Hey fellow travelers! Mark here, your friendly neighborhood backpacker. I just got back from an amazing trip to Penghu, and let me tell you, this Taiwanese archipelago is a hidden gem. Forget Mykonos – Penghu offers stunning beaches, delicious seafood, and unique cultural experiences, all without the hefty price tag of a European vacation. If you're looking for an Asian adventure with a touch of Mediterranean flair, look no further!
A Slice of Greece in Taiwan? You Bet!
On my second night, I stayed at this incredible Mediterranean-style民宿 (minsu - a Taiwanese style B&B). Picture this: a pristine white building, a vibrant blue pool shimmering under the sun – it seriously felt like I'd teleported to Greece! The interior was equally impressive, with huge windows offering breathtaking views – perfect for that Instagram-worthy shot.
The rooms were incredibly comfortable, each equipped with a private balcony and a luxurious bathtub. Imagine sipping a cold beer on your balcony under the starlit Penghu sky – pure bliss! And the location? Just a ten-minute drive from the airport (with free shuttle service!), and within walking distance of the beautiful Shanshui Beach.
But wait, there's more! The minsu served a delicious breakfast featuring local specialties like fresh squid porridge and Penghu's famous brown sugar cake. And the price? A ridiculously affordable NT$2480! Seriously, book this place now.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Style | Mediterranean |
| Pool | Yes |
| Balcony | Yes, private |
| Bathtub | Yes |
| Airport Transfer | Yes |
| Beach Proximity | Walking distance to Shanshui Beach |
| Breakfast | Local specialties included |
| Price | NT$2480 |
Diving into an Underwater Lavender Field
After soaking up the Greek vibes, I knew I had to experience Penghu's famous island hopping tours. While most tourists stick to Wang'an and Qimei, I opted for a more unique adventure: the Southern Four Islands, complete with an unforgettable snorkeling experience.
My first stop was Dongji Island, where I was greeted by a charming black-and-white striped lighthouse and a picturesque landscape dotted with grazing sheep. Next, we cruised around the stunning basalt formations of Xiji Island (no landing allowed, unfortunately).
But the real highlight was the snorkeling trip off Dongyuping Island. Even if you're not a strong swimmer, don't worry! The water is shallow, and I saw plenty of grandparents enjoying the experience. Just a short swim from the shore, I was greeted by an unbelievable sight: an underwater "lavender forest" of vibrant purple and blue coral. It's a truly magical experience, made even better by the colorful tropical fish darting through the coral branches. I swear, I could have stayed down there all day!
| Island | Activity |
|---|---|
| Dongji | Explore the lighthouse and enjoy the scenic views |
| Xiji | Scenic cruise around basalt formations |
| Dongyuping & Xiyuping | Snorkeling in the "lavender forest" |
After the snorkeling adventure, we had a delicious seafood noodle lunch on Dongyuping Island. Think a giant bowl of noodles piled high with fresh seafood, swimming in a flavorful broth. And if one bowl isn't enough, the friendly owner is always ready to offer seconds!
This incredible day trip, including snorkeling, costs around NT$2600-3000. Trust me, it's worth every penny. Bragging rights for seeing an underwater lavender field? Priceless.
A Feast Fit for a King (or Queen!)
Back on the main island, I indulged in another seafood feast at a unique floating restaurant called "The Castle on the Sea." After a short boat ride, I was greeted by an all-you-can-eat spread of fresh seafood porridge and grilled oysters.
The staff even teaches you the proper way to grill oysters, ensuring a safe and delicious experience. And trust me, those oysters, fresh from the sea and grilled to perfection, are simply divine.
| Activity | Price |
|---|---|
| Southern Four Islands Tour (including snorkeling) | NT$2600-3000 |
| "The Castle on the Sea" experience | NT$420 |
Cooling Down with All-You-Can-Eat Ice Cream
After all that sun and seafood, I needed something to cool down. Enter this incredible ice cream shop, disguised as a whimsical wonderland. With a giant replica of London's Big Ben and colorful macarons adorning the exterior, it's a photographer's dream. Inside, the seating area is designed like an underwater world, making for a truly unique dining experience.
But the best part? The all-you-can-eat ice cream bar! With over 30 different toppings to choose from, you can create your own icy masterpiece for just NT$99.
My Penghu Itinerary: 3 Days of Island Bliss
Here’s a quick rundown of my three-day Penghu adventure:
Day 1: Arrive in Penghu and head straight to Jibei Island for some watersports and relaxation.
Day 2: Explore the Southern Four Islands, including the incredible snorkeling experience.
Day 3: Explore the north side of the main island, enjoy some local cuisine, and cool off with all-you-can-eat ice cream.
So there you have it – my unforgettable Penghu adventure! From Greek-inspired accommodations to underwater lavender fields and all-you-can-eat feasts, this island paradise has something for everyone. Start planning your trip today!
