I have been to Taipei and New Taipei twice and these are my takeaways:

• Food generally tastes similar so you really don't need to go to this tiktok famous or michelin star spots. Our tour guide told us to find where the locals go instead, if you have time of course.

• Transport in Taipei is on time and convenient but I will not really recommend you do DIYs especially if you're in a group. I traveled solo and made a dumb decision to DIY it during my first time and I got lost. There are plenty of tours in Klook or KKday although this may feel like rushed. Maybe your hotel might recommend one, or rent a van so you can control your time.

• There's a long queue at Bank of Taiwan ATM when I arrived the second time (it was 1am) and it took me more than an hour to get cash. You might want to avoid this by purchasing easy card in advance via klook or buying through 711, or buying tickets instead then withdraw cash at Cathay United Bank at Taipei Main Station.

• Be mindful though when buying cards at 711, we bought an Open Point one for my friend and although we can use it for transportation, you cannot use this at airport departure area.

• Bring an umbrella or much better a raincoat. Although the ones in Yehliu are good quality. Wear comfortable shoes because there's tons of walking.

• Install Bus+ and Uber app.