Snake Alley

For a taste of Taiwan's bizarre delicacies
Tipple of choice: Try the snake potion, if you dare.

Talk of the town: This is the only spot where elderly prostitutes still have licenses to solicit, which were issued back when turning tricks was legal.
Popular plate: For some of the most expensive noodles in Taipei head for Tainan Tan Tsu Mian (31 Huaxi Street).

Famous for grandstanding vendors who wield large knives and gut live snakes before visitors' eyes, this seedy spectacle of a night market - also known as Huaxi Street - serves up rare meats such as snake and turtle, which some believe have health benefits. Although these beliefs are taking a toll on certain endangered species - think carefully about what you choose to try - the intrepid can drink snake blood.

There are also a few shops selling souvenirs, massage parlours with blind massage therapists providing inexpensive foot therapies, food vendors serving traditional Taiwanese treats like stinky tofu and fried sausages and elderly prostitutes looking for patrons. While it certainly isn't the most wholesome scene, it is by no means unsafe.