Today, take a long at Taiwan, the largest island in the Republic of China, and formerly known as Formosa.  Generally thought of as a business destination, rather than a leisure one, Taiwan offers plenty to both types of travelers.

Here are a few things to do if you are visiting Taiwan:

1. Visit the National Palace Museum – Located in Taipei, the museum is home to the largest and most impressive collections of Chinese art and objects.
2. Rent a boat on Sun Moon Lake – Taiwan’s largest lake, it is divided into two halves by an small island, making it look the sun and the moon.
3. Cherry Blossom Season – A month of festivals and activities, February 20th – March 22nd, 2010.
4. Shop at the night markets – Shopping and food at Shinlin in Taipei, Liouhe in Kaosiung, and Fengija in Taichung.
5. Temples – Visiting Longshan Temple, along with other old, yet well preserved temples, make for a charming afternoon in Lukang.
6. Tea Time – Visit Assam tea farms near Sun Moon Lake.
7. Eslite Bookstores – Open 24-hours, so it’s perfect if jetlag has you awake when you should be sleeping.
8. Taiwanese Opera – Traditional costumes and makeup.
9. Taiwan Lantern Festival – Colorful paper lanterns dot the landscape, and cities have parties and celebrations.  It’s fun, but also culturally based.  February 28th – March 7th, 2010.
10. Wine tasting – Taichung Winery dates back to the early 1900’s.  A surprise to me since I didn’t know a thing about Chinese wine.
11. Go diving – Green island, a small offshore island, is full of coral reefs, volcanic formations, and beaches.  Great for swimming and snorkeling as well.
12. Great Buddha Statue – One very big Buddha, located in Mount Bagua in Changhua.
13. Try some bubble tea – Made in a variety of different styles, the iced tea with tapioca pearls is probably the most popular with visitors.
14. Catch a game – Baseball and basketball are popular spectator sports in Taiwan.
15. Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall – Built to honor the military and political leader, the hall is surrounded by a park and large square.
16. Tai Chi – Join early morning practitioners in Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall.
17. Surfing – The southern coast is a popular beach locale, and great for surfing.
18. Find serenity in a monastery – The Fo Guang Shan Monastery in the largest Buddhist monastery in Taiwan.
19. Watch a puppet shows – Street performances with detailed wooden puppetry.
20. Dragon Boat Races – Because everyone loves a boat race, and these look really cool!  June 1st – 30th, 2010.
21. Hike around Jade Mountain – At nearly 13,000 feet, it’s Taiwan’s highest mountain.
22. Karaoke – Very popular.

Photo credit: SXC

Post from: Blisstree

22 Things to Do in Taiwan

I’m looking at a current travel special to Vietnam, a country I’d like to visit, but am not quite ready to tackle on my own.  Friendly Planet is offering a 8-day Vietnam package for only $999, including air fare from LAX – a real bargain to this Southeast Asia hot spot.  Visiting Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) and Hanoi might give me just enough of a taste to plan a return trip on my own.

Vietnam fascinate many travelers, not only because of its role in a difficult period of US history, but also because it has only recent emerged as a tourist destination.  The beauty of the country, and its people and culture, is just now starting to resonate with travelers, so much of it remains unspoiled.  This package gives travelers a glimpse of life in Vietnam, a chance to see the country’s floating markets, winding canals, and rice paddies along with the very modern city that it is becoming.

Here’s what you get in this bargain-priced A Taste of Vietnam package:

• Airfare to Vietnam based on LAX departure (additional fee for JFK departure)
• All domestic airfare within Vietnam
• 6 nights lodge in superior hotel accommodations
• Group transfers
• Daily buffet breakfast
• Tours in each city with English-speaking local guide (includes attraction entrance fees, if any)

Airport taxes and airline fees are additional, and run about $A95.  You will also need a visa, which is $25.  A variety of additional tour options are available at various prices, and you also have the option of extending the trip with a visit to Bangkok.

This deal must be booked by August 28th, for one of the following departure dates:

• September 15th
• October 6th, 27th
• November 24th
• January 19th
• February 23rd
• March 30th

Read the fine print for all inclusions, exclusions, and applicable details.

I’m taking a hard look at my calendar to see if I can make this package work for me.

Photo credit: leeroy09481 @flickr

Post from: Blisstree

Value Priced Package to Exotic Vietnam

Ruth over at Let’s Visit Asia is rounding up responses to this question: “Where’s your favorite destination in Asia? Which city/resort have you been dreaming of going to one day?”

I’d LOVE to take my children to Kyoto, Japan. It’s the cultural heart of the Kansai region, and it’s one of the most beautiful cities on earth. There are gardens in every nook and cranny, and I can hear the sound of water just thinking about Kyoto. And of course Japanese food is so fabulous and healthy.

Here’s a picture of my mom and me several years ago when she came to visit me in Japan. I taught English in Osaka, only a short train ride from Kyoto. What I also love about Japan is that most people walk or ride bikes. Talk about staying lively! I’d love to introduce my kids to this part of the world, especially during the cherry blossom season. My heart beats faster just thinking about O-Hana Mi (Cherry Blossom Viewing).

How about you? Where would you like to travel? If you have an Asian destination in mind, let Ruth know about it here!

Post from: Blisstree

Let’s Travel