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Taking the High-Speed Train in Italy: Between Rome and Milan
Traveling between Rome and Milan is one of the most popular train journeys in Italy, and taking the Frecciarossa, Italy’s high-speed train, is in my opinion the best way to travel between the two cities. The journey with the high-speed train in Italy between Rome and Milan is just a few hours and offers speed, comfort, and convenience without the stress of flying or driving yourself. I wrote this post to help you travel within Italy using the high-speed train. I’ll go over how we purchased train tickets, how to navigate the stations, and what to expect on Italy’s high-speed trains between Rome and Milan. ** This post contains affiliate links. If you click on one of the links or widgets throughout the page, whether it be Viator, Booking.com, Agoda, or any other affiliate, I might receive commission at no extra cost to you. For more information, you can visit my affiliate link page here. Thanks for the support! Booking Tickets for the High-Speed Train in Italy There are two websites that are most popular to book tickets, they are ItaliaRail and italotreno. Personally, I found the ItaliaRail website to be much more user friendly and easier to navigate. When accessing the ItaliaRail website, you can search for train tickets by entering in your From and To locations, number of passengers, and date. You can filter by the classes (2nd Class, Premium, 1st Class, etc.) and Features (High-Speed Direct, Overnight, etc.). Afterwards, you can choose the best time that works for your travel schedule. For my personal trip between Rome and Milan, the travel time was around 3 hours on the Frecciarossa. You can then choose your class, flexibility, enter in your passenger details, select your seat, before purchasing tickets. Once the tickets are purchased, IntraRail will send a confirmation email with the train tickets information and e-Tickets with a QR Code. Why Take the Frecciarossa High-Speed Train in Italy Taking the Frecciarossa high-speed train in Italy is by far one of the most efficient, relaxing, and enjoyable ways to travel within Italy and between major cities like Rome and Milan. The Frecciarossa can reach speeds of up to 300 km/h and has an extensive network that connects to major cities and towns throughout Italy. If you are traveling within Italy, taking the high-speed rail is much more convenient and cheaper then flying and more relaxing then driving a car. The cabins are modern, the seats are comfortable, and there is Wi-Fi on board. The Frecciarossa high-speed rail offers a smooth, reliable, and stress-free travel experience. It’s the perfect mode of transportation in Italy to save time, avoid traffic, and just relax and look out the window at the Italian countryside, stress free. Rome to Milan by Frecciarossa: Our Experience Our Italy itinerary included a week in Rome and another week in northern Italy to include Milan. We booked our train-tickets from Rome to Milan then Milan back to Rome, a few months before our trip to Italy via the ItaliaRail website. Based on the length of the train ride (around 3-hours) from Rome to Milan and the price we decided to purchase 1st class tickets. Honestly, it was only about $100 extra, so well worth it. Honestly, the most and only frustrating aspect of our journey was at the beginning of our trip at the Rome Main Train Station (Roma Termini). We arrived at the train station early and could not figure out which platform our train was on. Of course, no one was very helpful, even the information staff wasn’t much help. We found out, there are electronic signs placed throughout the gates that update with the train number and platform about 15-20 minutes before the train arrival. So, it’s actually pointless to arrive at the Roma Termini early. When we finally boarded the Frecciarossa we had a train cart practically to ourselves. The first-class cabin was spacious, quiet, comfortable, and there was even a small meal service. The seats were spacious, comfortable, and reclined. There was an outlet at each chair, we were able to charge all our devices. There was a complimentary food and drink service in first-class. It included a sandwich, coffee, and water. Overall, I felt the high-speed Frecciarossa in Italy was an amazing journey, I highly recommend booking 1st class. It was such a relaxing journey. I can’t wait to explore more of Italy by train. Frecciarossa First Class: Is it Worth it and What to Expect The 1st class experience on Italy’s high-speed train, the Frecciarossa is well worth the extra cost. It’s not as expensive as booking first class on an airline, in fact it’s quite affordable. In my opinion, first-class on Italy’s high-speed train is 100% worth it. It’s worth spending a little more for extra comfort and being able to relax the entire journey. Expect comfort, decent service, and of course Wi-Fi on board. In 1st class, there is assigned seats and the environment is quieter, less crowded, and more peaceful. Travel Tips for Taking the High-Speed Trains in Italy For someone who took rode on the trains in Italy for the very first time, I made mistakes. So that you can learn from my mistakes and have a smoother ride, here are some travel tips for taking Italy’s high-speed train. ✅ Book your train tickets early. You might get a better deal on your train ticket. ✅ Don’t arrive at the train station to early, especially at Roma Termini. ✅ Do pay attention to how long security lines and crowds are though at Roma Termini or Milan Main Station. We had to run a bit to our gate in Milan, mainly because it was late at night and the only open gate was a few platforms away. ✅Choose the right class for your trip. We went with 1st class just to experience it and relax. But price out the classes to see what is right for you. ✅ There was plenty of luggage storage on board the Frecciarossa. ✅ There is Wi-Fi on board the Frecciarossa. ✅ The bathrooms on board the Frecciarossa were as expected. They were spacious and clean. ✅ Power Sockets and USB Ports were also included with every seat/table. ✅Choose a window seat if possible. The scenery between Rome and Milan was beautiful. Conclusion Prior to our trip to Italy, we were unaware of how easy, convenient, and quick the high-speed train was. Taking the Frecciarossa between Rome and Milan was easily the best way to travel between the two cities. Booking train tickets through the IntraRail website was easy and in my opinion cheap for what you get. I was surprised by the first class cabins and thoroughly enjoyed the journey throughout Italy on the Frecciarossa high-speed rail. Think about this, with so much to see and do in Italy, why waste your time navigating around taking the long route to get somewhere, when you could just hop on the Frecciarossa train and maximize your sightseeing opportunities in places like Rome. Enjoying my photos and want to see more? Check out my Picfair Store. 📸 Plan Your Trip: 🗺 ✈️ 🇮🇹 Booking Accommodations ⛺️ 🛖 For booking recommendations on the best deals and locations, check out Agoda or Booking.com Activities and Tours 🏖 🚁 Find fun activities and things to do through Tripadvisor. If you are looking for tours and day trips, Viator and Get Your Guide have a lot of great options. In need of a car rental? 🚗 🚘 I recommend checking with Rental Cars.
AirAsia Review: My Honest Experience Flying Asia’s Budget Airline
AirAsia is one of the most popular budget airlines to fly throughout Asia. AirAsia is known for its low fares and extensive network across Southeast Asia and beyond. After flying AirAsia on multiple routes around Southeast Asia, I want to share my honest AirAsia review covering everything from online booking to expectations. If you are planning your trip around Asia and wondering what it’s like flying AirAsia or if it’s even worth it, I hope my AirAsia review proves to be useful! Safe Travels! ** This post contains affiliate links. If you click on one of the links or widgets throughout the page, whether it be Viator, Booking.com, Agoda, or any other affiliate, I might receive commission at no extra cost to you. For more information, you can visit my affiliate link page here. Thanks for the support! ** As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Summary About AirAsia: AirAsia is a low-budget multinational airline that was established in Malaysia. Today, AirAsia serves flights to more then 160 cities covering 25 countries. AirAsia is a certified 3-Star Airline. Why Fly AirAsia: Ultra-Low Fares Across Asia Extensive Route Network Customizable Fare Options In need of travel accessories for the long flight or layover? I shop on Amazon, from phone holders to travel bags, you can find everything here. About AirAsia AirAsia is one of Asia’s most well-known and popular low-cost airlines. AirAsia is famous for making air travel affordable cross Southeast Asia, hence their slogan, “Now Everyone Can Fly.” AirAsia was founded in 1993 in Malaysia. During the 1990’s, AirAsia had a rocky start and nearly went bankrupt. It was kind of rebranded in 2001 to a low-cost carrier inspired by other budget airlines like Southwest Airlines. Since 2001, AirAsia has achieved great success and now operates an extensive network connecting major cities and smaller regional destinations n countries like Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, and even Australia. Currently AirAsia operates using Airbus, primarily the Airbus A320-200, Airbus A320neo, and Airbus A321neo. “neo” means “New Engine Option.” When flying AirAsia, expect a budget airline, no frills model. Fares are on the cheaper side because there are add-ons such as checked baggage, seat selection, and optional meals. AirAsia’s branding is noticed by its bright red colors, country flags, and regional interiors. AirAsia is a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers that are looking for flexible routes, great prices, and reliable/safe short to medium-haul flights. AirAsia is a 3-Star Low-Cost Airline According to Skytrax, AirAsia is a 3-Star low-cost airline. This rating is based on Airport services, onboard products, and cabin staff services. The ratings also take into account, cabin comfort, onboard meal services, cleanliness, and safety. For low-cost airlines, I trust a 3-Star rating as most of them generally fall under this rating. From my experiences flying AirAsia, I have no complaints. My AirAsia Review My AirAsia review is solely based on my personal experience flying with this carrier. My experiences flying AirAsia include a flight from Taiwan to Kota Kinabalu, flights within Malaysia Borneo, I’ve flown AirAsia from Okinawa, Japan to Bangkok, Thailand, and I’ve flown to and from Thailand and Cambodia. In my AirAsia review, I’ll go over my experiences with booking tickets online, check-in at various airports, and then the overall aircraft experience from comfort of the seats to the food served on-board and everything in between. The Aircraft and Flying with AirAsia Above, I listed the fleet of AirAsia and it’s current fleet operates primarily the Airbus A320 neo and A321 neo, neo meaning “New Engine Option.” So far each AirAsia flight I have been on has a seating configuration of 3 seats on each side. For short distances, I find AirAsia to be great. Now, I don’t think I would take a flight more then 5 hours just based on comfort. Keep in mind that AirAsia is a low-cost carrier. Don’t expect first-class service or anything like that. If you are realistic and know what to expect, then the flight will be well worth the money of just getting you to your destination. Booking Flights Online Now a days, I always book my flight tickets directly through the airline official website. You can find AirAsia’s website here. Booking flights with AirAsia is like any other airline. You select one-way or roundtrip, the amount of passengers, and then the departing city and destination. I find AirAsia’s website to be pretty user friendly. Once you enter in your flights, you fill in all the required fields and then have an option to select Add-Ons. AirAsia is cheap enough, I usually get the Premium Flex or Value Pack, this allows me to order food, select my owns seats, and have a little more flexibility with my purchasing options. Check-in AirAsia check-in experiences vary depending on the airport you are in. I’ve flown them in and out of Naha Airport, Taoyuan Airport, Don Mueang International Airport, Siem Reap Angkor International Airport, and Kota Kinabalu International Airport. I’ve never had an issue with check-in no matter what airport I am flying to and from. The lines are pretty quick, staff is professional, and the process is easy. Seating In my experience flying AirAsia, every aircraft I have flown has a 3-3 configuration, meaning there are three seats on each side of the aircraft. The seats are wide enough and have just enough cushion for a maximum five hour flight, at least for me. If you have flown a budget airline, you’ll known exactly what to expect in terms of seat comfort. The width is around 40-46 cm (16-18 inches). Legroom is around 73-79cm (28-31 inches). When it comes to reclining your seats on AirAsia, they do recline a bit, but don’t expect a full recline like on long-haul flights. There is no built-in entertainment screen or USB ports, especially on short flights. Always make sure to charge your electronic devices and bring your own entertainment. Personally, I don’t mind the basics, especially if it means I am saving money in other aspects of my flight. The flights I’ve taken with AirAsia are short enough where I don’t need entertainment or fully reclining chairs. Food and Beverages AirAsia does offer food and beverages. When booking your flight, you can opt to choose the Premium Flex or Value Pack and food will be included, you get a decent selection of food options to choose from. You can also pay for food, snacks, and beverages on-board. So far, I’m satisfied with the food and beverages on AirAsia. The food seems to be different depending on your destination. I’ve had Char Kuey Teow, Peri Chicken, Chicken and Rice, Nasi Lemak. The dishes come in small containers, with the main dish, rice, and sometimes another side like vegetables. Keep in mind, some of the food is spicy so double check the spice levels before ordering. If you purchase the Premium Flex or Value Pack, you will get a complimentary water. In-flight Service Being a low-cost carrier, the in-flight service is pretty basic. The staff is attentive and friendly. Just don’t expect customer service that goes above and beyond. Again, expect low-cost carrier service. In-flight service on AirAsia is good, there is absolutely nothing wrong with it. Questions About AirAsia Is AirAsia safe? Yes, AirAsia is a safe and reliable airline. AirAsia meets all the safety standards and has a seven-star safety rating. Is AirAsia a reliable airline and on time? Based on my experience alone, AirAsia is reliable and I’ve yet to have any major delays or issues. Are AirAsia Tickets refundable?It depend what flight package you decide to go with. Some options only include change or dates/times. Typically you will get a refund if the airline cancels a flight. Is Wi-Fi available onboard? AirAsia does offer Wi-Fi on board on selected flights. There are both free and paid plans. Is AirAsia worth flying?Absolutely! I’ve flown with AirAsia numerous times and plan to in the future depending on where I go. I’ve had no complaints flying with AirAsia and do recommend them, especially if you are looking for cheap fares around Southeast Asia. Don’t Forget These Travel Accessories For those long flights around the world, there are a few accessories that I use that have made flying so much more pleasant. Here are a few of my recommended travel accessories. ✅ Universal Phone Holder (Handsfree phone mount. It can attach to the tray.) ✅ Apple AirPods Pro 2 Wireless Earbuds (The AirPods have been my best purchase in a few years. It drowns out sound and the sound quality is excellent.) ✅ Multi-Pocket Sling Bag (A Sling Bag is a game changer for me. I keep all the smaller items that I use during the flight in here and put my backpack in the overhead bin.) ✅ Airplane Bluetooth Adapter (This product is useful for flights that don’t have built in Bluetooth for the entertainment. You can connect your wireless earbuds.) ✅ Cable Organizer (Storage Bag for cords and chargers) Conclusion Overall, AirAsia is a solid choice and I highly recommend flying with them. AirAsia is one of the regions leading low-cost airlines and offers an extensive network, affordable prices, and reliable point-to-point destinations across parts of Asia. Just keep in mind, AirAsia is a low-cost carrier, so don’t set your standards or expectations out of reach. If you can honor that, then you’ll enjoy your flight and experience with AirAsia just as much as I do. Enjoying my photos and want to see more? Check out my Picfair Store. 📸 Plan Your Trip: 🗺 ✈️ 🇲🇾 Booking Accommodations ⛺️ 🛖 For booking recommendations on the best deals and locations, check out Agoda or Booking.com Activities and Tours 🏖 🚁 Find fun activities and things to do through Tripadvisor. If you are looking for tours and day trips, Viator and Get Your Guide have a lot of great options. In need of a car rental? 🚗 🚘 I recommend checking with Rental Cars.
Transfer Between Haneda and Narita by Airport Limousine Bus
Transferring between Tokyo’s two major airports can seem complicated, but the Airport Limousine Bus that transfers between Haneda (HND) and Narita (NRT) makes the transfer simple and stress-free. This Haneda to Narita Airport transfer service connects the two airports directly, offering an affordable, comfortable, and reliable schedule. I’ve used the Airport Limousine to transfer between Haneda Airport and Narita Airport and want to share my experience on using this service and provide information on how much it costs, how long it takes, and everything in between. ** This post contains affiliate links. If you click on one of the links or widgets throughout the page, whether it be Viator, Booking.com, Agoda, or any other affiliate, I might receive commission at no extra cost to you. For more information, you can visit my affiliate link page here. Thanks for the support! ** As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. What is the Airport Limousine Bus Between Haneda and Narita? The Airport Limousine Bus is an airport transportation service between Haneda Airport and Narita International Airport. It’s a relatively stress free form of transportation that picks up and drops off passengers between Tokyo’s two main airports. The Airport Limousine Bus between Haneda and Narita drives direct between the two airports. So there is no added time for additional stops or trying to figure out Tokyo’s confusing subway station. Simple board the bus and enjoy the ride! Schedule and Travel Time For an updated bus schedule depending on your arrival and departure airport, I highly recommend viewing the Airport Limousine Bus website. On the Airport Limousine Bus website, you can enter in the date, time, and flight information to view the latest schedule. The Haneda to Narita travel time and vice versa is roughly 60 to 90-minutes. This depends on a lot of factors such as which terminal you are departing from and arriving, traffic, and load and unload times. When I used the bus for the Haneda to Narita Airport transfer, it took me just about 60-minutes on the way to Narita. Coming back it was a Friday during rush hour and the bus time was closer to 90-minutes, so keep that in mind. Bus Ticket Prices and Booking Options Airport Limousine Prices for a one-way ticket from Haneda Airport to Narita International Airport. Adults: ¥3600Children: ¥1800 For more information on prices and the most up to date fares, please visit the Airport Limousine Bus website. Bus tickets can be purchased on the Airport Limousine Bus website, reservations can be made if you are confident with the times. Each time I used the Airport Limousine Bus, I’ve purchased tickets directly at the airport Bus Tickets Counter. From the Bus Tickets counter within Haneda or Narita, you can select the destination and pay at the machine. Paying for the bus ticket directly at the airport might be easier if you are unsure of times. Where to Board the Airport Limousine Bus On the Airport Limousine Bus website, you can view stops and maps where the bus stops are for each terminal at the airports. I outlined the locations of the terminal bus stops below to help you out. When you exit the airport and find the Shuttle Bus area, there are multiple stops to stand at, make sure you are at the correct number for the desired airport you are traveling to. The number will be shown on the purchased ticket as well. If all else fails, ask airport staff, I’ve had to do this a few times and they are always extremely helpful. Haneda Airport For Haneda Airport, there is a bus stop at Haneda Airport Terminal 1, Haneda Airport Terminal 2, Haneda Airport Terminal 3. Haneda Airport Terminal 1: Location: 〒144-0041 2-3, Haneda Airport, Ota-ku, TokyoCoordinates: 35°32’56.4″N 139°47’04.7″E Haneda Airport Terminal 2: Location: 〒144-0041 3-4-2, Haneda Airport, Ota-ku, TokyoCoordinates: 35°33’03.0″N 139°47’17.4″E Haneda Airport Terminal 3:Location: 〒144-0041 3-4-4 Haneda Airport, Ota-ku, TokyoCoordinates: 35°32’40.3″N 139°46’03.8″E Narita International Airport For Narita International Airport, there is a bus stop at Narita Airport Terminal 1, Narita Airport Terminal 2, and Narita Airport Terminal 3. Narita Airport Terminal 1:Location: 〒282-0004 1-1 Aza Furugome, Furugome, Narita CityCoordinates: 35°45’50.3″N 140°23’09.5″E Narita Airport Terminal 2:Location: 〒282-0004 1-1 Aza Furugome, Furugome, Narita CityCoordinates: 35°46’23.4″N 140°23’15.0″E Narita Airport Terminal 3:Location: 〒282-0004 1-1 Aza Furugome, Furugome, Narita CityCoordinates: 35°46’43.5″N 140°23’04.5″E What to Expect on Board The airport limousine buses do depart on time. The staff loads luggage for passengers and provide a claim tag as well. Make sure to keep the claim tag as you’ll need to show it to staff when claiming your luggage again at the destination. The total time it takes on the bus between Haneda Airport and Narita Airport is about 60-minutes, but it can take longer depending on traffic and other factors. Rest assured, there is a toilet on board the bus. I didn’t use the toilet, so I can’t review the space or cleanliness of them. If you have, let us know in the comments! There is Wi-Fi on board the buses btu it seemed to be spotty. Regarding the seats, they are paired so there are two seats on each side of the bus. Although skinny the seats were very comfortable and there was plenty of leg room. I really just enjoyed the ride. Looking out the big windows brought a sense of peace plus I was able to see a bit more of Tokyo during my transfer between Haneda and Narita. Conclusion Transferring between Haneda Airport and Narita International Airport does not have to be stressful. I highly recommend utilizing the Airport Limousine Bus which offers a reliable, comfortable, and stress-free journey between Tokyo’s two main airports. The Airport Limousine Bus links the two airports directly with no additional stops in between. It’s as easy as purchasing a ticket, standing in line, and relaxing on the bus until you reach your destination. I’ve taken trains connecting the two airports and even a cab ride but by far the easiest mode of transportation between Haneda and Narita is the Airport Limousine Bus. Reach out if you have any questions. Otherwise, let me know how your experience is transferring between the two airports. Safe Travels! Enjoying my photos and want to see more? Check out my Picfair Store. 📸 Plan Your Trip: 🗺️✈️🇯🇵 Booking Accommodations ⛺️🛖 For booking recommendations on the best deals and locations, check out Agoda or Booking.com Activities and Tours 🏖️🚁 Find fun activities and things to do through Tripadvisor. If you are looking for tours and day trips, Viator and Get Your Guide have a lot of great options. In need of a car rental? 🚗🚘 I recommend checking with Rental Cars.
Japan Airlines (JAL) Review: My Experience Flying Economy Class
Combining Japanese hospitality and world-class service, Japan Airlines (JAL) is the best airlines, in my opinion. I’ve flown JAL internationally and domestically and can honestly say Japan Airlines is amongst the best airlines in the world. From cleanliness and comfort to in-flight services and customer support, JAL continues to amaze me. I fly economy and want to write this honest Japan Airlines review. This review is solely based on my experiences with JAL both at the airport and while on board their flights. I wrote this post to help other travelers like me, that fly economy just in case you are debating buying that flight ticket with Japan Airlines. ** This post contains affiliate links. If you click on one of the links or widgets throughout the page, whether it be Viator, Booking.com, Agoda, or any other affiliate, I might receive commission at no extra cost to you. For more information, you can visit my affiliate link page here. Thanks for the support! ** As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Summary About Japan Airlines (JAL): Japan Airlines is a 5-Star rated airline based out of Tokyo, Japan. JAL is known for its customer service, modern fleet, and comfortable seating arrangements. This Japan Airlines review is based on my experiences flying with economy. Why Fly Japan Airlines: Modern and a fuel efficient fleet Comfort Great Customer Service In need of travel accessories for the long flight or layover? I shop on Amazon, from phone holders to travel bags, you can find everything here. Japan Airlines Hubs There are two main hubs in Japan for Japan Airlines, Tokyo’s Haneda Airport (HND) and Narita International Airport (NRT). Haneda is a short train ride from central Tokyo and while Narita is located farther out in Chiba Prefecture. Haneda Airport Haneda Airport (HND) serves as one of two hubs for Japan Airlines. Haneda Airport is one of the busiest in Asia and is conveniently located just 30-minutes from central Tokyo. Other then being close to central Tokyo, Haneda Airport is known for its clean facilities, modern terminals, and abundance of places to eat and shop. Both domestic and international JAL flights arrive and depart from Haneda Airport. There is also a JAL Premium Lounge at Haneda Airport. Narita International Airport Narita International Airport (NRT) is the other major hub that serves Japan Airlines. Many long-haul destinations across Europe, North America, and Asia connect through Narita International Airport. Like Haneda, Narita does have Japan Airlines lounges that include dining options. For those that don’t take advantage of the lounge, there are plenty of Japan-related shops, restaurants, and things to do within Narita International Airport. Narita International Airport is not as convenient as Haneda it terms of transport to central Tokyo but it is very doable using the local trains and buses. About Japan Airlines Japan Airlines (JAL) is one of Asia’s leading full-service carriers serving 64 airports within Japan and flying to 68 different countries around the world. Founded in 1951, Japan Airlines has grown to a fleet with 232 aircraft. Their fleet includes top of the line aircraft like the Airbus A350-900, Boeing 777, Boeing 787, and Airbus A321 ceo. Japan Airlines is a member of the Oneworld Alliance partnered with other major airlines like Alaska Airlines, Cathay Pacific, Finnair, Qantas, and Qatar Airways. Japan Airlines is a 5-Star Airline I pay a lot of attention to Skytrax airline ratings and a 5-Star rating is an incredible achievement. Airlines are ranked by Skytrax based on certain criteria like safety, customer satisfaction, and in-depth audit assessments. Japan Airlines ranks amongst the best airlines in the world and is well deserving of Skytrax certified 5-Star airline rating. Skytrax has Japan Airlines listed as a 5-Star airline based on the quality of the airport and onboarding procedures, and customer service. My Japan Airlines Review Like my China Airlines review, this Japan Airlines review is based solely on my personal experience flying with JAL. I’ve flown Japan Airlines domestically around Japan and Internationally. Based on budget, I only fly economy on Japan Airlines. For my Japan Airlines review, I’ll go over my experiences with topics like customer support, food and drinks on board, and the flight itself. For specific questions regarding the airline or to learn more about Japan Airlines, feel free to visit their website. Check-in Checking in to your Japan Airlines flight is pretty straightforward and honestly not much different then any other airline or flight to check in to. If flying domestically or internationally with JAL, prepare to receive emails for early check in. I always feel early check in is the way to go, it seems to speed up the check in process at the airport. Whether I am in Okinawa, mainland Japan, or the Untied States, checking in to my flight at the check in counter is always quick and easy with JAL. If flying domestically within Japan, you don’t even have to go to the counter, you can check in on a kiosk and even drop off your luggage yourself. Domestic Flights within Japan When flying domestically within Japan, it has to be one of the easiest travel experiences I’ve ever dealt with. There is no checking of passports, going to the check in counter, or staff handling your luggage, at least in Okinawa. If flying domestically, JAL offers flights to 64 different airports and 133 routes meaning you can basically fly Japan Airlines all throughout Japan from the beautiful island of Okinawa to the northern prefectures of Aomori and Hokkaido. I’ve flown several destinations with JAL domestically and some of the domestic aircraft include the: Boeing 767-300, Airbus A350-900, and Airbus A321neo. Flying economy domestically with JAL is kind of a no thrills experience. It’s your standard flight experience with short domestic travel. There generally is no entertainment so bring your own means of entertainment. Food and beverages is available for purchase, but they do offer a drink service with coffee, tea, and water. Japan Transocean Air My Japan Airlines review also covers my experience with flying Japan Transocean Air (JTA). This regional airline is a member of Japan Airlines Group and is based in Okinawa, Japan. JTA connects travelers to many destinations on Honshu, Kyushu, Shikoku, and throughout the Ryukyu Islands. Starting 2026, Japan Transocean Air will launch a direct route to Taipei, Taiwan. I flew their “Jimbee Jet” Whale Shark Jet from Naha, Okinawa to Ishigaki, Okinawa. The Jimbee Jet is a fun special painted aircraft, kind of like Skymark’s Pokémon Aircraft. The Jimbee Jet is a Boeing 737-800 and offers the same experience you get with any other Japan Airlines in terms of safety, reliability, comfort, and customer service. International Flights Japan Airlines flies internationally to 68 countries and regions to places like the United States and Canada, Europe, the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and Australia. When it comes to long haul flights, I’ve taken JAL across the Pacific Ocean a few times from Tokyo to the United States and it’s always a comfortable and pleasant journey. On long haul international flights, the JAL crew is always attentive, the seats are spacious, and the food is surprisingly delicious. Seating and Entertainment For international long haul flights, the seating and entertainment on Japan Airlines is of high standard, even in economy. I find their seats to be more comfortable and spacious then other airlines. Entertainment is about the same across other 5-star rated airlines. The seating in Economy Class provides generous legroom with adjustable headrests. I typically pick an aisle seat and have flown on their A350-1000 with three seats per row and have flown on the Boeing 787 with two seats per row on the outside. I prefer the 2-4-2 seating arraignments on airplanes, especially when flying with my significant other. For entertainment, Japan Airlines offers a decent selection of movies, tv shows, games, and music. I wouldn’t say it’s better then other airlines because it’s pretty similar across the board. To check the latest movies and shows on Japan Airlines, you can visit their inflight entertainment webpage. Food & Beverages I can’t write a Japan Airlines review without mentioning the food on board in the economy class. In my opinion, JAL has some of the best airplane food around! Like most long haul flights, you get a dinner and breakfast meal on board. Dinner is usually served an hour or two after takeoff while breakfast is served an hour or two prior to landing. Japan Airlines has some of the freshest food on any airplane I’ve had. The side dishes seem fresh withe a nice mix of salads and fruit. The main course can vary I’ve had everything from Chicken Curry to Hamburg and Rice. Make sure to try their Miso Soup! Japan Airlines does serve alcohol on board. You can find your typical big name Japanese brands like Asahi, Suntory, and Kirin. Bathrooms Onboard Normally, I wouldn’t write a section about bathrooms onboard an airplane but I feel that Japan Airlines bathrooms are worth bringing up. First, the bathrooms on board are kept clean and wiped down by the staff periodically throughout the flight. Each time I flew with Japan Airlines internationally, the toilets have been very spacious, not sure if it’s because I used the handicapped bathroom or not but you can spread your arms in the bathrooms, they are that spacious. The restrooms onboard JAL also include a few Japanese touches like toiletries and a bidet-style toilet. Customer Service I don’t want to keep repeating myself, but Japan Airlines is a 5-Star rated airline and part of that rating is because of their customer service, which includes high standards, amazing staff, and great support. Just to give you an idea of JAL’s customer service I want to include two stories in this Japan Airlines review that blew away my expectations. Flight from Honolulu, Hawaii to Tokyo, Japan I visited the Big Island of Hawaii and when departing Kona International Airport on Hawaiian Airlines to Honolulu. The individual at the check-in counter (working for Hawaiian Airlines) changed something around with our flights and assured us our luggage would make it on the plane. Due to the circumstances she told us, I had my doubts. We were to pick up our luggage in Honolulu as we were transferring from Hawaiian Airlines to JAL. Of course, our luggage never made it. I mentioned it to the staff at Japan Airlines which they had nothing to do with this. They were very apologetic. When arriving back in Tokyo, there was a JAL crew member with our names on a board at baggage claim. The crew member told us they were tracking our luggage and that they would send it to our home address as soon as possible. This made me realize, in the United States, you have to go out of your way to get stuff done. In Japan the employees go out of their way to assist customers. It was an amazing experience. Our luggage was delivered the very next day. Flight from San Diego, California to Tokyo, Japan On a trip from San Diego to Japan, the Japan Airlines flight was delayed in San Diego due to late arrival. I was worried because I landed in Narita but had to make a shuttle to Haneda to catch my flight to Okinawa. Originally, I had a 3-hour layover in Haneda and the shuttle is about an hour. Keep in mind, upon entering Japan, I had to go through customs, pick up my luggage, buy a bus ticket, and navigate through the airport. We were delayed in San Diego over an hour, so I quickly lost hope. I explained the situation to the flight attendants on board my JAL flight and they contacted their ground crew to meet me at the gate. Once we landed, I had less then two hours to make my flight to Haneda. There was a crew member at the gate with my name. They gave me express passes to cut through
Fear of Flying? Tips that Have Helped me Overcome Flight Anxiety
For many travelers, going on a vacation or the excitement of exploring new destinations can quickly fade the moment the airplane door closes. If you are like me and struggle with a fear of flying, don’t worry! You are not alone! A fear of flying or flight anxiety affects millions of travelers around the world. I’ve been flying my whole life and still get anxious every time I board that flight. Over the years of flying, I have learned a few helpful tips that make flying a little less stressful and actually enjoyable. I’ll share my tips that I use to overcome flight anxiety and hopefully can help with any of you that have a fear of flying. ** This post contains affiliate links. If you click on one of the links or widgets throughout the page, whether it be Viator, Booking.com, Agoda, or any other affiliate, I might receive commission at no extra cost to you. For more information, you can visit my affiliate link page here. Thanks for the support! Tips That Helped Me With My Fear of Flying I’ve been flying my whole life, since I was a baby. I flew between Europe and the United States constantly. As I got older, I flew around the North America, Europe, and Asia. One thing has always been consistent, my fear of flying. It never helped, it seemed that every time I had or have a big trip coming up, on the news a plane accident occurred right before my trip, which always brings me instant anxiety. Because of my fear of flying, I’ve done extensive research to help overcome flight anxiety. I want to share what works for me and what I’ve learned to help put my mind at ease. I hope these tips help. If they do let me know, if you have any other tips please let us know in the comments to help myself and others. Thanks! 1. Statistics You’ve probably heard this hundreds of times, but statistically, your commute to the airport is far more dangerous then flying. How could this be? I blame the media because a plane crash gets significant media attention making it seem common. The truth is, air travel is one of the safest modes of transportation. Aviation accidents are on the decline even though it seems like they are on the rise. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said that in 2021, there were 6.1 million accidents with 1.37 traffic fatalities for every 100 million vehicle miles. The National Transportation Safety Board reported 12,368 aviation accidents with 0.95 fatalities for every 100,000 flight hours. This includes all types of aviation from private planes to commercial aircraft. Personal aircraft have a higher accident rate. Every statistic will show you that it is more likely to be struck by lightening, attacked by a shark, or even death by food poisoning. That’s right, your chances of dying from the food on board are higher then dying in a plane crash. That last one might not have been so helpful. 2. Pilots – It’s their Job One thing that helped me ease my fear of flying was knowing that pilots are some of the most highly trained professionals. Flying isn’t just their hobby, it’s their job and they do it everyday. Commercial pilots have to go through years of training, log countless flight hours, and abide by strict safety checks before flying the plane. Pilots are trained to handle everything from routine flights to unexpected situations. Remember, Pilots are people just like us that want to go home after work and see their friends and families, relax, and even travel the world. 3. Know the Aircraft Understanding how an airplane works has made a huge difference in helping with flight anxiety. I’ve watched countless YouTube videos and dug deep into the rabbit hole to get somewhat of an understanding of aircraft and how they work. It’s nice to know that planes can withstand a lot of turbulence, the wings are designed to flex, and every every hardware and mechanical system has a backup. Modern aircraft go through rigorous safety testing’s before taking to the skies. Every scheduled flight has to follow strict maintenance and inspection routines. The more I learn and read about the technology of planes and their safety, the more interested I became in airplanes themselves and started to trust them more, which allows me to relax and focus on my travel destination. 4. Choose the Right Seats Choosing the right seat on the aircraft can make a big difference. For nervous flyers, generally the front of the airplane or right over the wing can feel smoother and be quieter. I tend to sit close to the wing or right above it because the plane seems more stable and the affects of turbulence feel more subtle. I’ve heard from many that window seats are the best option as they help you feel more in control and the views can be calming and downright stunning. I prefer aisle seats, I like the easy access to get up when I want and I feel I have a little more room. Most flights let you pick seats upon booking, depending on the airline and package, there might be a fee. But take advantage of the seat maps and find a location on the aircraft that is most comfortable to you. Short story: I was flying from Taipei, Taiwan to Fukuoka, Japan when preparing to land at Fukuoka Airport, I am not sure if it was high winds or weather but we had 3 missed approaches. I was seated close to the front and I had a friend who sat toward the back. When we finally landed, he was shaking and pale in the face. Apparently sitting in the back was a rough ride meanwhile I didn’t feel any turbulence just felt inconvenienced. 5. Research One of the best ways to overcome flight anxiety is by doing a little research prior to your trip. This touches other subjects, but learn about the airline, aircraft models, and safety records. There was a while I was watching short videos or YouTube videos where pilots would answer common questions. I felt this was always very comforting before flying. The more you learn about air travel and what’s happening with the aircraft during flight the easier it will be to replace your fear of flying with confidence. 6. Skytrax and Airline Ratings Lately, one of the most important details I pay attention to when booking flights is Airline Ratings based on Skytrax. Skytrax is a trusted source that ranks airlines based on safety, services, and passenger experiences. The quality scale uses stars 1-Star being the worst and 5-Stars being the best. You’ve probably heard of an airline being a 5-Star airline. On the Skytrax website, you can view airline ratings. I typically fly 4-Star and 5-Star airlines when possible. By using Skytrax I booked a flight using China Airlines (Taiwan Aircraft Carrier), to Europe once. I was apprehensive at first, but saw that China Airlines is a 4-Star rated airline. I had such a great experience with China Airlines and have flown them dozens of times since. 7. Understanding Turbulence Probably the biggest trigger that causes flight anxiety is turbulence. When turbulence hits, I am guilty of clenching my fists and thinking of all the disastrous “what could go wrong” thoughts. The truth is, turbulence is completely normal. Picture this, you are driving down a bumpy road in your car, close your eyes and you’ll sway up and down/back and forth. Or when you are on a boat getting rocked by the waves. Flying is no different. As you fly, the airplane can go through irregular and sometimes unpredictable movements or pockets of air. Shifting air currents can cause the plane o shake, bump, or move up and down. Don’t worry, it’s completely safe. Modern aircraft are built to withstand even the most severe turbulence and pilots are trained to navigate through turbulence. Just by understanding what turbulence is, knowing that it’s natural, common, and a non-dangerous occurrence, has helped me ease flight anxiety. 8. Talk to the Crew If you are like many people and suffer from a fear of flying, one not so talked about recommendation I have to help with flight anxiety is to simply talk to the flight attendants and let them know you are an anxious flyer. The cabin crew like the pilots are trained professionals who deal with turbulence and in-flight situations all the time and are always willing to help customers. Next time you board a flight, let the flight attendants know that you are an anxious flyer. I guarantee they will check in on you throughout the flight, offer reassurance, and can even explain everything that is going on during the flight. 9. Distract Yourself, Think About the Destination Probably easier said then done, right? Well a great way to overcome a fear of flying is to simply keep your mind busy and try and relax. Bring books, music, movies, or listed to your favorite travel podcasts. In-flight entertainment on board has a good mix of movies, tv shows, and games. Try to keep yourself busy. The alternative is to just relax, try and sleep, rest, or just dream about the destination awaiting you at the gates of the next airport. 10. Fly More Often! Practice makes perfect, right? Same goes with flying more often. The more you fly, the more comfortable you should get. I think the more you fly, helps you better understand everything noted above. I find myself now a days putting no thought about the flight I am about to board. Sometimes I am rather excited about flying or thinking of the destination on the other side. I take dozens of flights each year to different parts of the world. I would never consider not flying. It’s just to convenient, I find it crazy that I can wake up in one country and have dinner later in the day in a different country. If you fly often enough, you never know, it might become a hobby or passion of yours. I still prefer the destination over the trip itself, but I’ve learned to enjoy soaring through the sky and thinking about my next adventure. Conclusion Overcoming my fear of flying did not just happen overnight. I started doing my research and practicing the tips I listed, I am happy to say that flying has gotten easier with every trip. Sometimes, I even look forward to flying. To me, the reward far outweighs the risk. Flying has opened opportunities to my favorite hobbies, like travel! I hope my tips and research help you conquer your fear of flying and can open up the world of travel to you. If you have any other tips or ways you cope with flight anxiety, please leave a comment for myself and everyone else. Thanks! Enjoying my photos and want to see more? Check out my Picfair Store. 📸 Plan Your Trip: 🗺️✈️ Booking Accommodations ⛺️🛖 For booking recommendations on the best deals and locations, check out Agoda or Booking.com Activities and Tours 🏖️🚁 Find fun activities and things to do through Tripadvisor. If you are looking for tours and day trips, Viator and Get Your Guide have a lot of great options. In need of a car rental? 🚗🚘 I recommend checking with Rental Cars.
My Honest China Airlines Review: What it’s Like Flying Economy
China Airlines, not to be confused with Air China is the flagship carrier of Taiwan. China Airlines is a 4-Star Airline according to Skytrax and offers a blend of modern comfort, great service, and connections all over the world. China Airlines flies all around Asia, North America, Europe, and Oceania. China Airlines has become my go to carrier lately. I’ve flown them around Asia, to Australia and New Zealand, to Germany, and the United States and have had nothing but positive experiences. Of course, I fly economy and want to write this honest China Airlines review based on my experiences with the airlines. Hopefully this post is helpful if you are debating whether or not to fly with China Airlines. ** This post contains affiliate links. If you click on one of the links or widgets throughout the page, whether it be Viator, Booking.com, Agoda, or any other affiliate, I might receive commission at no extra cost to you. For more information, you can visit my affiliate link page here. Thanks for the support! ** As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Summary About China Airlines: China Airlines is the national carrier of Taiwan and its hub is Taoyuan International Airport. China Airlines is a certified 4-Star Airline. Why Fly China Airlines: Modern and a fuel efficient fleet Comfort and Amenities Good Customer Service In need of travel accessories for the long flight or layover? I shop on Amazon, from phone holders to travel bags, you can find everything here. China Airlines Hub: Taoyuan International Airport Taoyuan International Airport is the main hub and largest airport in Taiwan. Taoyuan opened in 1979 and is the main hub airport for major airlines like China Airlines, EVA Airlines, and Starlux Airlines. Taoyuan Airport has two terminals: Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. China Airlines primarily flies out of Terminal 1 but there are some flights that use Terminal 2. Curious how to spent a layover at Taoyuan International Airport? I have a dedicated post on What to do at Taoyuan International Airport During a Layover. TWAC: Taiwan Arrival Card Taiwan now requires all foreign visitors to electronically fill out a Taiwan Arrival Card (TWAC). The TWAC can be filled out through the Ministry of the Interior National Immigration Agency Republic of China (Taiwan) website. Your airline should notify you of this and in some cases even provide you with a link 3 days before arrival. If they do not, just visit the TWAC website and fill out the required fields at least 3 days before your trip to Taiwan. It’s free, you just enter in your Passport information, length of stay, and any other required fields. The immigration officers then will have access to the data you fill out during the TWAC process once your passport is scanned. You’ll also receive an email with a QR Code, but I have not needed to show it so far. Here is the website used to submit your TWAC: TWAC Taiwan Arrival Card About China Airlines China Airlines is the national carrier of Taiwan and its headquarters are located at Taoyuan International Airport. Again, not to be confused with Air China, which is a major Chinese airline headquartered in Beijing, China. According to the airline website, China Airlines was founded in 1959. Today China Airlines is one of Asia’s most popular airlines with over 1,400 flights a week to over 100 destinations across Asia, Europe, North America, and Oceania. China Airlines is a SkyTeam Airline Alliance member which allows passengers global connectivity and access to partner airline networks and benefits. China Airlines has a relatively new fleet that includes Boeing 777s and the Airbus A350s. For shorter flights like from Okinawa to Taiwan, I’ve flown Air China’s Airbus A321neo. Longer flights, I’ve flown Air China’s Airbus A350-900 to Brisbane, Australia. I’ve also flown with the Boeing 777-300ER to Taipei from LAX. I’ve also flown their Airbus A330-300 and Boeing 737-800. China Airlines is a 4-Star Airline On Skytrax, China Airline is a certified 4-Star Airline. This is something I really pay attention to when choosing which airlines to fly. I typically only pick 4 and 5 star certified airlines based on safety, quality, and service. Enjoying my photos and want to see more? Check out my Picfair Store. 📸 China Airlines Dynasty Flyer Program China Airlines has a mileage program known as the Dynasty Flyer Program. You can earn Dynasty Miles, which can be used for flights, upgrades, and other services. There are status levels of you can reach, each level offers increased benefits. Dynasty, Gold, Emerald, and Paragon. You can learn more about the Membership Tiers and Benefits on the China Airlines website. Signing up for the Dynasty Flyer Program is completely free. Once you login to the China Airlines website, simply sign up. Once in your own dashboard, you can redeem miles, view your activity, check total points, and so much more! China Airlines Review My China Airlines review is based on my personal experience flying with the carrier. I’ve flown with China Airlines around the world and always sit in economy, because of budget. So this review is solely based on my experience flying in economy with China Airlines. I’ll go over some of the basics like check-in experiences, thoughts on food, comfort, and what it’s like flying with China Airlines on short and long flights. For specific questions regarding the airline or to learn more about China Airlines, I recommend visiting their website. Check-in You should already have your flight booked through the China Airlines website. About 48 hours prior to departure, you will receive an online check-in email. I recommend checking in online, it makes things easier the day of the actual flight. All your information is already logged in and ready to go! Like any international trip, I arrive at the airport a minimum of 2 hours prior to departure. I’ve checked in at the China Airlines counter in many cities and countries around the world, from Kaohsiung to Brisbane. Honestly, I’ve never had an issue with check in through China Airlines. The staff is always professional and polite. Short Flights I fly often between Naha, Okinawa and Taipei, Taiwan. The flight is anywhere from 50 minutes to 1.5 hours. I’d say I am always impressed with China Airlines efficiency and the fact that they are always on time. For shorter flights, the aircraft is usually an Airbus A330-300 or a Boeing 737-800. Even short flights, the aircraft is spacious and the seats are large with plentiful leg room. Even though the flight is short, you even get a meal onboard the flight. It’s smaller but I enjoy it. I’ll talk more on food later in the post. International Long Haul Flights I’ve flown with China Airlines from Taipei to Germany, Taipei to Australia, and Taipei to the United States. The Taipei to Europe and Taipei to the United States are especially long, about 14 hours. On the long haul flights with China Airlines, I’ve flown their Airbus A350-900 and Boeing 777-300ER. I really don’t have a preference between the Airbus or Boeing as they are both exciting to fly with. I always try and book the aisle seat. It just gives me that freedom to get up whenever I want without bothering the passenger next to me. The seats on the Airbus A350-900 and Boeing 777-300ER are wide and comfortable. I usually have enough leg room as I store my carry on in the overhead bins. Long flights with China Airlines are comfortable, I’ve never encountered any issues. The flight attendants come around often and outside of meal services they offer water and other beverages. One of my only complaints about China Airlines on their long flights are the bathrooms. The bathrooms are cramped and do not get cleaned as regularly as other airlines do. Seating and Entertainment Seating and entertainment for my China Airlines review will be primarily for the long haul flights. Some of the shorter flights do have a small tv but it’s barely even worth turning on. For the longer flights, you can view the in-flight entertainment on the China Airlines website. There is a wide range of movies both old and new, tv shows, games, and music right in front of you. I think for Economy, the tv has a 10″ screen. Each seat has a USB port so you can charge all your devices. The seats are spacious. As spacious as it can be for an economy seat with an airline. The seats have adjustable headrests, a literature pocket, personal tv screen, and USB ports. For long flights, you will get a blanket and pillow. If you need one regardless of a long or short flight, you can always ask the flight attendant for a pillow or blanket and they will gladly provide you with one. Enjoying my photos and want to see more? Check out my Picfair Store. 📸 Food & Beverages I might be one of the only people that actually likes airplane food. It’s fun, gives me something to look forward to, and honestly airplane food isn’t that bad. Since this is a China Airlines review, I think their food is just ok. Honestly, I find the short flights between Okinawa and Taipei have more authentic Taiwanese food then their long haul flights. The Okinawa to Taipei flights serve small meals, even though it’s only an hour flight. The food comes in a small box with a drink and small snack. The food on this route usually represents Taiwan well. Many of the meals use traditional spices and flavors. My last meal even had a Taiwanese Tea Egg, which I love. On the long flights, the meals are pretty standard, no different then any other airline. You get two options for dinner, usually chicken or beef with rice, a roll, fruits/vegetables, and a small dish that is always different. For breakfast, there is usually a western option with eggs and chicken sausage. There is also a Taiwanese option that comes with meat and rice. Customer Service The China Airlines customer service continues to amaze me. China Airlines customer support is always helpful, timely, and clear to understand. On the China Airlines website, go to Contact Us, usually, I go to Service Hotline and call one of the telephone number listed in my Region/Country. Here the Region/Country, number, and office hours are listed. Each time, I’ve contacted China Airlines customer support, whether it be for questions or concerns regarding my Dynasty Flyer Program or changing an international flight, they’ve helped me out and show professionalism. Mandarin Airlines I recently had the opportunity to fly with Mandarin Airlines, which is a Taiwanese regional carrier and the parent company is China Airlines. I flew Mandarin Airlines from Manila, Philippines to Kaohsiung, Taiwan. Being a subsidiary of China Airlines, Mandarin Airlines is recognized by Skytrax as a 4-Star airline. Mandarin Airlines offers short-haul domestic and international flights. Questions About China Airlines Is China Airlines Safe? Yes, China Airlines is safe. Thy have significantly improved their safety over the last few decades. They are rated a 4-Star Airline by Skytrax. Is there Wi-Fi on board China Airlines? China Airlines does offer Wi-Fi services. I never use it, so I can’t go into to much detail. I recommend reviewing China Airlines Wi-Fi Onboard page. Who is China Airlines Partnered With? China Airlines is part of SkyTeam and some of the other partner airlines include Aerolineas Argentinas, Aeromexico, Air France, China Eastern Airlines, Delta Airlines, Korea Air, KLM, Vietnam Airlines, and Virgin Atlantic Airways. Is China Airlines a member of Star Alliance? No, China Airlines is not a member of Star Alliance. Who is the National Carrier of Taiwan?China Airlines is the National Carrier of Taiwan. Don’t Forget These Travel Accessories For those long flights around the world, there are a few accessories that I use that have made flying so much more pleasant. Here are a few of my recommended travel accessories. ✅ Universal Phone Holder (Handsfree phone mount. It
What to do at Taoyuan International Airport During a Layover
Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) is the main airport and gateway to Taiwan, plus it is one of the best airports for travelers coming to Asia. Taoyuan International Airport is known for its efficiency, amenities, atmosphere, and excellent connectivity. I’ve visited Taiwan seven times now and have traveled through Taoyuan International Airport at least a dozen times now and it remains my favorite airport in terms of spending layovers, things to do, and overall flight connections. Whether you have a short to long layover at Taoyuan International Airport or are beginning your Taiwan adventure, this post is all about Taoyuan International Airport and how to traverse through the airport or spend your time wisely during your layover. ** This post contains affiliate links. If you click on one of the links or widgets throughout the page, whether it be Viator, Booking.com, Agoda, or any other affiliate, I might receive commission at no extra cost to you. For more information, you can visit my affiliate link page here. Thanks for the support! About Taoyuan International Airport Taoyuan International Airport sometimes abbreviated to TPE is the main hub and largest airport in Taiwan. It is located in the city of Taoyuan about 40 kilometers to the west of Taipei City. The airport opened in 1979 and is the primary airport for international travel to and from Taiwan, it’s also a popular connecting airport to the United States, Australia, and other countries in Asia. Taoyuan is the hub airport for major airlines like China Airlines, EVA Airlines, Starlux Airlines, and the low cost airline, Tigerair. Currently, there are two terminals at Taoyuan Internal Airport, Terminal 1 & Terminal 2. If you are traveling into Taipei from the airport, there is a convenient MRT that goes directly to Taipei Main Station. TWAC: Taiwan Arrival Card Taiwan now requires all foreign visitors to electronically fill out a Taiwan Arrival Card (TWAC). The TWAC can be filled out through the Ministry of the Interior National Immigration Agency Republic of China (Taiwan) website. Your airline should notify you of this and in some cases even provide you with a link 3 days before arrival. If they do not, just visit the TWAC website and fill out the required fields at least 3 days before your trip to Taiwan. It’s free, you just enter in your Passport information, length of stay, and any other required fields. The immigration officers then will have access to the data you fill out during the TWAC process once your passport is scanned. You’ll also receive an email with a QR Code, but I have not needed to show it so far. Here is the website used to submit your TWAC: TWAC Taiwan Arrival Card What to do at Taoyuan International Airport During a Layover I’ve traveled to Taiwan seven times now and have either been or connected through Taoyuan International Airport a dozen times. I’ve had short layovers here, long layovers, and have even spent the night at the airport a couple of times. I’ve spent a lot of time at airports throughout the world and TPE is my favorite airport, I even prefer it over Changi Airport in Singapore. I find Taoyuan Airport to be very clean to include the bathrooms, there is a variety of great food stalls, the shops are fun to browse, and the themed gates are both fun and informative. If you have a layover at Taoyuan International Airport, here are my recommended activities to try, foods to eat, and places to rest and relax. Shopping I am not much of a shopper but TPE does have some decent shops that even I enjoy. Of course you can find your duty-free stores selling alcohol and international treats. Taiwan’s airport also has local shops selling goods and souvenirs from Taiwan. Try Beef Noodle Soup If you can’t leave the airport but want to try an iconic Taiwanese dish, then head to one of the many restaurants or vendors at the airport that make Taiwan Beef Noodle Soup. Taiwan Beef Noodle Soup is a dish that combines braised beef with wheat noodles and a savory broth. I recommend trying Lao Dong Beef Noodles at Terminal 2 or Royal Heritage Beef Noodles in Terminal 2. Bubble Tea What’s a visit to Taiwan without trying bubble tea. After all, Taiwan is the birthplace of bubble tea and you can find great teas at Taoyuan International Airport. Speaking of Birthplace of Bubble Tea, Chun Shui Tang has a location at the airport in Terminal 2. The original store is in Taichung but there is a branch at the airport. Make sure to try the signature Pearl Milk Tea. Mazu Village is probably my favorite Bubble Tea store at Taoyuan Airport. Mazu Village has a variety of tea flavors. They also make wheel cakes with fillings that are absolutely delicious. Check out the Themed Gates One of my favorite features at Taoyuan International Airport is the themed boarding gates and lounge areas. Most of the themed gates are located in Terminal 2. Many of the gates are Taiwanese Culture themed. Each theme represents a specific place in Taiwan like Taroko National Park or a specific activity in Taiwan like the Pingxi Lantern Festival. Some themes are even focused on animals found in Taiwan. Not only do the gates have artistic traits and images but detailed descriptions about the particular theme. Exercise What better way to spend a long layover at an airport then exercise! I mean you spend so much time sitting around whether it be at your gate, on the plane, or just waiting around. Near Gate D1 in Terminal 2 there is a Gym Area called Sports Park with a few weight and cardio machines. Relax and Unwind TPE has so many places scattered throughout the airport to take a rest or even sneak in a well deserved nap. The Wooderful Land Waiting Room is amongst my favorite places in the airport to relax. This room is tucked away in a forest like atmosphere. There is the Landscape Lounge with comfortable seats, chair massage areas, and other rest lounge areas, some are in what seems to be hidden spots making it the perfect place to catch up on some sleep after a long travel day. Read and Learn at the Library Want to escape people and find somewhere that is peaceful and quiet at the airport? Head over to the Mind Garden Airport Library at Terminal 2. Here, there are places to sit, desks for laptops, and tons of free books to read in a variety of languages. The library is open 24/7 and is a great place to escape the crowds. Whether you want to browse the net, read a book, or just want to charge your phone in peace, the Mind Garden Library is the perfect place. Get a Taiwanese Massage at the Massage Center One of my most recommended things to do in Taipei is to get a foot massage. Thankfully, you don’t have to leave the airport to find a decent massage center. There is actually a massage center near the food court in Terminal 2 on the 4th floor. Not only does the Massage Center offer foot massages, but you can schedule a full body massage, half body massage, and lower body massage. For the food massage, you can get a 30 minute, 45 minute, and 60 minute massage. Catch Some Sleep at a Capsule Hotel If you have an overnight layover at Taoyuan International Airport, instead of sleeping on the ground or a random chair somewhere why not experience a stay at a capsule hotel and get a comfortable nights rest. Outside the gate on the 5th floor of TPE there is a capsule hotel called CHO Stay Capsule Hotel. I’ve stayed at CHO Stay Capsule Hotel a few times now and it’s a treat! The experience is unique, the hotel is clean, beds are comfortable, privacy is great, and the bathrooms have showers. You can book a night at the CHO Stay Capsule Hotel through Agoda. Take the Metro to Taipei City If you have a long layover at Taoyuan Airport, I’d say at least 6 hours or more, I recommend taking the Taoyuan Airport MRT to Taipei Main Station and bum around Taipei for a little bit. The trip from Terminal 2 to Taipei Main Station is between 35 – 45 minutes. Keep that in mind when returning. If you need help planning your itinerary for Taipei or looking for specific sites during your layover, I have a post on Things to do in Taipei. Additional Information Regarding Taoyuan Airport If you are planning your layover at Taoyuan International Airport or have questions about anything, feel free to reach out in my contact form or drop a comment in this post. Here are some additional tips and information that I came up with that will help you have a smoother layover or transit through Taoyuan International Airport. ✅ TPE has amazing water fill stations scattered throughout the airport. They can fill your water bottle up with either cold or hot water. The water at the airport is completely safe to drink. ✅ The bathrooms are clean and in Terminal 2 near the boarding gates, they are even themed, each one being unique. ✅ Tired of carrying change or don’t want to hang on to that international currency that will do you no good unless you plan on visiting Taiwan again? There are donation boxes around the airport, you can drop your spare change in. Don’t Forget These Travel Accessories For those long flights around the world, there are a few accessories that I use that have made flying so much more pleasant. Here are a few of my recommended travel accessories. ✅ Universal Phone Holder (Handsfree phone mount. It can attach to the tray.) ✅ Apple AirPods Pro 2 Wireless Earbuds (The AirPods have been my best purchase in a few years. It drowns out sound and the sound quality is excellent.) ✅ Multi-Pocket Sling Bag (A Sling Bag is a game changer for me. I keep all the smaller items that I use during the flight in here and put my backpack in the overhead bin.) ✅ Airplane Bluetooth Adapter (This product is useful for flights that don’t have built in Bluetooth for the entertainment. You can connect your wireless earbuds.) ✅ Cable Organizer (Storage Bag for cords and chargers) Conclusion With its blend of efficiency, atmosphere, and cultural charm, Taoyuan International Airport has earned its place as my favorite airport in the world. From the beautifully themed lounges at the gates to the comfortable CHO Stay Capsule Hotel it’s no question why I love Taiwan’s main airport. I hope this post sums up the perfect way to spend a layover at Taoyuan International Airport. Enjoying my photos and want to see more? Check out my Picfair Store. 📸 Plan Your Trip: 🗺 ✈️ 🇹🇼 Booking Accommodations ⛺️ 🛖 For booking recommendations on the best deals and locations, check out Agoda or Booking.com Activities and Tours 🏖 🚁 Find fun activities and things to do through Tripadvisor. If you are looking for tours and day trips, Viator and Get Your Guide have a lot of great options. In need of a car rental? 🚗 🚘 I recommend checking with Rental Cars.
Overnight Layover at Incheon Airport: Eat, Sleep, and Explore
For many travelers, the idea of a long or overnight layover sounds miserable. However, Incheon International Airport in Seoul, South Korea can be a wonderful place to have a layover. There is plenty to see, eat, and do in the airport. For those that have an overnight layover at Incheon Airport or a longer layover and are itching to experience some of the Korean culture, might I suggest leaving the airport. Just a couple subway stops away is Unseo Station in the Jung District of Incheon. Here you can experience Korean nightlife, eat delicious food, and even stay in a nice hotel, all without going directly to Seoul or getting to far from the airport. **This post contains affiliate links. If you click on one of the links or banners throughout the page, whether it be TripAdvisor, Booking.com. Agoda.com, or any other affiliate, I might receive commission at no extra cost to you. For more information, you can visit my affiliate link page here. Thanks for the support! Summary Overnight Layover at Incheon Airport: If you are wondering what to do at Incheon Airport during a long layer then I suggest taking the subway to Unseo Station to experience a slice of South Korea. Where to Stay near Incheon International Airport: Browndot Airport New Town Golden Tulip Incheon Airport Hotel Happy Place Guest House Overnight Layover at Incheon Airport If you have a long layover at Incheon Airport or are staying overnight, I highly recommend leaving the airport. You have several options depending on your length of stay. Automatically, people want to get out and visit Seoul. But I recommend giving yourself plenty of time to do so. The city of Seoul is further from the airport then you might think. The train ride can take upwards to an hour. You can also stay inside the airport. Incheon Airport is huge and has plenty to do. It’s no Changi Airport in Singapore, but the airport does offer great dining options, shops, and a few interesting things to look at. Incheon does have lounges and napping zones which I’ve used in the past. But if you are staying on a long layover in Incheon, especially an overnight layover, I highly recommend taking the train to Unseo Station in Incheon’s Jung District. Staying in the Jung District, Unseo Station Area If you have a long layover at Incheon Airport and want to experience and explore a bit of South Korea, I recommend taking the train from the airport a couple stops to Unseo Station. Outside of Unseo Station, you get your first glimpse of South Korea. You might see street vendors, buildings that are several stories tall full of restaurants, and bars, lots of bars! I’ve been to Seoul several times now and can honestly say skip Seoul if you are limited on time and enjoy a stress free layover here in Incheon. You won’t feel rushed, overwhelmed, or anything else really. Instead you will get a taste of South Korea and be close enough to Incheon International. Why Spend a Long Layover Here? A Couple Stops by train or easy taxi ride from Incheon International Airport. Less stressful getting to and from the airport because you are so close. Decent nightlife, great bar scene, and craft beer. There are a lot of hotel options from budget friendly to more high end hotels. Amazing restaurants from Korean Chicken to Bibimbap. There is a lot of nature. Perhaps you want to walk in one of the parks or stroll the beach. There are plenty of Convenience Stores: GS25 and CU. Everything is within walking distance from Unseo Station. Recommended Places to Eat The great thing about Incheon in particular the Jung District is that there are so many places to dine at. Just a few stops from Incheon Airport you have this little city with a plethora of food and drink options. In the mood for Japanese? There is a tonkatsu restaurant or a curry restaurant. Want Korean Fried Chicken? There are several places to include Oven Maru, one of my favorites. Or perhaps you want to grab breakfast or a dessert, you have bakeries and places that sell ice cream and macarons. Regardless of what you are after, chances are you can find it here. Based on my layovers and overnight stays in the area, here are some of my recommended places to eat. Oven Maru I was craving Korea Fried Chicken the moment I got off the plane at Incheon International Airport. Based on reviews, I found Oven Maru. Located just outside of Unseo Station, is this mom and pop chicken restaurant. As an English speaker, there was an English menu and the women running the shop understood what I was trying to order. My eyes were bigger then my stomach but everything on the menu looked so delicious. Of course I was not alone, but I ordered Bulgogi Fried Rice and an order of chicken, half and half. I believe I ordered Sweet Garlic and Teriyaki. The Bulgogi Fried Rice was great, you can’t go wrong with that but the chicken was exactly what the doctor ordered! The chicken was huge, flavorful, and the texture was everything you imagine great fried chicken to be like. Overall, I highly recommend Oven Maru. Kongsim Incheon Yeongjong Branch Another craving we have when visiting Korea is Bibimbap. Bibimbap is a rice bowl topped with other ingredients. It varies, but usually it comes with meat, veggies, and an egg if you are lucky. In our search for Bibimbap, we found a restaurant called Kongsim Incheon Yeongjong. This place was not as English friendly. Thankfully, they had pictures plastered on the wall and I could point to the bibimbap I wanted. Of course it was Bulgogi Bibimbap. We were both completely satisfied with our meals. This place is open 24/7 too which is a plus. So weather you are getting late night food or need breakfast prior to catching your early morning flight at Incheon Airport, Kongsim Incheon Yeongjong has got you covered. Paris Baguette I fell in love with Paris Baguette the first time I visited Korea in 2017. I was surprised to walk past one here in Incheon. I quickly went in and grabbed a few pastries for the following morning. You can find great pastries here and filling sandwiches. Places to Stay To me, it seemed like the whole Jung District was built up to cater to serving Incheon Airport. It’s so conveniently located. Of course there are a ton of hotel options here. You can find everything here from 4-star hotels to guest homes. We basically had two overnight stays here, so I wasn’t to keen on spending a fortune on a hotel I’d only spend a few hours in. So I went with two options that were within walking distance from Unseo Station and reasonably prices: Browndot Airport New Town and the Happy Place Guest House Browndot Airport New Town For just a basic hotel stay in Incheon that is within walking distance from Unseo Station, I recommend the Browndot Airport New Town. I have no complaints about this hotel, check in and check out was simple, the rooms were spacious, comfortable, and clean, not to mention the bathrooms were large. For updated pricing and more information, check out their listing on Agoda. Happy Place Guest House Another affordable stay in Incheon is the Airport Happy Place Guesthouse. This guesthouse is a house with separate rooms, all with private bathrooms. The rooms were very private, comfortable, and had everything you need when staying for a night or two. Happy Place Guesthouse even has a free airport transfer service. For more information and pricing, feel free to view the listing on Agoda. Other Benefits of Staying in the Jung District Outside of a ridiculous amount of restaurants and a nice variety of hotels, there is more to do in the Jung District of Incheon. Surprisingly, there is a decent amount of nature here. There are nice city parks and a tree lined walkway that makes for a great evening stroll. If looking for groceries or just curious what you can find in a Korean supermarket, there is a Lotte Mart. Here you can find everything from snacks and treats to beverages and items to cook your own meals. We stopped in here twice to load up on HBAF, which is a famous brand that sells flavored nuts. There are also convenience stores in Incheon that sell your typical convenient items like drinks and snacks. 7-Eleven and GS25 seemed to be the two dominant convenience stores in Incheon. Conclusion If planning for a long or overnight layover at Incheon Airport, I highly recommend leaving the airport and taking the train to Unseo Station. The Jung District is the perfect place to experience a little bit of what Korea has to offer. You can get great food here, do some shopping, and experience the nightlife all just a few minutes away from Incheon Airport. Enjoying my photos and want to see more? Check out my Picfair Store. 📸 Plan Your Trip: 🗺️✈️🇰🇷 Booking Accommodations ⛺️🛖 For booking recommendations on the best deals and locations, check out Agoda or Booking.com Activities and Tours 🏖️🚁 Find fun activities and things to do through Tripadvisor. If you are looking for tours and day trips, Viator and Get Your Guide have a lot of great options. In need of a car rental? 🚗🚘 I recommend checking with Rental Cars.
Taking the Express Trains from Taipei to Hualien
Taipei and Hualien are both very popular destinations to visit in Taiwan. One of the best ways to travel between Taipei and Hualien is by Express Train. The trains connecting the two cities offer an enjoyable ride with breathtaking views of mountains and ocean. The express trains from Taipei to Hualien offer comfortable seating, convenient schedules, and affordable prices. This post shares our personal experience riding the express trains from Taipei to Hualien and how we booked our tickets. ** This post contains affiliate links. If you click on one of the links or widgets throughout the page, whether it be Viator, Booking.com, Agoda, or any other affiliate, I might receive commission at no extra cost to you. For more information, you can visit my affiliate link page here. Thanks for the support! Booking Train Tickets from Taipei to Hualien Booking a train ticket online via the Taiwan Railway e-booking app is easy and hassle free. The app is through Taiwan Railway. I found it easiest to find train stations and timetables using the Taiwan Railway website. On the Taiwan Railway site, you can enter in your departure and arrival stations. From Taipei Main Station (Station Code: 1000) to Hualien (Station Code: 7000) there are many Express trains that leave throughout the day. I recommend booking the Taroko Express or T.C. Ltd. Express. The travel time from Taipei Main Station to Hualien Station with the express train is around 2 – 2.5 hours. We ended up booking our tickets through the Taiwan Railway website and transferred our bookings to the Taiwan Railway e-booking app. Once the Taiwan Railway e-booking app is set up, you can access your current tickets, bookings, and view booking history. The active tickets will show on the app with a QR code that can be used at the gate. Train tickets for the express trains from Taipei to Hualien cost 440 TWD ($13.94) one way. What are the Express Trains Like The express trains in Taiwan at least between Taipei and Hualien we about what I expected. I didn’t expect Shinkansen type trains like in Japan, but something in between a local train and Shinkansen. That is exactly what the Taroko Express and T.C. Ltd Express was like. The express trains in Taiwan were on time. I had reserved seats and was surprised by the spacious area and comfortable seats. The express trains had restrooms on board that were about as clean as you’d expect for a train. There was on board service. Here and there, a vendor would walk down the aisle selling treats, meals, and drinks. Overall, I was very satisfied with the express trains between Taipei and Hualien. I found them to be very comfortable, spacious, clean, and punctual. Hualien Day Tours Once you get to Hualien, you are probably wondering what there is to do? There are numerous things to do in Hualien but most visit Hualien to check out the stunning Taroko National Park. There are many day tours to Taroko Gorge from either Taipei or Hualien. So after getting off the express train from Taipei to Hualien, why not let a guide take care of the rest? We booked a private tour to Taroko Gorge and highly recommend it. I learned so much about Taroko Gorge, Hualien, and Taiwan. We booked this Full-Day Private Taroko National Park Tour from Hualien City. Here are other similar tours that are worth looking in to. One-Day Private Guided Tour in Taroko Gorge from Hualien Full-Day Taroko National Park Tour from Hualien City Hualien & Taroko Gorge Shared Tour from Hualien Conclusion Taking the express train from Taipei to Hualien is in my opinion the best and most convenient way to travel between the two cities. The Taiwan Railway e-booking app made booking and purchasing tickets a breeze. Given the comfort of the chairs, stunning views out the window, and option to purchase snacks and beverages onboard, made taking the train from Taipei to Hualien and vice versa an enjoyable and hassle free experience. Enjoying my photos and want to see more? Check out my Picfair Store. 📸 Plan Your Trip: 🗺 ✈️ 🇹🇼 Booking Accommodations ⛺️ 🛖 For booking recommendations on the best deals and locations, check out Agoda or Booking.com Activities and Tours 🏖 🚁 Find fun activities and things to do through Tripadvisor. If you are looking for tours and day trips, Viator and Get Your Guide have a lot of great options. In need of a car rental? 🚗 🚘 I recommend checking with Rental Cars.
Visiting Yehliu Geopark from Taipei by Bus
An easy day trip from Taipei is the fascinating and beautiful Yehliu Geopark. What makes this geopark so special is the rugged coastline, spectacular rock formations, and ancient fossils protruding from the sandstone. Yehliu Geopark’s most popular rock formations include the Queen’s Head, Fairy’s Shoe, and the Candle Rocks. With so many activities in the Yehliu area, visitors can spend an entire day exploring the geopark, visiting the aquarium, browsing the markets, sampling local seafood, seeing the vibrant temples, or just simply enjoying the beaches and views. Visiting Yehliu Geopark should be included on everyone’s Taiwan itinerary, especially if staying in Taipei. **This post contains affiliate links. If you click on one of the links or banners throughout the page, whether it be TripAdvisor, Booking.com. Agoda.com, or any other affiliate, I might receive commission at no extra cost to you. For more information, you can visit my affiliate link page here. Thanks for the support! Summary Why Visit Yehliu Geopark: Yehliu Geopark is an easy day trip from Taipei. The geology here is unique and the views of Taiwan’s coastline are stunning. It’s a nice nature escape from the Taipei. Best Ways to Visit Yehliu Geopark: Take the Local Bus from Taipei. Join a Day Tour from Taipei. If looking for day tours to Yehliu Geopark, I recommend a Shifen, Jiufen, and Yehliu Guided Day Trip or a Small Group Tour. Getting to Yehliu Geopark from Taipei by Bus If you are a budget traveler, enjoy buses, or just looking for a cheap and easy option to get to Yehliu Geopark from Taipei, then I’d recommend taking the local bus. If taking public transit in a foreign city seems complicated and nerve wracking, I can assure you that finding the bus station in Taipei and finding the right bus to Yehliu Geopark is stress free and easy! We stayed near Taipei Main Station and walked to the station the day of our visit to Yehliu Geopark. Buses to Yehliu Geopark depart from Kuo-Kuang Bus Taipei Terminal. Once in Kuo-Kuang Bus Taipei Terminal, you want to take Bus#1815 that heads toward Dharma Drum Mountain. At the station, this was at line 5. Thankfully, we knew we were in the right section, there was a sign that displayed 1815 (Jinshan > Yehliu > Dharma Drum Mountain). There is a arrival and departure sheet as well, so you can view when Bus #1815 comes and goes. The bus ride was about 1 hour and 15 minutes give or take. It made several stops between Taipei and Yehliu. Surprisingly, the bus was very comfortable and I enjoyed seeing more of Taipei and the beautiful country side. The bus even had USB ports to charge electronics. Once the bus arrived at the Yehliu bus stop, it was about a 10 minute walk to Yehliu Geopark. To get back to Taipei from Yehliu Geopark by bus, simply go to Yehliu bus stop on the opposite side of the road and wait for Bus #1815 heading back to Taipei. The bus will make it’s way back to Kuo-Kuang Bus Taipei Terminal. Condensed version of getting to Yehliu Geopark from Taipei by bus. From Taipei Main Station go to Kuo-Kuan Bus Taipei Terminal Take the Bus #1815 headed toward Dharma Drum Mountain Get off at Yehliu Bus Station 10-minute walk from the bus station puts you at Yehliu Geopark Tours and Day Trips to Yehliu Geopark Not into taking the bus or trying to figure out times and bus routes? There are day tours to Yehliu Geopark that might be better suited for your travel style. Many tours offered by reputable companies like Viator or Get Your Guide, offer day trips to Yehliu Geopark. Most day tours include Jiufen, Yehliu, and perhaps another destination on the day tour. Here are some of the recommended day tours to Yehliu. I’d plan a full day for day trips to Yehliu from Taipei. Yehliu, Jiufen & Pingxi Tour from Taipei Small-Group Tour: Jiufen, Yehliu Geopark, and Shifen from Taipei Full-Day Private Northern Taiwan Tour from Taipei with Pickup History of Yehliu Geopark and the Rock Formations Yehliu Geopark is as old as Taiwan itself. Yehliu Geopark as some of the most unique rock formations on Earth. So how did the coastline and rock formations here at Yehliu come about? The Datun Mountains in the area were pushed up by geologic forces and the harsh environment near the coast began to erode the rocks. The salt water, harsh winds, and powerful waves shaped the rocks at the park to what they are today. Because of the erosion, this park is constantly changing. So it’s best to visit Yehliu Geopark sooner then later! Like Mushroom Rock State Park and Rock City in Kansas, many of the rock formations at Yehliu Geopark are considered hoodoo formations. In short, the rock formations at Yehliu Geopark are a result of the geological forces and erosion. The environment here constantly changes and some of the famous formations like Queen’s Head may not exist in the near future. Enjoying my photos and want to see more? Check out my Picfair Store. 📸 Visiting Yehliu Geopark Yehliu Geopark is relatively small but there is a lot of ground to cover. The cape here is 1.7 km long but many visitors tend to hang out near the park entrance where the rock formations exist. If you want to see more of the cape, there is a trail that ends at an observation deck looking out to the East China Sea. The trail was paved and the views were well worth the extra exercise. But the majority of the attractions and sites are just beyond the entrance. Here you can take photos with some of the more famous rock formations and watch the powerful waves crash against the rocks. Below you can find more information on the park to include the admission and hours and some of the attractions and site we recommend seeing while visiting Yehliu Geopark. Admission and Hours Admission Adults – NTD 120Children – NTD 60 Hours Yehliu Geopark is open daily from 8:00 until 17:00 For more information, you can view the Yehliu Geopark website. Must See Attractions and Sites at Yehliu Geopark Yehliu Geopark as a whole is a natural attraction worth visiting. But within the geopark there are certain geological formations that cannot be missed, Queen’s Head, Fairy’s Shoe, and Candle Rocks to name a few. As someone who loves nature and interested in geology, here are my most recommend things to do and sites to see within Yehliu Geopark. Hike to the Observation Deck Just past all the stunning rock formations, there is a trail that meanders through forests, towers above cliffs, and eventually ends at an observation deck overlooking the East China Sea. Don’t worry, the trail is relatively short and is paved. The whole roundtrip of this trail can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour. Although there are no geologic formations along the trail, you are rewarded with stunning views and a break from the crowds. Fossils One of the most noticeable features I saw at Yehliu Geopark was the exposed fossils found throughout the park, especially the oversized sand dollars. The fossils appeared to be everywhere, the more I looked, I couldn’t help but notice fossils extruding from the sandstone waiting to be photographed by me. Candle Shaped Rocks Some of the most unique rock formations at Yehliu Geopark is the Candle Shaped Rocks. The waves crashing against these rocks was dramatic, I tried shooting the waves using a slow shutter, even then my pictures did not do this scene justice. The name of this rock is called “Candle Shaped Rock” because the conical rocks standing upright have nearly perfect circular rocks on top of them giving a candle like appearance. The way these rocks form is far to complex for me to explain. I’d recommend reading more on these rock formations through the Yehliu Geopark website. Fairy’s Shoe Not far from Queen’s Head is the Fairy’s Shoe. This rock formation took a bit of hunting. I asked a security guard in the area where the Fairy’s Shoe was located. It’s just over the ledge and easy to spot once you know the location, you can’t miss it. Sure enough, the rock looks like a shoe. Legend has it that this was actually left here by a fairy that made a brief stop at this location to control an elf that was up to no good! Queen’s Head By far the most popular rock in Yehliu Geopark is Queen’s Head. It’s so popular that there is a boardwalk in front of it with a location to stand for photos. Quite honestly, I found this to be cringy and sad that people wait in line to take a photo by the rock. I wouldn’t be so angry about this but all I wanted was a quick photo of the rock. But there were tour groups in line with tons of people who took group and individual photos! Move along! With that rant aside, Queen’s Head is an interesting formation. It’s a mushroom rock that was created by erosion. The neck holding up the head of the rock is eroding away. Eventually, the neck will get so thin and no longer be able to support the head. So go see Queen’s Head while it’s still there. The name “Queen’s Head” comes from the resemblance the face of the rock has to Queen Elizabeth of England. Outside the Geopark A visit to Yehliu doesn’t have to end at the geopark. In fact, there is much more to do and see in Yehliu. Honestly, one can spend an entire day here, but we were here for a solid half day. Just enough time to visit some temples, see Yehliu Geopark, and grab lunch at one of the local seafood restaurants. When first entering Yehliu, we couldn’t help but notice the large fishing boats at port. They were quite unique compared to fishing boats I am used to seeing in the United States and even Japan. In town, there are a few beautiful temples that are worth a brief stop. Yehliu Baoan Temple and Noyanagi Ninna no Miya Sukura General Army Temples come to mind. Both temples are your traditional temples found in Taiwan with their beautiful vibrant colors and highly decorative figurines on the roof. There is the Yehliu Ocean World right next to Yehliu Geopark. It’s an aquarium with a dolphin show. It has good reviews, but I’m not a fan of using animals as entertainment, so I passed on this attraction. When it comes to food, there are a lot of local restaurants surrounding the giant parking lot. It didn’t take us very long to find a restaurant as we popped in the first one we found. The restaurant we ate at was called, in English Fisherman Dishes. We ordered a plate of calamari, clams, and fried rice, all which were very good! For fresh seafood, the price was very reasonable. Yehliu Geopark – An Ideal Day Trip from Taipei If you are looking to escape the noise, pollution, and crowds, that come with a huge city like Taipei, then a day trip to Yehliu Geopark is definitely worth the effort. We found getting to Yehliu Geopark from Taipei to be easy and affordable and a great escape. This park is one of Taiwan’s most popular attractions so unfortunately, you won’t escape the crowds. We ended up staying in Yehliu Geopark for several hours and loved every minute of it. It was nice to hike to the observation deck for the views then walk amongst the unique rock formations that make up Yehliu Geopark. So if you are looking for day trips from Taipei, might I suggest a trip to Yehliu Geopark. Enjoying my photos and want to see more? Check out my Picfair Store. 📸 Plan Your Trip: 🗺 ✈️ 🇹🇼 Booking Accommodations ⛺️ 🛖 For booking recommendations on the best deals and locations, check out Agoda