Traveling heals, literally. According to a Talker research survey taken of 2,000 citizens in 2025, the average traveling American feels 67% better mentally after their getaway. As a frequent traveler, I can connect with that statistic personally. The ache in my heart after experiencing a new culture and returning home always leaves me feeling empty. Yet the ache I felt after returning home from Taiwan was worth the adventure. Today I am left with hundreds of photos and core memories that I will treasure forever. That is when the mental boost kicks in. I am forever grateful for the brain chemistry-altering experience and I can’t wait to go back. Traveling across the world has assured my love for adventure!
If you are interested in trying new foods, learning about other religious practices and unforgettable sightseeing, Taiwan is perfect for you! Taiwan is a tropical island off the coast of China with stunning beaches and delicious seafood. In nearly every town, there are old markets and downtown shopping streets. If you’re into nightlife, I would not skip them. They are open until late at night and consist of retail and food vendors galore. I will never forget the smell of Hei Tang Gao and Taiyaki in the air.Â
One thing that is important to me as a female traveler is safety. Taiwan is incredibly safe for people of all ethnicities, genders and ages, being labeled a level 1 travel advisory by the U.S. Department of State. Finding out that I could walk to 7-Eleven any time of the day without worrying about the risk of a crime sounded like a treat.Â
Songshan Raohe Night Market
In the capital of Taiwan, there is a vibrant city called Taipei. You may have heard of Taipei 101, one of the tallest buildings in the world that contains some of the most luxurious retail. If luxury is not of interest to you, there is always the hidden gem of Songshan Raohe Night Market.Â
Outside of Songshan Raohe Night Market, it is impossible to miss Songshan Ciyou Temple. This temple has six astounding floors and was built all the way back in the 1700s to honor Mazu, the sea goddess. It is absolutely breathtaking and in pristine condition. If that didn’t get you excited enough, there is still much more to see.Â
The entrance to Songshan Raohe Night Market is vivid with color. After stepping through, you will be hit with the smell of warm food and the bustle of people shopping. This market has all of the most delicious traditional Taiwanese food and tons of retail. As you begin your journey down Raohe Street, on your left will be tons of food stands. They have brown sugar cakes called Hei Tang Gao that smell delightful and taste no different. If you’re still in the mood for dessert, they have fish-shaped cakes with a pancake-like exterior and sweet filling. On your right, there will be retail and tourist stores. The retail is extremely affordable and stylish for all members of the family. What is a trip across the world without some cheesy magnets or keychains that say “I Heart Taipei?”
Tamsui District
Taipei is seriously huge. There are so many districts to visit and one of my favorites was the Tamsui District. This one is certainly for my travelers who favor the eye-catching parts of the trip. Not only is there old market shopping and food, but there are gorgeous views over the Tamsui River and a museum full of interesting history about the district.Â
If you are going to be walking in Tamsui District, it is inevitable that you are going to be hit with the smell of delicious food. My core memory of Tamsui was the milk-flavored ice cream cones that were sold everywhere. They also have tons of shops with Buddha and god statues you can purchase. Those same shops also sell intricate hand-made hair combs and pins. It makes you respect the elegance of their local culture and the work it takes to make such beautiful pieces.Â
Over the Tamsui River you can see Bali District. From the Tamsui side, Bali looks like a giant green mountain. You can also see the Danjiang Bridge. It has beautiful architecture and shows off its stunning lights at night. The mixture of a beautiful and elevated city and a bridge spanning across the river is so pleasing to the eye. There is also the Fort San Domingo museum where you can catch a more elevated view and also learn some interesting history about Tamsui. The building is very Spanish-looking, which can be confusing, as you’re in Taiwan, but the history makes a little more sense. Spanish colonists ruled the area, then the Dutch from and then there was the British Consulate Era before it was given over to Taiwan. Quite an interesting history, huh? You might just have to visit to learn the fascinating details!
Jiufen
This town is especially for fans of Studio Ghibli’s “Spirited Away.” That movie was a childhood classic for me, so getting the opportunity to go to Jiufen was so exciting. Jiufen strikingly resembles the town where “Spirited Away” takes place. The director has stated that the resemblance is just a myth, although Jiufen is absolutely known as “The Spirited Away Town.”Â
Just one train stop away is Houtong Cat Village. Houtong is one of the greenest cities I have ever seen. It is surrounded by vibrant mountains and a stunning river. I accidentally found a staircase that led to the most picturesque view I have ever seen. If that isn’t your thing, don’t worry; that is not the main attraction. There are around 100-200 cats roaming freely. You can feed them and pet them if your heart desires.Â
The town of Jiufen is full of– you guessed it– shops and food! Although once you get outside, the view is undeniably outstanding. There are red lanterns hanging off of every restaurant and tea house. Farther out, there is a view of the ocean. Standing on the ledge of Jiufen gives you a view of the staggered buildings and the mountains tracing the line of the sea. This town is what you would think of as a traditional Taiwanese city. At night, the lanterns light up, showing how red is a defining color of the city, just like in “Spirited Away.”
A trip to Taiwan would not be complete without visiting these three hotspots. You should visit Taiwan above all other places for a safe and relaxing environment. You certainly won’t get to see such a beautiful culture anywhere else. Happy travels!