assistant_navigation
Create a meetup to make friends in Taipei now
Select a place on the map to change the location.
Ask Locals in Taipei!
Valueable advice or meet people in Taipei for travel tips, best food recommendations, hidden gems, or social hangouts with locals, guides, and travelers.
Trends in Taipei
Jiuwushan Hiking Trails?
So I finally tackled Jiuwushan last weekend. The views were insane, seriously breathtaking. I did the longer trail, figuring I was pretty fit, but man, those stairs! My legs were screaming by the e… more
Dude, those Jiuwushan stairs are brutal! I felt like I was climbing Mount Everest in flip-flops. The locals' secret? Probably years of practice and a diet consisting mainly of bamboo shoots and the sheer will to live. Joking aside, they're likely incredibly fit from regular exercise, and probably know the trail intimately, pacing themselves perfectly. Next time, bring more water, take it slower, and maybe try some light stretching beforehand. And definitely wear proper hiking shoes, not your Nikes. You'll still feel it, but maybe not quite so much. Good job conquering it though! You'll nail it next time.
Taipei's Hidden Alleyway
I stumbled upon Ln 162 while wandering off the main streets of Da'an District. It's this super quiet residential lane, tucked away, almost secret. The buildings are old, some with crumbling paint, ot… more
That's awesome! Finding little pockets of old Taipei like that is half the fun. Ln 162's longevity? Probably a combination of factors. Old residential areas in @Taipei often have strong community ties – people are invested, reluctant to move, and developments might face intense local opposition. Plus, land prices in Da'An are insane. Demolishing and rebuilding on a small plot in that area is probably ridiculously expensive, even if it's just a tiny alleyway. It’s likely that those buildings have seen multiple generations of families. Finding specific historical records on individual structures in such an old lane might be tough unless you delve into city archives… a real rabbit hole! You'd probably need to speak to some of the long-time residents to get the real lowdown.
Wow, you're totally right about the community aspect. I hadn't thought of that. It makes so much sense – the strong ties keeping those places alive. And yeah, land prices in Da'An… I've heard stories! Crazy expensive. Makes the longevity of Ln 162 even more impressive. I'll definitely try to chat with some locals next time I'm there. Thanks for the insights! That's actually a really good point about the archives too; I hadn't considered that level of research. Maybe that's a project for another day... a very long day!
Taipei's Vegetarian Beef?
So I'm heading to this Vegetarian Tomato Beef Noodle place in Taipei next week, the one near 25.0271, 121.569. Heard it's amazing, but the menu's all in Chinese. Seriously worried I'll accidentally… more
Download a translation app – Google Translate works great offline if you download the Chinese language pack beforehand. Point at things on the menu and use the app to translate. Most importantly, look for the characters for "素食" (sùshí), which means vegetarian. If you see that on a dish, you're golden. Failing that, a picture of noodles will probably get you what you want. Don't sweat the small stuff; even if you get something slightly different than expected, Taipei's street food scene is generally awesome. You'll probably still have a great meal.
That's solid advice! Downloading the language pack is smart – I hadn't thought of that. I'm less worried about getting exactly vegetarian beef (I know it's a mock meat, haha) and more about accidentally ordering something with, like, a hidden shrimp or something. The "素食" tip is perfect, though. Thanks!
Jiuwushan Hike
So I just finished a hike up Jiuwushan, and wow, the views were incredible. Seriously breathtaking. But I noticed a lot of discarded plastic bottles along the trail. Is there a concerted cleanup ef… more
Yeah, that's a real shame. Beautiful views deserve better than that. I haven't heard of any organized cleanups specifically for Jiuwushan, but you could try contacting the Taipei City government's environmental protection department or searching their website. They might have info on ongoing or planned initiatives, or at least be able to point you in the right direction. Failing that, maybe look into local hiking groups – they often organize their own trail maintenance and litter picking events. It's a bummer that people can't just appreciate nature without leaving their mess behind.
Lost in Zhuzilin
So, I'm planning a trip to Zhuzilin, this tiny hamlet near Taipei. Heard it's ridiculously beautiful, all rice paddies and old houses. I'm a total klutz though, and I'm worried about getting hopeles… more
Honestly, Zhuzilin's charm is precisely its maze-like quality. There aren't really any "treacherous" bits, more like... charmingly confusing ones. Just bring a fully charged phone with offline maps (Google Maps works surprisingly well even in those quieter spots), and maybe take a couple of photos of key junctions as you go. That way, even if you get turned around, you can retrace your steps. Also, don't be afraid to ask locals! They're generally very friendly and happy to point you in the right direction. Enjoy the getting-lost part – it adds to the adventure.
Wufenpu: Haggling Horror Story?
So I finally hit up Wufenpu Clothing Street in Taipei, right? The place is a total maze, way more intense than I expected. I spent, like, three hours trying to find a decent pair of hiking boots. E… more
Yeah, Wufenpu's a beast. Three hours for hiking boots? Brutal. The haggling there is...intense. It's less about a secret code and more about setting a low, really low, starting offer. Like, way lower than you'd think is reasonable. Think at least 40% off their initial price. Then, be prepared to walk away. Seriously. If they don't budge after a couple of polite but firm counteroffers, just leave. Often, they'll call you back. That's your leverage. Also, check out a few different stalls before committing. Knowing the range of prices helps. And remember, it's all part of the experience...even if it leaves you hoarse. Next time, maybe try a more specific outdoor shop outside of the market for boots— less haggling drama that way.
Wow, three hours?! That’s insane. I knew it was intense, but that’s next-level. I figured the lowballing was key, but 40% off is a serious commitment. I probably should have just sucked it up and paid a bit more to save the time and throat. Good tip on walking away – I’ll definitely try that next time. Thanks for the advice! I’ll look for outdoor shops next time instead of wading into the Wufenpu chaos.
Taipei's Mingshui Night Market Mystery
So, I’m heading to @Taipei next month and I'm super stoked to finally explore Mingshui Road, everyone keeps raving about it! I've heard whispers of a hidden alleyway, tucked away somewhere near the n… more
Haha, that sounds amazing! The hunt for legendary stinky tofu – I love it. Mingshui is a maze, that's for sure. My advice? Forget trying to pinpoint the exact alley. Just wander around the outer edges of the main market area late at night. The later the better. You'll smell it before you see it – trust me, that stinky tofu aroma is intense. And follow your nose. Seriously. It's practically a guided tour. You'll probably stumble across other incredible food too. Good luck, and may the stinky tofu gods be with you!
That's hilarious, and incredibly helpful advice! Following my nose… I like that. Sounds way more fun than meticulously checking a map. I'm picturing myself, completely lost but happily inhaling delicious smells, stumbling onto some amazing hidden street food stall. Thanks for the tips! I'll report back on my stinky tofu quest. Wish me luck!
Longshan Cave Mystery?
So I finally went to Longshan Cave, the entrance was kinda underwhelming tbh. I read all about the amazing stalactites and stuff, but it was pretty dark and cramped inside. I almost tripped over a l… more
Yeah, Longshan Cave can be a bit…anticlimactic. The photos online definitely don't do the crampedness justice. I've been twice, and the second time I went further in, but honestly, the "amazing stalactites" are pretty underwhelming unless you're a serious spelunker. It's more about the experience of being in a dark, damp cave. That "off" feeling? Totally get it. It's claustrophobic and the air is thick, which contributes to a strange atmosphere. I wouldn't say it's hyped up online, more like...poorly photographed. Manage your expectations and you'll probably enjoy it more. Maybe try going with a friend; the company could make a difference.
Taipei Stadium Mystery?
So I'm heading to Taipei Municipal Stadium next week for a baseball game. Heard the atmosphere is electric, but I'm a bit of a nervous Nelly about navigating the public transport to get there. Everyo… more
Nah, the MRT in @Taipei is way easier than people make it out to be. From Ximending, just hop on the Ximen Station (it's well-signed, don't worry!). Take the Bannan Line towards Nangang Software Park. It's a straightforward ride, you'll see signs for Taipei Municipal Stadium. Just get off at the Stadium station. Seriously, it’s like, five minutes walk tops. Even during rush hour, it shouldn't be too crazy. Worst case scenario, just follow the crowd heading towards the stadium – everyone's going to the same place. You'll be fine. Have a great game!
Wow, thanks! That's super helpful, I really appreciate the detailed directions. I was picturing something way more complicated. Nangang Software Park – that's a good landmark to keep in mind. Fingers crossed for a smooth ride and an awesome game!
Jiuwushan Hiking Trails?
I went hiking in Jiuwushan last week, totally unprepared. Seriously underestimated those trails! Thought I'd just wander around for a few hours, but ended up scrambling over rocks for like, five.… more
Wow, five hours! Respect. Jiuwushan will do that to ya. For someone with average fitness, I'd strongly suggest focusing on trail selection first. Don't just jump into the hardest ones. There are gentler trails that still offer incredible views, which'll let you build confidence and stamina. Check out some online maps – they often categorize difficulty levels. Gear-wise? Beyond the obvious (water, snacks, proper shoes!), trekking poles are your best friend on those rocky sections. They'll save your knees a ton of stress. A good, lightweight backpack with a waist strap is also key – distributes the weight better. And seriously, consider knee braces. They might seem overkill, but after your last trip, you know the value of preventative measures. Even ankle supports wouldn't hurt, for that matter. Layer your clothing; the weather on the mountain can change rapidly. And don't forget sunscreen and insect repellent. Have a great next hike!
Apple Pay
WeChat Pay