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.
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.
Maggie Ko
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.
Maggie Ko
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.
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.
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.
Maggie Ko
How to Hike Elephant Mountain (Xiangshan) for the Best Taipei 101 Views: Routes, Hiking Tips and Insider Advice
How to Hike Elephant Mountain (Xiangshan) is one of the most common questions among travelers visiting Taiwan, especially those exploring Taipei for a couple of days. Located in Xinyi District near Taipei 101, Elephant Mountain Taiwan offers spectacular cityscape views, easy transportation access through the Taipei MRT Red Line, and a short yet rewarding stair-based trail suitable for travelers of all ages. This complete guide explains everything you need to know: hiking difficulty, best viewpoints, sunset tips, the Four Beasts Mountains network, photography spots, nearby attractions like Din Tai Fung and Four Four South Village, and transportation options including MRT, taxi, and tripool private car service for families or groups. Whether you want to capture iconic skyline photos, enjoy a nature escape minutes from downtown Taipei, or simply understand how steep the trail is before you go, this article provides clear, expert insights based on firsthand experience from the Round Taiwan Round editorial team. With detailed instructions, maps, and some helpful FAQs, this guide helps you plan the perfect Elephant Mountain Taiwan visit.
Maggie Ko
Best time to visit Taiwan? Discover the Perfect Month for Every Traveler
Planning your trip but wondering when is the best month to go to taiwan? This comprehensive guide reveals everything you need to know—from cherry blossom season and typhoon months to budget-friendly travel windows and unmissable local festivals. Discover which months offer the best weather, lowest prices, and most authentic experiences in cities like Taipei, Taichung, and Tainan. Whether you love hiking, beaches, or culture, discover when to plan your visit for the most rewarding Taiwan travel experience.
Maggie Ko
Taiwan Hotels & Accommodations: Your 2026 Insider Guide to Booking, Staying and Getting Around
When planning your stay in Taiwan, whether for a business trip in Taipei, a culture‑rich escape in Tainan, or a nature‑filled adventure in Hualien or Yilan, getting accommodation right makes all the difference. Whether you’re a solo backpacker, a family on vacation, or a couple chasing romantic getaways, this guide will show you where to stay in Taiwan, how to choose the right neighborhood, average prices, top-rated local favorites, and insider transportation tips. Written by Round Taiwan Round (RTR), Taiwan’s trusted local travel expert, this guide helps you find the best taiwan hotels and to plan a seamless journey from check-in to check-out.
Maggie Ko
Taiwan Map: A Complete Guide to Regions, Cities, and Must-Visit Spots
Planning your next trip to Taiwan? This detailed Taiwan map guide helps you explore the island’s most fascinating regions—from Taipei’s bustling city life to Taitung’s serene coastline. Discover how Taiwan’s geography shapes its diverse culture, cuisine, and nature, and learn the most efficient routes between attractions using high-speed rail, local trains, or tripool private transfers. Explore northern cultural hubs like Taipei and Jiufen, central mountain escapes like Sun Moon Lake, and southern beach getaways like Kenting. This comprehensive map-based overview will help you plan smarter and travel deeper across Taiwan.
Maggie Ko
Exploring Taiwan by Taiwan High Speed Rail–The Ultimate Traveler’s Guide for Seeing Taiwan’s Best Cities
The Taiwan High Speed Rail (THSR) is the backbone of modern travel in Taiwan, linking north to south with speed, comfort, and reliability in just two hours. This detailed guide covers ticketing, seat classes, travel times, and how to make the most of each destination along the line. Perfect for international travelers seeking convenience, it’s your go-to resource for navigating Taiwan’s most efficient transportation system.
Maggie Ko
Taiwan Typhoon Season Travel Guide: When to Go, What to Expect, and Safety Tips
Planning a trip to Taiwan during typhoon season? Between June and October, powerful storms occasionally sweep through the island, bringing strong winds and heavy rain. In this comprehensive Taiwan typhoon guide, RTR explains how to stay informed, travel safely, and make the most of your visit—even during stormy weather. From understanding local alerts to choosing the best transport options, here’s everything you need to know before, during, and after a typhoon in Taiwan.
Maggie Ko
Taiwan Arrival Card and Taiwan Visa Requirements 2026: Everything You Must Know Before You Travel
Planning a trip to Taiwan in 2026? Learn the latest updates on the Taiwan arrival card, visa-free entry, and online application process before you travel. This in-depth guide explains who needs a visa to enter Taiwan, how to complete the arrival card online, and what documents to prepare for smooth immigration clearance at Taoyuan, Kaohsiung, or Taipei Songshan airports. From online registration to customs clearance tips, here’s how to enter Taiwan without hassle—whether you’re visiting for tourism, business, or a short layover.
Maggie Ko
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Annie Chen
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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
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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.
RTR Authors
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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.