Traveling on business, I always feel very fortunate for the opportunity to experience a foreign culture while working. However, it is hard not to look around and wish you have more time to be a tourist, especially while you are on a multicity tour, as is the case in my current travels.

A perfect example is my visit to Taipei. I arrived at 10 p.m. Sunday with a full day of meetings scheduled for Monday. My planned departure was a flight at 8 a.m. Tuesday. Global Traveler 9-5 articles cater to these situations, suggesting ways to maximize a business day in a foreign city, and our After 5 articles highlight the best nightlife and after-work options.

With our jet lag setting in during the late afternoon hours, Global Traveler vice president Carly Allen and I dug deep to find a little more energy for some authentic Taipei shopping. We were directed to Yongkang Street. This area of the city boasts over 600 small shops, cafés and restaurants. Some of the most unique jewelry, clothing and antiques are in Taipei.

After some light shopping, we could not resist a stop at the Smoothie House to sample its famous shaved ice with mango. The giant bowl we received was a bit overwhelming, but it did not disappoint.

Though my visit was short, I had a delightful time in Taipei. I would love to return as a true tourist to check out a few other Taipei treasures, including the Grand Hotel and the view from the Taipei 101 building (featured in Global Traveler’s November Day Off article).

— Danielle Hudena, director of sales and marketing