I am so honored to share that I have been selected by the Taiwan Tourism Authority to attend the 2026 Taiwan Lantern Festival Familiarization “FAM” Tour this March.
This is not just a trip. It is an immersive, behind the scenes look at Taiwan’s culture, cuisine, landscapes, and one of its most iconic celebrations. As a travel advisor and tastemaker for Travel Brilliant, experiences like this allow me to bring back firsthand knowledge, trusted connections, and meaningful stories for my clients.
Here is a look at what we will be experiencing across Taiwan.
Taipei: Culture, Cuisine, and Classic Icons
Our journey begins in Taipei, arriving at Taoyuan International Airport before heading into the city.
We will explore Tamsui via MRT, walking along the riverside promenade, sampling local street snacks, and visiting Fort San Domingo and the Little White House. Tamsui is known for its sunset views, old street atmosphere, and layered history influenced by Indigenous, Spanish, Dutch, and Qing periods.
Food is a central theme from the start. Tamsui Old Street specialties include iron eggs, A-Gei, grilled quail eggs, fish ball soup, and long yogurt ice cream. This kind of hyper local tasting is exactly how I love to experience a destination.
On Day 2, we dive deeper into Taiwanese culture with a pre booked Taiwanese cooking class. We will also explore Dadaocheng Historic District, experience a traditional Chinese medicine consultation, enjoy tea tasting, and even step into the 1920s with a Qipao dress experience.
The culinary highlight in Taipei may be dinner at Michelin one star restaurant The Guest House. For my clients who value elevated dining experiences, this is exactly the kind of pairing of heritage and refinement that makes Taiwan so compelling.
We will also experience Taipei 101 from the 89th floor Observation Deck and, weather permitting, the 460 Skywalk. Seeing the city from above offers perspective on Taiwan’s dynamic blend of tradition and modernity.
Chiayi: The Taiwan Lantern Festival
From Taipei, we take the High Speed Rail to Chiayi, home of the 2026 Taiwan Lantern Festival Opening Ceremony.
The itinerary includes VIP access to the lighting ceremony platform before the official illumination begins. We will view the lantern exhibitions and experience traditional Taiwanese lantern craftsmanship up close.
The Taiwan Lantern Festival is not just visually stunning. It represents community, artistry, and centuries of cultural tradition. Being present for the official lighting ceremony is an extraordinary honor and an opportunity to understand how Taiwan celebrates identity and heritage on a national stage.
Alishan: Mountains, Sunrise, and Indigenous Culture
Next, we head into the mountains to Alishan Scenic Area.
We will visit the Er Yan Ping Trail Observation Deck for cloud sea viewing and experience the famous Alishan sunrise. Alishan is known for its dramatic mountain scenery, forest railway, and ethereal mist that rolls across the peaks at dawn.
A meaningful highlight will be time at the Yuyupas Tsou Indigenous Cultural Park, including an Indigenous cultural performance. Taiwan’s Indigenous communities are an essential part of its cultural identity, and I am especially looking forward to learning directly from local voices.
Tainan: Taiwan’s Historic Heart
Our journey continues to Tainan, often considered Taiwan’s cultural capital.
We will explore Shennong Street in the Five Harbors Cultural Zone, visit Chihkan Tower, browse traditional Chinese medicine shops, and dine at Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurant Chous Fun Ji.
In Anping, we will visit Anping Fort, Anping Tree House, and Anping Old Street, along with Hayashi Department Store. These sites reflect Taiwan’s Dutch colonial history, Japanese era influences, and evolving modern identity.
Lunch at Drum Tea House will include a traditional opera experience, blending culinary and performing arts in one immersive moment.
Why This Matters for My Clients
As the founder of Travel Brilliant, I believe travel should be immersive, seamless, and meaningful. My clients value authentic experiences, cultural depth, and stress free logistics. They trust us to curate journeys that go beyond the expected.
This FAM is an opportunity to:
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Build direct relationships with tourism partners and on the ground experts
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Personally vet luxury hotels and signature experiences
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Deepen cultural understanding to better design customized itineraries
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Explore how Taiwan can be positioned for couples, families, food lovers, and LGBTQ+ travelers
Taiwan offers a rare combination of world class cuisine, layered history, dramatic landscapes, advanced infrastructure, and warm hospitality. From Michelin starred dining to mountain sunrises and lantern lit nights, this itinerary showcases the diversity of the destination across just six days.
I am deeply grateful to the Taiwan Tourism Authority for this opportunity. I will be sharing stories, insights, and behind the scenes moments throughout the journey.
If Taiwan has been on your radar, now is the time to start the conversation. I cannot wait to bring this experience home to you.