Taipei City ranks 12th in a list of the top tourist destinations worldwide released Nov. 15 by New York-based guidebook publisher Fodor’s Travel.
 
In the company’s Go List 2018, Taipei was lauded as one of Asia’s most flourishing and progressive cities. It earned praise for its diverse events, delicious street food and commitment to cultural preservation, as well as for striking a balance between natural scenery and urban development.
 
Marrakesh, Morocco, topped the 52-strong list, followed by Cook Islands and Salar de Tunupa, Bolivia. The other destinations in the top 10 are Split, Croatia; Kuwait; Memphis, Tennessee; Armenia; Mongolia; Dublin, Ireland; and Belize, in that order.
 
According to Fodor’s, Taipei’s mix of tradition and modernity is highlighted by the large number of temples that dot the metropolis, with prominent examples of the city’s rich cultural heritage including centuries-old Longshan Temple.
 
Taipei’s forward-thinking vision will be on full display in 2018 at Taiwan Cycling Festival and Guandu Flower Festival, the publisher said, adding that these events provide visitors with great opportunities to explore the city’s extensive riverside bike paths and floral fields.
 
The metropolis also caters to tourists of diverse tastes, as demonstrated by events like Taipei International Tattoo Show and Music Festival, Fodor’s said. For its insider tip, the publisher encouraged visitors to head to one of the city’s numerous night markets to sample local culinary treats like coffin toast, pig blood cake and stinky tofu.
 
Taipei has welcomed a growing number of international visitors in recent years. According to the Mastercard Global Destination Cities Index released in September, the city recorded 7.35 million international overnight arrivals in 2016, up 500,000 from the previous year. (CPY-E)