Setting Foot in Taipei City
There’s a certain thrill when stepping into a city that pulses with life, and Taipei City, Taiwan, is no exception. As the plane touched down, I could already feel the electric energy of the city awaiting me. This wasn’t just another destination—this was a place brimming with contrasts, where modern skyscrapers and neon lights coexist with ancient temples and street markets. And at the center of it all, an epic concert by the legendary Air Supply awaited me. But before I lost myself in the music, there was so much more to discover.
The City: A Blend of Modern Heights and Cultural Roots
Taipei is a city that strikes a balance between the old and the new. The streets are alive with scooters weaving through traffic, their buzz mingling with the chatter from street vendors selling bubble tea and bao buns. Above, towering over it all, stands Taipei 101, the tallest building in the city, gleaming against the skyline like a beacon. But my journey to see this architectural marvel would involve more than just looking up from the ground—I was about to earn my view.
The Hike: A Different Perspective on Taipei 101
Instead of standing in the shadow of Taipei 101, I decided to experience it from a different angle—a hike up Elephant Mountain. The trail, though steep in places, is short, and rewards you quickly with breathtaking views of the entire city. With each step, the skyscrapers below seemed to shrink, but Taipei 101 remained a steadfast sentinel, rising majestically into the sky. The air was fresh, the city below buzzing, but up there, it felt like time stood still for just a moment.
When I reached the top, I paused to take it all in—the sea of lights stretching out as far as the eye could see, and Taipei 101, glowing like a giant lantern in the twilight. The view was nothing short of magical, a perfect prelude to what was still to come.
Air Supply: A Night to Remember
That evening, the anticipation was palpable as I joined thousands of fans at the concert venue. Air Supply, the iconic duo, took the stage, and for the next few hours, time seemed to blur as their timeless ballads filled the air. There’s something surreal about listening to live music in a foreign city—it’s like the world shrinks and expands at the same time. I wasn’t just an outsider; I was a part of something larger, singing along to the anthems of love and nostalgia that transcended borders. The concert left me buzzing, but the night was far from over.
Exploring the Local Eateries
Post-concert hunger hit, and there’s no better cure for that than diving into Taipei’s legendary street food scene. Wandering the narrow alleyways, I stumbled upon a cozy local eatery, its menu filled with comforting, savory dishes. I went straight for a bowl of beef noodle soup, rich and hearty, with tender chunks of beef swimming in a fragrant broth. The noodles had that perfect chew, and the slight kick of spice warmed me from the inside out. It was one of those meals that felt like a hug from the city itself.
I couldn’t resist grabbing some xiao long bao—those delicate soup dumplings that burst with flavor—and an order of oyster omelet, a local favorite, crispy and tender at once. Each bite was an exploration of flavors, textures, and aromas that only a place like Taipei could offer.
The Nightclubs: Where the City Comes Alive
With my hunger satisfied, it was time to explore a different side of Taipei—the nightlife. The city’s nightclubs are an experience unto themselves, a blend of pulsing music, neon lights, and an atmosphere that makes you feel like the night could last forever. I hit a few popular spots, each with its own vibe. One had a laid-back rooftop bar where I sipped on a cocktail while gazing at Taipei 101, now a glittering jewel in the night. Another had a dance floor that felt like it was moving to the heartbeat of the city itself—music loud, people dancing without a care in the world.
In those moments, surrounded by strangers who felt like instant friends, I was reminded of how travel brings out the adventurer in us. The music, the lights, the laughter—it all blended into an unforgettable whirlwind of experiences..
Reflections on the Journey
As the sun rose on my final day, I took one last look at Taipei 101 from the streets below. This city had given me more than I had expected—breathtaking views, unforgettable music, delicious food, and nights I’ll never forget.
Travel is about more than just seeing new places—it’s about the moments that take your breath away, the people you meet, and the stories you take home. From the heights of Elephant Mountain to the beats of the nightclubs, Taipei had been an adventure in every sense of the word.
And as I left, I knew one thing for sure—this wouldn’t be my last time here.
