There’s something deeply nostalgic about returning to a place after decades—like flipping through an old photo album, only this time, you’re stepping right into the frames. My recent trip to Taiwan, two decades after my last visit, was exactly that—a beautiful blend of rediscovery and new experiences. And while Taipei’s skyline has certainly grown taller, its soul remains wonderfully familiar.

Jiufen Tea House: More Than Just a Brew

One of the highlights of this trip was visiting Jiufen , a mountain town perched above clouds and sea views. If you’ve ever seen Spirited Away , you’ll recognize its winding alleys and lantern-lit charm. But what truly stole my breath was Jioufen Teahouse.

This isn’t just any teahouse—it’s the first of its kind in Jiufen, opened in 1991 by Hung Chi-Sheng, a painter with a vision to preserve the town’s history. Hung transformed the “Old Residency of Wong Shan-Ying,” a historic building that once housed the mining community’s leader, into a cultural haven centered on “Tea, Pottery, and Painting.” Registered as the 6th historical building of New Taipei City, it’s a testament to his commitment to blending art with heritage. In 2005, the teahouse was even recognized as a model for Creative Life Industries by Taiwan’s Ministry of Economic Affairs.

Walking into the teahouse felt like stepping into a living postcard. The red brick exterior, rare in Jiufen, and the warm wooden interiors adorned with local oil paintings and handmade pottery exuded an old Taipei charm that I couldn’t get enough of.

The glass-walled octagonal tea room, perched with views of the sea and mountains, was pure magic. I’m no tea connoisseur—give me a cup and I’ll sip it happily—but the ritual of brewing oolong tea here was mesmerizing. The staff patiently showed me how to steep the leaves just right, and I felt like an artist crafting a tiny masterpiece with each pour. The atmosphere, with its blend of history and serenity, made time slow down, inviting me to savor every moment.

Staying at Adagio Jinguashi: Slow Travel Reimagined

Located just a whisper away from the bustling heart of Jiufen, Adagio Jinguashi was our sanctuary.

This place embodies the concept of “slow travel,” which aligns perfectly with my idea of active aging. Life doesn’t need to rush by us—we can choose to savor each moment.

Delightful Mornings: The Clean Chinese Breakfast

Oh, the breakfasts! Forget your greasy spoons; this was a spread of clean, delicious Chinese fare that set me up perfectly for a day of gentle exploration. Think delicate congee, steamed vegetables, flavorful tofu dishes, and fresh fruit. It was nourishing and a wonderful way to start the day.

An Evening Indulgence: The Unbeatable Set Dinner

Now, here’s a tip for my savvy travelers out there. The Adagio Jinguashi offers a set dinner each night at 6 pm sharp for the incredibly reasonable price of NTD 880 per person. In today’s world, finding such exceptional value for a delicious and thoughtfully prepared meal is like striking gold! It was a highlight for me, a chance to savor local flavors without breaking the bank. Remember, active aging isn’t just about physical activity; it’s about being money-smart so we can continue to enjoy these wonderful experiences.

Accidental Discoveries Along 2nd Street

On the last day when I had some time to myself, I decided to explore the area near Humble House where we stayed and stumbled upon 2nd Street , a hidden haven for secondhand treasures.

Being someone who values sustainability deeply, I was thrilled to find racks of pre-loved clothing waiting to be rediscovered. I picked up a few lovely pieces—each unique, well-made, and priced affordably. Not only did I walk away with some stylish additions to my wardrobe, but I also felt good knowing I contributed to reducing waste.

It struck me how much our choices matter, especially as we age. Buying secondhand isn’t just budget-friendly; it’s a way to honor resources and minimize environmental impact. Plus, there’s a certain thrill in finding something unexpected and making it your own.

The Driver Who Kept Us Laughing

No travel story is complete without a character who leaves a lasting impression, and our driver, a former pilot turned taxi maestro, was a riot.

This guy had a knack for storytelling, delivering deadpan humor that had me in stitches. He regaled us with tales of surviving death by parachuting out of a plane during his flying days, then pivoted to quips about his ex-wife and his kids, who are currently in med school.

What struck me most was his realism. He didn’t sugarcoat things—he told it like it is—but always with a twinkle in his eye.

By the end of the trip, I realized how much laughter enriches our experiences. It’s a reminder that even when life gets tough, keeping a sense of humor helps us navigate challenges with grace.

Gratitude for My Flatmate and the Spirit of Active Aging

This trip wouldn’t have happened without my flatmate, whose organizational wizardry turned my vague “I want to revisit Taiwan” musings into reality. Her knack for finding budget-friendly gems like Adagio and plotting our Jiufen adventure was a gift, and it’s a reminder of how vital community is to active aging.

At 50+, I’m all about cultivating friendships, exploring places that spark joy, and keeping life sustainable—both for my wallet and the planet. Taiwan, with its blend of old-world charm and modern affordability, was the perfect backdrop for this philosophy. From the soulful Jioufen Teahouse to the thrifted treasures of 2nd Street, every moment felt like a celebration of living intentionally.

I’m already dreaming of returning to old Taipei, with its bustling night markets and quiet teahouses, to soak up more of its timeless vibe. Until then, I’ll carry the lessons of this trip with me: slow down, savor the moment, and seek out experiences that enrich your soul without emptying your bank account. That, to me, is what active aging is all about.

What’s your favorite budget-friendly travel destination? Drop a comment—I’d love to hear your stories!