Travel
The rebellious girl from Chiayi makes an offbeat meal that’s surprisingly addictive
Ye Hui-ling (Mia), the owner of “Hello. Japanese Canteen,” who looks like the girl next door, actually has a bit of rebellion in her blood. The previous iteration of the shop served brunch, but she found it too common and too crowded with competitors. In December last year, she decided to switch to a canteen-style eatery, focusing on Japanese pan-fried dumplings and tsukemen. She said, “Should I call it quirky? Honestly, I just didn’t want to follow the crowd. What I want to do now is serve food that hasn’t quite caught on in Chiayi yet.” The gentle craftsmanship of this rebellious girl results in everyday flavors that are unexpectedly satisfying.
Fukuoka's Hakata Kaburaya Taipei Xinyi Branch Opens on June 15, Enjoy 12% Off Before End of June
The Neo19 in Taipei’s Xinyi District has become the stronghold for Taiwan Hu Tong Yakitori (under the Orange Flame International Catering Group), which has previously introduced Ippen Ramen, the world’s second-best grilled pineapple bread ice cream, Hokkaido’s GARAKU soup curry, Kibei’s tonkatsu rice bowl, and Taipei Niaoxi. Now, it has once again brought in Hakata Kaburaya’s Taipei Xinyi Branch, which officially opened on June 15.
The Blue Elephant ready meals are also available in Taiwan – delicious Thai cuisine on the table in just 10 minutes
Originating in Europe, Blue Elephant has now become a globally renowned Thai cuisine brand, with restaurants in London, Paris, Bangkok, and Phuket. To cater to modern lifestyles and meet consumers' culinary desires, the brand has transformed its popular Thai royal court dishes—one of Thailand’s five major cuisines—into ready meals, seasoning packets, and various spice blends. With just simple heating or minimal preparation, you can quickly and conveniently enjoy the Thai royal court delicacies endorsed by the Thai monarchy.
The wildest Taipei–Vancouver pop-up flight ever—he flew back to his hometown for just 1.5 hours to witness Air Canada’s inaugural flight.
The long-awaited Air Canada, which Taiwanese travelers have been eagerly anticipating, resumed its Vancouver service today (the 9th) after a 14-year hiatus. Among the passengers on the inaugural flight arriving at Taoyuan Airport at 14:15 was one particularly special traveler. To witness the first-ever Air Canada Taipei–Vancouver flight, he flew all the way from Vancouver to Taiwan, stayed for just 1.5 hours, and then boarded the first return flight to Vancouver—truly the wildest “Taiwan–Canada pop-up.”
Air Canada Maple Leaf's 3 Big Highlights Revealed: Fully Flat Beds & Exclusive Concierge Service, the Only One in Taiwan
After a 14-year hiatus, Air Canada has launched its first flight from Vancouver to Taipei, operating with the elegantly designed Boeing 787 Dreamliner and introducing Taiwan’s first-ever airport concierge service. The daily afternoon departure and noon arrival in Vancouver make the itinerary especially convenient for travelers. This time, ETNEWS has rounded up Air Canada’s three major highlights, uncovering the secrets of this maiden voyage aircraft that achieved a 98% load factor—come take a sneak peek together!
After 14 years—Air Canada’s inaugural Taipei–Vancouver flight takes off with 96% passenger load
After 14 years, Air Canada’s maple leaf aircraft is back in action—The airline’s first non-stop Vancouver–Taipei flight landed at Taoyuan Airport, where a traditional water salute marked a warm welcome. The inaugural direct Taipei–Vancouver flight departed punctually at 15:55 and achieved an impressive 96% occupancy rate. Timothy Liu, Senior Commercial Strategy Director at Air Canada, personally greeted passengers upon arrival and distributed adorable commemorative teddy bears as souvenirs. Taiwan’s Tourism Bureau also sent out the Electric King and Queen of the Gods (Taishang Dadi) to act as official greeters, presenting specially crafted Taiwanese tea sets to first-flight travelers as tokens of welcome—a heartfelt gesture symbolizing Taiwan’s warm invitation to more visitors from afar.
Wowprime Group Launches New Brand: Fried Steak Specialty Store “Zha Niu” to Open in July
Following the launch of two new brands — the steak rice shop “CooK BEEF!” and the spicy hotpot chain “Ma Laodà” — Wowprime Group is set to unveil another new brand, “Zha Niu,” in early July. This will be a fried steak specialty store, bringing joy to fans of Japanese-style fried beef, who may soon get to enjoy the flavors of “Japanese fried steak” right here in Taiwan.
Summer Hong Kong & Macau trips offer huge savings for families on a budget—starting from just NT$17,998 for 4 people with flights & hotels for a 3-night, 4-day trip!
The Taichung International Travel Fair kicked off today (the 9th), with various travel agencies and hotel operators offering a wide range of attractive deals, especially popular short-haul trips to Hong Kong and Macau during the summer vacation season. To welcome the peak summer family travel period, the Hong Kong Pavilion is featuring a variety of family-friendly travel packages, including an exclusive deal for a family of four with flights from Hong Kong starting at just NT$17,998. The Macau Tourism Board has also curated diverse travel options tailored for the public, with free-and-easy itineraries starting as low as NT$5,388 for three days, and a "buy two, get one free" promotion.
A Romantic Date 7 Meters Under the Sea – Dive into Ponyo’s World at Japan’s Ashizuri Undersea Observatory
The aquarium date trope from Japanese dramas is always so enchanting, and Kochi Prefecture’s Ashizuri Undersea Observatory is the perfect pilgrimage spot for couples. Stroll along Rūtsunoura Coast to admire the rugged rocks, hop on a glass-bottom boat to enjoy vibrant tropical fish and coral reefs, and let the symphony of waves crashing against the rocky shore set the most romantic scene.
Ice Monster summer pop-up at Tainan Regent Hotel, available only 3 days a week
Summer is all about ice cream!\nTainan Regent Hotel has teamed up with Ice Monster this summer to bring some cool relief to the southern crowd. In addition to each offering three classic signature ice treats, they will also collaborate under the leadership of French patisserie chef Laurent to create innovative co-branded ice desserts. From now until September 3, these treats will be available only 3 days a week (Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays), sold at the shaved ice bar set up by the outdoor pool on the fourth floor of Tainan Regent Hotel.
This summer, the Sapphire Princess shines brightly as it sets sail, with early bird prices starting from just ¥9,900
This summer, the Sapphire Princess will depart from Keelung, loaded with fun facilities and international cuisines to accompany you on a holiday at sea. Even the globally seasoned traveler Janet highly recommends it. And here’s the kicker—Master Travel is offering an early bird deal with surprisingly low prices starting from just ¥9,900, making your getaway easier than ever～
Travel New Zealand on a budget—explore Hobbiton in the North Island, a top choice for budget travelers to beat the heat
Pristine New Zealand is a travel paradise for many, especially during hot summers when heading to the Southern Hemisphere offers cool relief. Smart travelers can enjoy the North Island with an Australia-sized budget, exploring UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the filming locations of *The Lord of the Rings*, and experiencing local nature and indigenous culture—an excellent budget-friendly option.
A dream trip for train enthusiasts – enjoy breathtaking views of the Seto Inland Sea on the Iyo-nada Monogatari Train
Japan’s Iyo-nada Monogatari sightseeing train along the Seto Inland Sea has been featured on the Seishun 18 Ticket poster three times. Its stunning scenery has captivated many and it was even ranked No. 1 among Japan’s top ten sightseeing trains by the Nihon Keizai Shimbun. It's a must-do journey for railfans. This year in Taiwan, only Giant Trek Travel has secured some departure slots – an experience not to be missed by travelers seeking an unforgettable adventure.
Climb to Ocean Views on the “Taoyuan Valley” Trail in Daxi, Yilan & Have a Picnic with Cows
The “Caoling Ancient Trail,” located between Gongliao in New Taipei City and Dali & Daxi in Toucheng, Yilan, has long been a popular hiking path on weekends. While it carries the cultural significance of an ancient commute route, the landscape of the “Taoyuan Valley” trail, which connects to the “Yakou” (Mute Pass) section of Caoling, is entirely different — it’s a path full of natural beauty and both mountain and sea views.
Cruise travelers are getting younger – they prefer short 4-6 day trips, and 50% of those who haven’t cruised yet want to try it
To continuously promote the development of Taiwan’s cruise industry, the Tourism Bureau of the Ministry of Transportation and Communications and the Taiwan International Cruise Association collaborated to host a maritime cruise forum aboard Star Cruises’ SuperStar Virgo, featuring an overnight onboard experience for the first time. The event gathered representatives from industry, government, academia, and other sectors to discuss future trends in cruise tourism.
Beverage lovers, check this out！2 trending bubble tea shops making waves recently—summer calls for these drinks
Summer is the season when various drinks rise to fame. Last year, gradient teas, sparkling drinks, and pastel fruit smoothies were all the rage. What should we drink this year? ETNEWS has specially compiled a list of 2 recently popular bubble tea shops. They don’t rely on flashy appearances—their appeal lies in rich ingredients and great taste. You absolutely can’t miss them when visiting Taichung or Tainan！
Sticky rice sausages you have to queue for in Taichung, plus super savory salted pork
Many locals in Taichung are surely familiar with “Fuzi Xiu.” Every afternoon, a mobile food truck cruises through the streets and alleys, drawing crowds that form long lines wherever it goes. Its signature items include sausages, sticky rice sausages, and garlic salted pork. Recently, the “Fuzi Xiu Mobile Food Truck” has finally settled into a permanent spot at Yidianli Evening Market in Beitun, Taichung.
Taiwan’s Newest Hit: Lobster Sandwich in Taichung Featuring a Whole Fresh Lobster!
This “Lady Lobster” in Nantun District, Taichung has been all the rage lately. Not long after we heard about its opening, we saw tons of blog posts popping up—everyone’s really quick on the uptake… XD
A must-visit for sea views in Keelung: “Baimi Barrel Fort” boasts lush green lawns and stunning blue seas
“Baimi Barrel Fort,” a beloved local sea-viewing spot well-known to Keelung residents, features a vast expanse of green lawn and breathtaking blue ocean scenery. The large circular depression and towering white chimney are iconic landmarks here, often chosen as wedding photo backdrops by couples — the views are truly picturesque.
One of Japan's "100 Hidden Gems"! The Last Pristine River in Kochi — Shimanto River, Beautiful Like a Fairyland
Want to see a different side of Japan? Embark on a journey to Shikoku. The moment you step out of Kochi Ryoma Airport, even the air feels different. Along the way, you’ll pass traditional Japanese low-rise houses, endless emerald-green farmland, and verdant mountains on both sides, until you finally arrive at the Shimanto River — one of Japan’s “100 Hidden Gems.” Here, you can experience the tranquility and serenity this pristine land offers.