First-Time In Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall
First-time in Zhongshe Flower Market
See Taiwan in vibrant colors on my FB page http://facebook.com/firsttimetravel.
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