See the True Taiwan: an insiders guide

This is a re-updated post of clubs in Taipei. If you're looking to go out in Taipei for a good time, its worth it to know that things have changed significantly since the last time this blog posted about going out. Clubs: To date, if you're a well dressed, foreign man without the company of women of any race, expect to be given SOME trouble at the top clubs. Still true in 2023. Not going to name names, but party life seems to have separated into places that cater to foreigners, and places that prefer a more local vibe. Straight up refusing entry isn't something to worry about, but you might find things feel a bit off in the wrong spot. Remember They're A Business: Clubs want to make money, and if its a good idea to make money off of you they will. Some prices are specific for men / women, foreign / not foreign, etc. Although the practice is fading away bit by bit. Don't be surprised if you can't get a deal on entry for some reason, even if it was posted o...

Shrimping is one of those Taiwanese past times that draws a cult following of locals much like bowling does in the west. People who do it regularly love it, bring their own equipment, and have an entire social network centered around the activity. Many of the shrimp shacks are open around the clock all year round and run a restaurant in addition to the pools of massive shrimp. It's not uncommon to see big groups of young Taiwanese folks having a giant meal, a rack full of giant beers, and plate after plate of fresh grilled shrimp. Tourists who have done some research on Taiwan might have stumbled across shrimping as an activity and not paid it much mind. The reality is shrimping is easily in the top ten things you must do when you're in Taiwan. If you have not been to a shrimping stand and think you've gotten local, it's time to think again. For an average price of 300 NT per hour you get a rented pole, some bait, and a seat around a murky pool of water. The staff r...

Fall brings a heavy load of new arrivals to Taiwan's universities and buxibans, so it's a good time to brush up on the fundamentals of clubbing. What are the true things about Taipei's club scene? Where are the good clubs in Taipei? What are the basics for making sure you have a good night out? First of all, forget everything you have read on the internet which makes Taiwan seem like a clubbing paradise. While what you have read may once have been true, things have changed a lot in the last year after an incident involving a death outside of one of the city's nightclubs. Don't be surprised if the police show up during your night out - it's far more common with the public safety concerns raised by the incident last fall. While it is a mood kill, be nice to them - they're just doing their job and it makes everything go far smoother. The Harsh Truth: Men, Taiwanese girls are not easy and just because they're dressed well, doesn't mean th...