Travel
Hidden Japanese Castella in Taipei Alleyways – No Preservatives, Only Lasts Three Days
When people think of Castella, many immediately associate it with baby showers, and most have likely tried some dry-ish version that resembles a honey cake but isn’t quite the same. But where does Castella actually come from? Let’s briefly explore its origins. Castella, known as カステラ (Kasutera) in Japanese, originated in Nagasaki, Kyushu, Japan. Legend has it that it was first introduced by the Portuguese in the 17th century, and later adapted and refined by the Japanese.
The Whole Country Is Celebrating Its Anniversary—Malaysia in November Is a Shopper’s Paradise
Malaysia’s capital, Kuala Lumpur, was once ranked fourth in the world’s best shopping cities by CNN. In November, the entire country is abuzz with anniversary sales and special promotions. From November 15 to January 5, 2015, shoppers can find amazing deals at major department stores, shopping malls, open-air markets, and even small shops tucked away in streets and alleys across Malaysia.
H7N9 cases rise again; Beijing and Xinjiang issued yellow travel alerts
Beijing and the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region recently reported one new H7N9 flu case each, prompting the Health and Welfare Ministry’s Centers for Disease Control to declare both areas as yellow travel alert zones.
Japan's Three Great Castles: Kumamoto Castle Looks Even More Majestic and Beautiful Against the Golden Ginkgo Leaves
Kumamoto Castle, along with Nagoya Castle and Himeji Castle, is counted among Japan's Three Great Castles. It is also known as the "Ginkgo Castle" because when Kato Kiyomasa built it, he had already considered the need for food supplies in case of a siege. As a result, he planted many ginkgo trees, and even the materials used for bedding inside the castle were made from dried taro stems, which could serve as emergency rations during a prolonged siege.
Extremely tempting evil charm Expert: The New Year’s holiday coincides with Tokyo department store sales...
According to the latest government announcement, there will be a four-day holiday for New Year’s 2015. As a result, how to plan a holiday trip or an overseas New Year’s celebration has become a hot travel topic for many people. Japanese travel expert Xiao Qian suggests that travelers can prioritize visiting major cities in Japan such as Tokyo and Osaka. Starting January 2, department stores like 0101, Isetan, and Mitsukoshi will begin their discount sales, making it a great time for shopping.
“Warm Winter Tour in Kaohsiung” Seeks Travel Influencers – Share Your Itinerary for Great Prizes
As Kaohsiung gradually transitions into autumn and winter, its sunny days and popular winter attractions are in full swing. To showcase just how delightful the city is, the Kaohsiung City Government Tourism Bureau has launched the “Warm Winter Tour in Kaohsiung” Super Guide Influencer Competition. From now until November 23rd, anyone who uploads a two-day, one-night itinerary for a warm winter trip to Kaohsiung has a chance to win great prizes.
Spring Airlines recruiting Taiwanese flight attendants with no upper limit on hires
Spring Airlines, currently the only low-cost carrier operating cross-strait routes, announced on the 20th that it is recruiting flight attendants in Taiwan. Applications are open from now until the 31st via the 1111 Job Bank website, with the first group of Taiwanese flight attendants expected to begin service early next year.
Malicious graffiti "GG" on a Jimmy Liao artwork Mother: He has a mental illness
A piece of artwork in front of Yilan Jimmy Square was reported to have been maliciously vandalized yesterday (20th), sparking outrage among many netizens. The Yilan County Government’s Department of Commerce and Tourism immediately reviewed surveillance footage and identified a man riding a bicycle who deliberately approached and vandalized the piece with a black pen before leaving. On the morning of the 21st, the man turned himself in for questioning accompanied by his mother.
The thick slices of meat are incredibly satisfying to eat – a Taichung hotpot spot frequented by many celebrities: Three Dishes and One Pot
Last week, we spotted the quietly under-renovation 【Three Dishes and One Pot】 behind SOGO on Huamei Street, and it immediately caught our eye. Being close to home and perfect for winter’s hearty cravings, we made sure to jot it down. After all, whenever it gets cold, almost every hotpot place is packed to the brim XD. Last week, my friend from many years ago came over, so we especially went out for dinner. She always has an amazing appetite and can finish almost the portion meant for two people.
Jetstar World Travel King Challenge – Grand Prize Includes Round-Trip Flights & Accommodation for Two
Jetstar Airways announced that from now until November 10, it will hold the “World Travel King Challenge.” Participants who share their travel dreams will have a chance to win round-trip flights and accommodation for two.
Great deals plus tax refunds available – 3 must-visit Japanese drugstores recommended by travel experts
Starting in October, Japan’s new tax exemption system has come into effect, and popular purchases among Taiwanese travelers such as medicine and cosmetics are now included in the tax-free range. This has led Taiwanese fans of Japanese cosmetics to go on a major shopping spree. ETtoday EBC News spoke exclusively with seasoned Japan travel expert Sasha, asking her to recommend must-visit and highly buyable drugstores in Tokyo, as well as her top 10 essential drugstore products.
Japan Launches "First-Class" Capsule Hotel — Experience It for Less Than $40
The first-class cabin on a plane, resembling a small mobile hotel with its comfortable and spacious facilities, always tempts many travelers to take a flight at least once. Inspired by this concept, a Japanese hotel has created the "First-Class Capsule Hotel First Cabin," which even offers a business class option for guests.
Find Peace Among the Silvergrass Along Ancient Trails – The Grass Mountain Ancient Trail Silvergrass Season Kicks Off in November
As the weather turns cooler and the silvergrass begins to sway, the annual Grass Mountain Ancient Trail Silvergrass Season is about to begin. Organized by the Northeast Coast and Yilan Coast National Scenic Area Administration, the “2014 Grass Mountain Ancient Trail Silvergrass Season” will lead visitors through the ancient trail starting November 1st, where they can enjoy the unique trio of sights only found here.
New Year’s Day holiday extended to four days in a row! HowToTrip: Domestic tourism expected to grow by 30%
The 2015 flexible holiday adjustment has been confirmed, and the consecutive four-day break is highly anticipated! Travel agencies have launched “Seven Most Popular Taiwanese Attractions Loved by Locals,” featuring hot New Year’s Eve destinations such as Qingjing, Aowanda, sunrise at Alishan, and watching the first light at Sanciutai. The cheapest options start from just NT$2,999. HowToTrip estimates that the New Year’s travel rush will boost domestic tourism performance by over 30%.
What are the must-buy items in Sabah? White coffee, mango candies, and Sabah black tea.
What are the absolute must-buys in Sabah? Actually, it's pretty similar to the top things to buy in Malaysia—some brands are just cheaper in Malaysia, such as The Body Shop. As for local Malaysian brands, there's Padini. Aside from Vincci, their other sub-brands also offer bags, clothes, accessories, and more at very affordable prices. It’s really rare to find such reasonably priced department store brands.
In-flight broadcast of China's entry guidelines prompts EVA Air to be mocked: "Which country are we landing in anyway?"
On the evening of the 21st, a netizen on PTT revealed that while taking an EVA Air flight from Singapore back to Taiwan on the afternoon of the 16th, just before landing, the in-flight screen unexpectedly played a video titled "People's Republic of China Entry Inspection Guidelines." The netizen was stunned, not only taking a photo and uploading it online but also angrily writing: "I'm returning to my own country—why do I need to know the People's Republic of China's entry inspection guidelines?"
EVA Air Launches Early-Bird Tickets to Europe and the U.S. Starting Today, Up to NT$10,000 in Savings
In conjunction with the Taipei International Travel Fair taking place in November, EVA Air announced at 9 PM today the launch of early-bird tickets for its Europe and U.S. routes. The tickets are valid for one month and are estimated to save passengers between NT$8,000 and NT$10,000 compared to regular fares. The special fares are now available on EVA Air’s official website, offering a great opportunity for travelers looking to save money on their trips abroad.
Taiwan's Campus Food Rankings: "Taiyi Milk King" Takes the Crown
A Taiwanese food website recently held a "2014 Taiwan Campus Food PK" voting event, covering a total of 51 universities across northern, central, southern, and eastern Taiwan. Online voters rated the food options near these universities, with National Normal University ultimately receiving the highest votes and earning the title of "University with the Most Campus Food." Meanwhile, "Taiyi Milk King," located opposite National Taiwan University, won the championship for "Most Popular Shop Among Students."
A Complete Guide to Taiwan’s 23 Most Beautiful and Unique Churches – Which One Is Your Favorite?
Churches always give off a sense of peace and beauty. They are places where believers worship regularly, where some people celebrate life’s most important moments, or, thanks to their stunning and romantic appearances, popular tourist attractions. ETtoday ETToday Travel Cloud has compiled a list of over 23 uniquely charming or romantic churches across Taiwan. Be sure to visit them if you get the chance!
Traditional Warriors' Festival Cultural and Sports Event to Kick Off in Maolin, Kaohsiung on the 25th
The Maolin District Office of Kaohsiung City has scheduled the Oponoho Wanshanli Taavala Warriors’ Festival and Traditional Culture Sports Event for the 25th. The event will run from 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM, featuring a series of warrior ceremonies, traditional cultural competitions, the "Music Under the Stars" night concert, and traditional totem dances. Members of all local tribes as well as visitors interested in indigenous culture are invited to join the celebration at the Wanshanli Sports Field.