Vietnam, along with Thailand, is one of the most historically significant parts of Southeast Asia. Due to its geographic location, Vietnam was subjected to Chinese imperial rule for over a millennium, before the rise of its own royalty, which lasted through the medieval years. The French put that to an end when they colonized both […]
Alishan National Scenic Area (Alishan Township, Chiayi County) — located 4 hours south of Taipei (towards the center of the island nation), Alishan National Scenic Area was founded in 2001 and covers the Alishan Forest Recreation Area, Rueili, Fengshan, Taiho, Daban, Shanmei, and Chashan villages. The high altitude affects the climate at Alishan– bringing it […]
Bellavita (No. 28 Song Ren Road, Xinyi District, Taipei) – the founders of this nine-level mall were inspired by architectural designs seen during their visit to Milan – which explains both its striking exterior and elaborate interiors. Geared toward deep-pocketed shoppers, retailers found here include: Bottega Veneta, Calvin Klein, Frette, Giorgio Armani, Hermes, Lamborghini (apparel), […]
1001 Nights (2nd Floor, East Nanjing East Road, Sec. 5, Songshan District, Taipei) – this is likely the most famous and popular shisha (hookah pipe) bar in Taipei. 1001 Nights offers a unique atmosphere to sit down and spend a night with friends. The music goes from EDM to Persian songs, with occasional appearance from […]
Addiction Aquatic Development (No. 18, Alley 2, Ln 410, Minzu East Road, Taipei) – this is a Sushi restaurant located within a popular fish market, which makes this a popular spot for lunch. Since diners can also buy sushi (and other fish to go), this restaurant is reminiscent of similar places at Chelsea Market in […]
Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall (21 Zhongshan South Road 21, Taipei) – this shrine was built for the former ruler of modern-day Taiwan – who ran the country from 1928 to 1975 (when he passed away). Before World War II, he headed Chinese Nationalist Party, the KMT (in mainland China) and contended with Japanese aggression against […]
Taiwan, an island nation located off the coast of mainland China, has a history that goes back to the 17th century, when it was divided between settlements established by the Dutch, the Spanish, and the local Kingdom of Middag. In 1683, the mainland’s Qing Dynasty took possession of Taiwan (then known as the time as […]
Black Necked Crane Festival (Gangtey Goenpa, Phobjikha) – located three hours (129 km) east of Thimphu, this festival is an occasion for the locals to rejoice and celebrate the arrival of this endangered and majestic bird which becomes an inseparable part in their daily lives during the winter months. The annual black necked crane festival […]
Changlam Plaza (Chang Lam, Thimphu) – just a short walk away from Barz Brothers bar, this is one of the few multi-level shopping centers that exist in the capital. No international big name retailers here, just various shops selling “Made in China” merchandise (everything from apparel to toys). Along with that, there are a few […]
Barz Brothers (Changlam Square, Thimphu) – the owners of this bar & restaurant are obvious rock music fans. The bar’s walls are adorned with guitars and photos of rock icons from the 60s (like Jim Morrison of The Doors), to 80s pop stars Madonna and George Michael, as well as hip hop legends Notorious BIG […]