When it comes to romance in Europe, France is definitely in the top three. Beyond the big cities, the countryside is even more filled with traditional charm, a world apart from the hustle and bustle of urban life. Take, for example, the recently selected best village in France — “Kayserberg” — with its picturesque scenery and architecture that truly feel like something out of a fairy tale.
Hokkaido is located at the northernmost part of Japan, but what fewer people know is that Hokkaido also has two “far northern” secret islands: Rishiri Island and Rebun Island. Together, these two islands form Japan’s northernmost national park, “Rishiri-Rebun-Sarobetsu National Park.” You can take a ferry from Wakkanai in Hokkaido and plan an island-hopping trip to conquer the most remote and pristine islands in Japan all at once.
After heavy rains, the blazing sun heralds the arrival of summer. On the 23rd, Chiayi County Government’s Bureau of Cultural Affairs and Tourism announced that the Whale Pool at Dongshi Fisherman’s Wharf will be open from July 1 to August 31 during the summer vacation period. The public can visit for water activities every Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday between 10:00 AM and 6:00 PM.
With summer vacation approaching, many people have already planned their trips. Today (24th), the Tourism Bureau under the Ministry of Transportation and Communications announced the operational status of travel agencies, revealing a total of 38 agencies that have had their licenses revoked, been dissolved, or suspended due to various issues, reminding consumers to stay vigilant.
Yamamoto-ya Ramen, founded by three top students, has been in business for two years. Originally driven by their love for Japanese ramen, they traveled to Japan to learn from local masters. Later, they each opened branches in northern, central, and southern Taiwan, achieving impressive results. The Kaohsiung branch, near the Art Museum, has seen the tree leaves in front grow lush enough to nearly cover the sign when I visited again over a year later.
Pink Peebo and friends have landed in Tainan! Taiwan’s first-ever Uglyhead-themed hot pot restaurant officially opened earlier this year. To catch a glimpse of their cute and charming appearances, hordes of netizens flocked here from all over. The restaurant excels in everything—from its ingredients and themed decor to its merchandise—earning widespread praise online.
Basked in the gentle Greek breeze and embraced by the sun’s warmth, I woke up early and headed to Cape Sounion (Sounio), south of Athens, to admire the Temple of Poseidon perched atop the cliffs, taking in what can only be described as a “divine view”—more priceless than any cityscape at night.
Breathing new life into old spaces not only gives them fresh meaning but also creates unique charm. When traveling in Europe, visitors can actually find many boutique hotels converted from former prisons. Though prisons are made up of various rooms, their spaces still exude a distinctive atmosphere.
Some say the best restaurants are the ones bustling with customers, where the owner or head chef takes you on a culinary journey. Well, I stumbled upon what’s said to be an authentic Jiangzhe cuisine spot in Taipei—albeit a bit belatedly. As for the incredibly popular owner-chef whose place requires reservations three months in advance? Let’s not talk about that (laughs). In any case, this is another Jiangzhe eatery I’ve been to that’s quite impressive, especially the “Red Braised Pork,” which is arguably the best I’ve had in Taiwan.
Taitung preserves the most pristine charm of nature, attracting travelers like a magnet. Located in Taitung, “Dulan Cape Coffee” offers healing scenery and delicious food, as well as canoe and sailing rentals and lessons. Just a short walk away lies the hidden gem of Half Moon Bay Beach, where you can enjoy a lazy summer all to yourself.
Buzz buzz~ The cicadas are out in full swing, marking the official start of sweltering summer. With temperatures often soaring past 36°C, of course you’ll want to cool down with some ice treats Up! Here’s a list of 3 unique chilly desserts in Tamsui, all located along the familiar Tamsui Old Street. Enjoy them while strolling around for an extra-refreshing experience.
On a hot summer day, nothing beats a bowl of ice. Changhua has many famous ice shops, and previously we often visited “Little Wooden House” and “Changhua Papaya Milk King.” This time, we’re trying something different. This “Shuili Ice House” is actually another super popular ice shop. Not only has it been in business for 50 years, but it was also featured on “Foodie Show!”
Attention residents of southern Taiwan: summer is just around the corner, and as the scorching sun takes its toll, a refreshing cold drink is undoubtedly one of life’s greatest pleasures. These two specialty “sago pudding” shops always draw large crowds when they open—not only locals but also many tourists come specifically for their signature “taro sago pudding.”
Southeast Asian cuisine has always been a major draw for Taiwanese travelers, offering affordability and rich flavors that are delicious no matter where you buy on the street. Malaysia is home to a food-themed museum that primarily showcases the country’s signature dishes and street snacks.
Even frequent flyers can panic when faced with severe turbulence. Usually, this sense of insecurity fades quickly, but for some people, the anxiety is deep-rooted and long-lasting—this is called aerophobia. It may stem from personal or loved ones' traumatic experiences during flights, or feelings of loss of control, claustrophobia, and other causes.
I’ve had The Third Place (I always pronounce it as Sandaime XD) on my list for ages, but the first time I wanted to try their noodles, they were closed–I can’t remember if it was just a temporary break or if I showed up too early. Either way, I didn’t get to eat there that time, so it just stayed on the list.
Korea’s hottest animal-themed treats are coming to Taiwan from June 23 to August 31 via the “GLAM AIR” platform, brought in by the renowned animal-shaped ice cream brand “Swit;b.” The shop specializes in delicious and adorable frozen desserts, offering Taiwanese trend-seekers more exciting choices. As part of a special promotion, from now until the end of August, customers can enjoy a 15% discount by showing the 《ETNEWS News Cloud》 app when making a purchase at the store!
Rows of rice paddies form a verdant carpet, while swaying stalks dance like waves in the breeze. Simply gazing at this rural scenery naturally dissolves all worries. Waipu’s Carefree Valley in Taichung truly lives up to its name, offering healing beauty in every season—whether it’s the emerald-green rice fields or the golden seas of ripe grain. The boundless, expansive views soothe the hearts of all who visit.
The scorching summer is just around the corner. Have you decided where to go during the holidays? Covering an area of 30 hectares, the Taichung Da’an Beach boasts beautiful coastal scenery. At low tide, vast stretches of sandy beach extend for hundreds of meters, making strolls here especially romantic. This year’s Da’an Sand Sculpture Music Festival will grandly commence on July 1, featuring as many as 32 international sand sculptures on display.
The user-pays concept has gained increasing popularity in Taiwan in recent years, with many attractions introducing cleaning fees as a source of maintenance revenue. Starting this year, three attractions in Eastern Taiwan have announced that they will begin charging fees. Travelers should take note of the different entry regulations compared to previous years.