On a recent trip to Europe I was looking for a new and different stopover on the way home and decided upon the ancient island of Formosa. Many schoolboy history lesson had left me intrigued so I was keen to learn about Chiang Kai Shek and Sun Yat Sen and their legacy that has shaped modern day Taiwan.
I only had a couple of days so launched myself into the historical side of things with a visit to the Taiwan Natural History, the Chiang Kai Shek memorial hall, the Sun Yat Sen Memorial hall and the 228 Museum. The next day was spent in the Xinyi District and of course a visit to the iconic Taipei 101. Each evening I visited the famous night markets and had some of the best Asian street food I had ever tasted.
I am a city boy but if there had been more time even I would have headed out into the countryside – Taiwan is a mountainous island with many different landscapes and tropical beaches. You could visit Mount Jade or the Sacred Trees of Alishan, the Tea plantations around Sun Moon lake or the Cherry Blossoms at Wuling Farm. There is so much to see and something for everyone.
My time in Taiwan was brief but the memories will live long in my mind, the people were really friendly and the food was amazing. If you are looking for a new destination in Asia then Taiwan should be top of your list.
Air New Zealand will be flying non-stop services between Auckland and Taipei from 1 November 2018. For travel-loving New Zealanders, this is a chance to explore a captivating destination that’s known for urban sophistication, cultural attractions and breathtaking natural scenery. With its unique blend of Asian ethnicities, Taipei is both beautiful and fascinating!
Images courtesy of Air New Zealand
Related experiences
Everest High Passes
The ultimate trek to the best vantage points of the Everest region. This challenging trek will more than satisfy the ambitious trekker intent on crossing high passes without the commitment of any technical climbing. Heading towards Everest we cross the … Continue reading →
Pakistan: Women’s Expedition
Venture through Pakistan’s majestic mountains while connecting with the daring women trail blazing new paths in tourism. Discover what life entails for women living in Pakistan’s vibrant capital city and ancient mountain villages. Join a local female leader as she … Continue reading →
Bike, Hike & Kayak Laos and Cambodia
If you’re looking for an active adventure exploring the depth and beauty of these two gems of Indochina, this is the journey for you. This trip combines the best of Laos and Cambodia into one compact, exciting itinerary—including kayaking, hiking, … Continue reading →
Bike, Hike & Kayak Vietnam
This is an all-encompassing active journey through some of Vietnam’s most scenic highlights. It begins with a memorable cruise on Red River delta, through the limestone cliff landscapes on a beautifully crafted wooden junk. From here be delighted by the … Continue reading →
Nakasendo Trail self-guided walking
The Nakasendo or ‘Road through the Central Mountains’ was part of feudal Japan’s network of highways. Travellers moving between Kyoto and Tokyo took several days to travel the Nakasendo, staying overnight in Juku post towns. Today’s visitors can walk sections … Continue reading →
Transcaucasian Trail Hike Armenia
Ancient monasteries and stunning mountain landscapes Overflowing with historical sites and scenic brilliance, this adventure traces parts of the Caucasian Silk route, through lands that have been occupied for thousands of years. Our journey through Armenia takes us to the … Continue reading →
Transcaucasian Trail Hike Georgia
A breath-taking hike through a diverse range of cultural and natural landscapes. Highlights Traverse sections of the Georgian Transcaucasian Trail Combines with Transcaucasian Trail Hike Armenia Hike in the stunningly rugged and remote Svaneti region Walk to Ushguli village, the … Continue reading →
Pakistan Expedition
A journey to the remote reaches of Pakistan’s Karakoram Mountains. This 17-day expedition is a brand-new trip through an ancient land. Beginning in Pakistan’s capital of Islamabad, the expedition takes travellers north to the stunning and rarely touristed Hunza Valley … Continue reading →
Silk Road to Samarkand via Kashgar
A 27 day odyssey following the Silk Route from its source This extraordinary journey follows the ancient silk route from its source in Xian, China, through an ever-changing landscape to the fabled city of Samarkand, Uzbekistan. We begin with a … Continue reading →
Sri Lanka Expedition: Village & Tea Treks
Trek the enchanting terrain of the Teardrop Isle Venture off the tourist trail and uncover the raw beauty of Sri Lankan paradise on this heart-pumping, soul-warming, active adventure that takes you behind the scenes of this irresistible island. Trek deep … Continue reading →
Trek Armenia The Transcaucasian Trail
Traverse the spectacular Transcaucasian trail and be part of a hiking movement Follow the spectacular Transcaucasian trail through the stunning mountain ranges of Armenia on this world-class, long-distance hike that traverses one of the most biologically and culturally diverse regions … Continue reading →
Armenia to Georgia by Bike
Explore the South Caucasus at handlebar height Highlights Uncover the historic regional capitals of Yerevan and Tbilisi Cycle through the verdant Sno Valley & visit the majestic Gergeti Trinity Church Ride to the dramatically sited Khor Virap monastery in the … Continue reading →
Ancient Silk Road Cities – The Five Stans
Discover the five former Soviet Republics of Central Asia Highlights Spring & Autumn departures provide optimal comfort & experience Take in the ancient Persian era fortress of Nisa Journey through the central Tian Shan Mountains to the Chychkan Gorge Immerse … Continue reading →
Japan: Koya-san & Kumano Kodo Trek
Trek ancient trails in the tranquil countryside of Japan. Stray onto the beaten track with an eight-day trekking adventure on some of the ancient pilgrim routes in Japan. The Koya-san and Kumano Kodo treks take you deep through the wilderness … Continue reading →
Highlights of Tajikistan
Discover the highlights of Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan on this 18-day overland group tour which travels from Bishkek to Dushanbe. Take in the ancient city of Osh, hike to the summit of sacred Sulaiman-Too Mountain and camp on the shore of … Continue reading →
Caucasus Discovered
Cross the Caucasus from Georgia to Azerbaijan on this 16 day overland adventure which starts in Tbilisi and ends in Baku. Discover the incredible Vardzia Cave Monastery, the lush scenery of Stepantsminda and the bubbling mud volcanoes of Gobustan. Stay … Continue reading →
Kyrgyzstan Explorer
Take in the highlights of Kyrgyzstan on this 16 day overland group tour which also visits Tashkent and Fergana in Uzbekistan. Stay in a traditional yurt on the shore of Song Kol Lake, overland through the stunning Kyrgyz Fergana Valley … Continue reading →
Trans Mongolian with Naadam Festival
Walk along the Great Wall, celebrate Mongolia’s greatest and most colourful festival, traverse the mighty Siberian landscape and explore Russia’s most exciting cities on this grand adventure. Itinerary Our … Continue reading →
Grand Asian Caravan
Amazing and diverse sightseeing experiences in some the world’s remotest corners bring rich rewards on this unique, challenging journey. Travel along the Silk Road, to the beautiful Caucasus and retrace ancient routes of trade and conquest. Contact us for full … Continue reading →
Five Golden Stans
This incredible journey will take you through the five “Stans” of Central Asia, across mountains and steppes, treading in the footsteps of those who travelled the ancient Silk Road with their caravans winding trails through the deserts, exchanging their wares … Continue reading →
Annapurna Chitwan
Combine a trek in Annapurna with a wildlife safari This adventure is a fine contrast between trekking the remote foothills of the Annapurna’s and a safari in the vicinity of Chitwan. Trek through traditional Hindu villages and pristine forests to … Continue reading →
Annapurna Base Camp Trek
Marvel at an amphitheatre of dramatic peaks & glaciers Annapurna is the 10th highest peak in the world. It was the first 8000 metre peak ever summitted, in June 1950 by a French expedition led by Maurice Herzog. The tale … Continue reading →
Maldives Dhoni Cruise
Cruise aboard atmospheric vessels in this tropical paradise Maldivian crew will accompany you as you cruise the coral reefs in the translucent waters of the Maldives. During the day there is ample time to swim and snorkel and cruise between … Continue reading →
Grand Trans Siberian Railway
Experience traditional Japan and remote Mongolia, and ride the grand Trans Siberian Railway from Vladivostok to the old Tartar capital of Kazan, en route to Moscow. Graceful imperial St. Petersburg is the perfect climax to this historic journey. Itinerary Day … Continue reading →
The Trans-Siberian Express
Undoubtedly one of the world’s greatest train journeys, the Trans-Siberian Railway runs like a steel ribbon across mysterious Russia connecting east and west from Moscow over the Urals, across the magnificent and endless steppe and alongside the shore of the … Continue reading →
The Golden Land (Downstream)
This is a very different Burma cruise. Sailing through the heart of ‘Middle Myanmar’ we pass through a varying landscape – from the lush teak plantations around Prome to the desert country south of Pagan. We visit a number of … Continue reading →
Exotic Chindwin
This journey takes you to the most famous sites in Burma, with the highlights Mandalay, Homalin and the thousands of temples filling the plains of Bagan. A view that is simply unique. You will get to know all of Myanmar, … Continue reading →
Discover Mongolia
Discover one of Asia’s most under-explored regions on a two-week adventure through Mongolia. Walk through the remote and mysterious Erdene Zhu monastery with a Lama Buddhist monk; visit the dramatic Flaming Cliffs, a world-renowned paleontology site famous for its amount … Continue reading →
Bhutan’s Rice Bowl Valleys
Bhutan can boast a truly unique and carefully protected history and culture with gentle people whose culture and traditions are deeply rooted in the Buddhist principles. Listen to the Buddhist monks chanting ancient prayers in a monastery or observe a … Continue reading →
High Road to Tibet
From the sacred peaks of Tibet to lush green Nepalese valleys, explore the best of the Himalaya on this two-week tour. Discover mighty temples and small outposts on a journey that offers incredible vistas at every turn of the trail. … Continue reading →
Himalayan Adventure
Embark on a journey of extremes, striking across the starkly beautiful landscapes of Tibet, on the roof of the world. Then discover the verdant and chaotic valleys of Nepal under the ever watchful gaze of the mighty Himalayas. Itinerary Days … Continue reading →
Flavours of China and the Yangtze
This tour through China has everything you could want in a China holiday: visits to ancient sites, thrilling experiences, opportunities to learn about the culture, authentic cuisine, and more. Start in Beijing, end in Shanghai, and overnight along the way … Continue reading →
Kamalaya Wellness Sanctuary & Holistic Spa
At Kamalaya Koh Samui, Thailand’s award-winning Wellness Sanctuary and Holistic Spa resort, you can experience a life-enriching healthy holiday. Wellness programs offer solutions for detox, yoga, stress and burnout, fitness and weight control. If you are looking for a more … Continue reading →
Cycle Southern Thailand
Take two wheels across Thailand’s south, a place of ancient jungle, imposing mountains, seductive coasts and incredible marine life. The road is laid out before you on this cycling adventure through Southern Thailand. Beginning in Bangkok with an overnight train, … Continue reading →
Phuket Sailing Adventure
Sail through the idyllic islands of Thailand and enjoy a perfect island getaway It doesn’t get better than seven days spent enjoying sublime seascapes of shimmering turquoise water, white beaches and craggy limestone peaks. Welcome to the beautiful Andaman Sea … Continue reading →
Bike, Hike & Kayak Northern Thailand
Explore Thailand’s backroads by bike, hike to remote villages and kayak through stunning natural landscapes. This active adventure begins with a ride in the countryside, enjoying the backroads and country lanes from Chiang Mai by bike. Next visit the highest … Continue reading →
Beautiful Northern Thailand
Journey from Bangkok to Chiang Mai and back, via Ayuthaya Northern Thailand is among the greatest adventure destinations on the planet and this journey shows why – hiking among hilltribes near Chiang Mai, drifting down the River Kwai in Kanchanaburi … Continue reading →
Explore Azerbaijan, Georgia & Armenia
From Baku to Yerevan, step off the tourist trail in the Caucasus Mountains. Watch arid landscapes give way to verdant hillsides and majestic snow-capped mountains on this eye opening adventure through Azerbaijan, Georgia and Armenia. Explore a land where the … Continue reading →
Jewels of Uzbekistan
Discover the Silk Road country of Uzbekistan, from modern buzzing Tashkent to the fabled city of Khiva. Journey back to the days of the Great Silk Road with the medieval cities, stunning architecture and turbulent history of Uzbekistan. Begin in … Continue reading →
Explore Japan
Japan, a country steeped in mythical traditions and modern wonders. This journey uncovers the highlights of this fascinating country. Like the history, the country is varied and diverse: from the ancient cities like Kyoto to the historically relevant city of … Continue reading →
Jewels of Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka has just about everything a traveller could want – superb ancient sites, magnificent scenery, amazing wildlife, delicious cuisine, incredibly friendly and welcoming locals and lovely palm-fringed, white sandy beaches. Add to this a history touched by Portuguese, Dutch … Continue reading →
Vietnam Food Explorer
Salty, spicy, tangy, fresh — fire up the taste buds in delicious Vietnam Satisfy the hunger for adventure on this authentic food exploration of Vietnam. Taste your way from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City and fill the eyes with … Continue reading →
Best of Georgia & Armenia
Georgia and Armenia may sound like unconventional destinations, but trust us, they ought to top your list of places to visit. This eight-day trip is a wonderful showcase of the cultural and natural highlights the Caucasus Region has to offer, … Continue reading →
Annapurna in Style
Trek the spectacular Annapurna foothills. Introducing Peregrine’s latest Annapurna adventure, a unique itinerary that combines luxury mountain accommodation with all the hallmarks of a classic Nepal trek. Discover a stunning wilderness of alpine ridges, holy lakes and sensational mountain views. … Continue reading →
Everest in Style
Adventure through the foothills of the one and only Mount Everest Embark on an unforgettable Everest adventure that makes no compromise on creature comforts. This new and unique itinerary combines the thrills of Nepal trekking with the very best available … Continue reading →
Vintage Nepal
Experience the diversity of Nepal from Kathmandu to Pokhara and Chitwan National Park This adventure encompasses much of what makes Nepal so beloved by travellers. Whether you’re exploring the exotic capital of Kathmandu, discovering Pokhara, beneath awe-inspiring snow-capped peaks, or … Continue reading →
Colombo, Caves & Kandy
Discover Sri Lanka’s famous cultural triangle and visit the rock fortress of Sigiriya, the exquisite Dambulla cave temple and the historic Temple of the Tooth in Kandy. Add a scenic train trip through the verdant tea plantations and spot wildlife … Continue reading →
Borneo Family Holiday
Hang out with orangutans and snorkel in pristine waters on this unforgettable family escape Pack up the troupe and head into Borneo’s lush jungles on a family adventure. Keep an eye out for cheeky monkeys on a scenic cruise down … Continue reading →
Southern India
Lush and tropical, southern India is inspiring and delightful. Beneath the green shade of a coastal paradise, meet with locals in their fishing villages and tribal homes. Join them in the bazaars, on buses and boats or even on pilgrimage … Continue reading →
Circle Sri Lanka
Embark on a unique, fun, culture-rich tour of Sri Lanka. A jewel in the Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka is jam-packed with ancient sites, fascinating culture, beautiful wilderness and idyllic beaches. From ancient Anuradhapura city and the well-preserved Polonnaruwa ruins, to … Continue reading →
Pearls of Persia
Iran’s fabulous history reaches back to the dawn of time. – Discover places of legend like Persepolis & Isfahan, and gaze in awe at the glories of the country’s Islamic & Persian heritage. ITINERARY Day 1 Tehran Arrival transfer to … Continue reading →
Classic Borneo
Travel to Borneo and leave urban life behind. Head into Borneo’s lush jungles, down scenic rivers and through the vibrant villages of beautiful Borneo. On the way, soak up stunning mountain vistas, meet local indigenous people, relax in hot springs … Continue reading →
Cycle Touring Vietnam
More than 30 million Vietnamese can’t be wrong – handle-bar height gives you the best view of Vietnam! Our cycling tours through this mesmerising country provide opportunities to meet the locals and experience their culture in a way that wouldn’t … Continue reading →