Showing posts with label falls. Show all posts
Showing posts with label falls. Show all posts

May 08, 2026

Day 4 in Taiwan: Our Jiufen & Shifen Day Trip from Taipei with the Taipei Unlimited Fun Pass

Day 4: Day Trip from Taipei
 
If Day 3 was all about family fun, Day 4 became one of the longest and most unforgettable days of our Taiwan trip. We followed the suggested Jiufen & Shifen Experience Tour included in our Taipei Unlimited Fun Pass, but instead of following the usual schedule, we decided to begin our adventure early by visiting Shifen Waterfall first.
 
We left our hotel before 7AM, determined to maximize the day and avoid the heavy crowds as much as possible. Little did we know that this would also turn out to be one of the most tiring days of our trip! Still, every stop was worth it because we got to experience Taiwan’s charming old streets, beautiful scenery, delicious food, and even some fun freebies along the way.
 
Here’s how our Day 4 itinerary went.
 
Shifen Waterfall
Pingxi Sky Lantern Experience
Lunch at Ruifang Food Court
Jiufen Old Street
Taste the A-Po’s Taro Balls
Red Lantern Blessing
Claim the free Dragon and Tiger Night Market Cup from the Visitor Center Ximending
Bought an early dinner at Jiguang Fried Chicken
Claim the free pineapple cake at Taipei Main Station Breeze Counter
 
Shifen Waterfall
 
Our first stop for the day was the famous Shifen Waterfall, often called the “Little Niagara of Taiwan.” The waterfall is known for its wide, curtain-like flow and scenic natural surroundings.
 
The walk to the falls was already enjoyable, with suspension bridges, riverside views, and souvenir shops along the way. Since we arrived early, the place was still peaceful and not too crowded, which made the experience more relaxing.
 
One interesting trivia about Shifen Waterfall is that it is the broadest waterfall in Taiwan. The unique rock formations beneath the water create the impressive layered effect that makes it look even wider in photos.
 
It was definitely a refreshing way to begin our long day trip.


Pingxi Sky Lantern Experience
 
After visiting the waterfall, we headed to Pingxi for the iconic Sky Lantern Experience. This was one of the activities we were most excited about because it is considered one of the most popular things to do in Taiwan. We wrote our wishes and messages on the lantern before releasing it into the sky.
 
Watching dozens of lanterns float upward felt magical and cinematic, especially with the old railway tracks and mountain surroundings enhancing the atmosphere.
 
A fun fact about Pingxi: the sky lantern tradition started as a way for villagers to signal safety to one another many years ago. Today, it has become a symbol of hope, blessings, and new beginnings.
 
Even though it has become touristy, the experience still felt special.

 
Lunch at Ruifang Food Court
 
By lunchtime, we were already getting tired from all the walking, so we stopped at Ruifang Food Court for a quick and affordable meal.

Ruifang is usually the gateway to Jiufen and Shifen, making it a convenient stop for travelers. The food court had several local Taiwanese dishes to choose from, giving us a chance to recharge before continuing our journey.
 
The atmosphere felt very local compared to the more tourist-heavy destinations later in the day.
 
Jiufen Old Street
 
Next came one of the highlights of the trip, Jiufen Old Street.
 
Jiufen is famous for its narrow alleyways, teahouses, lantern-filled streets, and mountain views overlooking the sea. Walking through the old street felt like stepping into another era.
 
Many people say Jiufen inspired scenes from the animated movie Spirited Away, although the studio has never officially confirmed it. Still, the red lanterns and nostalgic atmosphere definitely give it that magical vibe.
 
The streets were packed with food stalls, souvenir shops, tea houses, and dessert stores. There was always something interesting around every corner.
 
Although crowded, Jiufen had a charm that made us want to slow down and simply enjoy the atmosphere.

 
Trying A-Po’s Taro Balls
 
Of course, a visit to Jiufen would not be complete without trying the famous A-Po’s Taro Balls.
 
This well-known dessert shop is popular for its chewy handmade taro balls served either hot or cold with sweet soup and beans.
 
The texture of the taro balls was surprisingly satisfying,  soft, chewy, and not overly sweet. After hours of walking, it was the perfect snack break.
 
It is amazing how a simple dessert became one of Jiufen’s signature foods and a must-try for visitors.

 
Red Lantern Blessing
 
While exploring Jiufen, we also came across the beautiful red lantern displays and blessing areas that added even more charm to the town.
 
The glowing lanterns against the mountain backdrop made Jiufen feel especially magical as the afternoon slowly transitioned toward evening.
 
This became one of our favorite photo spots during the trip.


Claiming the Free Dragon and Tiger Night Market Cup at Ximending
 
After our long countryside adventure, we headed back to Taipei and stopped by the Visitor Center in Ximending to claim the free Dragon and Tiger Night Market Cup included with our pass. It was a small but fun souvenir that made the Taipei Unlimited Fun Pass feel even more worth it.
 
By this time, we were already exhausted from the entire day, but we still had a few more stops left.


Early Dinner from Jiguang Fried Chicken
 
Before finally heading back to the hotel, we bought an early dinner from the famous Jiguang Fried Chicken.
 
Taiwanese fried chicken really hits differently, crispy on the outside, juicy inside, and generously seasoned.
 
After such a tiring day, comfort food was exactly what we needed.

 
Free Pineapple Cake at Taipei Main Station
 
Our final stop for the day was at Taipei Main Station Breeze Counter, where we claimed another freebie included in our pass,  a pineapple cake.
 
Pineapple cakes are one of Taiwan’s most famous snacks and are also a popular souvenir for tourists. The buttery pastry with sweet pineapple filling was a nice way to end the day.
 
Simple, delicious, and very Taiwanese.

 
Final Thoughts
 
Day 4 was probably one of the most exhausting days of our Taiwan trip, but it was also one of the most memorable.
 
From waterfalls and sky lanterns to old streets and local food, the day perfectly combined nature, culture, and food experiences all in one trip.
 
Even though we went home completely tired, it was the kind of exhaustion that comes from having an amazing adventure. 
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February 10, 2026

8-Day Taiwan Itinerary with a Senior Citizen

Six years ago, my late sister and I were supposed to visit Taiwan. We were both incredibly excited, but our flight was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Sadly, the trip never happened; she passed away in 2020. Because of that loss, it took me five years to finally plan another journey to Taiwan.
 
Planning a trip to Taiwan with a senior citizen can be both rewarding and challenging. Taiwan is one of the most senior-friendly destinations in Asia, thanks to its efficient public transportation, clean cities, and welcoming culture.

 
This 8-day Taiwan itinerary is based on our family trip, which included my mom. While this trip was emotional, it was also healing and proof that Taiwan is a great destination for multi-generational travel.
 
Before Traveling to Taiwan
 
Before your flight, make sure to complete the following online forms:
 
Taiwan Online Arrival Card (Required)
 
All travelers must complete the Taiwan Online Arrival Card before arrival.
 
eTravel Philippines (Required for Departure and Arrival)
 
Filipino travelers must complete the eTravel form for:
 
Departure from the Philippines
Arrival back in the Philippines
 
The eTravel registration is required by the Philippine immigration and should be completed within the prescribed time before your flight.
 
Taiwan Lucky Draw (Optional but Recommended)
 
The Taiwan Lucky Draw is not required, but registering gives you a chance to win:
 
Accommodation vouchers
Gift cards
 
Registration is free and only takes a few minutes, so it’s worth trying your luck. My husband and son won 5000NTD gift cards. 


Note: As of this writing, the Taiwan Lucky Draw promotion has already ended. The program officially concluded on January 30, 2026.

Previously, the Taiwan Lucky Draw gave travelers a chance to win accommodation vouchers or gift cards upon arrival. While it is no longer available, travelers should always check official Taiwan tourism websites in case similar promotions are offered again in the future.

Travel requirements and promotions may change, so always verify the latest updates before your trip.


Ning Xia Night Market is a great choice for first-time visitors and senior travelers because it’s compact and easy to explore. There are so many night markets in Taipei, but this is the nearest one to our hotel. 
 
Read: Clark International Airport
Starlux Airlines Experience

Day 2: Taipei Historic Walking Tour
 
Taipei Free Walking Tour – Historic Route via Klook


Start Time: 10:00 AM
Duration: 3 hours
Meeting Point: MRT Longshan Temple Station, Exit 1
 
Places Covered:
 
Lungshan Temple
Bopiliao Ancient Street
The Red House
Presidential Office Building
2/28 Peace Memorial Park

Shopping at Ximending


Tip for senior travelers: Wear comfortable shoes and take short breaks when needed.
  
Days 3 to 5: Taipei Fun Pass Itinerary
 
We purchased the Taipei Fun Pass (PHP 3,616) via Klook, which includes unlimited MRT rides and free entrance to selected attractions. It helped us save money and avoid long ticket lines.
 
(I’ll share a detailed Taipei Fun Pass guide in a separate post.)
 
Day 3: Nature and City Views
 
Maokong Gondola
Tea Ceremony Experience
Taipei Zoo
Miramar Ferris Wheel
 
The Maokong Gondola is very senior-friendly and offers scenic views of Taipei.


Day 4: Day Trip from Taipei
 
Shifen Waterfall
Pingxi Sky Lantern Experience
Jiufen Old Street
A-Po’s Taro Balls
Red Lantern Blessing
Free shot glass from the Visitor Center Ximending
Free pineapple cake at Taipei Main Station

Jiufen has stairs and crowds, so move slowly and plan rest stops.


Day 5: Taipei City Attractions
 
Yehliu Geopark
Miniatures Museum
Taipei 101
 
Yehliu Geopark has uneven walking paths, so proper footwear is essential for senior travelers.


 
Day 6: Culture, Food, and Flexibility
 
Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall
Lunch at Din Tai Fung - Taipei 101 via Klook
Taipei City North Gate & Dadaocheng Cultural and Historical Tour via Klook
(3:00 PM – 5:30 PM)
 
After returning to the hotel, we decided to skip the walking tour and rest instead. When traveling with seniors, flexibility is key; rest days are just as important as sightseeing.


Day 7: Shopping and Tax Refund
 
Gloria Outlets
Tax Refund Processing at Taipei Main Station
 
This was a relaxed day before our departure.

 
Day 8: Departure from Taiwan
 
Flight from Taipei to Clark via Starlux Airlines
 
Travel Tips for Visiting Taiwan with Senior Citizens
 
Choose hotels near MRT stations
Avoid overpacking daily itineraries
Schedule rest breaks
Use elevators and escalators in MRT stations
Stay hydrated, especially during the summer
 
This 8-day Taiwan travel guide shows that Taiwan is an excellent destination for families and senior citizens. With thoughtful planning, a slower pace, and flexibility, traveling with older family members can be deeply meaningful and enjoyable.

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June 22, 2021

A Breath of Fresh Air at Gina’s Garden and Farm

As the famous quote says “We travel not to escape life, but for life not to escape us”. I’ve read this quote several times already but I appreciated it more especially during this global pandemic. Since I am confined inside our home, sometimes I feel that time is just passing and I’m not living the way I’m supposed to. I really miss the old times when you could live your life and where you can travel without limits and boundaries. 

Nowadays, you cannot just book and go because there are so many things to consider and it is kinda stressful even if I wanted to travel, nawawalan na ko ng gana especially when we experienced a canceled booking. Sayang ang non-refundable reservation. Moving on, just this month, my husband wanted to travel on his birthday, I suggested a farm in Laguna but there was no overnight trip. Fortunately, he found Gina’s Garden and Farm.

There was no available room on his birthday so extended birthday celebration na lang. He booked the Orchid Room for PHP6,000 and paid the 50% downpayment. You can book via AirBnb or Facebook page. The owner sent us a list of information about what to expect, what to bring, and Guest Certification that we need to present at the checkpoint (2 checkpoints). 


Fast forward to our trip, we left the house around 7AM, fetched our in-laws, and off we went to Gina’s Garden and Farm which is located in Real, Quezon. Travel time is 3 to 4 hours and we traveled via Marcos Highway and it was our first road trip there so we’re kinda surprised. I’ve been to Baguio and Sagada pero feeling ko mas maganda ang scenery dito. My brother-in-law said, parang broccoli ang mga puno. Hehehe! 

After we passed the two checkpoints, we started looking for a restaurant because there is no restaurant at the AirBnb. We had early lunch at Riders’ Rest Stop and after eating we immediately went to Gina’s Garden. Check-in time is 2PM but we’re lucky because our room is already available so we were able to check-in at 12NN. 


Gina’s Garden and Farm Orchid Room 


Here is the Orchid Room, we love our room because we have 180 degrees mountain view, a private bathroom, kitchen, inflatable pool, one double bed, and one bunk bed which is more than enough for 5 persons. 





For the kitchen, there are gas stove, cookware, and utensils that you can use but we brought our own. Since there is no fridge, we did not bring a lot of food and I made sure that our food are easy to cook and prepare. If you don’t want to cook, you can buy food at the restaurants which are just several minutes away or you can also order food for delivery at Hungry Tummy. There is a menu and contact number at the farm. 


After several minutes, the owner tour us around the garden and informed us on what to do and where to go. We are aware that there are assigned areas for each guest but we have no idea na you have to reserve din pala so we settled na lang kung ano available but you are free to visit those areas if it is available, alis ka na lang kapag dumating na yung nakareserve. #socialdistancing




There are children's books, board games, archery, and dart equipment that you can use for free. I’ve seen some games inside our room too like Jenga at cards. You can also have a bonfire or watch a movie.

Pinlac Falls 


Pinlac Falls is one of the falls that you can visit, which is located in Infanta, Quezon. It is more or less 15 minutes away from the AirBnB and going there is not difficult. PHP30 is the entrance fee. What's nice about these falls, there is no long walking or trekking from the parking lot. 


We plan to take a dip at the inflatable pool after our waterfalls trip, but we’re shocked when we open the cover, na wala pala tubig yung pool. Toinks. We saw the staff drain the water, and we thought, lalagyan na rin nila ulit pero hindi pala. So make sure to check the pool kung may water kasi ang tagal din magpuno e. 

Dinner Time 

Anyway, we just prepared for the next meal, for dinner we’re going to grill. Our mini version of samgyeopsal. The staff prepared our grilling place and we brought our food, cookware, and utensils to the garden. For dinner, we had Meltique beef, mushroom, and salad. 





We planned to have bonfire pero we felt tired na so we canceled it na lang so we can rest early.

Breakfast Time 

For breakfast, we had Vigan Longganisa, fried rice, scrambled egg, bread, and coffee. Actually, we have leftover food pa that we can eat for our lunch but we decided to eat lunch outside na lang so we can pack our things na after breakfast. 

Trekking and Duck Feeding 

At 8:30AM, we started our morning trekking and duck feeding. I thought it is just an easy trek kasi nagpunta nga kami ng falls and  madaling lakaran lang. But I was wrong, yung 15 minutes trekking feels like forever. Useful talaga yung tungkod namin. I was exhausted after the trekking and my legs are in pain for two days. Grabe talaga, ito yung nagagawa ng stuck sa bahay, hindi na ko sanay maglakad at lalo na magtrek. Ako lang naman ang ganito, wala naman problem yung iba ko kasama. Hehehe!



And of course, after our trekking we finally used the inflatable pool, nakakarefresh ang malamig na tubig. Laking tulong sa sakit ng katawan ko. 


We only booked for an overnight trip, mas okay sana kung 3 days and 2 nights but we’re thankful for this trip because, after more than a year of no travel trips, we finally had a chance. It was indeed a breath of fresh air. I consider this a memorable trip because even there is no electricity, no wifi and no mobile signal we had a great time. I love this nature tripping. Sometimes you have to disconnect in order to connect with what truly matters.

"There is no wifi in the forest but you will find a better connection."

Some of the things that you need to consider before booking 

1. The accommodation is powered by a generator from 6PM to 5:30AM. So don’t forget your power bank. 
2. The weather is much colder than Tagaytay which is true kasi wala kami electricity during the day pero hindi kami nainitan. 
3. Water is natural spring water from the mountain. 
4. Cellular or wifi signals are weak. 
5. Bring your own towels and toiletries. 
6. Bring your own drinking water, cooked or uncooked food, and dishwashing soap and sponge. 
7. The place is near the mountain so expect some insects, don’t forget to bring some insect repellent lotion. 

Check-out time is 12NN but we left early so we can eat lunch at KM 90 Eco Park and Restaurant.




Gina’s Garden and Farm 
Km102 New little Baguio,
Sitio Kamagong, Real, Quezon
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June 17, 2021

Pinlac Falls in Infanta Quezon

As far as I can remember, the last waterfall that we have visited in the Philippines is Taytay Falls or Imelda Falls, and it’s been almost a decade already. Taytay Falls was too crowded and you cannot enjoy swimming kasi halos hindi ka makalangoy sa dami ng tao. Lulubog ka lang talaga. But I suddenly missed those days when we had a staycation in my late grandmother’s house in Victoria, Laguna, and explore the nearby tourist spots.  


Moving on, just this month, we had a chance to visit another falls in the Philippines and so far this is the 7th waterfalls that I have visited in the country. We had a quick getaway at Gina’s Garden and Farm in Real Quezon and the owner suggested visiting Pinlac Falls. Actually, there are other falls that you can visit, you can see those falls on your way to Pinlac Falls but we chose Pinlac since this is a tourist spot in Infanta Quezon.



The Falls is more or less 15 minutes drive from Gina’s Garden and Farm and you won’t miss the place because there is a sign of Pinlac Falls where you will turn right. There is a parking lot and I was glad that no longer walking or trekking just to reach the waterfalls. We paid PHP30 for the entrance fee. 

Read: Gina’s Garden and Farm 

You can bring your own food because there are tables and chairs where you can stay. There is also a sari-sari store where you can buy foods or drinks. Unfortunately, there is no vacant space where I could stay so I just sat near the falls while waiting for my husband, son, and brother-in-law. The owner said na may limit lang daw ng number of guests per day so we’re lucky na nakapasok pa kami. 


The last waterfall that I’ve visited is Gullfoss in Iceland so when I saw Pinlac falls, naliitan ako. But to be honest I still felt happy to see the waterfalls, ito yung isa sa epekto ng pandemic. You will learn to appreciate even the small things. I was so glad because, after more than a year of being stuck at home, we had the privilege to have this nature trip. 







Though we did not stay long, I think 30 minutes lang kami nagstay. Nanginginig na kasi sa lamig mga kasama ko, lumubog din ako for few minutes para naman hindi sayang entrance fee ko. Hehehe! I am not sure if there is a comfort room because I did not bother to check. Since malapit lang naman yung accommodation namin, doon na kami naligo pagbalik. 

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August 17, 2018

4 Days in Iceland with Kid

Iceland is on my travel bucket list but I never thought that this dream will become a reality. When we were planning for our summer vacation in Norway, I was looking forward to a Sweden trip since it is just near Norway but our Sweden trip turns to an Iceland trip. Little did I know that it was also my mother’s dream to visit Iceland so we became travel buddy. Hehehe! “Family that travels together, stays together”

My mom checked her schedule so she can file a vacation leave and then we booked a plane ticket three weeks before our trip. But unexpected things happened, few days after we bought our plane ticket my mom was confined in the hospital for 5 days. The doctor advised her to rest and do not drive yet. And because of that, I thought we could no longer push our trip kasi baka mastress siya sa biyahe.


But God is so good, we were able to go to Iceland. So off we went to Trondheim Airport to catch our flight to Reykjavik, we flew via Icelandair. Travel is more or less two hours and 8 hours time difference in the Philippines. We only booked a 4 Days Trip because we have limited budget and we need to fly back to the Philippines. We all know that traveling to Iceland is not cheap so accommodations, tours, and foods are expensive.
Yes, everything is expensive.
Read: Icelandair Experience

When we booked our flight, we knew that we will be staying in the hotel. We have relatives in Iceland but of course, we don’t want to disturb them anymore since we knew that they have work too. So we are looking for a hotel in Reykjavik that is accessible and my mom asked for my aunt’s recommendations. My aunt (cousin of my mom) asked my mom for our travel date and she said, no need for us to book a hotel because we can stay in their house and nakabakasyon din siya that time (one month off). Yehey!

This was my planned itinerary, we’re supposed to book a package tour to visit these places but since we will be staying in my aunt’s house, I just go with the flow.

Day 1: Reykjavik City Tour or Blue Lagoon Tour
Day 2: Golden Circle Tour
Day 3: South Coast Tour
Day 4: Back to Trondheim Norway

4 Days in Iceland with Kid 

Day 1: Reykjanes Peninsula Tour in Iceland 

We arrived at Keflavik International Airport past 3PM and my aunt fetched us. On our way to my aunt’s house, I was thinking, wala ba puno o halaman sa Iceland. Then I remembered that Iceland is a Land of Fire and Ice so expect to see lava fields, rocks, mountains, glaciers and black sand. It is indeed an interesting country because you will learn about history, culture and geology.


After few hours, we went back to the airport to fetch my uncle and then he toured us around Keflavik and Reykjanes. We were able to visit Strandakirkja Church, Gardskagi Lighthouse and Lava Fields.

Read: Reykjanes Peninsula Tour in Iceland

Day 2 Blue Lagoon 

I told my mom that I don’t want to go to Blue Lagoon anymore because I don’t want to wear a swimsuit so we did not pack any swimwear. But when my aunt fetched us at the airport, she immediately told us that we’re going to Blue Lagoon the following day. We could not cancel it anymore since my aunt already talked to her friend about it. Nakakahiya naman magback-out.


Iceland is known for Blue Lagoon so it is one of the popular tourist spot and because of that you cannot walk-in. You need to book an appointment prior to your trip, they only limit the number of guest per visit so expect that the entrance fee is expensive. Like I said, I don’t want to wear a swimsuit so my mom enjoyed her Blue Lagoon experience while my son and I enjoyed the view from the restaurant.

Read: Blue Lagoon in Iceland

Day 3 The Golden Circle Tour + Bridge Between Two Continents

For our third day, we left as early as 6AM for our DIY Golden Circle Tour. You can book a tour from a travel agency, you can rent a car or if you are lucky like us, your family or friends can drive for you. Most of the places in the Golden Circle Tour has no entrance fee like Thingvellir National Park, Great Geysir, and Gullfoss. So you can enjoy this beautiful places for free. This is my favorite part of our Iceland Trip.


Read: The Great Geysir in Iceland
Breathtaking Gullfoss in Iceland
Thingvellir National Park

Bridge Between Two Continents 

After our tiring day, we packed our bags for our morning flight. But after dinner, my cousin persuaded us to visit Bridge Between Two Continents and malapit lang naman daw. It was past 9PM and off we went to the bridge. It was a nice experience knowing that I can cross Europe and North America in less than a minute.

Read: Bridge Between Two Continents

Day 4 Back to Norway 

My cousin wanted to tour us pa in Iceland since off niya on our last day but we could no longer extend our trip because my son and I have to go back to the Philippines. How I wish we have more time in Iceland but I know that this won’t be the last time. Someday, we will revisit this country with my husband.
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