From September 27 to October 7, Asia’s longest running poker brand, Asian Poker Tour (APT), sponsored by Natural8, returns to Taipei City, Taiwan for the upcoming APT Taipei Poker Classic 2024. As the brand’s most popular stop, the latest edition will see an extensive 114 game lineup and over NTD 150 Million (~US$ 4.6 Million) in guarantees. The event takes place across two CTP locations: Asia Poker Arena (APA) and Chinese Mahjong League (CML). Be sure to check out the schedule for all the details as you are bound to find everything you’re looking for and more.
Since the brand’s new ownership, its popularity has increased tremendously, especially at this location. Despite the two venues, this has led to long waits and alternate lists for select events. Due to this, players are encouraged to sign up early.
In addition to the exciting action on the felt, exploring Taipei City is also highly recommended. The APT has released a guide to help players make the most of their trip. This features travel to and from the airport, places to stay, local attractions, dining spots, coffeehouses, and tours. Read up on that information via the link provided.
In addition, Somuchpoker offers some recommendations. At the top of the list is the rechargeable EasyCard. This can be purchased at any convenient store or MRT station. Make sure to top up as it can be used almost everywhere such as for trains, buses, some taxis, convenience stores, vending machines, YouBikes, and even at some tourist attractions. If you plan to return to Taiwan, make sure to bring the EasyCard as it does not expire.
Having internet connection is practically a necessity. If you prefer to use a local SIM card, make sure to purchase it at the airport as they are hard to find in the city.
The local currency is the Taiwan Dollar. The best way to convert to local currency is at the airport as most foreign currencies are accepted. Players can also exchange at the poker venues however not all currencies may be accepted. In addition, DK Poker will be around to exchange via cryptocurrency.
To get around the city, there are numerous choices.
- Uber: Download the app. Fastest way to get around but definitely not the cheapest.
- Taxis: All taxis are metered and are reliable. Conveniently, they do take credit cards.
- Train / Subway: Offers various routes around the city
- Bus: The most scenic route and the cheapest. This is highly recommended especially when you have time to spare.
For non-Taiwanese speakers, keep a translator app handy as it will be very helpful. While the Taiwanese are very accommodating and are willing to assist, especially for those that speak English, there will still be a language barrier outside of the poker room.
Players have often asked where to eat during the late night hours. While quick meals can be purchased at convenience stores, there are 24 hour restaurants such as dim sum and noodle shops that may be more satisfying. Players can look up Luckstar Banquet Hall (long running dim sum restaurant), Citystar (dim sum), Liu Mama Noodle House, and Fu Te Cold Noodles. All of these suggestions are a short ride from the APA.
Food delivery can be a challenge with most sites listed in Taiwanese. The CTP staff will be able to suggest and assist in searching for what you crave. You can also check out Uber Eats which offers a wide selection at your fingertips.
A fun area to explore is Da’an district. Though quite big, do check out the Shi-Da Night Market. This market is popular among the locals. Located in the university area, it offers a wide selection of food however what makes it stand out are the boutique shops. Many shop owners are young entrepreneurs so expect an eclectic selection of clothing.
For nature lovers, the beautiful Da’an Forest Park is a sight to see and stroll. Also located in the Da’an district, there are exercise stations, ball courts, tons of trails, picnic areas, skating areas. it is also home to a large collection of birds. Just grab a bite, find a bench, relax, and recharge. You are bound to hear and feel the charm of this park.
For shoppers, Ximending is a very popular shopping district offering a huge selection of branded clothing, shoe stores, food of course, plus clubs, bars, even Speak Easys. One of the most talked about restaurant is the famous Modern Toilet, also located in this area. All of the food is served in toilet-shaped bowls and plates, ice cream desserts are toilet-inspired in design.
One of the most popular Taiwan treats is the pineapple cake which is sold in small bites. While there are many good ones, Sunny Hills is pricey yet worth a try. It also makes for good gifts to bring back home.
Tricia David
Tricia David has long experience as a recreational poker player and has been covering poker events since 2010 for numerous outfits in Asia. She spent one year working part time with Poker Portal Asia then became editor and lead writer for all event coverage of the Philippine Poker Tour (PPT). Under the PPT, she overlooked content for their website, and produced live updates on all their events. In addition, she served as the live and online events website content writer for the Asian Poker Tour. Currently, she does live events reporting in Asia for online news site Somuchpoker and is also one of their news contributors.
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