Taiwannabe With You: The Comeback Trip 2024 – Part 1
A 3-day return to the island that once sparked a thousand dreams.
📅 Travel Dates: May 11–13, 2024
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Hello again, Taiwan. I’m back in my second home.

I never imagined that a quick backpacking trip to Taiwan would happen this year. It was short—just three days. I didn’t have a solid itinerary, and I didn’t need one. I craved something spontaneous. Something raw and real. Just me, my backpack, and Taiwan.

This trip was a simple escape from my busy work life. It wasn’t luxury travel. It was a shoestring journey like I used to do, with only the essentials: a flight, a place to stay, a SIM card, and a curious heart.

This spontaneous 3-day escape was unplanned, unfiltered, and exactly what I needed—a break from the grind, a shoestring adventure, and a reunion with a place that never really left me.

✈️ The Journey Begins

I booked an early 6:00 AM flight via Royal Air, one of the newest budget airlines serving the Manila–Taipei route (as of May 11, 2024). It was my first time trying this airline—and I was pleasantly surprised. Smooth flight, hassle-free process. My return flight was with AirAsia at 10:00 AM, since Royal Air had no return flights that matched my schedule.

After locking in my airfare, I booked my accommodation, travel insurance, and SIM card. That was it. No frills. Just vibes.

✈️ Day 1: Touchdown in Taiwan

Touchdown at Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport was quick and easy. Immigration was a breeze. I picked up my SIM card, had a quick coffee at the airport food court, and headed straight to the Taoyuan Airport MRT for the ride to Taipei Main Station.

Here’s a travel hack: I still had my old MRT card from my previous trips—so no need to buy a new one. It’s always satisfying to save a few bucks where you can!

I’ve been to Taiwan multiple times, so navigating around was second nature. Taipei’s public transport system is efficient and tourist-friendly, and having some familiarity with the city really makes a difference.

🏙️ Back to Taipei Main Station

Once I reached Taipei Main Station, the hunger kicked in—so I grabbed a quick meal at the nearby McDonald’s (the one close to Smile Inn). Taipei Main is more than just a transport hub; it’s a crossroads of culture, food, and history. It’s a perfect base for exploring both old haunts and hidden corners of the city. This area is more than just a transit hub—it’s a launchpad to places like Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, National Taiwan Museum, and hidden gems tucked into alleys and arcades

I love how revisiting spots like Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall still feels fresh. Each return reveals something new—like stumbling upon the Taiwan Museum, or even just noticing small design details in familiar areas.

Exhausted from the early flight, I checked in at my accommodation near the station. After a short rest, I knew where my feet wanted to take me next.

🌃 Wanders in Ximending

Of course—I went to Ximending.

This iconic pedestrian area is Taipei’s version of Shibuya or Myeongdong. It was alive with energy: crowds moving through neon-lit streets, street performers drawing cheers, vendors frying up local snacks, and endless fashion stalls waiting to be browsed.

It felt so nostalgic to be here again. The place hadn’t changed much—but the feeling hit differently. I wasn’t just a tourist this time. I was home again, even if briefly.

🟥 The Red House: A Glimpse of Art and History

Just a few steps away from Ximending is the iconic Red House. Built in 1908, this octagonal red-brick building is a beloved heritage site that has transformed into a creative and cultural hotspot. Inside, you’ll find curated shops, art markets, and a theater space that regularly hosts performances.

More than its history, the Red House is a proud symbol of Taipei’s LGBTQ+ community and artistic spirit. Though I didn’t have time to explore it in-depth this time, just seeing it brought back memories and left me with the same admiration I always feel for this corner of Taipei.

🛏️ Ending the Day with Gratitude

After my Ximending stroll, I headed back to my accommodation, heart full and feet sore. This return wasn’t just a trip—it was a rekindling. A soft reset. And the best part? It was only the beginning.

When I first stepped foot on Taiwan’s land in 2018, I don’t know if it was a spark, a pull, or something else entirely—but I felt it. That quiet, familiar feeling like I was exactly where I was meant to be. Not just a place I visited, but a place that felt like home.