I have never dreamt of travelling to Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, let alone for work purpose. It happened back in 2023, two months after I first joined my current company. I received a short notice from my company, requiring me to travel to KSA for 4 days. Although I have been to several Middle East countries and even worked in Qatar for five years, suffice to say KSA is not a popular destination for non-Muslim female travelers. 

If you’re looking to escape the neon hum of the city for something a bit more atmospheric, the Dakengli (大坑里) coastline in Toucheng, Yilan offers a perfect blend of brutalist charm and serene ocean views. At the heart of this coastal stretch stands the Octagonal Observatory Tower (八角瞭望台), a structure that has transitioned from a functional maritime lookout to one of the most Instagrammable "hidden gems" on the coast.

Located in Toucheng, Yilan, this architectural marvel is more than just a place to store artifacts; it’s a tribute to the land itself. Whether you’re an architecture geek, a history buff, or just someone looking for that perfect Instagram shot, here is why Lanyang Museum belongs on your Yilan itinerary.

Toucheng was once the economic heartbeat of Yilan. Its proximity to Wushi Harbor made it a massive distribution center for goods. However, a series of floods in the 1920s and the development of the railway eventually shifted the trade elsewhere, leaving Heping Street frozen in a beautiful state of decay and quiet preservation.

Just an hour’s drive from Kuala Lumpur, Genting Highlands remains the go-to getaway from the Klang Valley. Elevated at around 1,800 meters, it offers a refreshing, cool climate and serves as a major entertainment hub featuring theme parks, shopping malls, hotels, and vibrant nightlife.