When I first travelled to Taipei (Taiwan) I didn’t really know what to expect. I’d like to consider myself quite the Asia expert but I didn’t know which way it was going to go this time. Would it be crazy busy like Shanghai? Or organized like Hong Kong? Or maybe a bit boring like Xiamen? And of course the second question I always ask: ‘what can one buy over there?’ Well, ever since my first visit (now a few years back) Taipei is definitely high up on the ‘fave destinations list’. It’s a super cool city, the people are very friendly, it’s a great place for foodies (how do award winning dim sums sound to you?), awesome nightlife and your go to place for hipster hangouts (that’s if you don’t get lost..like me..). Why change a winning team so whenever I’m in Taipei you’ll probably find me wandering around Da’an district. Want to take a walk with me?
First stop: VVG Something, a must visit if you are a bookstore nerd like me. Your go-to place for anything hipster, foreign books, brass scissors and even vintage kitchenware. No. 13, Alley 40, Lane 181, Section 4, Zhongxiao East Rd, Da’an District.
You’ll find VVG’s front porch and iconic red bike all over Instagram. #instafamous #vvgsomething
When you’re done browsing for cool stuff just step across the street and have a hipster lunch at VVG’s café. I mean, how cool is that pink fridge?
This just in! Açai bowls in Taipei! Founded by a couple of friends from Korea that turned a former juice bar into Taipei’s first (and very successful) açai café. These superfood bowls are made with love and the utmost precision. And you get a discount if you follow them on Instagram #like. Purplehood No. 8, Lane 169, Section 1, Dunhua S Rd, Da’an District
The Kitty Family.
And another reason I love to visit this neighborhood, Korean style boutiques! As you might have read in other posts I’m a huge fan of these stores. You’ll always find that one special item for any occasion. These boutiques can be found throughout the district.
Mini’s are always a good idea! <3
Love anything with grilled cheese.. And this panini place never fails, Toasteria café (just around the corner from Purplehood). I always have the rose tea and the panini with grilled MED salmon, capers, onion, melted feta cheese and tomato, yum. Oh and the fresh hummus is so delish. No. 3, Lane 169, Section 1, Dunhua S Rd
What Starbucks? How about this ‘cool’ hotspot for coffee and wifi? It’s like sitting in very cosy living room except with a very friendly staff. Make sure you try the green tea latte (#fave) delicious blueberry cheesecake. Purr’s Café, No. 29, Lane 161, Section 1, Dunhua S Rd.
Never leave home without it.. a fully charged phone and a downloaded city guide app. Despite all of this I still managed to get lost..’Taxi!!’
The city that never sleeps. No need to go back to your hotel room after the shops close. Just continue to shop at one of the many night markets. Looking for cool sneakers? Visit Ximen (total Tokyo vibe going on there). Forget about award winning restaurants! The first thing I do post flight is run to the nearest street food market and get me two of these yummy onion pancakes! I always have the one with egg, basil and lots of hot sauce.
Peace out Taipei! You’ve been good to me.
xx Mishanou
