Things to do in Taipei

Enjoy the calm of the water in a kayak

Escape the hubbub of the city and head south of Taipei to Bintan. Fed by the Xindian River, this is a popular scenic spot, whose pedestrian bridge commands great views of the river below and mountains behind. For a change of perspective, visitors can hire kayaks and paddle the waters below.

Hike over an elephant

Outdoor enthusiasts looking to lace up their hiking boots are well served in Taipei. Flanking the city are four beasts: Elephant, Tiger, Lion and Leopard - mountains that offer a fantastic challenge for walkers. Tackle Elephant, whose mix of concrete trail and steeper rope-assisted steps peak with unmissable cityscape views.

Make for the breaks at Jinshan

The breaks may not give Hawaii a run for its money but that hasn't stopped surfing from gaining popularity in Taiwan. Locals head to Jinshan, less than an hour's drive north east of the city. Waves here are consistent and rentals available: ideal for beginners just wanting to find their feet.

Relax in Taiwan's Hell Valley

Thanks to Taiwan's tectonic location, the country boasts some excellent hot springs that, under Japanese rule, were developed into onsen-style spas. Beitou Hot Spring (tel: +886 2 2874 7979; www.taipeinavi.com) is one of the most popular in Taipei; unwind in the warm volcanic waters before exploring the nearby Hell Valley, up from which bellows sulphuric steam.

Ride the Maokong Gondola

If you suffer from a fear of heights, the Maokong Gondola (tel: +886 2 218 12345; http://english.gondola.taipei) may not be for you. Taipei's cable car runs from Maokong to the Taipei zoo and offers great views of the city. It is during January's apricot blossom season that the lift system really blooms - especially from a glass bottom car.

A digital image at https://illuminoto.com

City Highlight: Taipei

You'll find different sides to Taiwan's capital: crowded, chaotic, but also laid-back and welcoming.

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Featured Hotels

The Grand Hotel

Brighton's most famous hotel, and one of the only 5-star establishments in the city, the The Grand’s elegant Victorian building enjoys a central seafront position. This extensive hotel has more than 200 lavishly appointed rooms, and offers a stylish and luxurious base from which to explore the city. Its afternoon teas are world famous too.

Yomi Hotel

Set in the lively Shuanglian neighbourhood (and four minutes' walk from the MRT station), this budget hotel offers a raft of freebies: bicycle use, Wi-Fi device, bottled water and snacks, plus breakfast and use of a washer/dryer. Rooms are simple and minimalist but have flat-screen TVs, and there's a 24-hour convenience store next door.

Ximen Relite Hotel

The price is a bargain for Taipei, considering its close proximity to Taipei Central MRT/ train station and Ximending shopping district. The rooms are nothing special, but staff are friendly and Wi-Fi is free. Complimentary breakfast is served in a rooftop cafe.

Dong Wu Hotel

While the decor may be somewhat old-fashioned, the rooms at this modest hotel are a decent size, and are furnished with flat-screen TVs and tea and coffeemaking equipment. Complimentary breakfast is served in the cafe downstairs, and there's a small convenience store next door.

The United Hotel

Although somewhat in need of an upgrade, this hotel in the commercial centre is a solid mid-range choice. Perks include an airport limo service and business and fitness centres, and there's a downstairs cafe and a Cantonese restaurant.

Shangri-La Far Eastern Plaza

Imposing, but calm, and consistently voted as one of the best hotels in Taipei, the Shangri-La has all you need for a great stay, including a heated rooftop pool, a sauna and a spa. Restaurant choices include Japanese, Cantonese and Italian, and a cocktail bar with dazzling skyline views.

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