016 Cycling the length of Taiwan

Brian & Miles see us offotelThe best thing about leaving Taipei was Saturday morning traffic. Light and easy. Still slightly jet lagged, we took our new friend Winnie’s advice on route. She is a recreational cyclist, her husband is a competitve tri-athelte. (Winnie is Sales Manager for Seasons Hotel. She learned English living and going to school in Texas but does not have that accent, the boots or hat that usually mean Texas. She aspires to become Genreal Manager. She is so helpful, we’re sure she will make it.) So, we’re off to find Route 1 and head south.

Brian and Miles were there to see us off.

February 22nd, 2009 in 02 Cycling Taiwan

Comments (4)

Michael HsiehMarch 5th, 2009 at 3:16 am

Dear Fellow Cycling fans,

I was wondering if you have a map of the recommended route for cycling the length of Taiwan. My friend and I would like to circumnavigate Taiwan on a bicycle, but we are unsure of the routes to take.

If you could give us any recommendations and hints, that would be great.

Thank you in advance,

Michael Hsieh

adminMarch 5th, 2009 at 6:34 pm

Thanks for the question Michael. Advice given us by friend, Winnie kept us pretty much on Highway 1 along the west coast. WE deviated on hwy 12 into Taichung then followed hwy 3 south, back to hwy 1. We didn’t get to the east coast. As noted we were told that the road was narrow and difficult. If you’re strong cyclists and not carrying too much weight in your bags it may be a wonderful ride. Much more scenic than the west coast. Probably 1,000 to 1200 Ks or so around. There are plenty of maps available in Taipei. be sure to get one with english and chinese as many don’t read the english version when trying to help you.
Where are you located now. Do you live in Taiwan? Do you speak Taiwanese or Chinese?

Best of luck with YOUR ADVENTURE. Pat & Cat Patterson

Michael HsiehMarch 6th, 2009 at 10:55 pm

Hi Pattersons! Thanks for your reply!

I’m currently living in Brisbane, Australia and I speak mandarin. I grew up in Taipei so language shouldn’t be a problem. We will probably begin our trip in Taipei, as my friend Henry and I both have a place to stay in Taipei.

Just a quick question regarding the conditions, I was wondering which season you went in and what it was like? We are unsure of whether to cycle in Winter or Summer.

Thank you again

Michael Hsieh

Pat & CatMarch 7th, 2009 at 3:23 am

Michael We were just in Taiwan. Came to Philippines on 2/25/09 so we were just there. the weather was kind to us. Good luck
Pat & Cat