Kelly Chang Returns to Taiwan for Love, Family, and Unforgettable Flavors
At a Glance
On my extended stay in Taipei, I discovered the city is remarkably walkable with excellent metro access, perfect for food exploration and spontaneous discovery. I experienced Shin Yeh's buffet at Taipei 101, attended a traditional tea ceremony in Alishan, and explored night markets like Raohe. The city rivals Tokyo's efficiency while offering its own unique charm.
Taiwan has always been home. I was born in Gaoxiong in the south, and though I now live in the States, I return every year to reconnect with family, familiar streets, and the flavors that shaped me. But this trip was different. I had just gotten married, and since not all of my Taiwanese relatives could fly to the US for our celebration, my husband and I decided to bring the celebration to them. We wanted to honor both of our families the traditional way.
My husband is also Taiwanese, from Taipei in the north. So for two weeks, we moved between our two worlds, celebrating with loved ones, eating our way through the country, and discovering corners of Taiwan I had somehow missed despite visiting every year.
Taipei Through New Eyes
Because I usually stay with my family in the south, I had never spent extended time in Taipei. This trip changed that. Staying with my husband's family, I finally understood why people fall so hard for this city. What surprised me most was how effortlessly walkable everything is. Step out of any metro station and you are surrounded by incredible food, from steaming bowls of beef noodle soup to freshly made scallion pancakes. The metro itself runs every three minutes, making the entire city feel accessible without ever feeling rushed.
One afternoon, while my husband worked, I wandered solo through the city. I ended up at Raohe Night Market, which quickly became my favorite of all the night markets I have visited over the years. The pathway stretched endlessly, lined with vendors serving dishes I had never tried. The lines were long, a sure sign of quality, and I happily waited alongside locals for each bite.
The meal I keep telling everyone about, though, happened at Taipei 101. We ate at a buffet called A Joy, located inside one of the tallest buildings in the world. For around $100 to $120 per person, we experienced the best of the best: fresh seafood, delicate Taiwanese specialties, and impeccable service. The catch? You need to book two months in advance. I always recommend this to friends heading to Taiwan now.
Into the Mountains
Beyond the city, we traveled to Alishan, the mountain region famous for high mountain oolong teas. This was my first time visiting with my family, and it left a lasting impression. Walking through the tea farm, I stumbled upon a tiny tea shop that you will never find on Google or TikTok. We sat for a traditional tea ceremony, learning about the painstaking process behind each leaf, tasting the difference that altitude and craftsmanship make. The tea here tastes nothing like what we get in the States. It is fresh, fragrant, and speaks of the land it comes from.
This is what I love about traveling with local knowledge. You can plan certain reservations and experiences in advance, but the most unforgettable moments often come from simply asking locals where they go, what they eat, where they find peace. Speaking Chinese helps, but even without it, the hospitality in Taiwan is extraordinary. People genuinely want to share their culture with visitors.
Who Would Love Taiwan
I brought two of my best friends on this trip, my bridesmaids who had never been to Asia. They are Mexican American, and they absolutely loved it. Taiwan is perfect for food lovers, curious explorers, and anyone who appreciates a city that feels vibrant without being chaotic. It is more relaxed than Tokyo but just as rewarding. If you have enjoyed Korea or Japan, Taiwan will charm you with its own distinct personality.
For travelers who struggle with lots of walking or have severe seafood allergies, I would suggest planning carefully, though there are always alternatives. The transportation is so convenient that mobility concerns are manageable with the right itinerary.
Now that I have experienced Taiwan through both the lens of a returning local and a newlywed celebrating with family, I understand this place on a deeper level. I know which reservations to book months ahead, which night markets deliver the best experience, and how to balance city exploration with mountain escapes. Taiwan will always hold a special place in my heart, and I cannot wait to help my clients discover why.