Ultra-modern, yet steeped in history, Taipei is the political, economic, and cultural center of Taiwan. At the heart of Taiwanese culture is food, and the city\'s diverse culinary repertoire features everything from local delicacies such as stinky tofu and pearl milk tea to the questionably unique fried crickets and chicken testicles. Second only to eating, shopping is a pastime enjoyed by many of Taipei\'s inhabitants. With the selection of glitzy malls, upscale boulevards and cutting-edge electronics emporiums, serious shoppers are sure to be kept occupied.
With elegant tree-lined boulevards and a raging cafe culture, Victoria\'s capital maintains a distinctly European feel. Expect wonderful architecture both old and new and green spaces like the Royal Botanic Gardens. This cosmopolitan city is also Australia\'s culture capital, with vibrant dining, shopping, and nightlife scenes. When it comes to shopping, restaurants, fashion, music and nightlife, no other state capital in Australia comes close to Melbourne.