Despite Taiwan's typhoon-ravaged southern coastline provinces, it's business as usual for most tourist hot spots such as Taipei. But not for Taiwan tourism ambassadors Jolin Tsai and Wu Nien-jen. Aside from their usual duties to sell the island as an attractive travel destination, they have engaged in work for children's charities to help the young in affected areas cope with the disaster in the long term.

The pop star and the film director were in Singapore on August 28 for the National Association of Travel Agents Singapore (Natas) fair to promote Taiwan's themed tours, Romantic, Delicacies, Happy and Healthy.

Referring to Taiwan's recent fund-raising efforts, Wu, 57, says: "It's meaningless to see who donated how much during a fund-raising activity. Rescue efforts should be a long-term project."

His adopted charity aims to raise money to fund volunteers who will teach children to dance, sing or act to help them take their minds off the stress of the ordeal.

Tsai, 29, who is a goodwill ambassador for World Vision, says the international charity organisation will provide the children with an annual living allowance "which is a more meaningful way to contribute".

Volunteers from her adopted charity will also help care for the children while their parents try to get back on their feet.

Wu, who is also an award-winning scriptwriter and author, quips: "We should ask Jolin to volunteer for one day. When the kids see her, they will be so happy they will forget all their worries and unhappiness."

He and Tsai have been the face of the Welcome 2 Taiwan tourism campaign for the past two years. Taiwan saw more than 3.8 million visitors to the island last year.

While here, Tsai also gave travel fair-goers tips on value-for-money shopping in Taiwan. The singer blogs about shopping, spas and theme parks on the Taiwan tourism website. Wu's specialities are culture, good food and the countryside.

Hot spots for shopping

Shopping

Wu Fen Pu is a wholesale garment district filled with small shops selling the latest trendy outfits, bags, shoes and accessories.

"It is great for young travellers on a tight budget who want great bargains," she says.

Located in the Hsinyi district of Taipei, the shopping street is easily accessible by taxi or the subway. For those who prefer more upscale boutiques, she recommends Taipei 101, a landmark skyscraper in the city.

Beauty care

Taiwanese women are paying more attention to nail care, Tsai says, so there are a lot of manicure shops that have popped up around the island.

"They range from makeshift tables to big spa centres. There are several such shops in the eastern part of Taipei, and they are easy to find."

Wellness

There are many hot spring resorts in Taiwan that offer quality spa treatments. Tsai recommends foot reflexology. "Although they aren't exactly spas, I enjoy getting a massage at these places."

Relaxation

"I usually drive to Jinshan with friends and look for a cafe to chill out in. There are not many people there, so I can sit and relax," she says.

The northern coastal town is in a rural part of the Taipei county and is famous for its hot springs.

Jade rings and bike trails

Director Wu Nien-jen shares some facts and features about Taiwan that you may not know:

Handicraft

Taiwan Handicraft Promotion Centre is a one-stop mega mart with more than 40,000 items of art furniture, jewellery and traditional Chinese gifts. It is located at the intersection of Chungshan South Road and Hsuchow Road.

There are many souvenirs to buy for friends and family, says Wu. "People can buy jade rings, which can be nice gifts."

Highest point

The perpetually snow-capped Yu Shan or Jade Mountain in Yushan National Park is Taiwan's highest peak at 3,952m. It offers panoramic views of the surrounding forests and mountain range. It is especially popular with mountain climbers and hikers.

Best place to recharge

Dan Shui is a quaint seaside town north of Taipei known for its waterfront, which boasts a wide range of local snacks and handicrafts. It is also known for its historic attractions, such as Fort Santo Domingo. Wu says: "The place is very peaceful and I feel that I'm reliving history whenever I go there."

Taiwan's best-kept secret

Biking around Taiwan is the latest fad and there are a lot of biking tracks around. Wu recommends checking out the many Taiwanese biking clubs on the Internet.

He says: "The bikers in these clubs are very helpful and may even offer to show you around. It is a good way to sightsee, work out and make new friends all at the same time."

He also suggests heading to the eastern coastline of Taiwan, where the mountainous scenery is beautiful, especially in autumn.

Biggest misunderstanding about Taiwan

The Taiwanese do not always fight over political issues, says Wu. "We love to enjoy ourselves. Besides, we are too busy working to always fight with one another. The arguments are limited to only those that you see on television."