< Previous98 Text by Natasha P 'Easy to move around, enjoyable shopping, and lots of excellent food' are the keys that lure people back to Taiwan since they can travel independently without relying on a tour operator, even if they do not understand Chinese or English fluently. Commuting within Taiwan is relatively simple, albeit there are many metro lines to choose from. The cherry on top is that most of the must-see attractions are linked to it, particularly in megacities such as Taipei, Kaohsiung, and Tainan. Taiwan offers the ultimate shopping frenzy, and shopaholics who prefer Japan or Hong Kong may change their thoughts. Ximending is the most popular shopping destination, while Gongguan offers reasonably priced brand-name goods. Shida Night Market, located near National Taiwan University and TAIWAN NEXT DESTINATION National Taiwan Normal University, is also open at dusk and offers trendy clothing and apparel, as well as adorable gift shops and affordable street cuisine to suit every taste. The Shilin Night Market, which is the most well-known of its genres and includes both a food zone and a retail zone, is a must-see for everyone on any travel itinerary. However, Raohe Night Market, the oldest and about one kilometre away, is well worth a visit for its renowned steamed bun that won Michelin's Bib Gourmand, oyster omelette, steamed marinated pork, oyster on noodle, stinky tofu, and Luwei, Taiwan's indigenous food. Biking down the Tamsui River, which was once the city's main port, means seeing the green park, visiting the night market where the sun sets over the tranquil water surface, and perusing the riverside food stalls. Although Taiwan is good to travel all year round, don't forget to visit Taiwan near the end of the year and during the countdown because countdown fireworks are organised every year. For a full view of the fireworks, be sure to follow Taiwanese to Xiangshan which one of the best spots to soak in the firework where one needs to walk up the hill to reserve the spot since late afternoon and to risk whether the sky would be clear enough or not. Another spot is the Rainbow Riverside Park which is the same place with the Raohe Night Market that is best for those who would like to explore gastronomic part of Taiwan while experiencing the fireworks. There’s also Song Shan Fu De Temple nearby to worship for the prosperous new year. There are also Sun Yat Sen Memorial Hall that is a perfect span to witness the magnificent fireworks but tend to be a little crowded at times and the Songshou Square Park which is another place with best view towards the happening sky in a park ambience.Next >