Gear up for adventure in Hatta 

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From spear throwing to yoga retreats, Hatta offers exciting new activities.

By Natasha Dury

Nestled in the heart of the Hajar mountains, Hatta is Dubai’s premier destination for those seeking an adventure-filled retreat away from the urban hustle. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, nature lover, or wellness enthusiast, Hatta offers a wide range of activities and experiences that cater to every kind of traveler.

As the cooler months approach, Hatta Resorts and its famed Wadi Hub are gearing up to launch their seventh season in October, unveiling exciting new activities that promise to elevate the adventure experience. This season introduces three exhilarating additions: spear throwing, a dedicated kids’ zone, and a shooting range. Perfect for visitors of all ages and abilities, these attractions offer something for everyone, whether you’re looking for family-friendly fun or a heart-pumping adrenaline rush.

For those who prefer to take in Hatta’s natural beauty at a more leisurely pace, the Wadi Hub offers plenty of other adventures. Hiking and biking through world-class trails that wind through the mountains are a must for outdoor enthusiasts, while kayaking on the serene Hatta Dam offers a peaceful escape into nature.

A key feature of the Hatta experience is its unique glamping accommodations. This season brings exciting updates, with the introduction of a fleet of Vintage Campers in November, each designed to reflect the distinct charm of Hatta. For those looking for something a little more luxurious, the popular glamping Domes have been upgraded—now each unit comes with its own private pool, adding a touch of exclusivity to your stay.

Hatta isn’t just for adventurers. Wellness enthusiasts can also indulge in tranquil activities like outdoor yoga in dedicated wellness spaces. Practicing yoga against the backdrop of the majestic Hajar mountains, particularly near the Domes at Hatta Resorts, offers an unparalleled way to reconnect with nature and unwind.

No trip to Hatta is complete without indulging in the local flavors. Whether you’re after a quick snack at the Wild Cafe or a hearty meal from food trucks like Sedr Bites, Taste of Hatta, or Damani Bites, the options are varied and delicious. This dining experience allows visitors to directly support Hatta’s community of local entrepreneurs while enjoying freshly made meals in the great outdoors.

For those curious about Hatta’s rich cultural heritage, the area is full of opportunities to explore its historical significance. A visit to the Hatta Heritage Village offers insight into traditional Emirati life, providing a perfect blend of adventure and cultural immersion.

Whether you’re looking for adrenaline-fueled activities, a serene wellness retreat, or a deep dive into local culture, Hatta is the ultimate destination for a rejuvenating getaway in Dubai.

#GTM #GlobalTrendMonitor #Magazine #ExploreHatta #AdventureInHatta #MountainRetreat #OutdoorYoga #HattaWadiHub #HikingDubai #GlampingInHatta #WellnessRetreat #ThrillSeekersParadise #ReconnectWithNature

Sumo Sushi & Bento reveals exciting new flavours and exclusive offers this September

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Sumo Sushi & Bento continues to delight its loyal customers with a fresh array of innovative dishes this September, bringing unique flavours and exciting offers to its diners across the UAE. From delectable sushi rolls to indulgent donburi and refreshing beverages, September promises to be a feast for the senses.

This month’s highlights include the Salmon Shamrock and the Wagyu Beef Donburi, two new offerings that showcase Sumo’s commitment to combining fresh ingredients with bold flavours. The Salmon Shamrock is a sushi lover’s dream, with layers of seared salmon, creamy cheese, green tobiko, and spicy mayo, all wrapped in sushi rice and nori, creating a delightful balance of textures and flavours. 

For those looking for something heartier, the Wagyu Beef Donburi is a standout choice featuring tender Wagyu beef, mushrooms, asparagus, and scallions, all drizzled with rich steak sauce over a bed of rice.

For a refreshing finish, diners can cool off with the Pineapple Breeze, a tropical blend of pineapple, mint, lime, and soda, served chilled with ice—perfect for combating the lingering summer heat.

In celebration of its 24th anniversary, Sumo Sushi & Bento is also offering a special limited-edition Daimyo Box. Available from August 16 to September 30, this curated box showcases a selection of the brand’s best-selling rolls. The Daimyo Box features four signature options—Samurai, Gozen Samurai, Afuro Samurai, and Shimin Samurai, each carefully crafted to reflect Sumo’s rich history and dedication to quality. It’s a culinary tribute to 24 years of excellence, and a must-try for any fan of Japanese cuisine.

For those looking for even more value, Sumo Sushi & Bento’s Happy Hours Combooffers three of the restaurant’s best-selling meals for just AED 99. Available daily from 11 AM to 6 PM, this combo includes appetizers, rolls, and bento or noodle options, ensuring a satisfying meal for any craving. Diners can choose from favorites like Chicken Gyoza, Prawn Tempura, Dynamite Roll, and Chicken Katsu Bento Classic, among many others.

For regular patrons, Sumo Mobile App is a most simple and convenient way to earn loyalty points. Collect Kenji Coins for every order and redeem them for FREE food and drinks (1 AED= 1 Kenji Coin). You can redeem the rewards without any minimum spend. Enjoy!

The special offers are available from 11am to 11pm at all Sumo Sushi & Bento outlets. For Booking, visit https://sumosushibento.com, download the Sumo Sushi App or call 800-7866(SUMO) 

Sumo Sushi & Bento Unveils Irresistible Offers for a Flavorful Summer

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Sumo Sushi & Bento is delighted to announce a series of exciting offers that will elevate your dining experience throughout the month of August. Embrace the flavours of summer with our specially curated menu, featuring a selection of delectable dishes and refreshing drinks designed to tantalize your taste buds.

Monthly Special: Taste a Soulful Journey

Sumo Sushi & Bento highlights the Shimin Samurai, an elite, SAMURAI-inspired deep-fried roll featuring a medley of shrimp tempura, sweet pepper, and kani, topped with creamy avocado, succulent salmon, and the signature teriyaki sauce. Priced at 65 AED, this roll offers a perfect fusion of flavours, textures, and aromas.

The Crispy Prawns are a also must-try for seafood enthusiasts. Lightly coated with salt, pepper, and cornstarch, these golden-fried shrimp are served with honey wasabi mayo sauce and topped with Sakura mix, all for just 42 AED.

Refreshing Summer Drinks: Stay Cool, Stay Fresh

Beat the summer heat with refreshing signature drinks. Enjoy a wide selection, including Nyuto, Radiant Bliss, Sunshine Bliss, Murasaki, andMixed Tropical Berry, among others. For a limited time, purchase five drinks in a single transaction and receive a complimentary item which includes Tempura Combo, Calamari, or Karai Chicken.

This month, guests can also indulge in a Pinacolada, a tropical delight blending blue curacao, pineapple, and vanilla ice cream with ice and sugar syrup, available for only 22 AED. This refreshing treat is the perfect way to cool off this summer.

Triple Delight August Offer: A Feast for the Senses

Get ready for a taste sensation with our Triple Delight offer. Exclusively for Sumo Mobile App customers, buy any three rolls and get one Iced Tea for just 99 AED. Choose from a tempting array of rolls such as California, Sweet Potato Crunch, Crunchy Crazy, and many more.

This exclusive offer is valid for dine-in, pick-up, and delivery from August 1st to 31st and cannot be combined with any other promotions. All promotions are valid while stocks last and cannot be combined with other offers.

Savour these extraordinary deals and immerse yourself in a feast of flavours this August at Sumo Sushi & Bento invites. Grab your chopsticks and join us for a culinary experience you won’t want to miss.

For regular patrons, Sumo Mobile App is a most simple and convenient way to earn loyalty points. Collect Kenji Coins for every order and redeem them for FREE food and drinks (1 AED= 1 Kenji Coin). You can redeem the rewards without any minimum spend. Enjoy!

The special offers are available from 11am to 11pm at all Sumo Sushi & Bento outlets. For Booking, visit https://sumosushibento.com, download the Sumo Sushi App or call 800-7866(SUMO) 

Stay Cool with Sumo Sushi & Bento’s Summer Refreshment Campaign!

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As the summer heat in Dubai reaches its peak, Sumo Sushi & Bento is excited to launch its Summer Refreshment Campaign, offering an array of delicious and trendy beverages to keep you cool.Until August 31st, 2024, diners can indulge in refreshing summer drinks and take advantage of special offers designed to quench their thirst and lift their spirits.

The campaign features five highlight drinks: Nyuto, a creamy blend with a hint of sweetness perfect for a refreshing break; Radiant Bliss, a vibrant, fruity drink that promises to delight your taste buds; Sunshine Bliss, capturing the essence of summer with its bright, citrus-infused flavor; Murasaki, a unique drink combining exotic flavors for a refreshing experience; and Mixed Tropical Berry, offering the taste of summer with a berry-packed refreshment. 

While these limited-time offerings are the stars of the campaign, all menu drinks are included, ensuring there’s something for everyone. To enhance customer engagement and provide added value, Sumo Sushi & Bento is launching two exclusive campaigns on its mobile app. The Bulk Purchase Campaign offers any five drinks for AED 100, with the added bonus of receiving a free item. This offer is perfect for groups or individuals looking to stock up on their favorite refreshments.

The Bounce Back Coupon Campaign rewards customers who purchase five summer drinks during the campaign period with a free item on their next purchase. Upon completing the purchase of five drinks, customers will automatically receive a free item credited to their account, redeemable with their next app purchase. Terms and conditions apply: the offer cannot be combined with any other offer and is available for dine-in and pickup only. To qualify, customers must complete the purchase of five drinks in one transaction.

The free items available for the Bounce Back Coupon Campaign include the Tempura Combo, Calamari, and Karai Chicken, providing delightful options to complement the refreshing summer drinks.

Known for its fresh, innovative, and delectable offerings, Sumo Sushi & Bento continues to delight customers with its diverse menu and exceptional service. This summer, join Sumo Sushi & Bento in celebrating the season with refreshing drinks and special offers, designed to make your dining experience even more enjoyable.

For regular patrons, Sumo Mobile App is a most simple and convenient way to earn loyalty points. Collect Kenji Coins for every order and redeem them for FREE food and drinks (1 AED= 1 Kenji Coin). You can redeem the rewards without any minimum spend. Enjoy!

The special offers are available from 11am to 11pm at all Sumo Sushi & Bento outlets. For Booking, visit https://sumosushibento.com, download the Sumo Sushi App or call 800-7866(SUMO) 

Amadeus, in association with Vistara, conclude successful promotion with travel partners in Oman

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Muscat, Oman: Amadeus, a global leader in travel technology, in association with Vistara, India’s finest full-service carrier and a joint venture of the Tata group and Singapore Airlines, successfully collaborated for a joint promotion to support the travel industry during the typically slow period last Ramadan which boosted travel bookings, saw an overwhelming positive response from travel partners and resulted in healthy flight loads and increased incremental segments.

As part of the promotion, six top-performing travel partners were rewarded with attractive prizes including Apple Watches, Lenovo Tablets, Premium Economy and Economy tickets on Vistara, and shopping vouchers. The incentive was designed to motivate and appreciate the hard work of the travel agencies during this period.

Amadeus, along with Vistara, expressed deep gratitude to their travel partners for their unwavering support. This gesture was met with enthusiasm and appreciation from the travel partners, who reaffirmed their commitment to a long-term partnership with both companies. The collaboration with travel partners has not only bolstered travel bookings has also strengthened relationships with key industry players.

The positive feedback from travel partners underscores the success of the promotion. Among the top-performing travel agencies were Akbar Travels Middle East, Alhashar Travels, Bahwan Tourism LLC, Khimji’s House of Travel, Satguru Travel and Tourism Services and Zahara Travel & Service Bureau LLC.

These agencies demonstrated exceptional sales performance, contributing significantly to the promotion’s success.

Malaysia Showcases Agricultural Prowess in Dubai with MAHA 2024 Business Networking Event

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Centennial Celebration of MAHA promotes Innovation, Sustainability, and Global Networking Opportunities in Agriculture and Agro-tourism.

The Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security Malaysia is intensifying its promotional efforts across the Middle Eastern region. In a bid to highlight Malaysia’s agricultural and food industries, the Malaysian Agriculture Counselor Office in Dubai organised a high-profile business networking event at the prestigious Raffles Hotel Dubai. 

This event aimed to showcase the nation’s agricultural prowess and promote the Ministry’s flagship event, Malaysia Agriculture, Horticulture and Agro-tourism (MAHA) 2024, scheduled from 11 to 23 September 2024. Established in 1923, MAHA has evolved into Southeast Asia’s premier agricultural exhibition, a testament to Malaysia’s rich farming heritage. Celebrating a century of innovation and resilience, MAHA promotes sustainable practices and bridges urban-rural gaps. 

Vice Consul for Agriculture in the Consulate General of Malaysia in Dubai, Mr. Muhd Arif Jauhari, stated, “This year marks the centennial anniversary of MAHA EXPO. For a century, MAHA has been a beacon of agricultural innovation, education, and community engagement. This monumental achievement underscores the profound legacy and impact MAHA has had over the past hundred years, from spearheading agricultural advancements to nurturing community spirit. This year’s theme, ‘Harvesting Tomorrow Where Dreams Blossom,’ underscores our dedication to sustainable agriculture, human capital, technology, agro-tourism, and investment. MAHA 2024 will feature a three-day trade show followed by a nine-day public exhibition, offering educational activities and interactive exhibits.”

“Through its diverse exhibitions and activities, MAHA educates and inspires visitors on the pivotal role of agriculture. As we commemorate its centenary, we reflect on MAHA’s enduring legacy and reaffirm our unwavering commitment to advancing Malaysia’s agricultural sector for future generations.”

MAHA offers businesses and companies an excellent platform to market and promote the latest products and services for trades and engagement with potential buyers and customers. The 2024 edition of the biennial MAHA event aims at promoting agriculture and agro-based industries. This premier agro fair showcases all the different components and the various efforts undertaken by government agencies as well as presenting numerous business opportunities offered by this fast-growing industry. 

Among the many highlights of MAHA 2024 are the ecosystem of agriculture which consists of input suppliers, farming companies, traders, processors, distributors, logistics and consumers, other industry adjacent business, data device and analytics, automation and machinery plus software and technologies that interrelated.

The 2024 edition introduces MAHA Go Global platform which will act as a catalyst for business growth within the agriculture and horticulture sectors, boost exports, and promote innovation. It is also a valuable platform for professionals in the industry to build the network, learn, and explore new business opportunities. During this program, it can offer a wide variety of products and services which can connect with more than 150 exhibitors from all over the world. 

Stakeholders have the chance to be part of MAHA Go Global 2024 and take their business to new heights on this revamped platform, meticulously designed to enhance your agro-food ventures.

MAHA 2024, an outstanding event that has been built on the successes of previous events presents myriad of opportunities for industry players throughout the 11-day event. Participants will not only establish new networking and learn the latest agricultural methods and innovations but also take part in a movement that will propel Malaysia into leading the agricultural revolution taking place around the world. 

Further interest to join in MAHA 2024, prospecting companies and businesses can get in touch with Malaysian Agriculture Counselor Office, Consulate General of Malaysia in Dubai or log on to www.mahaofficial.my.

Tropical Fun Feast and More at Sumo Sushi & Bento

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This July, Sumo Sushi & Bento is set to delight food enthusiasts with its Monthly Special Offer: the Tropical Fun Feast. Available at all Sumo Sushi & Bento outlets, these special menu items are perfect for the summer season, promising to tantalize taste buds with refreshing and flavourful dishes.

First on the menu is the Tofu Teriyaki, featuring crispy tofu tossed in a wholesome sticky teriyaki sauce, topped with sesame seeds and furikake vegetables. This dish is available for just AED 26.

Next, indulge in the Gyoiko Roll, a delectable combination of fresh salmon, cream cheese, and spring onion, topped with seared avocado, mayo, and tobiko. Priced at AED 58, this roll promises an exquisite dining experience.

To complement these dishes, Sumo Sushi & Bento offers the Watermelon Mint drink, a refreshing blend of watermelon and mint, zesty lemon juice, a hint of lime, sweetened with sugar syrup, and fizzed up with soda over ice cubes. This perfect summer drink is available for AED 22. These specials are valid for dine-in, takeaway, and delivery from July 1st to 31st at all Sumo branches.

In addition to the Tropical Fun Feast, Sumo Sushi & Bento is also introducing a Happy Hours Flat 20% OFF promotion. From 5 pm to 11 pm, customers can enjoy a selection of delicious Japanese delights at a 20% discount, available exclusively for delivery via the SUMO Mobile App. 

Selected items include Teriyaki Chicken Bento, Sake Nigiri, Ika Nigiri, Neptune, Twister, Yaki Udon-Mix, Yakisoba, Rock N Roll Shrimp, Karai Chicken, Tempura Supreme Bento, and BBQ Beef Bento. This offer is valid from July 1st to 31st and cannot be combined with any other offers.

Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to savour your favourite Japanese dishes at a discounted price! Join Sumo Sushi & Bento this July for an unforgettable culinary experience with the Tropical Fun Feast and exclusive Happy Hours offer.

For regular patrons, Sumo Mobile App is a most simple and convenient way to earn loyalty points. Collect Kenji Coins for every order and redeem them for FREE food and drinks (1 AED= 1 Kenji Coin). You can redeem the rewards without any minimum spend. Enjoy!

The special offers are available from 11am to 11pm at all Sumo Sushi & Bento outlets. For Booking, visit https://sumosushibento.com, download the Sumo Sushi App or call 800-7866(SUMO) 

Amadeus and Vistara conclude successful promotion with travel partners in Oman.

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Muscat, Oman: Amadeus, a global leader in travel technology and Vistara Airlines successfully collaborated on a joint promotion to support the travel industry during the typically slow period last Ramadan which boosted travel bookings, saw an overwhelming positive response from travel partners and resulted in healthy flight loads and increased incremental segments.

As part of the highest seller incentive, six top-performing travel partners were rewarded with attractive prizes including Apple Watches, Lenovo Tablets, Vistara Premium Economy and Economy tickets, and shopping vouchers. The incentive was designed to motivate and appreciate the hard work of the travel agencies during this period.

Both Vistara and Amadeus expressed their deep gratitude to their travel partners for their unwavering support. This gesture was met with enthusiasm and appreciation from the travel partners, who reaffirmed their commitment to a long-term partnership with both companies. The collaboration with travel partners has not only bolstered travel bookings has also strengthened relationships with key industry players.

The positive feedback from travel partners underscores the success of the promotion. Among the top-performing travel agencies were Akbar Travels Middle East, Alhashar Travels, Bahwan Tourism LLC, Khimji’s House of Travel, Satguru Travel and Tourism Services and Zahara Travel & Service Bureau LLC.

These agencies demonstrated exceptional sales performance, contributing significantly to the promotion’s success.

The Women Worldwide Car of The Year presents the KIA EV9 With The Award for Best Car in the World

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WWCOTY delegation travels to Korea to present KIA with the World’s Best Car award

July. Three jury members of Women’s Worldwide Car of the Year were invited to Korea to present the trophy to Kia for the Kia EV9 winning the 2024 supreme award.

The judges – Shereen Shabnam from UAE, Nicole Wakelin from the USA and Sandy Myhre from New Zealand, presented the trophy to Mr Teckkoun Kim, Head of Kia Design Next Group at the Busan International Mobility Show.

It was clear that winning the award was significant to Kia and Mr Kim commented that the win will help the recognition of the EV9. “It gives another twist to customers when juries like yours recognize the EV9 because you are the experts and you know which EV or vehicle works for the consumer experience,” he said.

WWCOTY delegation was also interviewed for Kia’s official social media channels including YouTube, Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn.  Excerpts from the interview will likely be used in a promotional video collaboration with Bloomberg Media and will be featured on their websites.

The three Women’s Worldwide Car of the Year jury members were also the subject of an extensive television interview by Michael Choo of Kia Brand Communications. The theme of the interview was ‘How Kia EV9 became the supreme winner of the WWCOTY award’.

Sandy Myhre (NZ) gave a short history of the awards and discussed how many jury members there are today.  She emphasised the rigorous process adopted by the voting system and said, in the end, the EV9 was a clear winner for 2024.

Shereen Shabnam (UAE) discussed the various unique design aspects of the EV9 from the lowered hipline which creates better vision from inside the car to the ‘star’ cluster headlights which are another unique feature of the SUV.

Nicole Wakelin (USA) talked about the wheel design which, again, is unique and how the sporty spoke image produces an interesting geometric graphic on the surface of the wheel.

All three judges spoke of the significance of the WWCOTY Award and what it will mean to Kia customers around the world. 

Dynamic and diverse Taipei: A Vibrant Blend of Tradition and Modernity

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Shereen Shabnam

Taipei, the capital of Taiwan, is a dynamic city that seamlessly blends ancient traditions with cutting-edge modernity. From towering skyscrapers to serene temples, bustling night markets to tranquil parks, Taipei offers a rich tapestry of experiences for every traveller. I had ventured into Taiwan for the famous lantern festival, but my journey started with exploring the vibrant parts of Taipei.

My hotel was close to Taipei 101 so naturally this was my first stop. Once the tallest building in the world, Taipei 101 is an architectural marvel. Visitors can take the high-speed elevator to the observation deck on the 89th floor for breath-taking views of the city. The skyscraper also houses a shopping mall with luxury brands and gourmet restaurants.

Next was the Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall. This iconic landmark is dedicated to the former President of the Republic of China, Chiang Kai-Shek. The grand hall, surrounded by beautiful gardens, features a large statue of Chiang and a museum detailing his life and Taiwan’s history.

The National Palace Museum is another information filled attraction. Home to one of the largest collections of Chinese art and artifacts in the world, the National Palace Museum is a must-visit. The extensive collection includes ancient jade, ceramics, calligraphy, and paintings. Taipei also has The Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) and the Taipei Fine Arts Museum to showcase a wide range of contemporary and modern art from Taiwan and around the world.

If you like temples, the Longshan Temple is one of Taipei’s oldest and most famous one and it is a stunning example of traditional Taiwanese architecture. It serves as a spiritual centre for locals and a fascinating cultural site for visitors.

For shopping, there are many options but my guide highly recommends Ximending. Often referred to as the “Harajuku of Taipei,” Ximending is a lively shopping district known for its trendy fashion boutiques, street food, and entertainment options. It’s a popular spot for young people and tourists alike.

The  Taipei 101 Mall is also ideal for luxury shopping, as an upscale shopping center that features high-end international brands, designer boutiques, and fine dining establishments. The Shilin Night Market is also a must as it offers a wide array of goods, from clothing and accessories to electronics and souvenirs. The market is also a foodie paradise with numerous stalls selling delicious street food.

Taipei is a cultural hub with numerous theatres and performance venues. The National Theatre and Concert Hall host a variety of performances, including traditional Chinese opera, modern theatre, and international concerts.

Taipei’s cultural calendar is filled with festivals that celebrate traditional and contemporary culture. The Lantern Festival, Dragon Boat Festival, and the Taipei Film Festival are just a few examples of the city’s vibrant cultural scene.

For dining, a visit to Taipei is incomplete without trying Din Tai Fung’s famous xiaolongbao (soup dumplings). This Michelin-starred restaurant is renowned for its delicate dumplings and other Taiwanese delicacies. Taipei is a haven for street food lovers. Raohe Night Market and Ningxia Night Market are great places to start your culinary adventure. For a taste of traditional Taiwanese cuisine, visit local eateries and restaurants that serve the three-cup chicken and Taiwanese hot pot. These dishes offer a rich and flavourful experience of the island’s culinary heritage.

Taipei is surrounded by natural hot springs. Beitou Hot Spring is the most famous, offering a range of hot spring resorts and public baths to relax and soak in the therapeutic waters. For nature enthusiasts, Taipei offers numerous hiking trails with stunning views like the Elephant Mountain (Xiangshan and Yangmingshan National Park, offering beautiful landscapes and diverse flora and fauna.

Taipei has a rich tea culture, and a visit to a traditional tea house is a must. Maokong, located on the outskirts of the city, is famous for its tea plantations and offers scenic views along with a serene tea-drinking experience.

I left Taipei for the Lantern Festival, a journey into a world of mesmerizing light and cultural wonder. Held annually during the first full moon of the Lunar New Year, the festival transforms the night sky into a tapestry of glowing lanterns, each meticulously crafted and often adorned with intricate designs, carrying wishes and prayers for the coming year. Attending this festival was an unforgettable experience and I returned to Taipei with great memories.

Taipei is a city that captivates with its vibrant blend of old and new. Whether you’re exploring its historic temples, indulging in its diverse culinary scene, shopping in its bustling markets, or enjoying its natural beauty, Taipei promises a memorable and enriching travel experience.