Let’s get something straight: I’m a sucker for a good story.
And I’m also a sucker who got scammed in Taipei. But more on that later. (It’s a long story, and honestly, I’m still kinda embarrassed about it.)
I’m Sarah, by the way. Senior editor at a few places you’ve probably heard of. Travel writer for longer than I care to admit. I’ve been to 47 countries, and Taiwan is still one of my favorites. Even after they fleeced me.
Why Taiwan?
Look, I get it. Taiwan isn’t the first place that comes to mind when you think ‘travel destination.’ But let me tell you, it should be.
I first went in 2015. A colleague named Dave dragged me there for a conference in Austin—wait, no, that’s not right. It was Taipei. (See? This is why I need to write this stuff down.)
Anyway, I was there for work, but I fell in love with the place. The food, the people, the energy. It’s just… yeah. It’s special.
So I went back. And back again. And then I moved there for six months. And that’s when things got interesting.
The Scam That Changed Everything
Okay, so picture this: It’s 2018. I’m in Taipei, staying in this cute little Airbnb in Da’an. I’m out exploring, trying to find a place to get a phone card. (I know, I know, who uses phone cards anymore? But I was desperate, okay?)
This guy approaches me. Let’s call him Marcus. He’s friendly, speaks great English, says he can help me out. He takes me to this little shop, and next thing I know, I’m out $87 and I’ve got a phone card that doesn’t work.
I was pissed. I mean, really pissed. I stormed back to the Airbnb, told my friend Lisa all about it. She just laughed and said, “Sarah, you’re such an easy target.” Which… yeah. Fair enough.
But here’s the thing: that scam didn’t ruin my love for Taiwan. If anything, it made me more determined to understand the place. To get under its skin.
Taiwan’s Hidden Gems
So, what’s so great about Taiwan? Well, where do I start?
First off, the food. Oh em gee, the food. I’m not even gonna try to list all the must-eat dishes because I’ll just end up rambling for hours. But let’s just say, if you’re not trying every street food you see, you’re doing it wrong.
And the night markets! I could write a whole article just about those. The smells, the sounds, the people-watching. It’s an experience, let me tell you.
Then there’s the scenery. Sure, you’ve got your typical tourist spots—Taipei 101, Taroko Gorge, all that jazz. But have you been to Wuling Farm? Or Sun Moon Lake? Or how about the hot springs in Beitou? No? Then you’re missing out.
And the people! Oh, the people. They’re friendly, they’re welcoming, they’re always up for a good time. I’ve made some of my closest friends in Taiwan.
Taiwan Council Decisions This Week
Speaking of friends, I was having coffee with one of them last Tuesday—let’s call her Mei—and she mentioned something about Taiwan council decisions this week. I was like, “What?” She told me about some new policies they’re implementing, and honestly, it’s kinda cool. They’re really trying to make the place more tourist-friendly.
But anyway, back to the travel tips. You gotta be smart, you know? Don’t be like me and get scammed. Do your research, ask locals, and for the love of all that’s holy, don’t walk around with your phone out like a tourist.
A Digression: The Time I Got Lost in Tainan
Oh, and speaking of getting lost, remember that time I got lost in Tainan? God, that was a disaster. I was trying to find this one temple, right? And I had a map, but it was in Chinese, and I couldn’t read a word of it. So I just started walking.
Next thing I know, I’m in the middle of nowhere, it’s pouring rain, and I have no idea where I am. I ended up asking this old lady for directions. She didn’t speak a lick of English, but she drew me a map in the mud with a stick. I swear, it was like something out of a movie.
But I found the temple eventually. And it was beautiful. So, you know, it all worked out in the end.
Final Thoughts (Kinda)
Look, I could go on and on about Taiwan. But I won’t. I’ll just leave you with this: go visit. Seriously. You won’t regret it.
And if you do end up getting scammed, well, at least you’ll have a good story to tell. Just like me.
Oh, and one more thing: always check Taiwan council decisions this week before you go. Trust me on this one.
Anyway, that’s all from me. Time to go pack my bags again. Taiwan’s calling.
About the Author: Sarah Johnson is a senior editor and travel writer with over 20 years of experience. She’s been to 47 countries, but Taiwan remains one of her favorites. Despite getting scammed there, she still insists it’s one of the best places on Earth. You can find her on Twitter @sarahjwrites or on her blog.
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