The direct flight route between Taiwan and Weihai, Shandong has significantly shortened travel time between the two places, and the biggest “beneficiary” is none other than Lü Tainian, President of Jienian Group, who frequently shuttles between the two locations and spends about one-third of his time on the mainland. In addition to serving as President of the Weihai Taiwan Business Association, Lü Tainian is also engaged in the local real estate business. Another more eye-catching identity of his is being the husband of Eastern TV news anchor Wang Jiawan.
As the New Year of 2014 brings fresh beginnings, have you decided where to travel? Grace Pan, Director of Tourism and Events Queensland, has specially recommended an annual “travel checklist” of key destinations in Queensland for Taiwanese travelers, allowing them to directly refer to the suggested attractions and timing to plan a trip to Queensland.
What kind of travel kit do passengers treasure most while flying? A national airline once launched branded suitcase travel kits, and their classic, compact design won the hearts of many travelers, becoming a highlight among the airline’s collectible offerings. Recently, a U.S. airline has unveiled a special edition travel kit, featuring eight designs representing eight major North American hub cities — available exclusively to business and first-class passengers.
Say hello to the God of Wealth!The Taoyuan Lantern Festival kicks off on February 8 in Longtan, with an adorable Q-version image of the main lantern – the God of Wealth – revealed ahead of time. On the opening day, it will be “enlarged” into a 12-meter-tall version. The organizers said that during the event, the main lantern will be accompanied by laser light sculptures and dry ice fog effects, putting on a spinning show, while fireworks will also be set off nearby. The area around Longtan Pond in the exhibition venue is sure to be dazzling and colorful.
The TRA’s Shen’ao Line, known as Taiwan’s “most beautiful railway branch line,” is set to be revived on the 9th to coincide with the opening of the National Museum of Marine Science and Technology (NMST). The inaugural train will depart from Ruifang Station and go directly to NMST Station.
There’s a hot air balloon festival in winter too? The Tainan Winter Hot Air Balloon Fire Dance Art Festival kicked off on January 15 at Zouma Lai Farm. In addition to offering large hot air balloons for public rides, riding the wave of the popularity of the Panda and Little Duck, the event also features a 10-meter-tall panda and a “thick-lipped” yellow duck standing balloon. This year, fire dance equipment that has performed at the Olympics has also been introduced, allowing visitors to enjoy spectacular 6-meter-high flames.
I'm actually quite familiar with Zaozhuang. I used to eat there often. Back then, my favorite was their fermented tofu cabbage, and their jujube tea was the best I’ve ever had~ It’s been ages since I last had Zaozhuang food.
Recently hailed by international media as a “must-visit in a lifetime” and one of the “52 most worthwhile experiences in the world,” the Pingxi Sky Lantern Festival kicks off on February 3, featuring three major events this year. As the first event falls during the Lunar New Year holiday, the New Taipei City Government has unveiled the “Yuanbao (Treasure) Sky Lantern” ahead of time to let the public get a taste of the festive atmosphere and herald the upcoming ascent of the Pingxi sky lanterns.
As the winter vacation travel rush approaches, the public must exercise caution when joining tour groups to avoid disputes and spoiling their trip. The Tourism Bureau has listed important reminders for travelers participating in travel agency activities or purchasing international flight tickets.
As the Lunar New Year approaches, New Year goods streets across Taiwan will open one after another to welcome visitors. These include the Taipei New Year Goods Street, the World Trade Center New Year Goods Exhibition, and the Yunlin New Year Goods Market—three events in total—each showcasing distinct features in hopes of attracting shoppers to visit, sightsee, and stroll during the event period.
Winter vacation is here!After months of busyness, with the arrival of winter break and the Lunar New Year holiday, it’s finally time to relax a little. There are now a total of 678 free buses across Taiwan, transporting passengers between major cities, small towns, and famous tourist attractions.
With countless American-style brunch spots around, this “Japanese-style brunch” stands out as particularly appealing. Located at a bustling street corner, it maintains a serene atmosphere. In addition to its Japanese-inspired interior design, the dishes are prepared by the owner, who packs a bento for her husband every day. With careful ingredient selection and creative plating, the menu radiates happiness and leaves diners feeling full of energy.
The SUNNY BUFFET buffet restaurant at Dynasty Hotel, renovated with a one-billion-Taiwan-dollar investment, officially opened on November 1. It emphasizes using local ingredients to create Taiwanese specialty dishes, offering more than 100 menu items. But with so many choices, where should you start? The restaurant recommends 8 dishes to help you decide what to try first.
Changhua’s newest check-in spot, “Huatian Village Cultural and Creative Village,” officially opened on November 18th. Hidden within the village is a distinctive Tienwei-themed painted wall called “Chrysanthemum Night Starry Sky.” The illuminated chrysanthemum fields of Tienwei are a unique sight—combined with Van Gogh’s famous painting “Starry Night,” it creates a brand-new atmosphere. You don’t have to wait until nightfall to enjoy Tienwei’s evening charm here!
“Luluna EDM Party” electronic music event — Traffic control in Xinyi Township, Nantou County on the 16th
Thai anti-government groups will hold a "Bangkok Shutdown" protest demonstration on January 13. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a notice on the evening of the 8th, maintaining the travel alert level for Bangkok at yellow while reminding citizens that if they must travel to Bangkok or nearby areas for business in the near future, they should pay special attention to safety and avoid wearing yellow or red clothing.
Want to travel abroad during the holiday season, but the costs are always sky-high? The post-holiday period, when travel demand slows down, is actually the perfect time to go. National airlines have partnered with travel agencies to launch the “Charming Europe: Post-New Year Non-Stop Deals,” featuring significant discounts on various packages, with savings of up to 9,000. Plus, travelers who choose any itinerary from this promotion will receive a Swarovski crystal pen as a gift upon registration.
Following its pet photo contest, East Mountain Resort Hotel has launched another exciting promotion on the 9th. Just head to the hotel’s Happy Peach Blossom Spring Facebook fan page and follow the game rules below to instantly save nearly NT$4,800!
This FuaFua Chiffon Cake on the second floor of Banqiao Station is truly something special. Just as "ふわふわ" in Japanese means fluffy, the cake offers an incredibly soft and tender texture. But I, being a bit mischievous, pressed it down hard, flattening it completely. Yet, this soft chiffon cake stubbornly bounced back to its original shape unyieldingly.
Early planners, wake up and seize the day!* Malaysian and budget airlines are offering “early bird” promotions to reward travelers who plan ahead. The earlier you book, the more you save on airfare—and you’ll have plenty of time to arrange your itinerary, accommodation, dining, and sightseeing. Plan smart, travel better, and enjoy multiple benefits all at once!