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Exploring Taiwan! - Justaiwantour Travel Services

• Asia    
• Taiwan    
• Taipei    
• Taipei - Things to Do    
• Justaiwantour Travel Services

Exploring Taiwan!

Our guide Will was very informative and hospitable. I will definitely been with him again. We were able to see places we wouldn’t have see without his help and knowledge of Taiwan.

Thank you for taking the time to share your positive experience with our tour guide Will. It was a pleasure to assist you, and we can't wait to welcome you back soon!

We were on our way back to NA from Vietnam and had a 7 hour layover in Taipei. Justaiwan Tours filled the gap with a GREAT 4 hour experience. Chia Jung is a fantastic tour guide. He took us to the top of 101 and the Night Market. He’s smart, thinks on his feet and is a great photographer.

Thank you so much for your 5-star review! We're thrilled to hear you had a fantastic experience with our service.

The tour company was such as pleasure to work with - we were able customize our trip according to our timing and sight-seeing needs. It was so seemless! Price was more than reasonable. The tour guide (Elvis Chang) was unbelievable. Not only did he handle the Taiwan traffic and parking like a boss, he was an amazing guide who was able to provide us with helpful information. He also was very guide at adjusting to our needs as we went. It was such a wonderful two-day trip, thanks to the flexibility and expertise of the guide and company.

We're glad you guys had an amazing time in Taiwan! Your satisfaction is our top priority, and we're delighted we could make your journey through Taiwan so memorable. We look forward to serving you again on your next adventure!

Highly recommend this beautiful scenery day trip from Taipei with JusTaiwan. Very smooth communication with the tour operator and the driver before and during the trip. Our driver, Chia Jung, spoke good English ( and Japanese) and was very experienced with the area, taking different walking routes and timing perfectly to avoid the crowds. Plus he is very friendly and offers to take many photos. We very much enjoyed our conversation with him about tea, history and politics. I now need to try Pinglin tea :)

We're overjoyed to receive your 5-star rating! Thanks for taking the time to share your positive experience. It was a pleasure to assist you, and we can't wait to welcome you back soon!

Tony our guide was very personable with great driving skills & very accommodating personal touches that made this tour really pop off , Tony also had great in dept knowledge of the area and the food that he had taken us to the great pluses was he also a great photographer combine that with the knowledge he brought to the tour it was like having your very own photographer that could do your pics and memories for you so you could really just take in all the culture.

Thank you for giving our amazing tour guide Tony a 5-star review! We're so happy to know we met your expectations. Your support means the world to us, and we can't wait to offer you another wonderful experience in the future!

We did a 3d2n guided tour with tour guide Tony. He is friendly and knowlegable. He brought us to places with good food. Days were well planned with good amount of sight seeing, food and play. Tony helped us take plenty of photos for memory keeps. We were in good hands with Justtaiwantour. Thank you for the good experience!

Thank you for trusting us with your travel needs. We're committed to providing excellent service and are glad you were satisfied. Looking forward to your next visit!!!

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Fabulous 5 Day Tour With Just Taiwan... - Justaiwantour Travel Services

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• Justaiwantour Travel Services

Fabulous 5 Day Tour With Just Taiwan Tours

Amazing service with Just Taiwan Tours. All communication with Mr Ben, the manager was very detailed and professional prior to the group's arrival. The itinerary was very well thought out and the guide was excellent. We would highly recommend Just Taiwan Tours for their fantastic service and thorough professionalism and enjoyed our time in Taipei absolutely thanks to them

Your 5-star review made our day! Thank you so much!

James Chen was an amazing guide for our day in the mountains! He’s everything a guide should be and even though he apologized for his English we thought his conversation skills were excellent. He kept us moving, provided umbrellas when it started to rain and introduced us to a totally different side of Taiwan than the big city. He took us to the most wonderful little eatery when he found out we wanted Tai soup dumplings, even calling ahead so the proprietor could have them ready when we got there. He takes many pictures and has contacts which provide excellent services like tea ceremony and lantern lighting. One of the best days we had on our trip to India and Asia.

Wow! We're over the moon reading your wonderful review. Thanks a bunch!

Justaiwan (agency) was booked by us for our CNY holidays. Mr Chia Jung came with a smile to bring my family to Taroko mountain. (*in between a 1 day tour to Taichung too.) Obviously lack of time, typically each stops like 30 mins for such a park, too much to miss this beautiful mountain area. *would been ideal to self drive but left hand and cliff n bends make it dangerous to DIY. He was knowledgeable and a superb skill driver.(especially in winding adventures roads). He speaks well in English and Hokkien n of cause Mondrian. *Japanese too. Oh, he loves lots of pictures n camera. Overall, Recommended. Go.. Enjoy! Taiwan :p

Thank you so much for your glowing review! We're thrilled to hear you had a fantastic experience with us!

Very informative tour guide and trip is very smooth . The places we visited are as per itinerary . Family members enjoyed the trip very much .

Thanks a million for the 5-star review! We're delighted you enjoyed your time with us.

Our guide Will was very informative and hospitable. I will definitely been with him again. We were able to see places we wouldn’t have see without his help and knowledge of Taiwan.

Thank you for taking the time to share your positive experience with our tour guide Will. It was a pleasure to assist you, and we can't wait to welcome you back soon!

We were on our way back to NA from Vietnam and had a 7 hour layover in Taipei. Justaiwan Tours filled the gap with a GREAT 4 hour experience. Chia Jung is a fantastic tour guide. He took us to the top of 101 and the Night Market. He’s smart, thinks on his feet and is a great photographer.

Thank you so much for your 5-star review! We're thrilled to hear you had a fantastic experience with our service.

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Wonderful times - Justaiwantour Travel Services

• Asia    
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• Taipei    
• Taipei - Things to Do    
• Justaiwantour Travel Services

Wonderful times

We booked a planless Taipei tour with Justaiwantour last year. Just wanna say how great the experience was for me and my girlfriend. Our guide Hua even brought us breakfast! I appreciate his attention to detail. Overall a great experience.

Our tour guide, James, was absolutely amazing. He spoke English and was very informative on all of the stops. I would HIGHLY RECOMMEND this company. We did the 8 hour private tour.

Thank you so much for your kind words! We're thrilled to hear that you had such a positive experience with us.

James was an amazing tour guide. He was friendly, educational, and spoke very good English. I felt like I learned a lot about Taiwanese history, politics, and culture. Some places I had already been to but he offered new information! I was traveling by myself at the time and he made for great company while also remaining professional. I highly recommend!

High-fives and heartfelt thanks for your 5-star review. You rock!

James was a great tour guide! Very knowledgeable and friendly. Showed us a great tour on our layover in Taipei! Highly recommend!

Your 5-star review made our day! Thank you so much!

We just got to our accommodation in Jiufen after an absolutely fantastic day! I'm so glad we chose to take this trip with our custom itinerary, it was absolutely worth it. We got to see 10 locations, including a few bonus stops that Berry recommended such as a cherry blossom temple. In crowded places we were able to scoot around the crowds, and make sure we didnt have to queue too long for the paper lanterns in Shifen. One of our highlights was also the lunch stop, we're we got rice dumpling, as well as local sea snails - something my friend hadn't been able to eat in years! Learned so much and saw so much in just one day, thank you so much Berry! We saw so many people on mass tourism bus tours at main stops like Shifen and Yehliu, and I don't think we would have enjoyed our time half as much - I'm so glad that we didn't choose that option just for the cheap prices. Absolutely worth the money cannot recommend highly enough.

Heartfelt thanks for your 5-star review! Your feedback is incredibly valuable to us. We're delighted you had a great experience and hope to see you again for another memorable journey!

The excursion was great. We loved all of the places we went and would highly recommend. Our guide was kind and caring to all of us, however, there was very little history or narration along the way. We asked repeatedly that the radio be turned down or off and it wasn’t to be. Sometimes it was shut off for 5-10 minutes but then it was turned on again making it impossible to hear our friends or the guide. The places we went were terrific.

Dear LORI41435, Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback with us. We're delighted to hear that you enjoyed the excursion overall and appreciated the destinations we visited, as well as the kindness and care provided by our guide. We apologize for any inconvenience caused by the radio volume during the tour. Your feedback regarding the narration and history along the way is valuable to us, and we understand the importance of providing a balanced experience that allows for both enjoyment and learning. We will certainly review our tour guidelines and communication practices to ensure that future guests have a more seamless and immersive experience. We appreciate your recommendation and hope to have the opportunity to welcome you back for another memorable excursion in the future.

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Justaiwantour

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Tours VIEW ALL

Full-Day Excursion to Taipei ...

Drop anchor at Keelung Cruise Port and go on this highly recommended private tour to Taipei. You will visit famous tourist ...

3-Day Trekking & Tribal ...

Experience the nature and culture of Taroko Gorge like never before in this three-day experience. Trek along the different trails ...

Full-Day Yangmingshan ...

Travel north of Taipei to the Yangmingshan National Park and discover various species of flowers while relishing the calm ...

Services Provided

Professional License/Certificate

About Company!

We are organized by a group of people who love Taiwan and travel.Justaiwantour is committed to letting everyone experience three core values "people, culture & experience," which means "local private tour guide, Taiwanese cultures, and in-depth experience."We offer private tours with customized service as well as professional travel planners' exclusive recommendations.Our travel planners have developed more than 100 Taiwan day tours and strive to discover various in-depth tours in Taiwan.Our dedication even gained the Department of Tourism, Taipei City Government’s affirmation.With Justaiwantour, you will explore the most beautiful part of Taiwan with our professional guide.We focus on helping every traveler to customize their own [sensitive content] w we have almost 20 travel experts that are proficient in Taiwanese cultures and stories.We listen to our customers’ needs and provide them the best travel experience in Taiwan.So far there are more than 8,000 visitors selecting Justaiwantour to tailor-make their own journey.Follow Justaiwantour, we will give you a different Taiwan.

TourHQ ID: TW63560

Private Tours Operator in: Taipei

Other Guiding City: Yilan, Hualien, Taichung, Tainan, Taitung, Kaohsiung, Jiufen, Keelung, Yehliu, Taroko National Park, Yangmingshan, Jinshan

Languages spoken by our guides: English, Mandarin

Review Rating

My tour calendar, recent reviews of justaiwantour and their guides.

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10 Best Taiwan Tour Operators 2024 [Unbiased & With Reviews]

10 best taiwan tour operators 2024.

Are you planning to visit Taiwan, but unsure which tour provider to select? Now, you no longer have to waste time searching the internet and filling out dozens of contact forms. Simply fill out ONE form, we’ll send it off to multiple tour providers and they’ll contact YOU! You’ll be able to compare rates and find the lowest cost tour for the most affordable trip abroad.

Get Free Quotes From 10 Best Taiwan Tour Operators

Are you looking to travel to Taiwan? Do you know where to find the best and top tour companies in Taiwan ? Are you interested in finding a safe, affordable, and highly rated tour company in Taiwan?

Taiwan is a small country with unlimited awe-inspiring attractions, from towering skyscrapers of Taipei to the offshore islands and scenic mountains. Listed as one of the happiest places in East Asia, the country has over a hundred mountain peaks above 3,000 meters, stunning temples, and world-class museums and national parks. Tourists are spoiled for choice because deciding what to do in Taiwan is a tough call with many tourists gems and off-the-beaten tracks.

While exploring Taiwan is a great experience, finding the best tours in Taiwan is difficult and complicated. When you Google tour companies in Taiwan, thousands of results pop up, all claiming to be trustworthy with the best packages. How do you know which one to select? Choosing the wrong Taiwan tour operator could have dreadful consequences that can highly affect your vacation trip.

Do not worry! TravellersQuest is here to help you! We don’t want to see you choose the wrong Taiwan tour company that could potentially wreck your dream tour abroad. So, our specialized researchers spent thousands of hours analyzing the cheapest, safest, and highly rated best tour companies for you.

Here are the top 10 tour companies in Taiwan that you can select with no strings attached.

Table update Jan 11, 2024

Edison Travel Service

Edison Travel Service is the highest rated and reviewed local Taiwan tour company. With over 30 years of experience in inbound travel, they have served more than 100 notable corporations globally. They prioritize 24/7 customer service for a comfortable and safe trip and have a multilingual team. Edison Tours, an extension of their services, offers regular sightseeing tours, customization travel options, and corporate travel experiences with team building activities. Their commitment to excellence is evident through numerous awards, including Tripadvisor Certificates of Excellence and Travelers’ Choice recognitions. In 2021, they earned the Safe Travels Stamp from the World Travel & Tourism Council.

Edison Travel Service Best Taiwan Tour Packages

Go on unforgettable journeys with Edison Travel Service’s enticing Taiwan tour packages. The Exclusive Hakka Discovery Adventure immerses you in Taiwanese Hakka culture, featuring visits to Jin Yong DIY Recreation Farm, Hexing Station, Zhudong Train Station, and Beipu Old Street.

Discover hidden treasures on Orchid Island with the Discovering Paradise tour . You will explore the unique culture of the Tao Tribe and engage in water activities.

For adventure seekers, the Conquer the Clouds tour takes you to the summit of Mt. Qixing, Taipei’s highest mountain, offering breathtaking views of the cityscape.

Edison Travel Service Reviews

Edison Travel Service is the best Taiwan company tours with many positive and outstanding reviews. The company has won the Certificate of Excellent by Trip Advisor multiple times and has been reviewed by over 1050 travelers who rated them highly for excellent customer care. See a positive review here:

Had a great day and got to see everything we wanted too.Our guide Vincent was amazing gave us lots of info about the areas… Miguel B

Read all reviews of Edison Travel Service on TripAdvisor .

Experience the beauty of Japan with the most reputable tour companies. Choose from the 10 Best Tour Operators in Japan for an unforgettable adventure.

TourMeAway  is a local Taiwan tour company founded by a group of adventure-seeking, easy-going, and fun-loving enthusiasts. The company aims to help you explore the best of Taiwan to the world. TourMeAway provides entertaining and informative free walking tours in Taipei with young and passionate local tour guides. Book an excursion with TourMeAway Tours and enjoy Taipei’s way of life, just like the locals.  

TourMeAway Best Taiwan Tour Packages

TourMeAway offers a variety of Taiwan tour packages that you can enjoy and choose from.

Take the classic  Old Town Taipei Tour , which will take you through the old town to the Presidential office, Memorial Park, and Inner-City Market with a professional and knowledgeable guide.

Take it easy and keep it cool by taking the  Taipei Chill-Out Tour  to hang out with the locals in Yong Kang Food Paradise or the Qingtian Teahouses.

For a fun night around Taipei, take the  Spring Special Pub Crawl  and sample local beers, shots, wines, and food.

TourMeAway Reviews

TourMeAway is a leading Taiwan tour company with an overwhelming number of positive reviews. The company has over 1100 reviews with 5-star ratings on Trip Advisor and ranks #1 tour operating agency in Taiwan. Read a fantastic review below:

Mr. Tamu was passionate and knowledgeable. The tour combined history, architecture, politics, food and so much more. It was a fantastic experience… Inspire787534

Read all reviews of TourMeAway on TripAdvisor .

Viist the vibrant city-state of Singapore with ease by choosing from the 10 Best Singapore Tour Companies . Your ideal adventure awaits.

MyTaiwanTour Travel Services

My Taiwan Tours  is an award-winning and highly rated tour operator in Taiwan. The company facilitates you tour around the island through a user-friendly website that allows you to craft your full itinerary online. With a dedicated team of young professional experts, the company ensures that every aspect of your journey is planned out with care and safety. My Taiwan Tours Travel is about personal interaction and having a good time while introducing you to the wonders of Taiwan.

MyTaiwanTour Travel Services Best Taiwan Tour Packages

My Taiwan Tours offers a great Taiwan tour package, and you will indeed find the perfect excursion that fits your interest and budget.

When you take the  Ultimate Taipei Day Tour , you can explore ancient China, ultra-modern Taipei, and Colonial Taiwan and dine at the world-famous Michelin Din Tai Fung restaurant.

On this relaxed  Around Taiwan 8 Day Private Tour , you’ll experience towering scenic mountains, beautiful valleys, temples, and the stunning Sun Moon Lake.

The National Palace Museum  is home to more than 700,000 artifacts and art spanning thousands of years of Chinese history.

MyTaiwanTour Travel Services Reviews

My Taiwan Tours is one of the most recognized Taiwan tour companies with many raving and great reviews. On TripAdvisor, they have over 1040 reviews and have 5-star client satisfaction rate. Read the positive review below:

Extremely impressed with My Taiwan Tour. Ivy was excellent…If you want an exceptional tour to Taiwan, then this is the company for you… sarahpemberton05

Read all reviews of MyTaiwanTour Travel Services on TripAdvisor .

Discover the stunning beauty of the Maldives with the highest-rated Maldives tour operators .

Liuqiu Dive

Liuqui Dive is one of the top-rated Taiwan tour companies, offering unique and specialized ocean diving and snorkeling tours. The company works with professional PADI experts to ensure a fulfilling and safe experience in the sea. Liuqui Dive has positioned itself as the top 10 best company through reviews on Trip Advisor and outstanding customer service. Book with them now to get a unique great tour experience abroad.  

Liuqiu Dive Best Taiwan Tour Packages

Liuqui Dive has plenty of top-rated Taiwan island tours. From seeing the ocean learning how to scuba dive, you’ll find something you enjoy.

Experience Diving  in the ocean and observe all the water wildlife at close range, including sea turtles.

If you are looking to be a professional, take a  PADI Diving Course  to learn the basic knowledge of scuba diving to explore the underwater with a professional instructor.

Liuqiu Dive Reviews  

Liuqui Dive is a leading tour company in Taiwan with many glowing and excellent reviews. The reviews show that past tourists’ satisfaction rate is very high. Out of the 1807 reviews on Trip Advisor, 99% of the travelers say the company is safe, professional, or affordable. See a nice positive review below:

I took the AOW course on December, it is so amazing! I had 2 days course with 5 dives, it was very tired but I learnt different kinds of skills… Tethys T

Read all reviews of Liuqiu Dive on TripAdvisor .

Make your journey through India unforgettable by selecting a tour operator from our list of the 10 Best Tour Operators in India .

YOLO Taiwan

YOLO Taiwan  is on our top list of Taiwan tour companies because they offer travelers great experiences that are safe, affordable, and unique for lasting memorable memories. The company specializes in hassle-free private custom tours with professional and hospitable English-speaking tour guides. In addition, YOLO Taiwan also delivers private car charter services, hotel bookings, and airport transfers.

YOLO Taiwan Best Taiwan Tour Packages

If you are looking for the best Taiwan day tour, then YOLO Taiwan got you covered. They have many tour packages that can be personalized to meet the requirements you are looking for.

Join in the  Taroko Gorge Tour  to see one of Asia’s seven wonders with a professional guide. This tour is flexible and highlights the phenomenal marble walls, crystal water, and forested canyons.

You can customize the  Taipei City Tour  to fit your flexibility and see all the city attractions, including the National Palace Museum and the Lungshan Temple of Manka.

YOLO Taiwan Reviews

As a leading Taiwan tour company, YOLO Taiwan has earned its spot on our top 10 list. The company has a solid 5-star ranking on Trip Advisor, with over 755 people providing esteemed feedback. Here you can read a review left by a past traveler:

Mom, dad, and 22 yo daughter customized the 8 hour northern Taiwan tour. Our driver made this experience 5star. Ted was great… Experience233981

Read all reviews of YOLO Taiwan on TripAdvisor .

Round Taiwan Round

Round Taiwan Round is all about making your travel in Taiwan easy and enjoyable. From planning with you to having friendly local guides and dependable transportation, this Taiwan tour company got you covered. They specialize in international tourism, ensuring you get the real Taiwan experience. They are licensed by the Taiwanese Ministry of Tourism, and their online platform makes quotes, schedules, and bookings quick and hassle-free for an unforgettable journey.

Round Taiwan Round Best Taiwan Tour Packages

Round Taiwan Round offers a wide selection of Taiwan local tour packages that are exciting and unique.

Visit one of the biggest attractions in Asia, the  Taichung Tour , world-famous for the Lavender Cottage, Carton King, and Miyahara.

The  Jiufen Shared Tour  will take you to the prosperous gold mining town where mining was thriving in the 1950s. 

The  Alishan Giant Forest  is a tour that will allow you to discover the mountain teas and the scenic beauty of the plantations.

Experience the wonders of China with confidence by choosing from the 10 Best Tour Operators in China .

Round Taiwan Round Reviews

This Taiwan tour company has been given great reviews by hundreds of satisfied past clients on Trip Advisor. They proudly rank highly at #2 out of 18 tours in Xinyi and continue to grow and thrive each day. See the positive review below:

Had a wonderful time visiting all the places that the tour includes. Jeffrey, the driver, made our trip very special and enjoyable. 100% recommend… Naydelin V

Read all reviews of Round Taiwan Round on TripAdvisor .

Taiwan Vista Day Tour

Established in 2014,  Taiwan Vista Day Tour ’s goal is to provide quality Taiwan tours with professional and knowledgeable guides.  The company is passionate about providing international guests with in-depth experiences to immerse themselves in the local Taiwanese culture and adventures. Taiwan Vista Day Tour’s most popular excursions include private guided hiking, cycling, and river tracing.

Taiwan Vista Day Tour Best Taiwan Tour Packages

You will have an immersive cultural experience with Taiwan Vista Day Tour and a unique Taiwan package tour that you want to be customized.

The  Taroko National Park Tour  lets you discover the world’s deepest marble canyon and leisurely hike on the easier trails with forested canyons and crystal-clear rivers.

The  Zhuilu Old Trail and Taroko National Park  is the perfect tour for travelers with only a day to spend in Hualien.

The  Hehuan Mountain  has breathtaking 360-degree views of the mountain ranges with magnificent sceneries and landscapes if you want to hike.

Taiwan Vista Day Tour Reviews

With over 358 great reviews on Trip Advisor, Taiwan Vista Day guarantees a trip of a lifetime. As one of the best tour Taiwan tour companies, the company had provided excellent tours to thousands of happy travelers. You can see the proof with a review such as this one:

With Jason Huang we had a great experience seeing the Taroko Gorge and beach. He is so kind, well spoken in English and tailored the program to our needs…Boudewien C

Read all reviews of Taiwan Vista Day Tour on TripAdvisor .

Immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant culture of Sri Lanka with the help of the top tour operators in Sri Lanka. Check out our article on the 10 Best Tour Operators in Sri Lanka ..

Like It Formosa

Like It Formosa is the best English walking tour company in Taiwan, operating in multi languages. Since its establishment in September 2015, the company has trained locals to provide insightful city tours, enabling foreigners to experience Taiwan from a local’s perspective. With over 45,000 travelers from 70 countries, Like It Formosa has earned the title of the #1 Walking Tour in Taiwan on TripAdvisor. Notably, it has received TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence and Travelers’ Choice awards from 2017 to 2023.

Like It Formosa Best Taiwan Tour Packages

Discover the best of Taiwan with Like It Formosa’s exciting tours!

Enjoy a private walking tour in Taipei , tasting seven classic Taiwanese dishes and exploring the city’s street food culture.

Dive into history in Daxi with Daxi free walking tour , uncovering unique architecture and cultural stories.

Journey back in time with Jiufen’s walking tour , discovering local secrets and gold-prospecting skills. Explore Taipei’s LGBT scene, experiencing the city’s inclusive and vibrant atmosphere.

Like It Formosa Reviews

Proudly ranked at the #1 spot, this Taiwan tour company offers unique and exceptional tour packages. With over 800 stellar reviews on Trip Advisor, Like It Formosa is undoubtedly one of the best options available in Taiwan. Here is a review that they received recently:

Both guides were enthusiastic, helpful and prepared. It was a great way to spend the afternoon. Recommend this tour…Lucy L

Read all reviews of Like It Formosa on TripAdvisor .

Planning a trip to Cambodia? Uncover the finest tour agencies in the country with our list of the 10 Best Tour Operators in Cambodia .

Island Life Taiwan Adventures & Experiences

Island Life Taiwan Adventures & Experiences is a top-rated tour company based in Taiwan. The company is your go-to choice for a thrilling travel adventure in Taiwan. They offer English Language Taroko Gorge Tours, distinctive Hualien tours, and exciting day trips. No matter if you’re a backpacker, a family, a couple, or a group of friends, Island Life welcomes everyone to explore the beauty of this region.

Island Life Taiwan Adventures & Experiences Best Packages

Explore Taiwan’s scenic wonders with Island Life Taiwan Adventures & Experiences’ top packages. You can opt for Custom Private Hualien Tours for a personalized adventure. You will have the freedom to choose destinations and pace, complete with air-conditioned transportation and an English-speaking guide.

Join the Better Taroko Gorge Tour for an authentic experience, featuring trails, Truku aboriginal cuisine, temples, and a full Aboriginal lunch.

For an adrenaline-pumping adventure, join the Zhuilu Old Trail Tour , ascending through the forest to dizzying heights and traversing a gravity-defying path.

Island Life Taiwan Adventures & Experiences Reviews

If you visit their page on Trip Advisor, you will see that 99% of past clients of this Taiwan tour company has rated them 5-star. They have hosted thousands of happy travelers and are ranked #2 out of 35 outdoor tours in Taiwan. Here you can see what someone else has said:

Very good and smooth tour, the fact that stars earlier than others turned out to be a very good choices and make the visits to the places much nicer…    Piermaria C

Read all reviews of Island Life Taiwan Adventures on TripAdvisor . Discover the 10 Best Tour Operators in Bhutan and choose the perfect one for your Bhutanese adventure.

Amazing Taiwan Tour

Amazing Taiwan Tour is a top-rated tour company based in Hualien, Taiwan. The company specializes in guided tours to top destinations within Taroko National Park. Their knowledgeable and adventurous guides, trained in first aid, driving, and environmental awareness, ensure an enjoyable and safe experience. Fluent in English and Mandarin, the licensed guides provide authentic cultural insights. With a focus on small private groups, the tours offer an agile and immersive travel experience, avoiding crowds even on popular routes.

Amazing Taiwan Tour Best Taiwan Tour Packages

Amazing Taiwan Tour offers enticing experiences through their premier packages. The Taroko National Park Epic Day Tour invites you to explore the famous park’s marble canyons and lush landscapes.

The East Coast Tour offers you the chance to experience geological wonders, volcanic formations and cultural insights into the Amis aboriginal tribe’s heritage.

For a comprehensive adventure, the East Coast + East Rift Valley Day Tour combines the beauty of the Pacific Ocean view with the lush fields of East Rift Valley.

Amazing Taiwan Tour Reviews

Amazing Taiwan Tour is one of the best Taiwan tour operators with years of experience and qualified guides. On Trip Advisor, the company is rated with 5-stars and ranked #1 Tours in Taiwan. You can see more about the company here:

Had a fantastic day trip to Taroko Gouge with Alex. He knows the place so well and his English is excellent. Best guide we ever had… Jennifer L

Read all reviews of Amazing Taiwan Tour on TripAdvisor .

Explore the beauty of Bali with the top-rated tour operators in the region. Our article on the 10 Best Tour Operators in Bali help you select the best company as per your need.

Tour costs in Taiwan vary based on factors like the duration, accommodation, and activities. On average, a mid-range budget can range from $100 to $200 per day.

For a well-rounded experience, spending around 7 to 10 days in Taiwan is recommended. This allows time to explore major attractions, cities, and enjoy diverse cultural experiences.

The best time to visit Taiwan is during the fall (September to November) when the weather is mild. Spring (March to May) is also pleasant, avoiding the summer’s heat and humidity.

Taiwan offers a range of budget options, making it relatively affordable. While some aspects may be cheaper than Western countries, prices can vary, and Taiwan can be considered moderately priced for travelers.

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Exploring Taiwan! - Justaiwantour Travel Services

• Asia    
• Taiwan    
• Taipei    
• Taipei - Attractions    
• Justaiwantour Travel Services

Exploring Taiwan!

Our guide Will was very informative and hospitable. I will definitely been with him again. We were able to see places we wouldn’t have see without his help and knowledge of Taiwan.

Thank you for taking the time to share your positive experience with our tour guide Will. It was a pleasure to assist you, and we can't wait to welcome you back soon!

We were on our way back to NA from Vietnam and had a 7 hour layover in Taipei. Justaiwan Tours filled the gap with a GREAT 4 hour experience. Chia Jung is a fantastic tour guide. He took us to the top of 101 and the Night Market. He’s smart, thinks on his feet and is a great photographer.

Thank you so much for your 5-star review! We're thrilled to hear you had a fantastic experience with our service.

The tour company was such as pleasure to work with - we were able customize our trip according to our timing and sight-seeing needs. It was so seemless! Price was more than reasonable. The tour guide (Elvis Chang) was unbelievable. Not only did he handle the Taiwan traffic and parking like a boss, he was an amazing guide who was able to provide us with helpful information. He also was very guide at adjusting to our needs as we went. It was such a wonderful two-day trip, thanks to the flexibility and expertise of the guide and company.

We're glad you guys had an amazing time in Taiwan! Your satisfaction is our top priority, and we're delighted we could make your journey through Taiwan so memorable. We look forward to serving you again on your next adventure!

Highly recommend this beautiful scenery day trip from Taipei with JusTaiwan. Very smooth communication with the tour operator and the driver before and during the trip. Our driver, Chia Jung, spoke good English ( and Japanese) and was very experienced with the area, taking different walking routes and timing perfectly to avoid the crowds. Plus he is very friendly and offers to take many photos. We very much enjoyed our conversation with him about tea, history and politics. I now need to try Pinglin tea :)

We're overjoyed to receive your 5-star rating! Thanks for taking the time to share your positive experience. It was a pleasure to assist you, and we can't wait to welcome you back soon!

Tony our guide was very personable with great driving skills & very accommodating personal touches that made this tour really pop off , Tony also had great in dept knowledge of the area and the food that he had taken us to the great pluses was he also a great photographer combine that with the knowledge he brought to the tour it was like having your very own photographer that could do your pics and memories for you so you could really just take in all the culture.

Thank you for giving our amazing tour guide Tony a 5-star review! We're so happy to know we met your expectations. Your support means the world to us, and we can't wait to offer you another wonderful experience in the future!

We did a 3d2n guided tour with tour guide Tony. He is friendly and knowlegable. He brought us to places with good food. Days were well planned with good amount of sight seeing, food and play. Tony helped us take plenty of photos for memory keeps. We were in good hands with Justtaiwantour. Thank you for the good experience!

Thank you for trusting us with your travel needs. We're committed to providing excellent service and are glad you were satisfied. Looking forward to your next visit!!!

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Taiwan Tours & Trips

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47 Taiwan tour packages with 67 reviews

• Sightseeing

Explore Taiwan

Technology became a savior for travelers like us. Well, luckily I got to know about Lalalocker, my savior.

• In-depth Cultural
• Christmas & New Year

Taiwan Express

Excellent tour. Great accommodations and sites visited.

• Coach / Bus

Around Formosa Taiwan

The itinerary was excellent. The hotels were 4-star hotels with high quality food and service.

A Taste of Taiwan by Train

Full program that covers key elements of Taiwan tourist attractions. Outstanding performance.

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• Mountain Hikes
• Hiking & Trekking

5-day Classic Taroko Gorge, Sun Moon Lake & Alishan (Private)

This tour was an amazing glimpse into the vast landscapes of Taiwan from seascapes, gorges, high mountains and lakes.

Taiwan Island - 9 Days

Everything was well organized and taken care of, we are extremely happy with our food, accommodations and transportation.

Around Taiwan 8 day Private Tour (Premium)

Taiwan is a beautiful and very safe place. A great place to visit.

Looking for tours beyond just Taiwan?

Explore tours with itineraries going through multiple countries, including Taiwan.

Customized Private Taiwan Tour with Daily Departure

• Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

Tailor-Made Best Taiwan Tour with Daily Departure & Private Guide

Taiwan Explorer 11 Days Panorama Tour

Best of Taiwan 9 Days Tour

The trip was great. Communication was great. They followed up every step of the way.

• Photography
• Festival & Events

Abandoned Taiwan

excellent, highly recommendable, versatile, not the general kind of tourism one receives mostly everywhere.

• Intl. Flights Included

Taiwan Tea Culture & Monastic Life

The tour was excellently organized. We saw a lot and the hikes in the Taroko Gorge and the bike tours were our personal highlights.

• Flights included

Taiwan KOM Challenge

Bike Taiwan

What people love about taiwan tours.

Logan was a great tour guide and helpful in any moment.You’ll learn so much about local culture, Current events and helpful ideas to make you stay better.

This was an excellent tour!!! Alan Chou was a fantastic tour guide -- knowledgeable, helpful, friendly, and funny to boot. The sights were amazing and so were the hotels we stayed in. The itinerary was very well designed. Didn't realize Taiwan was so beautiful! I highly recommend this to anyone who wants to explore Taiwan.

Top operators

"Logan was a great tour guide and helpful in any moment.You’ll learn so much about local culture, Current events and helpful ideas to make you stay better.

Intrepid Travel is an expert in:

"As mentioned by other review, I planned my flight to Taiwan (day 8) in the evening (19:45 PM) and would recommend this to others. It important to have the time so that no matter what happens you have time to get to the airport even if something like in my case a large protest is being held. Both the Korea tour and Taiwan tour where great, everything was well arranged and the tour guides where very good. Due to the earthquake in Haulien the itinerary was changed to a route taking us to Tainan and Lukang instead of the east coast. This was well communicated, the alternative route was fine and cosidering we felt the afterschocks while we stayed at Sun Moon Lake it understable that the east-coast will be off-limits for a while.

MW Tours is an expert in:

"Overall..good to very good. Full program that covers key elements of Taiwan tourist attractions. Main contributor to success though was tour guide Vincent Chiang ! Outstanding performance.

Culture Trip is an expert in:

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Full-Day Private Custom Taipei City Tour

Create a custom 8-hour itinerary in and around Taipei! No matter if you are planning your own journey or a business trip, make it easier with this convenient and customized service. See the attractions that you want to see according to your own preferences with a local guide.

Full-Day Private Northern Taiwan Tour from Taipei with Pickup

Travel to northern Taiwan's most popular tourist attractions, such as Jiufen Old Street, Yehliu Geopark, or Yangmingshan National Park with your own private guide.

Private Tour to Jiufen, Yehliu Geopark, and Pingxi

Discover scenic Northern Taiwan on a private day tour from Taipei. Be amazed by the landscapes in Yehliu Geopark. Explore the beauty of historical Jiufen, which inspired Oscar-winning animations then make a wish with a sky lantern flying over Pingxi.

Private Taroko Gorge National Park Day Tour

Visit one of the seven wonders of Asia, Taroko Gorge on a day tour led by a local guide. The round transfer from Taipei to Taroko National Park is covered and you will be accompanied by your personal driver guide at most of the attractions and trails. The private tour also ensure you a more personal service due to it's flexibility.

Private Tour to Yilan Kavalan Whisky Distillery

Escape the city and explore Taiwan's scenic countryside on this captivating tour. Visit the renowned Kavalan Distillery for award-winning whisky, relax on Waiao Beach (summer) or soak in a hot spring park (winter), and don't miss the charming Mr. Brown Cafe at Toucheng Castle. Experience relaxation, natural beauty, and delightful flavors on this unforgettable journey.

Full-Day Private Custom Keelung Shore Excursions

Private custom taipei airport layover tour.

With just few hours to take in the treasures of Taipei, a private layover tour means you can maximize your time with a custom-made itinerary. Perhaps admire landmarks such as Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, the Martyr's Shrine, and the Dalongdong Baoan Temple; enjoy the views from the Taipei 101 skyscraper; or discover the best places to eat or shop in the city.

Northern Taiwan and Taipei Countryside Full-Day Private Tour

Private yangmingshan volcano tour.

Embark on a private tour of Yangmingshan National Park, an extinct volcanic terrain and one of Taipei's most popular destinations. Take in breathtaking views of fumaroles and cityscapes while hiking scenic grassy trails. Choose the leisure route for a more relaxed experience or select the hiking route to climb to the top of Seven Star Mountain. Hotel pick-up is available for your convenience. Join us to discover the natural beauty of Yangmingshan National Park on this unforgettable tour.

Half Day Private Tour to Jiufen, Shifen Waterfall & Pingxi Sky Lantern

Half day private tour to yangmingshan national park and yehliu geopark.

Swap the bustling streets of Taipei for the scenic sights of Yehliu Geopark and Yangmingshan National Park on a private day trip. Taking a private tour gives you the flexibility to customize your itinerary, while letting someone else drive ensures that you don’t miss out on admiring the countryside along the way.

Taipei Private Car Charter Tour

Private night tour of taipei.

Explore Taipei by night on a private tour starting with hotel pickup by a local guide. Visit Dalongdong Baoan Temple, The Grand Hotel, Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall, and Taipei 101 before returning to your hotel.

Taipei City Bike Tour with Night Market Experience

Taipei city bike tour with elephant mountain hiking experience, full-day private custom yilan tour from taipei, 2-day private tour to sun moon lake and mount hehuan, 3-day private tour of taroko gorge & east coast scenic area, 5-day round taiwan charter car tour, contact info, [email protected], useful links.

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Asia Odyssey Travel   Reviews

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Reviews 4.9.

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Lovely trip to Guangzhou and hometown trip for my mum

I love the trip as it was meant for my mother to go to my grandma's old hometown as a wish since many years ago. The trip was very well planned and hosted by very warm and ultra friendly hosts at wuzhou and guangzhou. The one at Guilin is professional and especially attentive to details. Even the drivers are super friendly and warm to us making us feel so safe and able to enjoy very much. Great kudos to Asia Odyssey for the coordination among all the parties and keeping tab on me several times during the trip!

Date of experience : May 16, 2024

Lhasa and EBC Tibet

This is my first time experience going thru a tour group by communicating with Kayla, my planner. Everything was properly arranged. My 8days tour with Max our guide who is attentive, friendly and helpful with all types of questions asked. Driver also very nice. The trip with a minimun 1-2 sight-seeing per day was favourabe to me as I was experiencing high altitude issue early of the journey. I am thankful to Asia Odyssey for having an itinerary that meet my expectation.

Once in a lifetime experience

Travel agent Runny was very helpful and communicative throughout the process of getting the visa, planning my flights and the whole trip. The tour guides were knowledgeable about all the sights and helpful with adjusting to the altitude. Tibet is indescribably amazing and beautiful. I would book with Asia Odyssey again.

Date of experience : May 17, 2024

The good memory

The guide and driver both perfect !They are very nice and always followed my request even I asked on that day they tried their best to fulfill my wishes.Besides,this company planed the good schedule for me which I wanted to go to difficult kind of temples and good quality hotels !I will use same agency if next time I come here or Nepal

Date of experience : May 28, 2024

The whole trip was fabulous

The whole trip was fabulous. I contacted with my advisor Kayla, she’s very supportive all the way. I spent the best birthday time ever in such a special place. My driver wangchuk and guide Cheni are very experienced, they gave me a lot of suggestions on how to explore both the cultural and natural environment in Bhutan. The hotel is over expectation as well. We booked for three stars but somehow we had a four stars experience. We stayed in very beautiful resort and could make some fire on our own. I definitely would like to visit more and more in the future.

Date of experience : April 01, 2024

An experience beyond description.

The entire trip was meticulously planned and executed without any glitches.It was a very tourist friendly journey.

Custom-made Zhangjiajie trip that's elderly-friendly

I contacted Asia Odyssey Travel to help design a 7 day tour to Zhangjiajie/Fenghuang that is friendly to elderly, as my parents, who both have limited mobility, always wish to visit. And they did not disappoint. Mary who is my trip planner was clear and prompt our regular discussion (mostly over emails) and detailed in planning my itinerary. She is proficient in English, understood my requirements and advised me on the suitability of the sights we had in mind. During our travel, she checked in with us, sometimes even during out of office hours, to make sure everything is in order. Our local tour guide was Tony, who is cheerful and humorous. He is very knowledge on the history, geography and cultures of the local people, and always filled up our travel time with interesting insider stories. Tony went beyond his scope by always helping my parents on their wheelchairs. He was ever so kind and patient in attending to their needs (looking for certain foods, toilet breaks, etc). Tony was ever so accommodating, agreeing to our requests to visit some additional sites which were not on the original itinerary. And his local knowledge of the accessibility options helped make it all possible. During the trip, we encountered some unexpected issues with the surrounding of one of our hotels (road work nearby) and Tony helped resolve situation decisively by moving us to a new hotel. His resourcefulness really made a big difference. Overall we are very pleased with our experience at Zhangjiajie. Most of the people had thought that it was not possible for my ageing parents to do this trip. But this is made possible only with the wonderful services of Mary and Tony. I look forward to getting on another trip with Asia Odyssey.

Date of experience : May 09, 2024

Great communication and organisation for last minute trip

Made a last minute trip to Xian for a short break. Asia Odyssey were really helpful, Cindy was very responsive to all my queries, and very flexible in how we needed the hotel/ itinary, nothing was too much trouble for her. We had a lovely driver and English- speaking guide for the three days. The car was immaculate and comfortable and safe driving. Gin,our guide, was knowledgeable and charming. I don’t use guides/ pre-arranged trips normally make our our way around places so this was a very positive experience for us and one we will do again. Thank you!

Date of experience : May 18, 2024

Nice travel agency

§ Before booking- quick respond within 24 hours. § After booking - keep in touch itianary 、VISA information. § During travelling - quick respond. § After travelling - make sure everything goes well. I and my mom loved this trip in Bhutan.

Date of experience : May 04, 2024

Amazing 2-day private tour

I booked a 2-day private tour to Jinshanling Great Wall and Gubei Watertown before my group tour started. My tour guide was Jiang. He’s a very friendly and knowledgeable person and shared many things about Beijing and China with me which I found really interesting. He’s also very accommodating in that he made sure everything was alright. I really enjoyed and appreciate Jinshanling as I got to tick another one of my bucket list items off. The fact that there were not many people there that day made it better. Gubei Watertown is a charming place with ancient China vibes. And I enjoyed seeing the Great Wall lit up at night from here. The experience is truly breathtaking. Having Jiang as my tour guide on this leg of my tour was really nice. He helped me a lot in terms of communication. Wishing him all the best and hope to tour a different part of China with him again 🙂

Date of experience : May 23, 2024

Almost a month un china !!

We took a trip of almost a month visiting the places that interested us most in China. We were amazed by this beautiful country and very grateful to Runny and Asia Odyssey Travel for having organized such a beautiful and complete tour for us....private and in our native language, which is Spanish. The hotels were very nice, the schedules were met perfectly and Runny was looking out for us the entire trip. A great experience that I recommend to everyone!!

Date of experience : May 21, 2024

Incredible service from Runny organizing my Tibet trip

I am a single traveler who always wanted to travel to Tibet. Runny did a great job in finding a group tour which I could join and booking the train ticket to Lhasa. Whenever I had a question Runny responded super fast. Could highly recommend the service and will book my next Asia Trip again with Runny / Asia Odyssey Travel.

Date of experience : May 20, 2024

6-day Chongqing-Zhangjiajie-Chengdu Tour

We booked a private tour for 5 because we prefer the customisation and flexibility. Our tour operator Isaac was very helpful and prompt in responding and we finalized the tour itinerary satisfactorily over 1-2 days. Booking the tour and meeting with the different tour guides and drivers in 3 places was seamless. Experience (food+sights) was amazing, especially in Zhangjiajie where the nature views are exactly like real life Chinese water paintings. But be prepared that the weekend attractions will be thronged by both international and domestic tourists, and the queues can be long. The sights are worth it nonetheless!

Private tour trip to Chengdu

We enjoyed our recent trip to Chengdu. We are thankful to our agency Asia Odyssey Travel for the wonderful private tour arrangement. Special thank to Asia Odyssey Travel agent Ms Vicky who showed remarkable attention and detail to all our exclusive tour arrangement in Chengdu. Despite her not physically being with us, Vicky remained responsive and helpful throughout our trip. Her service and care to her customers were indeed remarkable and creditable. Thanks again Asia Odyssey Travel and tour agent Ms Vicky! We will definitely engage your services again for our next trip to Japan. Good Job!

Date of experience : May 06, 2024

First time experience booking with Asia Odyssey Travel

I booked a 4D/3N Yangtze cruise - 10-13Mar 2024 on Victoria Katrina from Chongqing to Yichang through Kyle Li who is from Asia Odyssey Travel. He is a fantastic person who is always on 24/7 service.He is always so helpful and answer all my questions at all times , even late at night . Would definitely recommend Asia Odyssey Travel to my friends and contact Kyle if they need to book any holidays in China. Thank You Kyle for a stressfree holiday.

Date of experience : March 10, 2024

I and Gloria are very gratefull with…

I and Gloria are very gratefull with you. Your schedule to our China tour was wonderfull. Your fellow guides were true professionals and dedicated: Shanghai - Carolyn / Xi'an - Li / Lhasa - Samud and Hangzhou - Doris. We loved them all. Repeating: I will be very satisfied indicating Odyssey to any friend intending to go to China. I and Gloria are very satisfied of your agencie. Good work to you dear Allan! gratefully Gloria and Miguel

Date of experience : April 16, 2024

Thanks for great memories

Thank you Asia Odyssey - We had such an awesome experience of China, saw the sites we wanted, it was well paced and appreciated there was down-time to do our own thing as well. Peter was an exceptional guide we learned heaps and enjoyed new experiences- thanks for wonderful memories will definitely recommend.

Date of experience : April 25, 2024

Tour of The Philippines

Mandy from Odyssey Travel put together an amazing tour of The Philippines for our party of 4. The entire tour went without a hitch, thanks to Mandy who was available 24/7 online, responding immediately to any concerns we had. She went far beyond an expectation even tracking down an item I left in a hotel room and arranging for it to be returned to me. All guides and drivers on the tour were very professional and knowledgeable. The tour was customised to suit our interests, needs and age limitations. I can’t fault our wonderful experience . Thank you Mandy and Odyssey travel.

Date of experience : April 20, 2024

Gloria was very enthusiastic

Gloria was very enthusiastic, willing to help, and accomodating. We have three children with us and they just adored her. It was a very good experience with her. And the driver was very knowledgeable about the traffic and the ins and outs of the roads. A very enjoyable trip.

Date of experience : April 09, 2024

Reply from Asia Odyssey Travel

Hi Anthony, Thank you for your feedback. We appreciate your trust, allowing us to curate personalized journeys beyond destinations for you and you children. Our local team members like Gloria always strive to ensure meticulous attention to detail and authentic experiences. We continuously innovate based on valuable feedback like yours. Do travel with us again! Sincerely, Asia Odyssey Team

Best Bhutan trip ever!

Just enjoyed the best guided tour of Bhutan and Laos! Our travel consultant, Tony Yin, thoughtfully prepared a fantastic and seamless itinerary that included the usual highlights and provided awesome guides, amazing hotels and fantastic meals. I’ve wanted to visit Bhutan for several years to climb to Tigers Nest and it did not disappoint. We managed to visit while the mountainsides were covered in extravagant wild rhododendron flowers. Breathtakingly beautiful! We visited Paro, Thimpu and Punakha and all the sites there. I highly recommend Tony Yin and Asia Odessy for organizing a tour to these countries!

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PHOTOS: Pearl Jam delivers first Seattle concert in six years

With their savory  new “Dark Matter” album  in tow, the Seattle rock heroes wrap a quick spring North American run with a hometown two-nighter, playing Climate Pledge Arena for the first time. The current tour offers a bit of a fresh look for the band, which in keeping with Seattle’s grunge spirit, has long favored a more austere stage production. This time around, Pearl Jam’s embracing some bigger visuals inspired by the “Dark Matter” motif created by Tacoma artist Rob Sheridan , who last worked on stage visuals for Nine Inch Nails’ 2014 tour.

Pearl Jam’s first Seattle shows in six years kick off a series of anticipated homecomings this spring including Seattle expats La Luz (May 30, Crocodile), the final shows of the brilliant/brutal reunion tour from Tacoma mathcore destroyers Botch (June 14-15, Showbox), jazz guitar great Bill Frisell (June 13-16, Jazz Alley) and indie rock vets Car Seat Headrest (June 20, ZooTunes).

Check for our full review Wednesday at seattletimes.com .

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• The dreams of a 60-year-old beauty contestant come to an abrupt end in Argentina VIEW

The opinions expressed in reader comments are those of the author only and do not reflect the opinions of The Seattle Times.

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The Horse Capital of the World Just Got Its Second Luxury Hotel — Here’s What It’s Like to Stay

Intrepid travelers heading to Florida's horse country now have a new, larger option at Ocala's World Equestrian Center.

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Accessibility and Sustainability

How to get the most value out of your stay.

DAVE MILLER/Courtesy of Maven Photo & Film

Central Florida has a long history of being overlooked by travelers bound for the Gulf Coast to the west, the Panhandle , and the state's Atlantic-facing beaches (read: any place with beautiful Florida beaches lapped by salt water). But intrepid travelers looking to divert from the state’s storied coasts know that to see some of Florida’s most gorgeous, rolling landscapes and ethereally beautiful freshwater springs (rivaling Mexico’s cenotes), detouring inland in the Sunshine State is where it’s at.

And that’s where The Riding Academy Hotel , sister property to The Equestrian Hotel , enters the picture as an idyllic destination for a different Sunshine State vacation.

Situated in the heart of the state’s horse country in Ocala (about 90 miles northwest of Orlando), the property had its soft opening in mid-March of 2024 and officially opened April 1, just in time for the World Equestrian Center — the largest equestrian complex in the U.S., sprawling across 400 acres, and the hotels' home — to host the U.S. qualifier for the Longines League of Nations, a major equestrian showjumping event.

With 390 rooms compared to The Equestrian Hotel’s 248 rooms, The Riding Academy is larger than its sibling and caters squarely to the dog-friendly and family-friendly crowd. (It's also just a 10-minute stroll away through the pedestrian-friendly grounds.)

DAVE MILLER/Courtesy of Maven Photo & Film

All rooms are pet-friendly, and 250 are outfitted with two queen beds and a sofa, making it all the easier to welcome families beyond two or three people.

While The Equestrian Hotel nods to formal, European-inspired flair, The Riding Academy, which has a slightly lower price point, was designed to feel more casual, says Rick Owens, the senior designer at Roberts Design Group , which is behind the hotel’s very becoming looks.

“We took traditional equestrian motifs but added more intense hues similar to jockey silks — bright greens, purples, navy blues, and bright butternut colors reflective of saddle leathers,” Owens told Travel + Leisure . “The use of those brighter, strong plaids gives a pop to the darker leather sofas and gives a fresher, more current feel.”

During an antiquing trip to a furniture market in High Point, North Carolina, Owens said his team saw an antique carved wooden horse sign in the back of a shop with “Riding Academy” on it.

“We knew it was a sign about the hotel's name since we were initially struggling to think of something,” he said. “What do you name another property following The Equestrian Hotel? This incredible antique just really solidified that.”

There are clear links between the two properties, of course — perhaps most apparent in the many nods to dogs, the most beloved pets of the hotels’ owner. But while oil paintings of canine portraits dominate The Equestrian Hotel, The Riding Academy’s abundant artwork skews more casual and whimsical, with dogs dressed up as jockeys, riders, and professors in the paintings, prints, and sculptures displayed in the public spaces and guest rooms.

“It has this sort of collegiate yearbook vibe to it that plays into the academy aspect really well,” Owens added.

Ground has already been broken on the street-facing side of The Riding Academy for an 80,000-square-foot outdoor shopping venue to come that will feature roughly 30 new shops, two rooftops, an event space, and four new restaurants, which will start opening in mid-2025.

For now, come to enjoy The Riding Academy’s generous and luxurious rooms, gorgeous pool, and all the amenities, restaurants, and spa area on offer at The Equestrian Hotel, too — just a scenic stroll (or golf cart tour) away through the oak-lined grounds of The World Equestrian Center. 

Read on for T+L's full review of Ocala's newest luxury hotel.

The Riding Academy Hotel

•  Guests can rent golf carts during their stay, perfect for zipping around with the kids and dogs. 
• The huge pool has a zero-entry area on the far end for families to play like on a beach, and there’s a dedicated kids' water play area nearby. 
• The majority of the rooms are one-bedroom suites with two queen beds and an additional sofa sleeper in a separate living space, great for privacy. 
• The onsite marketplace off the lobby sells Starbucks coffee, gourmet salads, craft beers, and seltzers, available by the can to enjoy poolside or in your room. 
• The big outdoor fireplace on the sundeck patio is a beautiful place to gather come evening.

All 390 rooms have wood-like ceramic tile flooring, marble bathrooms with rainwater showers, oversized closets designed to accommodate all the apparel horse people often need to travel with, and luxury Bellino Italian linens on the beds. We’re talking serious room to spread out in these accommodations, too, with the smallest among them (a king studio) sprawling across 439 square feet. A two-bedroom suite is more than 1,100 square feet.

Also, a perk for the canine-loving equestrian set: Unlike its older sibling, all rooms at the Riding Academy Hotel are dog-friendly for a one-time fee of $100 per dog up to 75 pounds.

Of the rooms, 250 are one-bedroom suites with two queen beds and a separate pull-out sofa in another room that can be closed off with a door, accommodating six people — hello, large families! Playful artwork incorporates animals: dogs dressed as jockeys, chinchillas parading atop zebras, you name it. There are subtle equestrian touches, too, such as Ralph Lauren stirrup sconces, custom trophy lamps, and custom leatherwork on throw pillows reminiscent of a bridle and reins. In-room coffee makers and Sub-Zero mini-fridges round out the residential touches.

For now, there’s only one onsite food option at The Riding Academy, a gourmet market, which is a good option for a light breakfast or lunch to go. Hit The Tack Room, right off the lobby, for Starbucks coffee drinks, grab-and-go charcuterie platters, gourmet salads, and a soft serve machine the kids will beg to hit every time you walk in. You can order breakfast items at the counter, including smoked salmon, bagels, avocado toast, cinnamon rolls, croissants, quiche, and English muffin sandwiches. From 11 a.m. onward, nachos, chorizo flatbreads, baked chicken wings, Bavarian pretzels, and smoked brisket grilled cheese sandwiches are also available.

Guests at The Riding Academy can walk or request a complimentary shuttle to reach The Equestrian Hotel and the dining options scattered around The World Equestrian Center that include Mexican and Italian counter-service restaurants, Filo’s Mexican Cantina and Viola & Dot’s; an adorable candy and ice cream shop called Miss Tillly’s Lollipops; Ralph’s Burger & Sandwich Shop; and more upscale options like the pub-style Yellow Pony and steakhouse and seafood restaurant, Stirrups. Don’t miss bringing the family to Emma's Patisserie for a sweet treat in the form of freshly baked macarons and other gorgeous European-inspired pastries and sandwiches. 

Plenty of lounge chairs surround The Riding Academy’s freeform swimming pool, which is at the heart of the hotel in an oversized courtyard complete with a separate water splash area for kids and an outdoor fireplace that’s a lovely place to gather in the evenings. Two fitness centers on-site at The Riding Academy have all the modern equipment and free weights you need.

Guests also have access to the pool at The Equestrian Hotel, surrounded by beautiful oak trees and home to an onsite cafe and bar called Horse to Water, where the Palomino punches, Mai Tais, and frozen cocktails flow.

Renting a golf cart from the hotel’s fleet is a fun way to set out exploring the entire property, shaded with old-growth live oak trees, and where there’s usually some horse event or another happening at one of the many arenas. Of the gorgeous nearby freshwater springs to explore within a half-hour drive of the hotel, bookmark Rainbow Springs State Park, which is excellent for swimming, and Silver Springs State Park, perfect for a boat cruise down the river. Both have waters teeming with fish and turtles that seem to glow turquoise from within.

While there’s no spa onsite at The Riding Academy, guests can book hot stone massages, collagen-boosting facials, decadent wraps, pedicures, hair styling, and more at The Equestrian Hotel’s 7,000-square-foot Calluna Spa , decorated in shades of purple as an ode to lavender. The spa’s five treatment rooms include one designed for couples, and there’s a full-service hair salon onsite. 

Family-friendly Offerings 

The World Equestrian Center’s walkability and frequent schedule of events — they go all out for the holidays, including Thanksgiving, Fourth of July, Christmas, Easter, and more — make staying at The Riding Academy family-friendly by nature.  Kids love the soft-serve ice cream machines and a vast array of ice cream sandwiches and popsicles for sale in the Tack Room, which they can grab and bring outside to enjoy at The Riding Academy’s colossal pool. And the kids' splash pad area, decorated with colorful oversized critters, is its only little watery wonderland to explore together, too. 

The property features ADA-accessible hotel rooms with roll-in showers and accommodations for hearing- and visually-impaired guests. More than 700 live oak trees have been planted since construction began on the 400-acre property, and if any have to come down, two more are replanted to replace them. To conserve water, the World Equestrian Center does not irrigate turf areas beyond the Saint Augustine turf grass. All flowers on the property are from the owner's farm, which grows more than 650,000 annual flowers yearly — an average of 90,000 annuals are planted onsite at the WEC each year.

Onsite at The World Equestrian Center, at the east end of the property that’s being newly developed, The Riding Academy is just a 10-minute stroll or three-minute golf cart ride across the complex from The Equestrian Hotel. Ocala can be reached in about 90 minutes (roughly 90 miles) from Orlando International Airport to the southeast. You’re best off renting a car if you don’t arrive here in your own vehicle to make the most of exploring the surrounding region’s freshwater springs and the pretty downtown district of Ocala, about 10 miles (20 minutes) away, brimming with restaurants, breweries, and shops of its own.

Rooms at The Riding Academy hover at a lower price point than those at The Equestrian Hotel. But you’ll want to be sure to plan your stay around any major horse show series’ if you’re not coming for those events (check the events calendar ). In general, off-peak months when room rates fall are May, early June, late August, and September.

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Taiwan Tours & Holidays

When Portuguese sailors first saw Taiwan off the starboard bow in 1544, they christened it Ilha Formosa, the 'Beautiful Island'.

And can you blame them? For 400 years communists, capitalists, imperialists and everyone in between have fought over its mist-shrouded forests, soaring peaks and plunging coastal cliffs. These days it’s definitely a case of ‘come for the adventure, stay for the stir-fries’, with some of the best fusion cuisines around, top road cycling, excellent mountain trekking and world-class coffee to boot. Also variously known as the Republic of China and Chinese Tapei, Taiwan is a destination that has most definitely come into its own.

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Taiwan at a glance

Capital city.

23.9 million

(GMT+08:00) Taipei

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type A (North American/Japanese 2-pin) Type B (American 3-pin)

Learn more about Taiwan

Best time to visit taiwan.

While there’s really no bad time to visit Taiwan, some months are more predictable than others. September to November is the best time to visit when you’ll find balmy nights, rich autumn foliage and off-peak prices.

Travelling in spring (March to May) is down to luck: it could be clear skies, monsoonal rain or even a sandstorm blown over from   China .

Swimming is best mid-year (June to August) when the weather can heat up, but there is always the small risk of typhoons.

Geography and environment

Taiwan is a little like   South America   with its spine-like ridge of (often impassable) mountains running southwest through the centre of the island.

The beauty of this setup is that topography and environment can change very quickly. You can be cycling through low-lying rice paddies around Taitung one day, traversing the high forest passes of Yushan the next, and then finishing up on the white northern beaches around Fuguei Cape.

Generally, the central national parks and east coast are the most spectacular regions; the west coast is flat and highly developed with urban areas spreading over the river basins and flood plains that lead to the sea.

Festivals and events

Public holidays that may impact travel include:.

Founding Day of the Republic of China

Republic Day Holiday

Chinese New Year

228 Peace Memorial Day

Qingming Festival /Tomb Sweeping Day

Children's Day

Dragon Boat Festival

Mid-Autumn / Moon Festival

ROC National Celebration Day

Please note dates of Taiwan's public holidays may vary.

Top 5 attractions in Taiwan

1. sun moon lake.

One of Asia’s best-kept secrets, Sun Moon Lake is easily the equal of any Como, Bled or Windermere. It’s a huge blue oasis hidden among the green peaks of Taiwan’s central mountain ranges. By day it’s merely beautiful, but in the blue-gold light of dawn, with mists rolling over the water and local fishermen paddling past, it’s like something out of a fairy tale.

2. Taroko Gorge

They have to shoot a James Bond chase scene through here, that’s all there is to it. Taroko Gorge was made for the cinema. It’s a winding maze of looming marble crags, huge cut-out roads tunnelling right into the mountains, rushing river gorges and looping alpine passes. If you are ever being chased by gangsters in your supercar, you want it to be here.

3. Qingshui Cliffs

Just google an image of ‘Qingshui Cliffs’ before we continue. All done? Now you know what we’re talking about. They’re basically a 21 km stretch of sheer jungle-covered cliffs plunging straight into the East China Sea, with a tiny highway clinging on about halfway up. This is not a journey for vertigo sufferers, but for fans of jaw-dropping natural wonders, it’s a must-do.

An easy one to tick off, since it’ll probably be your first stop in Taiwan. The northern city of Taipei is the island’s capital and offers a beating, chaotic counterpoint to the Zen-like beauty of the southern national parks. If you think it’s crazy by day, just wait until night, when a neon glow lights the sky and lantern-lit markets spring up in the colourful Songshan district.

5. Penghu Islands

Penghu is one of Taiwan’s hidden gems, an archipelago of 90 islands between the mainland and China. They’re remote, but worth the journey, with brilliant beaches devoid of crowds, glorious temples, towering basalt columns and genuine old-fashioned Chinese hospitality. Penghu is also a windsurfing mecca and a nesting ground for rare green sea turtles. Not bad for one tiny volcanic island chain.

Further reading

Taiwan travel faqs, do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travellers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travellers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

Do I need a visa to travel to Taiwan?

TAIWAN VISA

Nationals of most countries are eligible for the visa exemption program, which permits a duration of stay of 30-90 days. Please check with your nearest consulate for your specific eligibility.

Is tipping customary in Taiwan?

Tipping is not really common practice in Taiwan, except perhaps in the more high-class hotels. Most restaurants have a service charge built into the price, and taxi drivers will usually return your change to you.

What is the internet access like in Taiwan?

As one of Asia’s more tech-savvy destinations, cyber cafes are common in the major cities. Free Wi-Fi can also usually be found at the local library.

Can I use my mobile phone while in Taiwan?

Mobile phone coverage is excellent in Taiwan, apart from some of the more remote mountain areas. Ensure global roaming is activated before leaving home if you wish to use your mobile while travelling.

What are the toilets like in Taiwan?

Modern flushing toilets are commonplace in Taiwan, although it can be hard to find a public toilet in large cities.

Can I drink the water in Taiwan?

Water in Taiwan is usually filtered, and therefore safe, but use your common sense. Restaurants will generally filter their water, as will most of the drinking fountains. If you can’t find these in the more rural areas, bring some purification tablets to treat the water.

Are credit cards accepted widely in Taiwan?

Most hotels and department stores accept VISA and Mastercard, but Diners and AMEX are not usually accepted. For restaurants and small stores, cash is the normal form of payment.

What is ATM access like in Taiwan?

ATM access in Taiwan is exceptional, with most of their ATMs able to withdraw money from anywhere in the world using the Plus or Cirrus system. There is usually a TWD 20,000 limit for cash withdrawals.

Is Taiwan accessible for travellers with disabilities?

We’re committed to making travel accessible for everyone, regardless of ability or disability. That’s why we do our best to help as many people see the world as possible, regardless of any physical or mental limitations they might have. We’re always happy to talk to travellers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them towards the most suitable itinerary for their needs and where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

Taiwan generally has   accessibility   in mind when building new infrastructure, however, as a mountainous place there are many natural barriers to those with limited mobility. Outdoor activities such as hiking or visiting national parks are common on itineraries and may be off limits to wheelchair users or travellers for who steps or uneven ground are an issue. Wheelchair-accessible tour buses may be able to be booked in advance and taxis are good value. MRT trains have accessible facilities. Many hotels and guesthouses will have barrier-free rooms, but often cafes and restaurants have seating on upper floors without lifts. Outside Taipei and Kaohsiung cities and towns can lack sidewalks.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before travelling?

Absolutely. All passengers travelling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

How do I stay safe and healthy while travelling?

Intrepid takes the health and safety of its travellers seriously and takes every measure to ensure that trips are safe, fun and enjoyable for everyone. We recommend that all travellers check with their government or national travel advisory organisation for the latest information before departure:

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

Does my trip support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. Trips to this country directly support our global Intrepid Foundation partners Eden Reforestation Projects and World Bicycle Relief. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Eden Reforestation Projects

Eden Reforestation Projects are helping to mitigate climate change by restoring forests worldwide; they also hire locally and create job opportunities within vulnerable communities. Donations from our trips support restoration across planting sites in 10 countries around the globe. Find out more or make a donation World Bicycle Relief

World Bicycle Relief provides people in low-income communities with bicycles to mobilise school kids, health workers, and farmers in far-out areas – giving them access to vital education, healthcare, and income. Donations help provide Buffalo Bicycles – specifically designed to withstand the rugged terrain and harsh environment of rural regions – to those who need them most. Find out more or make a donation

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After suffering a harrowing seven-game defeat in the 2023 Eastern Conference Finals, the Boston Celtics made sure not to repeat last year’s fate.

In Game 4 at Indianapolis’ Gainbridge Fieldhouse, Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum scored 29 and 26 points respectively to help the Celtics complete their sweep of the Pacers and advance to the NBA Finals for the first time since 2022.

Now they’re ready to take on either the Mavericks or Timberwolves next.

“We feel confident, we feel comfortable in any type of game, and we feel we’ve got answers for anything at us,” guard Derrick White said.

And if you want to see Joe Mazzulla’s squad duke it out for the Larry O’Brien Championship Trophy, tickets are available for all four hypothetical home games at their home TD Garden .

At the time of publication, the lowest price we could find on tickets was $699 before fees on Vivid Seats.

Other games have seats starting anywhere from $720 to $1,406 before fees.

While that may sound pricey, it’s hard to put a dollar amount on witnessing hoops history.

Hoping to see the Celtics bring their first title to Boston since 2008?

We’ve got everything you need to know and more about the Boston Celtics in the 2024 NBA Finals below.

All prices listed above are subject to fluctuation.

Boston Celtics home game playoff tickets

A complete calendar of all TD Garden games and the best prices on tickets can be found here:

(Note: The New York Post confirmed all above prices at the publication time. All prices are in US dollars, subject to fluctuation and include additional fees at checkout .)

Vivid Seats is a verified secondary market ticketing platform, and prices may be higher or lower than face value, depending on demand. 

They offer a 100% buyer guarantee that states your transaction will be safe and secure and your tickets will be delivered prior to the event.

How to watch the Celtics on TV

Fans hoping to catch Joe Mazzulla’s team on the tube can watch all playoff games on ABC, ESPN, TNT, and NBA TV.

Just make sure to check your local listings before tuning in.

Huge concert tours in 2024

When the Celtics aren’t at home, the TD Garden will host dozens of the biggest names in music this year.

Here are just five of our favorite acts you won’t want to miss at the venue these next few months.

•  Aerosmith

•  Childish Gambino

•  Hans Zimmer

•  Aventura

Want to see who else is on the road? Check out our list of the  50 biggest concert tours of 2024  to find out.

Why you should trust ‘Post Wanted’ by the New York Post

This article was written by Matt Levy , New York Post live events reporter. Levy stays up-to-date on all the latest tour announcements from your favorite musical artists and comedians, as well as Broadway openings, sporting events and more live shows – and finds great ticket prices online. Since he started his tenure at the Post in 2022, Levy has reviewed Bruce Springsteen and interviewed Melissa Villaseñor of SNL fame, to name a few. Please note that deals can expire, and all prices are subject to change.

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Exploring Taiwan! - Justaiwantour Travel Services

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Exploring Taiwan!

Our guide Will was very informative and hospitable. I will definitely been with him again. We were able to see places we wouldn’t have see without his help and knowledge of Taiwan.

Thank you for taking the time to share your positive experience with our tour guide Will. It was a pleasure to assist you, and we can't wait to welcome you back soon!

We were on our way back to NA from Vietnam and had a 7 hour layover in Taipei. Justaiwan Tours filled the gap with a GREAT 4 hour experience. Chia Jung is a fantastic tour guide. He took us to the top of 101 and the Night Market. He’s smart, thinks on his feet and is a great photographer.

Thank you so much for your 5-star review! We're thrilled to hear you had a fantastic experience with our service.

The tour company was such as pleasure to work with - we were able customize our trip according to our timing and sight-seeing needs. It was so seemless! Price was more than reasonable. The tour guide (Elvis Chang) was unbelievable. Not only did he handle the Taiwan traffic and parking like a boss, he was an amazing guide who was able to provide us with helpful information. He also was very guide at adjusting to our needs as we went. It was such a wonderful two-day trip, thanks to the flexibility and expertise of the guide and company.

We're glad you guys had an amazing time in Taiwan! Your satisfaction is our top priority, and we're delighted we could make your journey through Taiwan so memorable. We look forward to serving you again on your next adventure!

Highly recommend this beautiful scenery day trip from Taipei with JusTaiwan. Very smooth communication with the tour operator and the driver before and during the trip. Our driver, Chia Jung, spoke good English ( and Japanese) and was very experienced with the area, taking different walking routes and timing perfectly to avoid the crowds. Plus he is very friendly and offers to take many photos. We very much enjoyed our conversation with him about tea, history and politics. I now need to try Pinglin tea :)

We're overjoyed to receive your 5-star rating! Thanks for taking the time to share your positive experience. It was a pleasure to assist you, and we can't wait to welcome you back soon!

Tony our guide was very personable with great driving skills & very accommodating personal touches that made this tour really pop off , Tony also had great in dept knowledge of the area and the food that he had taken us to the great pluses was he also a great photographer combine that with the knowledge he brought to the tour it was like having your very own photographer that could do your pics and memories for you so you could really just take in all the culture.

Thank you for giving our amazing tour guide Tony a 5-star review! We're so happy to know we met your expectations. Your support means the world to us, and we can't wait to offer you another wonderful experience in the future!

We did a 3d2n guided tour with tour guide Tony. He is friendly and knowlegable. He brought us to places with good food. Days were well planned with good amount of sight seeing, food and play. Tony helped us take plenty of photos for memory keeps. We were in good hands with Justtaiwantour. Thank you for the good experience!

Thank you for trusting us with your travel needs. We're committed to providing excellent service and are glad you were satisfied. Looking forward to your next visit!!!

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Whales Have an Alphabet

Until the 1960s, it was uncertain whether whales made any sounds at all..

This transcript was created using speech recognition software. While it has been reviewed by human transcribers, it may contain errors. Please review the episode audio before quoting from this transcript and email [email protected] with any questions.

[MUSIC PLAYING]

From “The New York Times,” I’m Michael Barbaro. This is “The Daily.”

Today, ever since the discovery that whales produce songs, scientists have been trying to find a way to decipher their lyrics. After 60 years, they may have finally done it. My colleague, Carl Zimmer, explains.

It’s Friday, May 24.

I have to say, after many years of working with you on everything from the pandemic to —

— CRISPR DNA technology, that it turns out your interests are even more varied than I had thought, and they include whales.

They do indeed.

And why? What is it about the whale that captures your imagination?

I don’t think I’ve ever met anybody who is not fascinated by whales. I mean, these are mammals like us, and they’re swimming around in the water. They have brains that are much bigger than ours. They can live maybe 200 years. These are incredible animals, and animals that we still don’t really understand.

Right. Well, it is this majestic creature that brings us together today, Carl, because you have been reporting on a big breakthrough in our understanding of how it is that whales communicate. But I think in order for that breakthrough to make sense, I think we’re going to have to start with what we have known up until now about how whales interact. So tell us about that.

Well, people knew that whales and dolphins traveled together in groups, but up until the 1960s, we didn’t really know that whales actually made any sounds at all. It was actually sort of an accident that we came across it. The American military was developing sophisticated microphones to put underwater. They wanted to listen for Russian submarines.

As one does. But there was an engineer in Bermuda, and he started hearing some weird stuff.

[WHALE SOUNDS]

And he wondered maybe if he was actually listening to whales.

What made him wonder if it was whales, of all things?

Well, this sound did not sound like something geological.

It didn’t sound like some underwater landslide or something like that. This sounded like a living animal making some kind of call. It has these incredible deep tones that rise up into these strange, almost falsetto type notes.

It was incredibly loud. And so it would have to be some really big animal. And so with humpback whales swimming around Bermuda, this engineer thought, well, maybe these are humpback whales.

And so he gets in touch with a husband and wife team of whale biologists, Roger and Katy Payne, and plays these recordings to them. And they’re pretty convinced that they’re hearing whales, too. And then they go on to go out and confirm that by putting microphones in the water, chasing after groups of whales and confirming, yes, indeed, that these sounds are coming from these humpback whales.

So once these scientists confirm in their minds that these are the sounds of a whale, what happens with this discovery?

Well, Roger and Katy Payne and their colleagues are astonished that this species of whale is swimming around singing all the time for hours on end. And it’s so inspirational to them that they actually help to produce a record that they release “The Song of the Humpback Whale” in 1970.

And so this is being sold in record stores, you know, along with Jimi Hendrix and Rolling Stones. And it is a huge hit.

Yeah, it sells like two million copies.

Well, at the time, it was a huge cultural event. This record, this became almost like an anthem of the environmental movement. And it led, for whales in particular, to a lot of protections for them because now people could appreciate that whales were a lot more marvelous and mysterious than they maybe had appreciated before.

And so you have legislation, like the Marine Mammal Act. The United States just agrees just to stop killing whales. It stops its whaling industry. And so you could argue that the discovery of these whale songs in Bermuda led to at least some species of whales escaping extinction.

Well, beyond the cultural impact of this discovery, which is quite meaningful, I wonder whether scientists and marine biologists are figuring out what these whale songs are actually communicating.

So the Paynes create a whole branch of science, the study of whale songs. It turns out that pretty much every species of whale that we know of sings in some way or another. And it turns out that within a species, different groups of whales in different parts of the world may sing with a different dialect. But the big question of what these whales are singing, what do these songs mean, that remains elusive into the 21st century. And things don’t really change until scientists decide to take a new look at the problem in a new way.

And what is that new way?

So in 2020, a group of whale biologists, including Roger Payne, come together with computer scientists from MIT. Instead of humpback whales, which were the whales where whale songs are first discovered, these scientists decide to study sperm whales in the Caribbean. And humpback whales and sperm whales have very, very different songs. So if you’re used to humpback whales with their crazy high and low singing voices —

Right, those best-selling sounds.

— those are rockin’ tunes of the humpback whales, that’s not what sperm whales do. Sperm whales have a totally different way of communicating with each other. And I actually have some recordings that were provided by the scientists who have been doing this research. And so we can take a listen to some of them.

Wow, It’s like a rhythmic clicking.

These are a group of sperm whales swimming together, communicating.

So whale biologists knew already that there was some structure to this sound. Those clicks that you hear, they come in little pulses. And each of those pulses is known as a coda. And whale biologists had given names to these different codas. So, for example, they call one coda, one plus one plus three —

— which is basically click, click, click, click, click, or four plus three, where you have four clicks in a row and a pause and then three clicks in a row.

Right. And the question would seem to be, is this decipherable communication, or is this just whale gibberish?

Well, this is where the computer scientists were able to come in and to help out. The whale biologists who were listening to the codas from the sperm whales in the Caribbean, they had identified about 21 types. And then that would seem to be about it.

But then, an MIT computer science graduate student named Prajusha Sharma was given the job of listening to them again.

And what does she hear?

In a way, it’s not so much what she heard, but what she saw.

Because when scientists record whale songs, you can look at it kind of like if you’re looking at an audio of a recording of your podcast, you will see the little squiggles of your voice.

And so whale biologists would just look at that ticker of whale songs going across the screen and try to compare them. And Sharma said, I don’t like this. I just — this is not how I look at data. And so what she decided to do is she decided to kind of just visualize the data differently. And essentially, she just kind of flipped these images on their side and saw something totally new.

And what she saw was that sperm whales were singing a whole bunch of things that nobody had actually been hearing.

One thing that she discovered was that you could have a whale that was producing a coda over and over and over again, but it was actually playing with it. It was actually stretching out the coda,

[CLICKING] So to get a little bit longer and a little bit longer, a little bit longer.

And then get shorter and shorter and shorter again. They could play with their codas in a way that nobody knew before. And she also started to see that a whale might throw in an extra click at the end of a coda. So it would be repeating a coda over and over again and then boom, add an extra one right at the end. What they would call an ornamentation. So now, you have yet another signal that these whales are using.

And if we just look at what the sperm whales are capable of producing in terms of different codas, we go from just 21 types that they had found in the Caribbean before to 156. So what the scientists are saying is that what we might be looking at is what they call a sperm whale phonetic alphabet.

Yeah, that’s a pretty big deal because the only species that we know of for sure that has a phonetic alphabet —

— is us, exactly. So the reason that we can use language is because we can make a huge range of sounds by just doing little things with our mouths. A little change in our lips can change a bah to a dah. And so we are able to produce a set of phonetic sounds. And we put those sounds together to make words.

So now, we have sperm whales, which have at least 150 of these different versions of sounds that they make just by making little adjustments to the existing way that they make sounds. And so you can make a chart of their phonetic alphabet, just like you make a chart of the human phonetic alphabet.

So then, that raises the question, do they combine their phonetic alphabet into words? Do they combine their words into sentences? In other words, do sperm whales have a language of their own?

Right. Are they talking to each other, really talking to each other?

If we could really show that whales had language on par with humans, that would be like finding intelligent life on another planet.

We’ll be right back.

So, Carl, how should we think about this phonetic alphabet and whether sperm whales are actually using it to talk to each other?

The scientists on this project are really careful to say that these results do not definitively prove what these sperm whale sounds are. There are a handful of possibilities here in terms of what this study could mean. And one of them is that the whales really are using full-blown language.

What they might be talking about, we don’t know. I mean, perhaps they like to talk about their travels over hundreds and thousands of miles. Maybe they’re talking about, you know, the giant squid that they caught last night. Maybe they’re gossiping about each other.

And you have to remember, sperm whales are incredibly social animals. They have relationships that last for decades. And they live in groups that are in clans of thousands of whales. I mean, imagine the opportunities for gossip.

These are all at least imaginable now. But it’s also possible that they are communicating with each other, but in a way that isn’t language as we know it. You know, maybe these sounds that they’re producing don’t add up to sentences. There’s no verb there. There’s no noun. There’s no structure to it in terms of how we think of language.

But maybe they’re still conveying information to each other. Maybe they’re somehow giving out who they are and what group they belong to. But it’s not in the form of language that we think of.

Right. Maybe it’s more kind of caveman like as in whale to whale, look, there, food.

It’s possible. But, you know, other species have evolved in other directions. And so you have to put yourself in the place of a sperm whale. You know, so think about this. They are communicating in the water. And actually, like sending sounds through water is a completely different experience than through the air like we do.

So a sperm whale might be communicating to the whale right next to it a few yards away, but it might be communicating with whales miles away, hundreds of miles away. They’re in the dark a lot of the time, so they don’t even see the whales right next to them. So it’s just this constant sound that they’re making because they’re in this dark water.

So we might want to imagine that such a species would talk the way we do, but there are just so many reasons to expect that whatever they’re communicating might be just profoundly different, so different that it’s actually hard for us to imagine. And so we need to really, you know, let ourselves be open to lots of possibilities.

And one possibility that some scientists have raised is that maybe language is just the wrong model to think about. Maybe we need to think about music. You know, maybe this strange typewriter, clickety clack is actually not like a Morse code message, but is actually a real song. It’s a kind of music that doesn’t necessarily convey information the way conversation does, but it brings the whales together.

In humans, like, when we humans sing together in choruses, it can be a very emotional experience. It’s a socially bonding experience, but it’s not really like the specific words that we’re singing that bring us together when we’re singing. It’s sharing the music together.

But at a certain point, we stop singing in the chorus, and we start asking each other questions like, hey, what are you doing for dinner? How are you going to get home? There’s a lot of traffic on the BQE. So we are really drawn to the possibility that whales are communicating in that same kind of a mode.

We’re exchanging information. We’re seeking out each other’s well-being and emotional state. And we’re building something together.

And I think that happens because, I mean, language is so fundamental to us as human beings. I mean, it’s like every moment of our waking life depends on language. We are talking to ourselves if we’re not talking to other people.

In our sleep, we dream, and there are words in our dreams. And we’re just stewing in language. And so it’s really, really hard for us to understand how other species might have a really complex communication system with hundreds of different little units of sound that they can use and they can deploy. And to think anything other than, well, they must be talking about traffic on the BQE. Like —

— we’re very human-centric. And we have to resist that.

So what we end up having here is a genuine breakthrough in our understanding of how whales interact. And that seems worth celebrating in and of itself. But it really kind of doubles as a lesson in humility for us humans when it comes to appreciating the idea that there are lots of non-human ways in which language can exist.

That’s right. Humility is always a good idea when we’re thinking about other animals.

So what now happens in this realm of research? And how is it that these scientists, these marine biologists and these computer scientists are going to try to figure out what exactly this alphabet amounts to and how it’s being used?

So what’s going to happen now is a real sea change in gathering data from whales.

So to speak.

So these scientists are now deploying a new generation of undersea microphones. They’re using drones to follow these whales. And what they want to do is they want to be recording sounds from the ocean where these whales live 24 hours a day, seven days a week. And so the hope is that instead of getting, say, a few 100 codas each year on recording, these scientists want to get several hundred million every year, maybe billions of codas every year.

And once you get that much data from whales, then you can start to do some really amazing stuff with artificial intelligence. So these scientists hope that they can use the same kind of artificial intelligence that is behind things like ChatGPT or these artificial intelligence systems that are able to take recordings of people talking and transcribing them into text. They want to use that on the whale communication.

They want to just grind through vast amounts of data, and maybe they will discover more phonetic letters in this alphabet. Who knows? Maybe they will actually find bigger structures, structures that could correspond to language.

If you go really far down this route of possibilities, the hope is that you would understand what sperm whales are saying to each other so well that you could actually create artificial sperm whale communication, and you could play it underwater. You could talk to the sperm whales. And they would talk back. They would react somehow in a way that you had predicted. If that happens, then maybe, indeed, sperm whales have something like language as we understand it.

And the only way we’re going to figure that out is if we figure out not just how they talk to themselves, but how we can perhaps talk to them, which, given everything we’ve been talking about here, Carl, is a little bit ironic because it’s pretty human-centric.

That’s right. This experiment could fail. It’s possible that sperm whales don’t do anything like language as we know it. Maybe they’re doing something that we can’t even imagine yet. But if sperm whales really are using codas in something like language, we are going to have to enter the conversation to really understand it.

Well, Carl, thank you very much. We appreciate it.

Thank you. Sorry. Can I say that again? My voice got really high all of a sudden.

A little bit like a whale’s. Ooh.

Yeah, exactly. Woot. Woot.

Thank yoooo. No. Thank you.

Here’s what else you need to know today.

We allege that Live Nation has illegally monopolized markets across the live concert industry in the United States for far too long. It is time to break it up.

On Thursday, the Justice Department sued the concert giant Live Nation Entertainment, which owns Ticketmaster, for violating federal antitrust laws and sought to break up the $23 billion conglomerate. During a news conference, Attorney General Merrick Garland said that Live Nation’s monopolistic tactics had hurt the entire industry of live events.

The result is that fans pay more in fees, artists have fewer opportunities to play concerts, smaller promoters get squeezed out, and venues have fewer real choices.

In a statement, Live Nation called the lawsuit baseless and vowed to fight it in court.

A reminder — tomorrow, we’ll be sharing the latest episode of our colleagues’ new show, “The Interview.” This week on “The Interview,” Lulu Garcia-Navarro talks with Ted Sarandos, the CEO of Netflix, about his plans to make the world’s largest streaming service even bigger.

I don’t agree with the premise that quantity and quality are somehow in conflict with each other. I think our content and our movie programming has been great, but it’s just not all for you.

Today’s episode was produced by Alex Stern, Stella Tan, Sydney Harper, and Nina Feldman. It was edited by MJ Davis, contains original music by Pat McCusker, Dan Powell, Elisheba Ittoop, Marion Lozano, and Sophia Lanman, and was engineered by Alyssa Moxley. Our theme music is by Jim Brunberg and Ben Landsverk of Wonderly.

Special thanks to Project SETI for sharing their whale recordings.

That’s it for “The Daily.” I’m Michael Barbaro. See you on Tuesday after the holiday.

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• May 24, 2024   •   25:18 Whales Have an Alphabet
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• May 15, 2024   •   27:03 The Possible Collapse of the U.S. Home Insurance System
• May 14, 2024   •   35:20 Voters Want Change. In Our Poll, They See It in Trump.

Hosted by Michael Barbaro

Featuring Carl Zimmer

Produced by Alex Stern ,  Stella Tan ,  Sydney Harper and Nina Feldman

Edited by MJ Davis Lin

Original music by Elisheba Ittoop ,  Dan Powell ,  Marion Lozano ,  Sophia Lanman and Pat McCusker

Engineered by Alyssa Moxley

Listen and follow The Daily Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music | YouTube

Ever since the discovery of whale songs almost 60 years ago, scientists have been trying to decipher the lyrics.

But sperm whales don’t produce the eerie melodies sung by humpback whales, sounds that became a sensation in the 1960s. Instead, sperm whales rattle off clicks that sound like a cross between Morse code and a creaking door. Carl Zimmer, a science reporter, explains why it’s possible that the whales are communicating in a complex language.

On today’s episode

Carl Zimmer , a science reporter for The New York Times who also writes the Origins column .

Background reading

Scientists find an “alphabet” in whale songs.

These whales still use their vocal cords. But how?

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The Daily is made by Rachel Quester, Lynsea Garrison, Clare Toeniskoetter, Paige Cowett, Michael Simon Johnson, Brad Fisher, Chris Wood, Jessica Cheung, Stella Tan, Alexandra Leigh Young, Lisa Chow, Eric Krupke, Marc Georges, Luke Vander Ploeg, M.J. Davis Lin, Dan Powell, Sydney Harper, Mike Benoist, Liz O. Baylen, Asthaa Chaturvedi, Rachelle Bonja, Diana Nguyen, Marion Lozano, Corey Schreppel, Rob Szypko, Elisheba Ittoop, Mooj Zadie, Patricia Willens, Rowan Niemisto, Jody Becker, Rikki Novetsky, John Ketchum, Nina Feldman, Will Reid, Carlos Prieto, Ben Calhoun, Susan Lee, Lexie Diao, Mary Wilson, Alex Stern, Dan Farrell, Sophia Lanman, Shannon Lin, Diane Wong, Devon Taylor, Alyssa Moxley, Summer Thomad, Olivia Natt, Daniel Ramirez and Brendan Klinkenberg.

Our theme music is by Jim Brunberg and Ben Landsverk of Wonderly. Special thanks to Sam Dolnick, Paula Szuchman, Lisa Tobin, Larissa Anderson, Julia Simon, Sofia Milan, Mahima Chablani, Elizabeth Davis-Moorer, Jeffrey Miranda, Renan Borelli, Maddy Masiello, Isabella Anderson and Nina Lassam.

Carl Zimmer covers news about science for The Times and writes the Origins column . More about Carl Zimmer

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