Written by the MOOK Scenic Spots Family Travel Life Network Editorial Team
Spring, when the earth revives and flowers bloom everywhere, is the perfect season for travel and vacation. ANTOR (the Association of National Tourism Organizations in Taiwan) has specially selected 8 of the best islands for Taiwanese to visit in spring. These include Hong Kong, just a 70-minute flight from Taiwan; the Philippines with its volcanic hot springs; Guam, ideal for jogging and cycling; Koh Samui, ranked among the world’s 13 sexiest islands; the Mariana Islands, which have attracted Taiwanese "spicy moms" to intern there for a week; Hawaii, long synonymous with island getaways; the lesser-known Masirah Island in Oman; and finally Fiji in the Southern Hemisphere, famous for its one-hotel-per-island concept.
Let a short island trip fill you with travel inspiration this spring. (Image source / www.enjoyourholiday.com)
Just a 70-minute flight from Taiwan takes you to Lantau Island in Hong Kong, where you can enjoy its blue seas and skies and experience a different side of this international city. The Hong Kong Hyatt Regency on Discovery Bay boasts endless sea views, a unique white glass chapel, and romantic horse-drawn carriage rides. It is also close to attractions such as Hong Kong Disneyland, Ngong Ping 360, and the Tian Tan Buddha, allowing you to explore the diverse sides of Hong Kong.
The SuperStar Virgo is docked at the Kai Tak Cruise Terminal, with direct access to Harbour City mall upon disembarkation. (Image provided / Star Cruises)
The Philippines, with over 7,100 islands, is home to Palawan, a region of continuous mountain ranges and vast seas. In Coron, there is Asia’s only saltwater hot spring—the Maquinit Hot Springs in Palawan. Nestled between Mount Daraga and the Mindoro Strait, the hot spring water flows down from the mountains and meets the seawater, creating a highly therapeutic saltwater hot spring with temperatures between 35–38 degrees Celsius. After a day full of water activities in Coron, soaking in this one-of-a-kind hot spring will instantly soothe your tired body with its healing waters.
Asia’s only saltwater hot spring—Maquinit Hot Springs. (Image source / www.iurban.in.th)
Guam, with its summer-like weather all year round, offers unlimited sunshine to travelers from around the world and is one of the world’s top destinations to escape the cold. For runners of all ages, there are events such as the “Ko’Ko’ Kids Fun Run” and the “Guam International Marathon,” both held on April 13.
Northern Mariana Islands, located to the north of Guam and known as “the best secret garden of the U.S. territories,” are about 2,800 kilometers from Taiwan. The archipelago consists of 14 islands, including Saipan, Tinian, and Rota, featuring the world’s deepest ocean trench and remnants of World War II. It was also one of the filming locations for the movie “Life of Pi.” The 9th annual “Saipan Marathon,” an international event held locally on April 16, is coming up. Korean Air is offering discounted promotional fares with a pre-tax price of just NT$18,888. Sunny Lin Yongqing, recently named “Marianas Tourism Bureau One-Week Intern,” will represent Taiwan as the first participant in this Micronesian sports event.
The Northern Mariana Islands are hailed as “the best secret garden of the U.S. territories.” (Image source / ds-lands.com)
Koh Samui, selected by the globally authoritative Forbes magazine as one of the world’s 13 most sexy islands—and the only one from Asia—is rich in natural landscapes and exudes a laid-back romantic vibe. It’s the perfect place to spend a romantic Western Valentine’s Day with your loved one. The Northwest Travel Network is offering early bird discounts for the “Legendary Journey to Koh Samui.” From now until December 15, those who book 45 days in advance can enjoy a NT$3,000 discount for the second person in a pair. Now is the perfect time to bring a partner and enjoy a romantic getaway.
Koh Samui is picturesque. (Image source / www.enjoyourholiday.com)
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