Deep Slow Travel Without the Packing: A British Couple’s 5-Day Tailor-Made Northern Taiwan Journey
Meet Ms. U and Mr. K, a vibrant couple from the UK who cherish the world through two to three major international trips each year. For their very first visit to Taiwan, they sought more than just a vacation—they wanted an experience that felt personal and profound. With only six days to explore, they entrusted us with their blank canvas, and it was our honor to paint a journey that turned their first visit into a lifelong memory.
By Grace Fang
The Ultimate Taichung Family Travel Guide: 22 Must-Visit Spots for All Ages
Welcome to Taichung, the sun-drenched heart of Taiwan! Often overlooked for the bustle of Taipei, Taichung offers the perfect middle ground for families: spacious parks, world-class museums, and a relaxed pace that won't leave your little ones (or you) exhausted. Whether you're chasing sunsets at the wetlands or exploring giant dinosaur exhibits, Taichung is a playground waiting to be discovered.
By Grace Fang
A Dream Across the Sea: A Cloud-Top Challenge for South Korean Seniors
In Taiwan, there is a specific outdoor dream known as "Baiyue" (The 100 Peaks). In late 2023, we were contacted by Mr. E from South Korea. He wanted to organize a one-day Hehuanshan expedition for his father and a group of friends. While most travelers are accustomed to urban exploration, our team takes the greatest pride in guiding international friends into the clouds at altitudes exceeding 3,000 meters. This was more than just a car charter; it was a customized "dream-fulfilling" mission centered on courage, stamina, and the breathtaking beauty of Taiwan.
By Grace Fang
Fengchia Night Market: The Ultimate Guide to Taichung’s Foodie Paradise
Fengchia Night Market is not just the largest night market in Taichung—it is arguably the most influential street food hub in all of Taiwan. Located next to Fengchia University, this massive district is where many of Taiwan’s most famous snacks were first invented. For international travelers visiting Taichung, this is the definitive destination for an authentic taste of local life.
By Grace Fang
Gifting the Beauty of Home: A Slow-Living Journey Through Hualien and Taitung
Behind every journey lies a heart that wants to share the very best scenery with loved ones. In the autumn of 2023, we received a message from Mr. Yeh. He was looking to prepare a surprise for his relatives, who have long been settled in Japan and were returning to Taiwan for a rare year-end holiday. This sudden leap of faith allowed us to become the architects of this family reunion, transforming longing and hospitality into a three-day record of slow-living by the mountains and sea.
By Grace Fang
2026 Taiwan Holiday Travel Guide: It’s More Fun When You Dodge the Crowds! Must-Know Tips Before You Visit
If you’re planning a trip to Taiwan, there’s one crucial factor travelers often overlook—the island’s public holidays. These holidays not only shape local life but directly affect your travel experience. From packed transportation and higher hotel prices to restaurant closures, skipping this research can turn a happy trip into an unexpected challenge. This guide gives foreign visitors a complete overview of Taiwan’s major public holidays, how long weekends impact travel, and practical ways to avoid peak periods—or even use the holidays to experience Taiwan’s most authentic culture.
By Annie Chen
10 Best Temples to Visit for Wealth and Prosperity in Taiwan: A Foreigner’s Guide to the God of Wealth Culture
When most travelers think of Taiwan, they picture bustling night markets, the majestic Taipei 101, or the natural wonder of Taroko Gorge. However, there is a "hidden gem" of Taiwanese culture that offers a deep dive into the local way of life: The God of Wealth (Cai Shen) Temples.
By Grace Fang
A 1,000-Kilometer Journey of Warmth: A British Doctor Family’s First Encounter with Taiwan
During the heartwarming Christmas season, we received an "urgent request." A British family contacted Round Taiwan Round less than two weeks before their departure, hoping to embark on their very first exploration of Taiwan with their five-year-old child. This sudden leap of faith initiated a touching 10-day, 2,000-kilometer record of their journey around the island.
By Grace Fang
Flights to Taiwan 2026: Everything You Need to Know Before You Book
Planning a trip to Taiwan? Discover the ultimate 2026 guide to flights, including major gateways like TPE & TSA, airline comparisons (Big Three vs. LCCs), and expert booking tips from the US, Singapore, Philippines, and Hong Kong. Find the best routes and start your adventure with RTR today!
By Annie Chen
Alishan Sunrise Guide: RTR Editors’ 8 Best Sunrise Spots and Stress-Free Transport Tips
Often listed as a once-in-a-lifetime Taiwan experience, the Alishan sunrise is unforgettable not simply because the sun rises—but because of everything that happens around it: the crisp mountain air before dawn, the shifting scent of forests and tea fields, the gradual change of light, and the quiet rhythm of the highlands waking up. After years of repeated visits to the Alishan Forest Recreation Area, Shiding, Ruili, Meishan, and the surrounding tea plantations and hiking trails, the RTR editorial team created this guide to go beyond telling you where to see the sunrise. It shows you how to experience an alishan taiwan sunrise in the way that suits you best—and makes waking up early completely worth it. In this article, we break down the true charm of the Alishan sunrise, share 8 lesser-known viewpoints that avoid the crowds, suggest the most logical post-sunrise sightseeing routes, and recommend our top 3 places to stay. In the end of the guide, we include a special section featuring RTR editors’ first-hand, in-depth sunrise spots you won’t find elsewhere.
By Maggie Ko
Discover Taiwan’s Best Cherry Blossom Viewing Routes: 3 to 5 Day Trips Curated by RTR Editors
Looking for the best cherry blossom spots in Taiwan? From urban parks to mountain farms, Taiwan’s sakura season offers colorful variety and a long bloom period. This RTR guide features curated 3-to-5-day travel itineraries: explore cherry trees in Taipei’s neighborhoods, hidden gems in central Taiwan, and iconic blooms in Wuling Farm, Sun Moon Lake, and Alishan. Even if you miss peak dates, cherry blossoms often appear in unexpected places—so leave time to wander and enjoy spontaneous floral surprises.
By Grace Fang
Beyond Zhang Mei Ama: Best Yilan Family Attractions & Hidden Farms
Beyond Zhang Mei Grandma's Farm! Explore Yilan's best animal-friendly attractions and local farms. From duck-raising education and kumquat picking to DIY workshops, discover hidden gems perfect for multi-generational family trips. Enjoy eco-tours and ticket discounts while skipping the crowds. Let’s dive deep into Yilan's natural treasures!
By Annie Chen
Top Taiwan Tour Company for Foreigners: 2026 Explore Taiwan Like a Local with Expert Guides
Planning a trip to Taiwan and searching for the best Taiwan tour company for foreigners? Whether you’re traveling from the United States, Japan, South Korea, Hong Kong, Singapore or anywhere around the world, finding a trustworthy local operator can make all the difference. Taiwan’s vibrant cities, breathtaking mountains, and warm hospitality await — but navigating language barriers and transportation systems can be tricky without expert help. This guide introduces the most reliable tour companies in Taiwan that cater specifically to international travelers. From customizable private tours to small group experiences covering Taipei, Taichung, Sun Moon Lake, Taroko Gorge, and Kenting, we’ll help you choose a company that suits your travel style, budget, and schedule. Discover how professional guides, English-speaking drivers, and flexible itineraries can turn your Taiwan vacation into a seamless cultural journey. Let’s dive into everything you need to know before booking your perfect Taiwan tour.
By Maggie Ko
A Friendship Across Half a Century: Mr. Nguyen and His Lifelong Friends’ Tea Country Adventure
When we first received the inquiry from Mr. Nguyen, we were pleasantly surprised. While many Vietnamese travelers visiting Taiwan prefer solo travel, Mr. Nguyen was looking to organize a private group tour for 20 people. As we got to know them, we realized this wasn't just a standard tour—it was a celebration of a friendship that has spanned decades.
By Grace Fang
Alishan Tea Culture Journey: Tea Picking, Making, Tasting & Tea Trails
Discover Alishan’s rich tea culture: from the legendary Taiwan Milk Oolong to authentic tea-picking and making experiences. Explore 8 editor-picked tea houses and scenic trails for the ultimate high-mountain tea journey in Taiwan.
By Annie Chen
Is Taroko Gorge Open to Visitors? 2026 Travel Status & Safety Update
Is Taroko Gorge open? Get the latest 2026 travel updates on trail openings, road safety, and accessible areas. Plan your visit with our comprehensive guide to Hualien's iconic national park.
By Maggie Ko
Taiwan First-time Guide for Travelers 2026
Planning your first trip to Taiwan? This Taiwan First-time Guide covers everything beginners need to know, including visas, weather, transportation, food, must-visit attractions, and travel tips. Designed for international travelers visiting Taiwan for the first time, this travel guide summary helps you understand how to get around, what to eat, where to stay, and how to avoid common travel mistakes in one article—saving you time when searching for the information you need.
By Maggie Ko
The Best Taiwan Pineapple Cakes (Taipei)? Discover the Top 5 Pineapple Pastry Brands You Should Try: Chia Te 佳德、新東陽 Hsin Tung Yang、LeeChi 台北犁記、Pans’s Cake 小潘蛋糕坊、Sunnyhills 微熱山丘
Taiwan pineapple cake is one of the most iconic souvenirs among travelers. Brands like Chia Te, Hsin Tung Yang, LeeChi, Pan’s Cake, and Sunnyhills each offer distinctive flavors, ranging from buttery and smooth to tangy and fruit-forward. This guide introduces the best pineapple cakes in Taiwan, explains flavor differences, provides complete store information including addresses, opening hours, and price ranges, and offers insider shopping tips for 2025. Whether you want premium gifts, traditional tastes, or convenient last-minute options, this article helps you choose the perfect pineapple pastry during your trip. We also review transportation choices, MRT access, and traveler-friendly ways to shop efficiently. With extensive on-the-ground experience assisting international visitors, this guide ensures you bring home the most delicious and meaningful Taiwan souvenir.
By Maggie Ko
Our Authors
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Annie Chen
16 articles
Annie, born in Tainan, raised in Kaohsiung, now in Taipei. I’ve explored Taiwan’s main island and plan to visit every offshore isle next.
Grace Fang
11 articles
Grace here! Born in Taipei, based in Yilan, with love for Tainan/Taitung. I explore Taiwan's 368 townships, finding unique cultures for my next journey.
Maggie Ko
18 articles
Maggie, a Taipei local. Lived in Taichung, Tainan, and Kaohsiung, giving me a unique cross-city view. Sharing Taiwan's culture and experiences is where my enthusiasm lies.
RTR Authors
22 articles
The RTR Editorial Team shares Taiwan’s adventures, local experiences and hidden gems with expert, lively storytelling—bringing travelers closer to the island’s unique beauty.