Tourists looking to “stretch [their] travel budget until it oozes contentment” are advised to visit Taiwan and eight other places next year, according to a Lonely Planet online article dated Oct. 20.
Lonely Planet, an independent travel service that promises to “tell it like it is, without fear or favor,” said Taiwan delivers great all-round value.
“Taipei is significantly cheaper than Hong Kong, Seoul or Tokyo and, while hotels are a bit expensive, dorm beds and homestays abound in Taiwan and camping is common in a lot of the [nation’s] national parks and forests,” it said.
The post highlighted inexpensive rail passes for travel on fast and modern rail lines, adding that admission to many attractions and temples is economical.
“Eating, perhaps the main attraction in Taiwan, is accessible to all, whether tucking into dumplings at a street stall or enjoying high-end fare at lower prices than comparable cities,” according to the travel guide’s Web site.
A large bottle of Taiwanese beer costs around NT$120 at a bar or restaurant, or much less if it is bought at a grocery store, Lonely Planet said.
The Web site’s “About” page said that there are many amazing sights, hotels, travel companies and gear manufacturers in the world, adding: “We want to tell you which ones we think are best.”
“[However] we never compromise our opinions for commercial gain. If you read something written by a Lonely Planet author, you can guarantee they’ve been there, had a look for themselves and are telling you what they really think,” it added.
In East Asia, the only other best-value destination recommended by Lonely Planet for next year was Shanghai.
Shanghai remains affordable for budget travelers, Lonely Planet said. It said basic dorms start at less than US$10, and the low prices continue through budget and mid-range hotels.
“It’s a similar story when eating out: ‘Characterful’ street-treats for a dollar and big portions in popular restaurants for little more. Best of all, walking the city’s safe and buzzing streets is the best way to take the pulse of this fast-changing metropolis.”
Other “best value” travel destinations listed for next year are Tunisia, South Africa, Samoa, Bali, Uruguay, Portugal and Romania.
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