Take a taxi ride & explore fun Taipei nightspots
By Scott Moses Translated by Ann Lee
Being a taxi driver in Taiwan is quite an interesting profession. Although it requires some courage and luck when taking a cab ride in Taiwan as a foreigner or a newcomer, taxi drivers are often enough your best, most helpful guides to where to go and what to do around the city. I remember when I first came to Taipei, I found myself constantly asking taxi drivers where to go and what to do. Lucky for you, if you get the chance to meet Dawei, you can skip the embarrassment I experienced and save yourself some time. Dawei is exploding with insight into where to go and what to do, making him possibly one of the most interesting cab drivers Taipei has to offer. We have located someone whose knowledge of Taipei's nightlife is vaster then the average mortal. The reason for this is that not only does his profession force him to know him the ins and outs of Taipei city's surroundings, but he is also a party and nightlife specialist. Combine these two forces and you have the ultimate party guide. And party we did.
 
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Our adventure started out at Bliss. As we entered, Dawei explained that the bar was under new ownership and better then ever. The club is constantly hosting different live bands and DJs and, on that very night, DJ Paul Duffy (from Soul, Sweat, and Swank) and his former bandmate Kester Jones were visiting to temporarily revive Idio Teque. They are a compelling duo and put together some great dance beats.
Downstairs, we got to talking with the pub's newest and notably friendly bartender, Johnny. After hearing about our night adventure, he proceeded to whip up three shots specifically designed for our Taiwan Fun party crew. These were named on the spot by new owner Travis, who dubbed the trio "The New Bliss". Normally I would love to tell you what they were made of, but Johnny insisted on keeping the recipe a secret. As Dawei was driving, he sadly could not partake in the fun and gazed upon Travis and myself in envy as we imbibed the three drinks, each taste-filled with indescribable flavors. If you would like to try them out for yourself, feel free to bug Johnny for their newest method of inebriation; they only go for NT$150 each.
 
After Bliss, Dawei took us to one of his favorite spots, Luxy. Upon entry, his eyes became wider and wider, making it very apparent why he likes the place so much. According to our guide, "the hottest and most beautiful people" come to this establishment, making it very enjoyable for both females and males savoring a large quantity of eye candy. Dawei continued to explain that Luxy also had its fair share of live shows. Just the night before, Japanese duo Hifana played what he described as "the sweatiest 40 minutes of my life". Despite that big event, DJ Bigg'z was keeping things alive with his nonstop hip hop beats. As we watched the endless crowd dance the night away, Luxy's PR manager AJ put us in an even better mood with a couple of gin and tonics. (Due to strict DWI laws, I was forced to drink them both). He explained that a glass with average-quality liquor goes for NT$200-plus, but those with more refined tastes can opt for a higher grade of alcohol, starting around NT$400.
Finishing up at Luxy, we headed over to Roxy Vibe to check out an Indie Christmas party. Upon arrival, we met their newest PR manager, Alyson, outside and she gave us the grand tour of the place. She immediately took us downstairs, where DJ Joyce was working the dance floor. According to Alyson, Joyce has been deejaying with the Roxy Group since she was 18, putting her musical knowledge far above others.
We retired upstairs to quench our thirst in a mellower environment. Alyson introduced us to a shot called "Coma" (NT$200), which tasted a bit like black licorice, strangely reminding me of many delightful childhood memories. It was a very zesty drink and I would recommend it to anyone. After downing the shot, I also managed to try their Melon Sour (NT$200). Alyson explained to me that if their head bartender fancies a lady, he will often give this to her as a gift, so all the pretty ladies out there should keep an eye open for the opportunity.
All and all, the night was a great success. The next time you climb into a taxi, keep a look out for the newest member of our Taiwan Fun team, Dawei. Who knows? You just might end up getting a personal tour of Taipei's nightlife. (Feel free to email us your ideas on Taipei's nightlife spots: scott@taiwanfun.com).
 
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January 2009 
