Located on the shoreline of Lake Michigan, one of the U.S.'s five great lakes, Sleeping Bear Dunes is a natural wonder that has been marked for preservation for its awe-inspiring beauty and natural resources. It takes its name from a Native American legend concerning its formation. It consists of Sleeping Bear, Empire and Pyramid Point bluffs that overlook the lake, and Manitou Islands, which are located about 15 miles offshore. There are numerous activities available to visitors of the park that include camping, hiking, kayaking and canoeing, biking, skiing, fishing, or simply exploring the myriad of ecosystems that are home to a diversity of plants and wildlife.

The Beitou area of Taipei is renowned for its high concentration of thermal spa centres. There are establishments to fit any budget, from the low-priced open-air Public Hot Spring (modest swimwear required) to private hotels and resorts uphill, all offering hot spring baths at various price points. One option most resorts offer is renting a private room with a large bath that can be filled with hot spring water. The Spring City Resort in Beitou is a great mid-range option. A session here includes access to about a dozen thermal pools of varying water temperature (from seemingly boiling-hot to rather chilly), plus robe, towel, and slipper rental. They even offer a free shuttle bus to the metro station. For a luxurious spa treatment, look into the offerings of Hotel Regent Taipei, for example. Wellspring Spa offers a wide range of relaxing treatments including massages, body wraps, skin polishing and facials. Take the elevator to the top floor and unwind at this urban sanctuary.

Daan Park is a quiet escape from the big city life of Taipei, and a great place to catch a breath of fresh air. The park has a wide range of flowers, plants, bamboo trees and banyan trees. It is also full of activities such as a skating rink, basketball court and children's playground.