UK media recommend 2018's top travel destinations, with Taipei making the list

The UK’s Guardian newspaper has released its list of 40 perfect global vacation spots for 2018, featuring five destinations in Asia — and Taipei, Taiwan is one of them. (Photo provided by Shutterstock)

How do you plan to travel this year as the new year begins? The resumption of direct flights between Taiwan and the UK has boosted the visibility of Taiwanese tourism. British media have recently published various travel guides to Taipei, including how to explore Taipei in 72 hours and how to discover Taipei following in the footsteps of Tom Cruise. In addition, Taipei has been listed as one of the world’s top travel destinations for 2018, alongside four other Asian locations such as Mongolia and Pyeongchang, South Korea — the upcoming host of the Winter Olympics.

The list of 40 perfect global vacation spots for 2018 published by the UK’s Guardian (The Guardian) showcases a range of travel highlights, from stunning beaches and wildlife experiences to newly opened museums. Among the Asian destinations featured, five made the cut: Taipei, Taiwan; Mongolia; Laos; Pyeongchang, South Korea — set to host the 2018 Winter Olympics; and Rishikesh, India — a holy city for yoga.

The report notes that in the past, British travellers to Asia often chose destinations like Bangkok in Thailand, Beijing, or Hong Kong. With the resumption of direct flights between Taiwan and London, there is now an even more convenient way to visit. Highlights recommended for Taipei include the Taipei 101 observation deck, snacks at Shilin Night Market, cafes, art galleries, as well as the Dongmen and Zhongshan districts. Even visiting gay-friendly bars to experience the local LGBTQ+ culture is noted as a unique attraction.

Additionally, the UK’s Metro newspaper also published a guide on how to discover the charm of Taipei — from trying Xiao Long Bao (soup dumplings), beloved by Tom Cruise, to admiring the Meat-Shaped Stone at the National Palace Museum, and visiting scenic spots such as Yangmingshan National Park and Maokong. Of course, sampling traditional Chinese breakfast items like shaobing youtiao (sesame flatbread with fried dough sticks) and treats at Raohe Night Market are also must-do activities.

Meanwhile, the UK magazine The Spectator, under the theme of how to explore Taipei in 72 hours, takes readers on a culinary journey through Taipei. Alongside visits to Taipei 101, Longshan Temple, and Ningxia Night Market, the guide features sampling a wide range of local dishes such as Xiao Long Bao, beef noodles, seafood at Shangyin Aquatic Products, and Taiwanese-style mutton hot pot. It also describes bubble tea as having a uniquely comforting taste.