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balloon
Seeker
Joined: Nov 01, 2006
Posts: 52
Status: Offline
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 Posted:
Nov 08, 2007 - 08:28 AM |
 
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| Post subject: Travelling to Taiwan |
I'm thinking about going in the end of Jan next year... is that a good timing? Also, how easy is it to fly from there from Shanghai? How long does the flight take?? And is it an expensive place?? |
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emerson
Reacher
Joined: May 11, 2007
Posts: 373
Location: Shanghai
Status: Offline
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Nov 08, 2007 - 09:47 AM |
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Weatherwise the timing is fine. Temperatures will be cool--probably a bit warmer than Shanghai--but generally sunny unless in Taipei, where skies can be overcast or hazy for weeks on end.
Timing may be a problem due to the approaching Chinese New Year. I think it falls in the first week of February next year (0 . As such, seats and accomodations are likely to be at a premium just before, during and right after this period. Also, there is NOTHING happening in Taiwan, even Taipei, during much of the New Year holiday. However, 7-11 is always open, so at least you will be able to eat.
As for travel--can't fly directly (some exceptions but probably not applicable to you). Flight takes anywhere from 3 to 5 hours with layovers depending on route. Fastest flight is through S. Korea (via Cheju island--I think). Takes just under 3 hours.
Taiwan is not as cheap as China but you can live very well on the cheap if you are flexible. There are many well-run hostels (private and government sponsored) around the island and an abundance of roadside stands and nightmarkets serving some of the best Chinese food in Asia. I strongly suggest purchasing the Lonely Planet for Taiwan before leaving.
Have fun |
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didarx79
Raver
Joined: Mar 23, 2005
Posts: 412
Location: Shanghai
Status: Offline
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Nov 08, 2007 - 10:51 AM |
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I recently found a deal on www.cebupacificair.com, for less than 2000rmb Shanghai-Taipei roundtrip (not sure of peak travel period though). But it takes a total of around 13 hours, with a 6 hour stopover in Manila. Personally, I wouldn't want to waste the time and energy for that, but it may be interesting for someone who's planning on a low budget trip. |
_________________
6+ years in Shanghai, I can't seem to leave this spoiled pampered lifestyle. |
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winopete
Rocker
Joined: May 12, 2004
Posts: 785
Location: Jiving Jing'An
Status: Offline
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Nov 08, 2007 - 12:36 PM |
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Will you be staying just in Taipei or intend travelling around the island? In Taipei, the bars and clubs will still be open during the week leading up to Chinese New Year, as will main tourist sights such as the Grand Palace Museum. During CNY, there will still be a few western nightlife places open, but tourist sights are likely to be closed. If eating local most of the time, it'll be similar or slightly more expensive than Shanghai; if eating western, it will be cheaper than Shanghai. |
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balloon
Seeker
Joined: Nov 01, 2006
Posts: 52
Status: Offline
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Nov 08, 2007 - 04:17 PM |
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Hey thanks for everyone's help. I'm actually quite flexible with when I'm going there so maybe I'll put it off and wait until after the Chi NY. Sounds a bit complicated to fly there though.. If I have to go via South Korea I assume it will be very expensive?! But the 2000 kuai ticket via Manila sounds like a good option.
I want to travel around the Island. The reason I want to go there is becasue I've heard about the beautiful nature and the hot springs. I'll go and get a lonely planet guide a.s.a.p but it's always fun to hear from people who have been/lived there about what they think. Anything that should not be missed? |
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winopete
Rocker
Joined: May 12, 2004
Posts: 785
Location: Jiving Jing'An
Status: Offline
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Nov 08, 2007 - 04:36 PM |
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The Cebu Pacific tickets are the cheapest, with tickets on Korean Air next cheapest. Not complicated to go there, just means having a plane transfer somewhere, unless you go via Macao on Air Macao.
Best scenery is on the east coast, especially on the SE coast around Taitung. Anyway, check out the Lonely Planet Guide for good information. Maybe also worth visiting the travel forum on www.forumosa.com, the Taipei equivalent of this site. |
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Netswimmer
Talker
Joined: Jan 12, 2006
Posts: 96
Status: Offline
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Nov 08, 2007 - 08:21 PM |
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hey balloon, if you plan to go around the island, you may need at least 7-9 days to visit the main attractions. but travelling cross-island should be easier/faster now with the high speed rail operational.
things/places you shouldn't miss?
1. Taroko Gorge - IMO, the most beautiful place in Taiwan.
2. Snake alley in Taipei - I usually take friends/visitors there (for a dare.) Brave enough for a shot glass of snake blood, snake bile, or snake sperm?
cheers! |
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