Thinking about Taiwan?

You could grab one of those touristy, commercial travel guides. Or, you could dive into Taiwan with your new local bestie, LeeAnn (that's me), who's about to give you the actual lowdown on this amazing island, minus the tourist fluff and with a healthy dose of Taipei-approved snark.

Forget those "Top 10" lists written by a travel writer who visited for a weekend. I live here. I know where to find the truly epic food (and how to avoid the stuff that'll make your wallet weep), the sights that'll genuinely make your jaw drop (not just the ones everyone and their selfie stick flocks to), and the cultural quirks that make Taiwan, well, Taiwan.

Inside, the real deal on:

• Taipei: Beyond the night markets (though we'll hit those too, obviously), I'm spilling all my local secrets.
• Jiufen & Keelung: Lanterns, legends, and a night market that'll make you question all your life choices (in the best way).
• Taroko Gorge & Hualien: Mother Nature showing off, plus the essential info on what's actually doable after recent shake-ups.
• Taichung: More than just good weather, I promise! We're talking bubble tea origins and art in unexpected places.
• Tainan: Prepare for a history lesson you won't fall asleep in, and a food scene that's unapologetically sweet.
• Kaohsiung & Cijin: Your southern escape plan, complete with port city charm, quirky islands, and a celebrity cat. Yes, really.
• Kenting: Sun, sand, and "seriously?!": I'll tell you what the TikToks don't.

This isn't just about where to go; it's about how to go. I'll arm you with essential survival tips, from navigating the (occasionally baffling) transport to understanding why you should never pick up that random red envelope on the street. I'll warn you which "must-see" is actually a "maybe-miss" and clue you in on which hole-in-the-wall is chef's-kiss.

Swap those dramatic headlines (are they threatening to invade us again?!) for delicious food stalls. Experience Taiwan like you've got a savvy local whispering in your ear. You kind of do. In the non-creepiest way possible.

Let's do this.