#tourist attractions in taiwan

[cheriladycl01]

So, you lied to me? - Lando Norris x Tourist! Reader

Plot: Going on a travel year you end up in Monaco, the plan wasn't too fall for the man who helped you to the British Embassy and gave you a place to stay when someone stole everything from you ...

You took a gap year before university and decided to travel you'd started off the New Year on a flight from London, to Qatar to New Zealand. You travelled around New Zealand and Australia for the majority of January, before moving on to Papa New Guinea, Fiji and Samoa.

You then travelled round the South Asian countries, like Indonesia, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam and the Philippines and Taiwan all throughout February. You then moved onto China, doing both Disney Parks while you were there and sight seeing. You did South Korea and Japan.

Coming into April, you moved onto Sri Lanka and India, and The Middle East, doing Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Bahrian, Qatar, Oman and Saudi Arabia.

Afterwards, now having done 2 continents, you moved onto Africa, you spent the end of April and the majority of May travelling here, before leaving for Europe.

A nice 2 weeks island hopping around Greece, before a week travelling up the boot of Italy.

It was when you drove to Monaco in a rental car that things got difficult.

You were walking along the harbor where all the expensive yachts were docked wishing that one could be yours. You didn't have all your bags on you, the larger ones left behind in the hotel room you'd booked for the night. But you had your important stuff on you, like you passport, your drivers license and all your travel documents.

You were taking a picture on your nice Canon camera of the yachts and the street that had weird red corners rounding it that you put down to being measures to just help drivers slow down round the corners, but they were definitely an eyesore.

Every time nice cars drove by there was whistles and claps that made you look at what car it was, you could never tell what model it was but they looked nice and you guess you could say sporty.

As you were distracted taking your pictures a guy comes up to you with a small, parcel cutting knife in his hand. He slit the straps of what you thought was a really sturdy bag and the weight notifies you to the loss of the bag. You let your camera drop as you turn to see the guy now holding your bag and starting to run away with it.

"Hey! Stop" you shout before running after him.

"Aide, Aide" you shout as you continue to follow him, your minimal French not helping as people scold you for being a bustly tourist.

You aren't really looking where you going and you loose him at a busy intersection of people, you spin round looking at every possible direction he could have gone in.

"Shit!" you whisper to yourself quietly tears coming in your eyes. You spin round a little to quickly, bumping into someone who drops the bag that they were holding.

"Désolé, mon erreur" you try looking at the young gentleman you'd bumped into in a hoodie and jeans. He looks at you with a confused look, a smirk coming onto his face.

"Oh sorry, tu ne parles pas français? Maybe Italian, erm fuck scusa, parli italiano?" you ask with again the bare minimum of Italian you know.

"I speak perfectly good English" he smiles, laughing a little as your expression turns to shock.

"Oh! Oh I'm so stupid. Hello!" you smile looking at the very attractive man in front of you, you blushed a little looking up at him.

"You look panicked what's wrong?" he asks.

"I was tacking pictures of the harbor and some guy took my bag. It has everything in of mine and I don't know what to do" You say to him looking a little more panicked.

"Everything as in money ... because I can help with that" he says placing a hand on your arm.

"I don't care about the money, but he has all of my documents. My passport, my drivers license everything" you cry a little.

"Oh! Erm, I have a friend who was born here, and let me get him and he can help us file a police report. Then mmm the British Embassy is all the way in Paris and you cant get a flight so we'll have to drive there..." he starts to rant and your face turned shocked.

"We?" you ask, confused as to how this guy has just inserted himself into your life drama's.

"Oh yeah, I've gotta help you out now. You got that whole damsel in distress thing going on right now! Any way damsel, what's your name?" he jokes and you look over at him offended.

"I am not a damsel in distress! And Y/N" you retort.

"You so are, the tear stains, the wide, helpless eyes, the guppy fish face your pulling right now, the butchered French and Italian to a strange man who actually is British... Y/N" he laughs making you pout and push him a little.

"I don't even have a place to stay after 3pm today and I cant check in anywhere without ID" you say rubbing your head, looking around as if the man would randomly pop back up and hand you your bag back before saying how sorry he was.

"You can stay at my place, I have two spare bedrooms" he smiles and you look at him in shock.

"You live here, in Monaco ..." you ask.

"Yeah, I moved here a few years ago, for ...work" he offers, he phones his friend walking off for a few seconds alone before he pulls you along one of the side streets and too a quiet cafe he went to, to keep under wraps.

"Okay, Y/N this is my friend ... er Percy" he says pointing to Charles, so far you hadn't shown any signs of knowing who he is and he didn't want you to catch wind of that.

"Hello Percy, its nice to meet you" you smile and he looks at you with a vacant yet confused expression.

"Oh and whose this you are beautiful" you compliment looking at the girl behind him.

"Y/N this is my girlfriend Alex" Charles indicates to Alex behind him who smiles and pulls you in for a kind hug that you definitely needed. You could hear both of their strong accents as they introduced himself.

"Oh, I never got you name, what's your name?" you ask turning to look at Lando, who freezes for a second.

"Erm, my names Robert, but you can call me Bob" he smiles and you raise and eyebrow at him.

"Hmmm, you don't look like a Robert... or a Bob. Interesting choice" you voice your opinion making everyone awkwardly laugh.

Charles, Lando and Alex took you to the nearest police station in Monaco, Charles translated what they were saying and you answered to which he and Alex would help translate back.

Charles explained that they were escalating it because you are a tourist in need, but you picked up some words that made the sentence not sound like that at all.

You were asked if you had a place to say and Lando explained you'd be staying with him until everything was sorted out.

The Monegasque police got in contact with the Paris British Embassy for you, they explained that the police had sent over you information and if you wanted to hold off on a new passport for a few days to see if it would turn up you were more than welcome, but right now your passport was on lockdown.

And that was how you ended up spending the end of July and all of August with Lando, it was strange really. For a man who had and extremely nice collection of clothes and a very large apartment he didn't go to work often. There was one room you weren't allowed in which is where he often went, you assumed it was a man cave or gaming room where he played with his friends because you heard lots of shouting and aggressive banging.

He'd been so sweet, he took you on dates from going out to dinner, to picnics, to going swimming and lots more. It felt like more than a summer fling. Especially once he asked you to be his girlfriend, which you immediately said yes too.

But he got a lot more twitchy after he had.

Eventually, Lando or Bob as you knew him took you to Paris so you could get your passport. He explained that he travelled a lot for work and he would need to leave soon and you explained that before you bumped into him you'd been on a gap year travelling the world.

"Baby, why don't you come with me?" he asked randomly as you were both lying on the sofa, cuddling while watching a film.

"You wont even tell me what you do for work Baby! And besides I had a schedule that I'm already behind on. A week ago you said you didn't mind going our separate ways for a little bit until Christmas and then you'd come to England with me" you say playing with his curls.

"Okay, I'm going to be honest with you now... my name isn't Bob" he says shyly and you sit up at the speed of light turning to look at him.

"I knew it! So you lied to me?" you exclaim laughing.

"So, what's my boyfriends actual name?" you ask looking him dead in the eyes, he leans up on his elbows before sitting the full way up.

"Lando, I am Lando Norris" he smiles.

"Hmmmm, Lando... Lando. I could get used to that" you smile.

"You aren't mad?" he asks looking over you, brushing you hair back and tucking it behind your ear before kissing your cheek.

"I knew you weren't being completely honest when we first met... but I also knew you had your own reasons" you offer.

"I think its going to be easier if I just hand you my Instagram" he admits with a gulp as he hands you his phone. The first thing you notice is how many followers he had, there was around 10million and he had nearly 2,500 posts.

You look at the friends list, and one peeks your interest. Charles Leclerc, who looked exactly like Percy who Lando had introduced you too.

You then go back and look at his bio, that told you his actual job.

"So, I'm dating a super famous athlete?" you ask looking up at him away from the phone to see his head down in his hands. He turns to the side to sneak a look at your expression, his eyes a little glossy.

"To be specific, a Formula 1 driver" you ask again and he nods.

"You are such a muppet, my god" you laugh before pulling him into a hug.

"How aren't you upset with me?" he ask unsure.

"Well, I agreed to date you, because you are you. I doubt you change into Mr Hyde when you become a what was is Porsche race-car driver? I fell in love with you, not Bob, not Lando, you. So whether that is Bob, who kindly helped a crying lady on the street who just had her passport stolen from her, or Lando a cool and amazing race-car driver. Whoever you are is the person I love" you grin and he pulls you into a hug.

"So you want to join me for the last few races? Or you want to finish this world trip of yours?" he asks.

"Well, looking at your calendar, I can actually meet you at the rest of the races, While travelling. I'll continue to do Europe until you have the Netherlands, and ill go back to Italy, just for you. I'll miss Azerbaijan and Singapore because I did that, but I'll knock out some of South America, I'll meet you for Austin, then we can do Mexico and Brazil together, then we can do Vegas together! And by that point I can call it done with my trip!" you exclaim and he looks like he considers it for a second.

He's shocked, he cant remember the last time a girlfriend tried so hard to link up their schedules like this, and proved that they'd be able to work despite some potential scheduling issues.

"I love you. I fucking love you" he grins pulling you back down onto the sofa kissing all over your face making you giggle.

A/N: I've been doing a lot of Lando recently, I don't know if you can tell but I love writing about him, he's my fav to write about right now.

Taglist:

@littlesatanicassholebitch @hockey-racing-fubol @laura-naruto-fan1998 @22yuki @simxican @sinofwriting @lewisroscoelove @cmleitora @stupidandunnecessary @clayra-g @daemyratwst @honey-belden @moonypixel @lauralarsen @vader-is-hot @ironcowboycopnickel @itsjustkhaos @the-untamed-soul @beebo86 @happylittlereader @ziejustme @lou-larcher5 @thewulf @purplephantomwolf @chasing-liberosis @chillyleclerc @chanthereader @annoyingmoonballoon @summissss @evieepepi08 @havaneseoger08 @celesteblack08 @gulphulp @fandom1ruined2me @celebstories @starfusionsworld @jspitwall @sierruhh @georgeparisole @dakotatankbig @youcannotcancelquidditch @zzonsbeek @tallbrownhairsarcastic @mellowarcadefun @ourteenagetragedy @otako5811 @countingstacksandpanicattacks @peachiicherries @formulas-bitch @cherry-piee @hopexcroc @mirrorball-6 @spilled-coffee-cup @mehrmonga @bigsimperika @blueberry64857959 @eiraethh @lilypadlover @curseofhecate @alliwantisadonut @the-fem1n1ne-urge @21stcenturytaegi @dark-night-sky-99 @spideybv28 @i-wish-this-was-me @tallrock35 @butterfly-lover @barnestatic @landossainz @darleneslane @barcelonaloverf1life @r0nnsblog @ilove-tswizzle @kapsylia @laneyspaulding19 @viennakarma

[waitmyturtles]

(Source)

The Lower House (House of Representatives) will be hearing Thailand’s marriage equality bill at 9:30 am Bangkok time (10:30 pm Eastern for those of us in the States). The bill, if passed, would still have to be approved in Thailand’s Senate.

(Source and source)

Below the fold is Bloomberg.com's report on the happenings (source):

Bill to Legalize Same-Sex Marriage in Thailand Heads to Parliament

Bill is supported by most major parties, needs king approval

Thailand would be first in region to codify marriage equality

By Patpicha Tanakasempipat, March 26, 2024 at 2:00 PM PDT

A bill to legalize same-sex marriage could face a vote in Thailand’s parliament as early as Wednesday. If it passes, the country will be the first in Southeast Asia to establish marriage rights for gay and lesbian couples.

The House of Representatives will take up the legislation, technically an amendment to the Civil and Commercial Code, for second and third readings when it meets at 9 a.m. Lawmakers may vote later in the day.

The bill would legalize marriage for same-sex partners aged 18 and above, along with rights to inheritance, tax allowances and child adoption, among others. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s administration has made it a signature issue, and advocates say it would also burnish Thailand’s reputation as an LGBTQ-friendly tourist destination.

Taiwan and Nepal are the only places in Asia that currently recognize same-sex marriage, and recent efforts elsewhere in the region have had mixed results. Hong Kong has yet to comply with a 2023 court order to establish laws recognizing same-sex partnerships, and India’s Supreme Court refused to legalize same-sex marriage, saying it’s an issue for parliament to consider.

The Thai bill would change the composition of a marriage from “a man and a woman” to “two individuals,” and change the official legal status from “husband and wife” to “married couple.”

Thai laws have protected LGBTQ people from most kinds of discrimination since 2015, but attempts to formalize marriage rights have stalled. In 2021, the Constitutional Court upheld the law recognizing marriage as exclusively between a man and a woman. Last year, a bill to recognize same-sex civil partnerships failed to clear parliament ahead of elections.

Rights advocates have higher hopes for the bill pending now, noting that it has broad support from most of the major parties. If it passes, it will need to be approved by the Senate and endorsed by the King. Then it would be published in the Royal Gazette and take effect 120 days later.

Srettha’s government has also promised to work on a bill to recognize gender identity, and the health ministry has also proposed legalizing commercial surrogacy to allow LGBTQ couples to adopt children. Thailand is seeking to host the WorldPride events in Bangkok in 2028.

Legalizing same-sex marriage could have positive effects on tourism, which contributes about 12% to the nation’s $500 billion economy. In 2019, before the pandemic froze international tourism, LGBTQ travel and tourism to Thailand generated about $6.5 billion, or 1.2% of gross domestic product, according to industry consultant LGBT Capital.

Formal recognition could boost the reputation of a place already considered one of Asia’s best for LGBTQ visitors, said Wittaya Luangsasipong, managing director of Siam Pride, an LGBTQ-friendly travel agency in Bangkok.

“It will become a selling point for Thailand and raise our strength in the global stage,” Wittaya said. “It will create a relaxed and safe atmosphere for tourism and help attract more and more LGBTQ visitors. We could also see more weddings by LGBTQ couples, which could generate income across industries and local communities.”

[thedorkreadstheworld]

Having an existential crisis about the state of tourism in the Philippines when visiting other Asian countries, I can't help but wonder why they seem to be thriving. For instance, in Vietnam, they've creatively integrated their coffee culture with a main attraction—the passing train—at a particular train station. Similarly, Thailand has a vibrant market centered around a train, and even Taiwan has its own unique train-related attractions that draw tourists.

What's wrong with my home country? Why aren't we seeing the same kind of growth and innovation in the Philippines?

April 18, 2024 / 6:07 PM / Train Station, Vietnam

[southeastasianists]

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hoi An Ancient Town is a popular destination in Vietnam, with narrow bustling streets full of historic monuments and traditional lanterns, charming shops and restaurants, as well as beach resorts close by.

Among such vibrant places of interest, a small museum dedicated to local archaeology is not likely to attract crowds of tourists, especially when there are other museums focusing on Hoi An’s history and cultural lifestyles. Nevertheless, the Museum of Sa Huỳnh Culture offers a fascinating look into Vietnam’s Iron Age, which flourished in the region between the 10th century BCE and the 4th century CE.

Named after a small village in Quảng Ngãi Province where the first site was found in 1909, Sa Huỳnh culture is known for its ironware, gemstone beads, and terra-cotta burial jars, not unlike those found in the Philippines.

It is known that Sa Huỳnh, the Philippines, as well as Taiwan, Borneo, and Thailand, were connected along an ancient trade route. Sa Huỳnh is one of the few cultures that made ling-ling-o, a type of ancient ring-shaped amulet in the ancient Philippines, using jade imported from Taiwan.

Founded in 1994, the Museum of Sa Huỳnh Culture is home to nearly 1,000 locally sourced artifacts, the largest of its kind. One of its major highlights is the exhibit of burial jars on the second floor.

[brookebeebe-blog]

August 6th - Sicao Green Tunnel, Anping Tree House, Tainan Confucius Temple, and Old Lin’s Department Store

This morning, I got to eat chicken nuggets again for breakfast, which was very exciting. I ate as much as I possibly could because I didn’t want to have to buy lunch. So after two rounds of nuggets, I head back up to the room. Then, Zoe asked me if I wanted to go the stationary story and I could not resist. I got some new nice mechanical pencils and highlighters for my last year at UF. Then, we got on the bus to start the day at around 1 pm. Our first stop was the Sicao Green Tunnel. It was a boat ride through some mangrove trees. It was really pretty, but it was super low and I had to duck a few times so that I wouldn’t get hit by a branch. After this, we went to the Anping Tree House. I will write my academic reflection on it, so stay tuned! It was really pretty. Our next stop was the Tainan Confucius Temple, which is the oldest Confucius temple in Taiwan. It was surprisingly large and super beautiful. Lastly, we went to Old Lin’s department store. It was an old area that was renovated in 2006 into a department store. I didn’t buy anything, but I started getting really hungry at this time because it was almost 6 so a few of us went to 7/11 to get some food. They had slushees! I got a sprite slushee and a bacon, egg, and cheese sandwich. Then, we went back to the hotel and got ready for our last night in Tainan.

Academic Reflection

The Anping tree house was originally used to store salt for the Anping branch of the Japanese Salt Corporation. After World War 2, it was abandoned and laid empty. The Banyan trees surrounding the tree house are an invasive species that aggressively expand their territory. Banyan trees thrive in humid areas like Tainan. The roots of these trees also secret an acid that dissolves limestone, making them extremely suitable for rocky environments, or the side of a warehouse. As the trees continued to grow, they formed an effective living roof and wall of banyan roots. Later, architects renovated the abandoned building and built raised wooden paths and steel structures to continue to support it. There are also bridges and stairs to see the entire thing from a bird’s eye view, making it a popular tourist attraction in Tainan.

[valentinsylve]

Oh wow, this is a really awesome life-saving bit of engineering. The link.

When a 7.4-magnitude earthquake rocked Taiwan on Wednesday, people inside the island’s tallest skyscraper, Taipei 101, were protected by a large yellow pendulum at the building’s center that helped absorb the shock. Known as a “tuned mass damper,” the 730-ton steel sphere is suspended between several floors at the top of the building, where it can be viewed by the public. The observatory is a popular tourist attraction in the capital city. The sphere moves back and forth during earthquakes or typhoons that regularly lash the island, absorbing the force of any “violent swinging,” according to the Taipei 101 website. The damper’s engineers say it can curtail the building’s movement by up to 40 percent, reducing the queasiness felt by its occupants. Closed-circuit TV footage of the Taipei skyline at the moment the earthquake hit shows the pagoda-shaped skyscraper hardly moving. The security camera, mounted on another building, is shaking violently.

Taipei 101 was the world’s tallest building when it was completed in 2004 — a title it held until 2009. As the name suggests, it is 101 stories tall, reaching a height of 1,667 feet, including its spire. It has a number of other design features that increase its resilience to natural disasters — including 380 piles driven deep into the ground. The deepest is rammed some 30 meters, or almost 100 feet, into the bedrock, which, according to Taipei 101, “is similar to nailing the entire building onto a solid tectonic plate.” Power is supplied to the building via two substations, reducing the risk of an outage.

[wilsweb-asientour]

Tag 41. 13.08.2023

Jukjeon. Heute standen wir früh auf, um an einem Gottesdienst in Bundang teilzunehmen. Die Fahrt von Myeongdong über den Han-Fluss in den Süden lief reibungslos, sodass wir Zeit für einen Halt im Starbucks hatten, wo wir mit Kaffein auftankten. Die Kirche (할렐루야교회) war beeindruckend, pompös auf einem Berg errichtet mit einer Tiefparkgarage mit 3 Etagen, Live-streaming der Predigt und eigener Küche, die Teller rauspumpten wie eine Krankenhausmensa. Zudem waren wir die einzigen Ausländer weit und breit. Bewunderung pur.

Nach einer verlängerten Mittagspause fuhren wir in ein Volksdorf (한국민속촌) i.d.N.v. Bungnam. Zwar heute eine Touristenattraktion, früher spielte sich jedoch im Volksdorf ein ganz anderes Leben ab. Wir staunten über ein Amphitheater, ein hölzernes Adelhaus und ein eigenes Dorf-Gefängnis. Wir aßen Haemuljeon (koreanischer Reibekuchen mit Meeresfrüchten), Gamja-jeon (koreanischer Kartoffelpuffer) und tranken Reiswein, der genießbar war. Im Nachgang schauten wir uns einen lebhaften Tanzauftritt an und liefen in verschiedenste Höfe rein, um an Dorfaktivitäten teilzunehmen. Da der Typhoon inzwischen China und Taiwan ärgerte hatten wir wieder schwüles Wetter. Kurzum, wir schwitzten wie Sau.

Im Anschluss fuhren wir nach Jukjeon (죽전), wo wir Shaved Ice (geraspeltes Eis) bestellten, einmal mit Mango (애플망고치즈빙수) und einmal mit roten Bohnen (인절미팥빙수). In umgekehrter Reihenfolge ging’s dann zum Abendessen, wieder Korean BBQ (Gegrilltes), dieses Mal jedoch auf Jeju-Art. Für alle Geografieliebhaber, Jeju Insel ist eine Urlauberinsel südlich vom koreanischen Festland und westlich von Fukuoka. Wir probierten drei Schweinefleischvarianten: koreanischen Speck (ca. 5cm dick), Schweinehaut und eine Tofu-Schweinefleisch Suppe. Die erste Variante gefiel Webster am besten mit Gojujang. Wir liefen dann durch Jukjeon, eine junges und lebhaftes Studentenviertel mit vielen Cafés und Klamottenläden. Auf der Rückfahrt nach Seoul hielten wir am Han-Fluss Ufer, um uns Gangnam und Seoul von einer anderen Perspektive anzuschauen.

Morgen ist ein voller Tag angesagt, wir freuen uns und lassen euch natürlich wieder teilhaben. Gute Nacht!

Day 41. August 13, 2023

Jukjeon. Today we got up early to attend a church service in Bundang. The journey from Myeongdong over the Han River to the south went smoothly, so we had time for a stop at Starbucks to top up on caffeine. The church (할렐루야교회) was impressive, grandly built on a mountain with a three-story underground parking garage, live-streaming of the sermon, and its own kitchen that pumped out dishes like a hospital cafeteria. Furthermore, we were the only foreigners far and wide.

After an extended lunch break, we drove to a folk village (한국민속촌) in the vicinity of Bungnam. While now a tourist attraction, the folk village used to be a completely different world in the past. We marveled at an amphitheater, a wooden nobleman's house, and a village prison. We enjoyed Haemuljeon (Korean seafood pancake), Gamja-jeon (Korean potato pancake), and drank rice wine that was enjoyable. Afterwards, we watched a lively dance performance and participated in village activities in various courtyards. As the typhoon was bothering China and Taiwan by now, we had humid weather again. In short, we sweated like crazy.

Next, we headed to Jukjeon (죽전), where we ordered Shaved Ice, once with Mango (애플망고치즈빙수) and once with red beans (인절미팥빙수). We then went for dinner, again Korean BBQ, but this time Jeju style. For all geography enthusiasts, Jeju Island is a vacation island south of the Korean mainland and west of Fukuoka. We tried three pork variations: Korean bacon (about 5cm thick), pork skin, and a tofu-pork soup. Webster liked the first variation the best with Gojujang. We then walked through Jukjeon, a young and vibrant student neighborhood with many cafes and thrift stores. On the way back to Seoul, we stopped by the Han River bank to see Gangnam and Seoul from a different perspective.

Tomorrow promises to be a busy day, and we're looking forward to it. We’ll of course keep you posted. Good night!

[siodium]

asdklasjdlsks maximum late trip update post bc i completely forgot about it in my drafts. 💀 i was too occupied with grinding mapes events for cosmetic items aha.

better late than never i guess??

anyway, here's my long-awaited post about my short 5D4N trip in taiwan with luwi and shoron!! i decided to condense all five days into one post this time bc i didn't take a lot of good pics. :/

DAY 1: TAIPEI

nanjichang night market (南機場夜市) - highly recommended!!!

sumikko gurashi themed 7-ELEVEN (角落小夥伴主題商店)

first thing we did when we landed was to run to a 7-ELEVEN to grab a small bite. i got a strawberry cream sandwich with a mixed fruit/vegetable juice and the sandwich was so tasty... nothing special but so homely. we also picked up an easycard so that we could ride the mrt and omg the designs were all so cute?? why can't we have cute transport passes in sg too!!

after checking into our hostel, we went to nanjichang night market for dinner. i was told that this was the night market that locals would go to, and to avoid shilin night market bc it was more of a tourist attraction/trap?? no regrets tho. the food was great and so affordable. i got deep fried squid (coated with some kind of peppery and salty seasoning powder and spoilers: pretty sure all the fried stuff i ate in taiwan had the same seasoning LOL), shrimp dumplings, and a fermented vegetable baked pepper bun. waaa,, even though i ordered a shrimp dumpling, there was meat in it!! and i cannot handle the taste of meat in taiwan. it's too strong...

i also got an osmanthus tea from one of the bbt stalls there and it was the best bbt i had in taiwan?? unfortunately i didn't catch the name of the stall but there was a catto sitting on the counter!!

ended our day with a trip to the sumikko gurashi 7-ELEVEN. the decor was so cute!! i was hoping there'd be some exclusive merch being sold but there weren't any. idk why but i was determined to find some merch and i kept going into every 7-ELEVEN that was in my sights LMAO spoilers i didn't find any exclusive merch in the end. disappoint :-(

thoughts about the accommodation:

we stayed at the beimen wow poshtel for most of the days. it was reasonably close to the taipei main station and super affordable (~$20 per night) but idk it was giving me major School Camp flashbacks. we got the top bunks so every time we forgot something on the bed, we had to climb up the ladder to get it. it was inconvenient and i found out that i'm terrible at going down ladders bc i just jump off from the highest rung of the ladder and i gave myself quite a few bruises from that.

the rooms were also very tiny. we couldn't all have our luggages open at the same time so we'd go down to the communal area in the basement every day just to move things around. i wouldn't say that this was a massive con bc we got used to this arrangement rly fast. the real bAD THING is that we can't leave our things lying around in the room without locking them up in the lockers (also very smol). i have to clean and dry all my toiletries every day before i go to bed and before i leave. one time i accidentally left my clean clothes bag out and i woke up to find a single dirty sock inside. >:/

but other than that it felt pretty safe?? and i did enjoy our nightly hangouts at the communal area for supper or to plan our next-day activities.

would like to try out a capsule hotel next time tho. like one of those space pod thingies.

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DAY 2: SHIFEN AND JIUFEN

shifen old streets

shifen waterfall

jiufen old streets

zhang ji traditional fishballs

a gan yi taro ball - it's nice but nothing special?? if the queue is too long then don't bother with it

jioufen teahouse - the queue for the famous a-mei teahouse was insane so we decided to try another teahouse

we spent the second day at shifen and jiufen!! took a train to shifen in the morning. walked along the streets and got some street food for lunch. i got brown sugar mochi paw-shaped pancake pops from a stall and i personally wouldn't recommend that flavour bc it was so dry. we also ate some taiwanese-style takoyaki. i watched luwi and shoron make their sky lantern (i couldn't do it bc it's ghost month and my mum said no :/) and release it into the sky. luwi added some good wishes for chi. stay 白 uwu

after walking around for a bit, we ran out of things to do and still had plenty of time to spare so we decided to rent electric scooters to see the shifen waterfall. i was shooketh that they didn't require any license?? and the shop didn't provide any helmets or safety gear?? so sus... i didn't dare to ride one of my own so i pillion'ed behind luwi.

the waterfall was a distance away from the parking lot and so the rest of our journey had to be on foot. i was sweating so much and thought i was gonna hallucinate from the heat and strong sun rays. somehow we made it to the viewing deck. i was expecting to be a lot closer to the waterfall but eh the view was pretty nonetheless. got chi and cha out so they could take in the sights too!!

we went through another round of suffering to get back to the parking lot and i, after seeing shoron ride the scooter so breezily on the way there from the old streets, decided to try riding one for the funsies. despite having barely any bicycle experience. as you would expect, that was Not A Good Idea bc i didn't even move 3 metres when i lost control, panicked, revved the accelerator thinking it was the brake (both were on the handles so idk i'm not a driver), went up the curb and fell over. ok but i fell off on purpose bc i thought the scooter was moving on its own (and not bc i mixed up the brake and accelerator) and my only way of survival was to just get off the bike before i crash into something or something crashed into me. surprisingly the only injuries i sustained were some bruises on my upper thigh that i landed on, and pinpoint scratches on my hand that i got from breaking my fall. i was very lucky that nothing was broken or bleeding. well, that was An Experience...... that i wouldn't want to go through again. anyway i'm banned from driving after this~~~

↓ btw this photo was taken moments before the disaster. apparently a lot of foreigners who rented scooters there also crashed their bikes. now that i look at it, our scooter had a chunk of it broken off at the front. ummm,,, what is safety

our next stop was jiufen!! jiufen was sooo scenic and beautiful with all the lanterns and slopes but climbing up and down all those narrow and steep stairs just to get to the main street was just deaTH. 💀 i have no idea how the elderly can do it.

had an early dinner at the zhang ji traditional fishballs. got a mixed fishballs noodle soup and it was so tasty!! i actually like the handmade fishballs with meat inside. they were sweet.

when it got dark, we visited one of the teahouses there to have a tea experience. the staff taught us how to brew the tea and we did the rest ourselves after that. it was fun!! we also ordered an oolong tea cheesecake to share and it was definitely more cheesecake than oolong but i'm not complaining.

we stayed at the jiufen kite museum for a night and i was so glad to finally have a room to ourselves. it was a good thing we didn't bring our luggages with us bc there were no elevators there!! it was all just stairs.

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DAY 3: JIUFEN AND BACK TO TAIPEI

jioufen breakfast restaurant

D+AF女鞋 南西旗艦店 - super nice and trendy shoes!!

kura sushi

ximending

the nighttime view in jiufen was amazing with all the lanterns lit up but bc it was so crowded and you absolutely could not get a shot without someone blocking the view, we decided to come back the next day at 6 am just to take pics. and also to eat a traditional taiwanese breakfast!! i love the soy milk and youtiao combination. 💕

when we were back at the taipei main station, i chanced upon this bakery (semeur 聖娜) that was holding a kanahei's small animals collab?? if you spend a certain amount, you can buy merch at a cheaper price. so ofc i picked out four breads just so i could get a cute cooler bag with usagi and piske on it~ kinda regretted not getting the handheld fan too. it would've been so useful bc it was sO HOT. btw i ended up bringing one bread back to singapore (take note of this info for later) bc i couldn't finish all of them LMAO. the breads were all tasty but i particularly liked the melon bun.

day 3 was our Buy The Things We Have To Buy day. luwi went to check out a motorcycle gear shop by herself while shoron and i explored the zhongshan area. i got the $370 wall clock that my colleague rly wanted from a department store there. we also went to this shoe shop that shoron wanted to check out and like,, i wasn't planning on buying any shoes but man,,, they were all so nice. you can call them clown shoes for all you like but i just rly like the wide, squarish toe box designs. i only bought a pair in the end but aaa i would've liked to get more if i didn't have space/weight concerns.

bought osmanthus oolong tea from yi pin tea (一品茶苑) and it was mid. very strong tea flavour tho.

we had kura sushi for lunch and it was amazing. the gacha system was fun and the food was great and i got to eat my beloved taiyaki for dessert. it was cheaper than any sushi place in sg too.

my stomach was acting up when we went to ximending in the evening so i didn't get anything to eat or drink there but i did try a bit of the vermicelli noodles from ay-chung flour-rice noodle and it was pretty good. peppery and kinda tastes like shark fin soup. aside from food, we didn't rly check out any of the shops there. i did go to a stationary store on my own and it was a feast for the eyes!!

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DAY 4:

wei chuan pushin ranch - there were capybaras and alpacas!! first time seeing them in person

mazesoba restaurant (東京油組總本店 台北華山組)

1789 café pâtisserie

zhongxiao dunhua shopping district (Air Space, Le Gusta, The Ladywore)

kanahei's small animals themed 7-ELEVEN (卡娜赫拉主題商店)

li yuan dumpling restaurant

braved the scorching heat for the alpacas and sheep and capybaras!! i touched an alpaca and a capybara for the first time and i can confirm that the former was floofy like a cloud while the latter felt like bristles of a broom.

the pig race and sheep race were being held when we were there so we got to watch. the ones that i bet on didn't win.

bc the ranch was located in a more rural part of taipei and buses were infrequent, we only had two?? hours to look around. so we rented some kind of a buggy. shoron was the designated driver for this bUT i felt like i could drive it too cuz it was kinda slow yknow.

for lunch we had mazesoba!! super good but could do with less salt.

afterwards we went on a hunt for a cafe to chill at bc it was raining so hard. had to give matcha one a miss bc we didn't have a reservation and there were no tables for us (except the VIP rooms which were $$$). eventually we found this cafe called 1789 café pâtisserie that was relatively empty and hid there until the rain subsided. we shared two eclairs (salted caramel and mango passionfruit) and a raspberry rose st. honore (crispy mille feuille pastry topped with whipped cream and raspberry jam??). they gave us two macarons on the house, and one of them was wasabi-flavoured. the taste was... interesting.

when the rain stopped, we went to shop for clothes around the zhongxiao dunhua shopping district. there were a lot of blogshop-like clothing stores in that area. i got clothes from le gusta and the ladywore~

our last dinner was at a xiaolongbao restaurant. i was glad that they had prawn xiaolongbaos!! that didn't have surprise meat in them. they were not bad. also got a custard panda bun for dessert~

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DAY 5:

luwi and shoron went out to dabao breakfast at yong he soy milk (永和豆漿) in ximending while i continued to laze around in bed~~~ they brought soy milk and youtiao back for me!! i miss the combination. the youtiao from yong he was so light and airy on the inside and so crisp on the outside aaaa the doughy and oily ones in sg can't compare.

after breakfast we packed up and left for the airport. i wanted to try the oden at 7-ELEVEN before i leave but we couldn't find one at the departure hall. maximum sadge. in the end, we settled for a fast-food chicken place after we checked in and i got a yoghurt green tea (which tasted like yakult btw) and sweet potato fries.

i wanted to be productive on the flight back home (and i wasn't rly that sleepy anyway) so i played 999 on my 3ds and watched a 2-hour movie. finally watched maquia and it made me cry lmao. tearjerkers are the best kinds of movies for a flight imo!!

oh oh i sat next to an elderly couple on the plane and they were so nice and friendly. the lady kept checking to see if i needed to use the toilet bc i got the window seat. 🥺 we also chatted a bit while waiting to get off the plane.

we were planning to have dinner at mos burg after we landed in sg but there was a luggage delay and by the time we all got our luggages, it was almost time for mos burg to close. aha but fortunately i still had one bread left. so that was my dinner, along with the milo and oreos that the staffs were handing out to apologise for the delay.

[passportrenewal]

Indian Passport Holders: Exciting News! Free Visa Entry to Indonesia for Tourists from 20 Countries, Including India

Great news for Indian passport holders! Indonesia has announced a free visa entry policy for tourists from 20 countries, including India. This initiative is expected to be finalized by October 2024 and will make traveling to Indonesia much easier for Indian tourists. Here’s everything you need to know about this exciting development.

Indonesia Announces Free Visa Entry

Indonesia is gearing up to welcome tourists from India with visa-free entry, eliminating the hassle of visa applications. This initiative, led by Indonesia’s Tourism Minister, Sandiaga Uno, aims to attract high-spending tourists from key countries, which will give a boost to Indonesia’s economy.

By removing visa requirements for Indian tourists, Indonesia hopes to increase foreign tourist arrivals, stimulate domestic spending, and boost foreign investment. The policy will also encourage the growth of Indonesia’s digital economy.

Why This Matters for Indian Tourists

Indonesia has long been a favorite destination for Indian travelers, with its beautiful beaches, rich culture, and vibrant cities like Bali and Jakarta. With the new visa-free entry policy, it will be even easier to visit these popular spots without worrying about visa delays or extra costs.

Before the pandemic, tourists spent an average of $900 during their stay in Indonesia. However, post-pandemic trends show visitors now spend around $1,600 per trip. This new policy aims to attract more “quality tourists” — travelers who stay longer and contribute more to the local economy.

List of Countries Eligible for Free Visa Entry

India is one of the 20 countries that will benefit from Indonesia’s visa-free policy. Other countries include:

Australia

China (PRC)

South Korea

USA

UK

France

Germany

Qatar

UAE

Saudi Arabia

Netherlands

Japan

Russia

Taiwan

New Zealand

Italy

Spain

And two additional Middle Eastern countries to be specified.

Tourist Visa Options for Other Travelers

If you still require a visa to visit Indonesia (for countries not included in the visa-free list), there are a few options available based on your stay duration and the activities planned:

Type B1–30 Days

Stay: Up to 30 days (extendable for an additional 30 days).

Cost: Rp 500,000 (Rs 2,557).

Activities: Tourism, family visits, meetings, conventions, exhibitions.

Requirements: Valid passport (6+ months), return ticket.

Type D1 (1 Year)

Stay: Up to 60 days per entry.

Cost: IDR 3,000,000 (Rs 15,344).

Activities: Meetings, conventions, tourism, family visits.

Requirements: Valid passport, proof of funds, photo.

Type D1 (2 Years)

Stay: Up to 60 days per entry.

Cost: IDR 6,000,000 (Rs 30,689).

Activities: Same as Type D1 (1 Year).

Requirements: Similar to Type D1 (1 Year).

Type D1 (5 Years)

Stay: Up to 60 days per entry.

Cost: IDR 15,000,000 (Rs 76,723).

Activities: Same as Type D1 (1 Year).

Requirements: Similar to Type D1 (1 Year).

Ready to Visit Indonesia?

This new visa-free policy makes it easier than ever for Indian passport holders to explore Indonesia. With beautiful beaches, rich culture, and a growing tourist-friendly environment, now is the perfect time to plan your trip!

Need help with your passport before your next adventure? Contact Passport Agents for expert guidance on renewing or applying for a new passport hassle-free. We’re here to make your travel plans smoother!

Source: https://passportagentinbangalore.com/passports/indian-passport-holders-exciting-news-free-visa-entry-to-indonesia-for-tourists-from-20-countries-including-india/

[to-taiwan-from-fanny]

07/20/2024

July 20 - Beitou Hot Springs

So, there’s this thing I do where I procrastinate everything till the very last minute and then never actually do it. This day however, I was incredibly ambitious and sleepy, a terrible combo. I tried to set 3 alarms for 7-8am respectively to wake up early and catch up on my blog posts. From the date discrepancy, you can probably already tell that it didn’t work out. 

In my drowsy state, I instead set 5 alarms from 3-7am, none of which I woke up to. Faith, however, woke up to every single one of them and was, rightfully, pissed at me for the entire morning. Hence, our day started. 

We went to the Xinbeitou Historic Station where I bought a very stupid keychain and observed Faith carefully from a safe distance. The Beitou Library and Hot Springs Museum was not soon after (Peter was speedrunning everything to make time for us to go to the hot springs on our own). The museum was super pretty and I loved looking at all the varied artwork on the walls! Then there was Thermal Valley.

Honestly, my day thus far was going pretty well. Because I slept past all my alarms, I was pretty awake (sorry Faith) but Thermal Valley knocked me out. It was SO hot and the strong scent of sulfur pulsating around me made me nauseous. Just walking through the valley immediately diminished any will I had towards going to the hot springs after. Luckily, Faith felt the same way and by then she had mostly forgiven me (yay!) so we and a handful of our group went to go get Din Tai Fung instead! It was so so yummy. We then went back to go rot and later went out to the night market again to get some more food. The highlight was definitely the mango bingsu we got at the end! I also saw a really big pig. I wonder how much pork it would produce. 

Academic Reflection

The first thing we went today was a repurposed train station, one of the first in Taiwan and the last one of its kind in Tamsui. Though the train itself was out of order, instead of tearing the entire thing down, they had transformed it into a tourist attraction of sorts, which I think is pretty cool!

I was honestly surprised to hear about the large number of benefits that hot springs have. I had assumed the prevelance of them was more so due to the relaxation part - who doesn't want to be boiled like a lobster? - but I guess people have a more logical mind than I. Their popularity is deeply rooted in both physical and mental well-being, which speaks to Taiwan’s emphasis on holistic health practices that blend traditional wisdom with modern science.

Though still popular, Peter had mentioned how the banning of erotic services had dramatically impacted the hot spring industry as a whole. It’s a reminder that even industries rooted in tradition have to adapt to societal changes, sometimes in ways that can be quite challenging. I wonder if the Tamsui train station would still be active today if the ban hadn't happened.

[irismfrost]

Independant Excursion 2: Soaring Dragon Fish Statue: Transforming Love River and Ports

My independent excursion surrounds the Soaring Dragon Fish statue at the Love River. This river has gone by many different names throughout Kaohsiung’s history and has been a central cultural icon for Kaohsiung citizens throughout the years. The bottom of the statue is a fish and the top is a dragon. It glows at night and changes colors, representing the changes that both Kaohsiung and its waters have gone through. 

I walked the river bank at night, admiring all of the glowing buildings, the bridges, and the beautifully clean and calm water. The slight breeze and clean streets only added to the peaceful, scenic, and vacant atmosphere. All I can do is take a deep breath and enjoy the moment. A couple river boats pass by and I smile as I watch the city’s culture unfold in front of me. For second, I feel as if I’ve become a part of the city - it’s unlike anything I’ve ever experienced. As I approach the Soaring Dragon Fish statue, all I can see is a towering, glowing structure. I cross the street to get a better view and I am immersed in the statue’s changing rainbow colors. The statue represents the positive change Kaohsiung and Love River have gone through, and it only continues to improve. It inspires me to do the same.

Reflection

For this section, I’d like to focus on how the Soaring Dragon Fish statue represents the history of Kaohsiung, the second largest city in Taiwan, known as the “birthplace of democracy” due to Kaohsiung’s resilient culture and role in establishing Taiwan’s democracy. Dragons represent prosperity and were usually reserved for royalty back in the day. 

The Soaring Dragon Fish statue was constructed to celebrate Kaohiung’s maritime strength and represents the change of the Love River (1). Over the last 5 years, the past 5 mayors of Kaohsiung have successfully implemented the first stage of the strategic plan (started in 1978)  made to revive the Love River (2). These mayors were a part of the “Special municipality era” of Kaohsiung politics (focused on consolidating the city) are: Chen Chi-mai, Yang Ming-jou, Han Kuo-yu, Hsu Li-ming, Hsu Li-ming. The river went from a public sewer used by both the public and industries to a beautiful attraction for tourists and locals alike, returning the river to its past. This transformation is exemplified in the statue and showcases Kaohsiung’s ability to overcome all odds. 

Kaohsiung has also gone through economic change. The port in Kaohsiung is a crucial part of the economy and has undergone significant changes. During its initial growth, it became a prime spot for shipping and industrial factories (2). Now the port is a place for minds to gather all across Asia, known for its cultural and business richness, with more diverse industries. In 2013, Kaohsiung hosted the Asian Pacific Cities Summit, with leaders from 104 cities across the world (3). The changes in Kaohsiung’s economic development are also represented by the Soaring Dragon Fish statue. 

As Taiwan went through different occupations, its occupiers forcefully changed the cultures of the people and geography. One example of this is the Love River. During the Qing Dynasty’s reign, the Love River went by “Dagou River” (4). This was later changed to “Takao River” by the Japanese, a name that originated from the Makatao indigenous tribe that lived in the area prior to the Qing (5). In 1948, when Chen Chiang-shen came into power, he renamed the iconic river, “Love River Cruise”. A typhoon ripped off the “Cruise” part and a reporter writing about it, mistook the name for “Love River” and it became a popular spot for lovers. It is also rumored (mostly by our amazing tour guide, Peter) that the article also included the story of two lovers whose families wouldn’t let them be together committed suicide in the river. It is debated whether one survived and had to live on without the other. But even now, lovers still sit by its shores, maybe in an attempt to honor their love. Nonetheless, the river went by many names and has now transformed into a place of love. The Soaring Dragon Fish statue also represents the changes in the cultures of these occupations by name changes. 

The statue represents Kaohsiung’s transformative culture centered around the Love River and its ports. 

https://khh.travel/en/attractions/detail/499 

https://taiwantoday.tw/news.php?post=23903&unit=14,29,34,45 

https://urban-web.kcg.gov.tw/KDB/web_page/KDB010100.jsp 

https://eng.taiwan.net.tw/m1.aspx?sNo=0002121&id=625#:~:text=Love%20River%2C%20known%20as%20Dagou,pillars%20chained%20with%20iron%20rope. 

https://www.taiwangazette.org/news/2021/7/20/a-new-city-on-an-old-port-the-100-year-transformation-of-kaohsiungs-love-river 

[riley-travels]

August 3- Fo Guang Shan Monastery

Today we had our earliest day yet, having to be ready and in the lobby by 8:45. However, I decided to only wake up a bit early to get breakfast in. Our bus ride was an hour both ways, which offered me a great opportunity to read, though I just ended up listening to music and resting. After we arrived at the monastery we got a tour of the main temple and got to eat a provided lunch. This “Formal Dining” had to be done in silence and in about 20 minutes. Which I honestly really enjoyed just getting to focus on my food. After this we went to the museum and got a guided tour which was nice to listen to what she had to say about the monastery and museum. I also really annoyed the calligraphy that we got to do, even though I am sure that some of my characters were completely wrong. We got some free time where me, Sabrina, and Eli just walked around enjoying the views and covered walkways. Our bus home was standard, but I was so tired already I had to have a cup of coffee and ended the night working on my school assignments.

Academic:

As we saw today, the monastery was not particularly bustling, though there were many volunteers as well as tourists that were visiting the museum. I was surprised when reading "Establishing a Pure Land on Earth: The Foguang Buddhist Perspective on Modernization and Globalization" that we were given to read tonight, that they had in the past made the decision to close its gates to uninvited visitors in 1997. Causing a significant change in the monastery's relationship with the local community, its lay devotees, and the broader public. For its first thirty years, Foguangshan was not only a spiritual hub but also a major tourist attraction in southern Taiwan. The completion of the Welcoming Buddha statue in 1975 catalyzed its popularity, drawing thousands of visitors who contributed significantly to the local economy. However, this open-door policy came to an abrupt end on May 16, 1997, as Foguangshan's gates were shut to casual visitors.

The closure aimed to address several underlying issues. Primarily, it sought to reassert the monastery's identity as a sacred space dedicated to spiritual cultivation rather than a recreational site. By restricting access, the monastery intended to create a more tranquil and solemn atmosphere conducive to religious practice and meditation. Also, the closure symbolized a retreat from worldly concerns, as explained by Jiang Canteng, reflecting Master Xingyun's desire to distance Foguangshan from the political entanglements that had plagued it in the mid-1990s. This period saw the master embroiled in electoral politics, leading to a backlash from both the Buddhist community and the general public. Locally, the closure disrupted the economy, causing financial strain for businesses that had thrived on the steady influx of tourists. For the monastery, it meant a loss of tourism revenue, although this was mitigated by introducing weekend cultivation activities that attracted devoted Buddhists willing to donate. These activities also fostered a deeper engagement with the monastery's spiritual offerings, aligning with Master Xingyun's vision of enhancing self-cultivation among both clerics and lay devotees.

[jasminebutintaiwansojiemin]

July 19th, 2024 星期四 - Gold Museum, Exploring 九份, Setting Off 燈籠

Today was very long, but we got to travel a lot and see more of the mountains and greenscape that we can’t see in the city. We began our day by taking a coach bus to the gold museum. The drive was very very long, but we got to see the absolutely gorgeous ocean from a very high point. We got to visit several sites at the museum as we walked through it. At one of the sections, there was an interactive mining game, where you scan a QR code, pick your cursor color/shape, and then play a game to dig out ores. At the end, the game shows the different percentages of ores that were mined.

At the gold museum we also got to see and touch a large variety of rocks/minerals/metals. Some were dull and brittle, while others were colorful and shimmery. There was also the HUGE gold brick that visitors were encouraged to try to pick it up (our tour guide said if we could pick it up, we could keep it). I did indeed try my hand at lifting it, but I fear that I too was unsuccessful and will unfortunately continue to be poor :(

I ended up buying a couple of goodies at the gift store— a gold metal fish bookmark and some porcelain calico cat chopstick holders. Somehow when I tried to use Apple Pay, the POS system broke itself so there was a bit of a tussle trying to fix it. Everyone else after me in line had to use cash :/

Our next activity was taking another drive to Jiufen, a neighboring mountainside town that had a crazy intricate system of colorful shops, food stalls, and tea houses. I explored the shops with some of my classmates as we looked for a teahouse to have lunch in. I did find a jewelry store with Chinese traditional earrings, but I wanted to look at other options and forgot so I never returned. We ended up finding a teahouse with an amazing view of the mountains and sparkling blue ocean. To get there, we had to travel through the small rock tunnel passageway that was pretty cool. I’ll be honest, I didn’t LOVE the tea. It was a cool experience getting so see the tea ceremony and such but as a colonizee of England, I fear I might have to stick with adding sugar in my tea :( I ordered salt and pepper shrimp, but the shrimp was WHOLE with the head, shells, and legs….but I championed through.

After lunch, we explored some more and encountered a lot of very cute animals on the way. At the very end, I FINALLY find a store that sold qipaos, but it was kind of expensive and the options were limited so I opted to try buying it again later. We stopped along the way to get watermelon juice, something I’ve seen different vendors selling all over Taipei. It was pretty tasty and relatively cheap. We eventually met back with the rest of the class and took another long bus ride to another museum that was unfirtenyl closed. In its place we set off lanterns instead. We got to use calligraphy brushes and ink to write our hopes and dreams on the lanterns before the attendants helped set them up to be lit. We all got to take a video of us lifting off our lanterns and watching them float off into the distance. It was pretty cool. It felt like those scenes in traditional Chinese dramas.

After the lanterns, we hung out in that area for a bit and tried scallion pancakes. I got all the toppings on my scallion pancake because i wanted to try it in its intended? form and I’ve always seen them in Korean dramas. It was pretty tasty, but perhaps if I get it again, I’ll get it just plain. There were also options to add egg or American cheese but I passed on those. Our professor’s husband later told us that he was really happy we all tried the scallion pancake since it’s one of his favorite foods in Taiwan which was super sweet <3 (that’s father for real!).

Later we headed home on the bus and i settled into bed after a long day of traveling and seeing new things!

Academic Reflection

The now popular tourist attraction of Jiufen originally started off as a village of nine families that eventually turned into a town after gold was discovered in the nearby Kauhun hills. It peaked during the Japanese occupation of Taiwan, and houses sprung all over from people moving to mine for gold. Water ran so freely though the town that even in front of people’s doorsteps could they bend down and feel gold in the water. Unfortunately during World War 2, Jiufen was used a prisoner of war camp for Allied soldiers captured in Singapore. At camp Kinkaseki, the POWs were forced to work in the gold mines and the camp had the majority of deaths that occurred in all fourteen POW camps in Taiwan.

Also, I did some research into scallion pancakes, because something our tour guide said made me slightly confused. Our tour guide made a comment about how scallion pancakes are endemic to that area we were in, but I’ve long heard of 파전 (Korean scallion pancakes) even before I ever started studying Chinese. Even the sign at the scallion pancake shop said 파전 on it. After doing some research, I found a very humorous accusation that pizza is really just a copy of a scallion pancake. Apparently the story goes that Marco Polo missed scallion pancakes so much when he returned to Italy, that he asked his chef friends to recreate it. Eventually he asked them to put the toppings on top instead of inside, and the pizza as we know it was born! (Allegedly). Of course this story isn’t real but I think it’s hilarious considering the other stories I’ve heard about things being stolen from China such as pasta from noodles.

[mayakshethra]

Discover Hidden Gems: Your Ultimate Travel Guide

Traveling is more than just visiting well-known landmarks; it's about uncovering the hidden gems that truly define a destination. These hidden gems provide a more authentic experience, allowing travelers to immerse themselves in local culture, history, and natural beauty. Whether you're an intrepid adventurer or a casual tourist, discovering these lesser-known spots can make your trip unforgettable. Here’s your ultimate travel guide to uncovering hidden gems around the world best travel agency in kochi

Why Seek Out Hidden Gems?

Authenticity: Major tourist attractions are often crowded and commercialized. Hidden gems offer a more genuine experience, reflecting the true essence of the place.

Less Crowded: Avoid the throngs of tourists and enjoy a more peaceful, personal experience.

Unique Stories: Each hidden gem has its own unique story, often intertwined with local legends and history that you won't find in guidebooks.

Support Local Communities: Visiting off-the-beaten-path locations supports local businesses and communities, helping to preserve their culture and traditions.

How to Find Hidden Gems

Research and Planning: Use travel blogs, forums, and social media to find recommendations from other travelers. Websites like Atlas Obscura are dedicated to uncovering unusual and lesser-known locations.

Talk to Locals: Locals are the best source of insider knowledge. Ask them about their favorite spots that aren’t typically mentioned in travel guides.

Get Off the Beaten Path: Sometimes, the best discoveries happen when you stray from the main tourist routes. Explore side streets, rural areas, and less-trafficked parts of a city.

Use Apps and Technology: Apps like Google Maps, TripAdvisor, and even Instagram can help you discover hidden gems. Look for places with high ratings but fewer reviews.

Hidden Gems Around the World

Europe

Sintra, Portugal: While Lisbon is bustling with tourists, Sintra offers a magical escape with its fairy-tale palaces, lush gardens, and mystical forests. The Pena Palace and Quinta da Regaleira are must-visits.

Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic: This small town in the Czech Republic is a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and charming riverside views.

Ghent, Belgium: Often overshadowed by Bruges, Ghent boasts stunning Gothic architecture, vibrant nightlife, and fewer crowds. The Gravensteen Castle and St. Bavo's Cathedral are highlights.

Asia

Luang Prabang, Laos: This serene town in Laos is rich in culture and history. With its beautiful temples, night markets, and the nearby Kuang Si Falls, Luang Prabang offers a tranquil retreat from bustling cities.

Hampi, India: An ancient village in Karnataka, Hampi is filled with ruins of temples and palaces. The surreal landscape and historical significance make it a fascinating destination.

Jiufen, Taiwan: A charming mountain town that inspired the movie Spirited Away, Jiufen’s narrow streets, tea houses, and stunning views over the Pacific Ocean offer a unique cultural experience.

Americas

Valparaíso, Chile: This colorful coastal city is known for its steep hills, vibrant street art, and bohemian culture. The funiculars and views from the hilltops are particularly captivating.

Tulum, Mexico: While Cancun and Playa del Carmen are tourist magnets, Tulum offers a more laid-back vibe with its pristine beaches, Mayan ruins, and eco-friendly resorts.

Montreal, Canada: Often overshadowed by Toronto and Vancouver, Montreal’s blend of French and English cultures, its historic Old Town, and a vibrant arts scene make it a hidden gem worth exploring.

Africa

Chefchaouen, Morocco: Known as the Blue City, Chefchaouen is famous for its blue-painted buildings and stunning mountain backdrop. It’s a great place to explore Moroccan culture away from the crowds of Marrakesh.

Lamu Island, Kenya: This UNESCO World Heritage site offers a glimpse into Swahili culture with its narrow streets, historic architecture, and beautiful beaches. It’s a peaceful retreat compared to Kenya’s more touristy areas.

Tips for Enjoying Hidden Gems

Respect Local Cultures: Always be respectful of local customs, traditions, and the environment. This ensures that these hidden gems remain unspoiled for future visitors.

Be Flexible: Hidden gems might not have the same level of infrastructure as popular tourist spots. Be prepared for less comfort and more adventure.

Pack Accordingly: Depending on the location, you might need to bring specific gear, whether it’s hiking boots, a good map, or extra supplies.

Document Your Experience: Keep a travel journal or blog about your experiences to share with others and preserve your memories. Traveling to hidden gems is about experiencing the world in a more intimate and authentic way. It requires a spirit of adventure, a willingness to explore, and an openness to new experiences. Whether you're wandering through the colorful streets of Valparaíso, hiking the mystical landscapes of Hampi, or sipping tea in the mountain town of Jiufen, these hidden gems offer unforgettable experiences that enrich your journey and create lasting memories. So next time you plan a trip, consider stepping off the beaten path and discovering the hidden gems that await best travel agency in alappuzha

[brookebeebe-blog]

July 31st - Great Harbor Bridge, Shoyoen, Kaohsiung Main Public Library, Night Market

Cough is maybe getting a little bit better, but still annoying. Today, I finally got up early enough to make it to breakfast. This is the first time I had it, and I think it’s by far the best breakfast offered by any of the hotels. After breakfast, I got ready for the day. Then, we had some class time. We all presented our photo on bad Chinese translations. We had a break after so I talked to my boyfriend and he is requesting some lobster flavored lays (which are disgusting). I also ate some ramen for lunch and took a short nap before the activities for the day. First, we went to the Great Harbor bridge. We watched it turn around, which was pretty cool. Next, we went to Shoyoen, which was a villa which eventually turned into a place for military officials to work and live. There was a bunch of Japanese and western influence on the architecture of the building. Next, we went to the Kaohsiung Main Public Library. It was very pretty architecture and fun to see everyone studying. Then, we saw a subway station with some beautiful lit up columns. Lastly, we went to a night market and grabbed some food. Zoe and I wanted to kill some time so we decided to go to the claw machines and try to win something. After spending about $150 NTD, I saw the perfect opportunity. A large goose stuffed animal had its neck hanging out of the machine. I kept inching it forward and after 10 tries, the goose was mine. I have no idea how I’m going to carry it around the rest of the trip because it’s massive, but I am proud.

Academic Reflection

For my academic reflection, I wanted to talk about the Great Harbor bridge. It costs $10 million US to build. It is also the longest swing bridge in Asia at 110 meters long. It has a maximum capacity of 500 people and each 90 degree turn takes 5 minutes. When the bridge is fully opened, there is a 40 meter wide channel for ships to pass through. It also greatly shortened travel time. A 30 minute walk from the Pier 2 Art Center to the Penglai Wharf only takes 2 minutes now. It is also now one of the most important landmarks to see in Kaohsiung and attracts tourists from all over the world. It was designed with dolphins and shells in mind, but some say it looks like a sail. The port of Kaohsiung handles 70 percent of Taiwan’s container shipping, so it is important that the bridge still allows access to ports. It really is a work of art, and the engineering that went behind it is quite impressive.

Citations

https://www.iaphworldports.org/news/iaphnews/8356/

https://zonta.org.tw/aidm/page.php?ver=en&data_nav=1084&page_type=page&vid=5841&portal=aidm2