I've asked this on other forums but not on here:
I've narrowed my choices to 9 days in Vietnam or 9 days in Taiwan. Vietnam is more exotic, perhaps has a wider variety of scenery and has the interesting war history. Taiwan has famously friendly people, is off the beaten track, few hassles and is easy to get around. Flights to Taiwan from NY are about $100 cheaper, though Vietnam will be cheaper once I get there. I was just in northeast Asia in October (in China and HK), but have not been to Southeast Asia since 2005. I prefer Chinese food to Vietnamese.
Which would you choose?
I'd say the biggest things working against Vietnam for me are the scams / touts and the idea the 2 million motorbikes in Hanoi. I'm not one for who appreciates noise, exhaust fumes and trying to cross the street with crazy drivers speeding towards me.
Vietnam or Taiwan
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I really enjoyed Taiwan, especially the temples, which felt like I imagine the temples in mainland China would have been several decades ago (click on my name for my East Asia TR). I also loved Taroko Gorge, and I think there is plenty of other good scenery - I didn't get to see it because of bad weather - I was there during a typhoon! I'd save Vietnam for a longer trip (despite the crazy traffic) and visit Taiwan.
I've lived in Taiwan twice and am a big big fan of this overlooked country (I live in Jakarta now). However, it would be an unusual decision to choose it over Vietnam. Most people opt for the exotic romantic flavor of SE Asia. I have been to both Hanoi and HCMC and loved them.
Food in Taipei is amazingly good, from noodle stands to night markets to crowded eateries to fancy restaurants. It is a very safe country, and people welcome foreigners. English can be a problem, but everyone will do their best to help. Temple life is busy and its fun to just sit and watch the people.
The scenery is quite dramatic, especially if you love hiking in the mountains. I would highly recommend a stay in Taroko Gorge. The beaches aren't notable, but the ocean views are lovely from many hikes, quite a few of which are accessible from Taipei.
The National Palace Museum is thrilling. Taipei 101 affords a great view. Enjoy the hot springs in Peitou. In winter, eat the famous beef noodle soup (there's always a competition as to who has the best). Eat at Ding Tai Feng, Taipei's most famous dumpling house, home of soup noodle dumplings.
You'd love Vietnam, too. Either way, you can't go wrong.