We'll Tell You - A&W Couple's Blog

ABBEY:  7-Eleven If there’s one place that defines convenience in Taiwan, it’s 7-Eleven. We found ourselves making multiple trips, whether for quick snacks or unique finds like the limited-edition mojito in a tetra pack. One highlight was reuniting with a Coke Slurpee at a branch in Yilan . It felt nostalgic in the best way. Whether you’re grabbing food to go or dining in, 7-Eleven offers a wide variety of options. The dine-in areas are clean and well-maintained, with tissues and wipes available so you can tidy up after eating. It’s a small detail, but it makes a big difference for the next customer. Starbucks Reserve Dream Plaza Taipei We visited the Starbucks Reserve Dream Plaza, and it’s easily one of the most impressive Starbucks branches we’ve seen. The space is massive, with dedicated sections for coffee and tea. They even serve cocktails. Yes, I had an Espresso Martini at 9 AM, no regrets. Seating is abundant, so it’s easy to find a cozy spot. It’s a great place to peop...

GetYourGuide Tour: Shifen and Jiufen Day Trip One of the easiest ways to explore northern Taiwan is by booking a guided tour through GetYourGuide . We simply hopped on the bus and let our guide take care of everything, which made the entire experience smooth and stress-free. Our first stop was the stunning Shifen Waterfall . The power of the cascading water, combined with the mist and roaring sound, made it a truly breathtaking natural attraction. It is easily one of the most impressive waterfalls in Taiwan. Next, we visited Shifen Old Street , where we experienced the famous sky lantern tradition . Writing our wishes and watching the lantern float into the sky felt both meaningful and memorable. The staff also doubled as photographers, helping us capture great photos during the launch. For snacks, we tried the popular stuffed chicken wing. It is a unique street food where savory rice is packed inside a grilled chicken wing. It was filling enough to keep us going through the afternoon....

Planning a trip to Taiwan often feels like a tug-of-war between city sightseeing and mountain escapes. How do you fit the hot springs of Jiaoxi, the ancient forests of Taipingshan, and the legendary Alishan sunrise into one week without burning out? After navigating the logistics from Taipei to the southern peaks, we’ve mapped out the perfect 8-day circuit. This guide covers the exact transit routes and the secret to timing your Alishan hike perfectly. Whether you’re flying in from Singapore or hopping over from Hong Kong, here is how to see the best of Taiwan. Detailed 8-day Taiwan travel itinerary table covering Taipei, Jiaoxi, and Alishan Final Thoughts: Is Taiwan on Your Bucket List? Taiwan is one of those rare destinations where the reality actually lives up to the postcard. From the hot springs in Jiaoxi to the bone-chilling (but beautiful) 4:00 AM wake-up call in  Alishan , every mile of this trip offers something unique. Before you pack your bags: The Pro Tip:  Book yo...

ABBEY:  During our Taiwan trip, we stayed in several hotels across different destinations. Each one offered something unique, from convenient city access to relaxing hot springs and even a historic forest retreat. Our first stop was Check Inn Taipei Main Station. The hotel is only a few minutes away from both Taipei Main Station and Ximending , making it a convenient base for exploring the city. We arrived much earlier than the official check-in time, but the staff kindly stored our luggage so we could start our Taipei adventure right away. By the time we returned, the city lights were already on. The room was quite compact, which is common for city hotels, but the hot shower had strong pressure and was exactly what we needed after a long day exploring Taipingshan National Forest Recreation Area . It was simple, comfortable, and perfect for recharging. Our next accommodation was Hotel Pin Jiaoxi, located in the famous hot spring town of Jiaoxi . Upon arrival at the station, a ...