Our favourite places in Malaysia

Sitting on an ancient lakebed in the north of Taiwan, between towering mountains and narrow river valleys, Taipei, Taiwan’s capital, is one of Asia’s most prosperous, progressive and cosmopolitan cities – and yet it rarely ranks highly on travellers' bucket lists. We can’t think why.

Marble rock faces, deep valleys and rushing rivers. Taroko Gorge is your base for wild scenery and outdoor adventure – a place made for hikers, photographers, and anybody who simply loves being outdoors.

The oldest city in Taiwan, Tainan is the perfect place to dig into the tumultuous history of this little island. Though once you’ve had your fill of narrow lanes, leafy fortresses and incense shrouded temples, you’ll have to make some room for the street food that Tainan is justly famous for.

Kaohsiung is more than just sunshine and shipping. Taiwan’s southernmost city is laid-back, artsy, with its own spin on Taiwanese culture and cuisine.

The smallest city in Taiwan, Taitung is an area to slow down and drink in the wild scenery of the island’s eastern coast. You'll find a different pace of life here, a world of hot springs and dramatic scenery far away from the skyscrapers and industry of the west coast.

Where vibrant green forest borders white beaches and brilliant blue sea, Kenting National Park is rich in landscapes, plant and animal life. You might encounter glowing mushrooms, land crabs, the endangered Formosan Sika Deer, or the black and gold wings of the Golden Birdwing butterflies.

While it isn’t the most famous destination on the west, Taiwan’s second city is making a name for itself among art lovers and foodies. Home to bubble tea, Michelin starred gelato and Taiwan’s largest night market there's plenty of delicious ways to recharge after a day gallery and museum hopping.

Sun Moon Lake is one of Taiwan’s most popular outdoor destinations for visitors and locals alike, and it’s easy to see why. Miles of cycling paths, forested trails up to colourful temples and views out over the blue waters set against bright green hills, plus, plenty of food options in Ita Thao.

An ex-transhipment point, Chiayi is now best known as the entry point to the Alishan Forest Recreation Area, and yet few stop for what we think it should be best known for: multi-cultural history, art and excellent street food

An easy drive south and east through the mountains (and one very long tunnel) from Taipei, Yilan is where Taiwanese go for an outdoor, hot spring getaway.

Take a deep breath in of the crisp mountain air on a cypress shaded hiking path, and you’ll know you’re in the Alishan Forest Recreation Area. This is the place to be for some proper fresh air and premium sunset and sunrise views.

Vietnam's fifth largest city, Danang is a port town where the Han River hits the ocean. The result is a popular and vibrant destination with My Khe Beach on one side, the Marble Mountains on the other and a wealth of seafood in between.