500 days of Summer
Why does it seem so real, why does it sound so familiar...?? A story about how a boy meets a girl. It's not a love story. Well it says that, and probably it really isn't. At least Summer wasn't in love, I guess anything that's not mutual, it isn't a real relationship but people inevitably still get into them. My best friend was telling me the other day, most people get together for convenience. You know, to share costs (rent a house, etc), to keep one another company, to have someone to keep warm in bed... So how many are truly in love I wonder? I know when I'm in it... Well at least I did, and that was just once! Some of the times, I was just hopelessly into someone that wasn't worthy of it till I realised it later down the road. And at other times, I knew it when I really liked someone, so much that we were just comfortable being together. But for love to happen, it takes a lot more than like, comfort and one sided feelings... Love is hard work, it's unpredictable and hits you hard when you didn't notice it, it's sweet but you get toothache from too much of it, it makes you easily upset/excited/happy/agitated, love is just weird... I can't list all the symptoms about it because I only had it once :)))
I like this show, the ending is unexpected but as always, so real. This, I prefer to those crappy romantic fairytale ending. I'm just too practical sometimes, yes, practical but adore romance. This DVD is so worth a keep!
30.8.10
28.8.10
Having a tang
I just finished watching Juno. Oliver was saying how good it was, and so I decided to find the movie. I went through its brief synopsis and didn't watch it with much expectation. Woa, what a brave girl Juno was!
I suddenly feel so little. Everyone tells me how brave I am when I went on a trip alone, how brave I am when I left for UK alone, how brave I am to go through the cycling hell... but it all seems nothing compared to the things in this movie. Well, I know it's a movie! But I'm sure some people have gone through it as well. Her courageous confession on love (also her decision to give up the baby for adoption) and I sometimes wish I can confront my feelings. Women. We are too influenced and controlled by our emotions, and sometimes we take a long time to realise what we are really feeling. You know, after the show, suddenly it dawned upon me what I should really do :)
I suddenly feel so little. Everyone tells me how brave I am when I went on a trip alone, how brave I am when I left for UK alone, how brave I am to go through the cycling hell... but it all seems nothing compared to the things in this movie. Well, I know it's a movie! But I'm sure some people have gone through it as well. Her courageous confession on love (also her decision to give up the baby for adoption) and I sometimes wish I can confront my feelings. Women. We are too influenced and controlled by our emotions, and sometimes we take a long time to realise what we are really feeling. You know, after the show, suddenly it dawned upon me what I should really do :)
25.8.10
Ich bin muede :~(
I have been happy for the longest time I know... till today. Out of a sudden, I feel like the battery that has lost all its energy, the bird that has got tired of flying, the hungry cat that has stopped hunting for food, the rainy day that has no rainbow afterwards and most importantly a human who has got tired of being happy. Can it even happen? Tired of being happy? Tired of being optimistic, positive, hopeful, grateful... I think it can. I feel helpless, lost and exhausted. I feel as if I have cycled through another 4 hours of hell, I feel as though not waking up tomorrow morning doesn't make a difference anymore because there is nothing to look forward to. I suddenly seem to have lost my goals, my dreams, my ambitions... and slowly my loved ones, my friends... my life. I want to blame GOD for not helping me, but I know it isn't HIS fault. I want to blame someone for causing me pain, but it's not anyone's fault. I want to blame somebody but there is nobody. I am sick of being positive and it's not going anywhere. I am sick of waiting, I am sick of things that are not within my control, I am sick of depending on luck. I want to hide, I want to cry, I want to be alone. Can you even hear me? Can you even feel it? Can you know it but pretend not to? Can you tell me life is always playing tricks on us? Can you not tell me life isn't always fair?
24.8.10
Dine French in Japanese style
I heart my friends. Well, most of them. The ones whom never fail to keep my spirits up when I'm feeling down... the ones whom are there to share my joy, grief, pain and tears... the ones that are not physically here but nevertheless supportive and encouraging! They are the best things that have happened in my life (besides family).
Anyway, last Sunday, Jean took me to brunch. We went to this very pretty petite cafe called Octa Hotel. Imitating a Parisan Hotel, Octa Hotel is Japanese but serves cuisine of the French. Amusing, isn't it? This is probably why Japan is so fascinating, they never fail to surprise us! This is their first foray abroad, and certainly it is an honour to dine there! They also sell tableware, accessorises, clothes and many novelty items, all imported from Europe and Japan.
Perfect setting for Hi-tea. They do not do many main courses, mainly sandwiches. So I guess it's more a place for light meals and afternoon tea. I ordered myself a smoked salmon with avocado sandwich for S$14.90 (if I remember correctly), it came with tortilla chips. Plus I topped up a few bucks for a tea or coffee. Salmon and avocado are two of my favourite things, and they will never go wrong together...
And I sure love this sandwich!
It's not very cheap, but it's Japanese, so I guess you do pay for their service, decor and cosy ambience as well! It would be better if the tea and coffee comes refillable! I just saw on their website, they are having a new hi-tea promotion that comes with refillable tea or coffee! The lunch set seems very reasonable too! Also, I very much believe the staff are Japanese too, at least some of them.
Anyway, last Sunday, Jean took me to brunch. We went to this very pretty petite cafe called Octa Hotel. Imitating a Parisan Hotel, Octa Hotel is Japanese but serves cuisine of the French. Amusing, isn't it? This is probably why Japan is so fascinating, they never fail to surprise us! This is their first foray abroad, and certainly it is an honour to dine there! They also sell tableware, accessorises, clothes and many novelty items, all imported from Europe and Japan.
Perfect setting for Hi-tea. They do not do many main courses, mainly sandwiches. So I guess it's more a place for light meals and afternoon tea. I ordered myself a smoked salmon with avocado sandwich for S$14.90 (if I remember correctly), it came with tortilla chips. Plus I topped up a few bucks for a tea or coffee. Salmon and avocado are two of my favourite things, and they will never go wrong together...
And I sure love this sandwich!
It's not very cheap, but it's Japanese, so I guess you do pay for their service, decor and cosy ambience as well! It would be better if the tea and coffee comes refillable! I just saw on their website, they are having a new hi-tea promotion that comes with refillable tea or coffee! The lunch set seems very reasonable too! Also, I very much believe the staff are Japanese too, at least some of them.
Das Eis und Sorbet
Find this place @ PARCO Marina Bay, Galta Gelato Italiano Artigianale. A gem for ice cream and sorbet!
I had it twice since and nothing will prove otherwise. The ice cream is just so good... the sorbet a little too sweet for my liking but some flavours are pretty okay. I didn't snap a photo of the little shop, but they have 2 cool rotating machines, one for ice cream, the other for sorbet. The staff are also very generous with the scoops, it's S$4.80 for double, just nearly a dollar more than a single! There's no point trying to save some calories anyway ;)
The Rum Orange & 100% Black Chocolate is my most recent try, and I swear that rum is really strong on the first spoonful... But I didn't get drunk ;) Nothing beats chocolate, and not to mention, dark chocolate. It isn't bitter, it just tastes delectably not-too-sweet. The sorbet is my first try, those are the least sweet flavours among the others. Too much Pink Guava can get a little too sweet but fortunately the raspberry balances it out nicely.
I also sampled Pistachio flavour at their tasting booth in Millenia Walk, however it wasn't there for sale!!! I would love a scoop of that, so milky and refreshing! Raspberry with ginger is a quirky idea, but that combination is just not right.
They always have something new... so go and have a look at their new and constantly changing menu!
I had it twice since and nothing will prove otherwise. The ice cream is just so good... the sorbet a little too sweet for my liking but some flavours are pretty okay. I didn't snap a photo of the little shop, but they have 2 cool rotating machines, one for ice cream, the other for sorbet. The staff are also very generous with the scoops, it's S$4.80 for double, just nearly a dollar more than a single! There's no point trying to save some calories anyway ;)
 |
| Pink Guava & Raspberry sorbet. |
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| Rum Orange & 100% Black Chocolate. |
The Rum Orange & 100% Black Chocolate is my most recent try, and I swear that rum is really strong on the first spoonful... But I didn't get drunk ;) Nothing beats chocolate, and not to mention, dark chocolate. It isn't bitter, it just tastes delectably not-too-sweet. The sorbet is my first try, those are the least sweet flavours among the others. Too much Pink Guava can get a little too sweet but fortunately the raspberry balances it out nicely.
I also sampled Pistachio flavour at their tasting booth in Millenia Walk, however it wasn't there for sale!!! I would love a scoop of that, so milky and refreshing! Raspberry with ginger is a quirky idea, but that combination is just not right.
They always have something new... so go and have a look at their new and constantly changing menu!
23.8.10
Ewwww
Food blogger demanded for free meal.
This is such a disgrace to Singapore society! All I can say is if you can't afford to eat there, don't even write about it!
Update: Apparently now he has written an entry to clarify... but I still think it's not right to assume the restaurant would pay for all, imagine someone to bring a whole party there! Not to mention throwing his card when paying.
Dog murderer!
If only all humans can treat animals like their loved ones... This is so brutal and I really hate men who beat up women, and even the dogs or cats. Maybe he will be a dog his next life?
This is such a disgrace to Singapore society! All I can say is if you can't afford to eat there, don't even write about it!
Update: Apparently now he has written an entry to clarify... but I still think it's not right to assume the restaurant would pay for all, imagine someone to bring a whole party there! Not to mention throwing his card when paying.
Dog murderer!
If only all humans can treat animals like their loved ones... This is so brutal and I really hate men who beat up women, and even the dogs or cats. Maybe he will be a dog his next life?
Indulging
A picture sure says a thousand words... so let it speak to you ;)
It was a friend's birthday, and so we decided to celebrate by having a feast. We booked this about 2 months ago, yes the wait is this long. It was a 1 for 1 promotion at S$58++ per pax. I haven't eaten so much for a long time, and I swear I was that full that I couldn't sleep till 3am and having to run the toilet a few times! Not stomach upset, just needed to give them back to nature :( Looking at the picture, I only took a bit of each for all the main courses, it wasn't a lot, was it? But it slowly accumulated over the 3 hours and it probably was quite a fair bit I had.
As it was during the Youth Olympics games period, and Ritz Carlton was probably one of the hotels with VIPs, the security was tight. We had to be scanned before entering. Greenhouse is just at the corner from the lobby. My favourites of the night got to be pretzel (as good as the ones I really really really miss!!!!!!!!!!! Sorry Ritz, I just had to take a second one ;)), the fresh salmon sashimi and the oysters (which I really really wanna try!!!!!! My first time, and I had 5 of them!). The rest of the food were good too, but those I listed were exceptional, because they're my favourite food. There was abundant to choose from, and I just could not stop even though my stomach was getting filled up pretty fast. Their service was pretty attentive too, our plates were constantly being cleared, we were asked if we enjoyed the food.
They sat us at a really nice cosy corner. Nearby there was a 2-seaters table, and it was weird they always placed a solo male customer there. The first guy who sat there was this super friendly old man, he was smiling and playing with a toddler sitting at the opposite table. He often looked our way, so we exchanged smiles and made small talk. He's Canadian, here to watch the Olympics. Did he say he's a sailor!? He also gave us 2 badges which is related to some American games to be held in Toronto in 2015. Thanks!
Then the next guy who sat down was real annoying. He was constantly perving at women, and deliberately did it as he slowly made his way between the tables to get the food. He even wanted to leave without paying... brrrr. Gross!
I really like this place, the ambience and the variety of food! I will certainly be back, hopefully they have the same promotion again! :)
We will all end up in diapers
The Curious Case of Benjamin Button.
Itching for some new films in the comfort of home, I bought some DVDs. Finally, sisters and me sat down to watch the first one on a relaxing Sunday evening. The show is very lengthy, 166 minutes. Christ's sake, it's so slow.... For half the duration, Brad Pitt is still old and wrinkly and I just couldn't wait to see the ending! The show is pretty predictable, not many surprise elements except for the part he went missing near the end. But well, we all know he'd come back, like in most movies. But it is interesting to see the little self in an old body and an old self hidden in the child... and to even have dementia when he's a kid. A nice perspective to see how the relationship works between Benjamin (Brad Pitt) and the beautiful woman, Daisy (Cate Blanchett).
My verdict: 3.5/5 (deducted 0.5 for being super slow)
Itching for some new films in the comfort of home, I bought some DVDs. Finally, sisters and me sat down to watch the first one on a relaxing Sunday evening. The show is very lengthy, 166 minutes. Christ's sake, it's so slow.... For half the duration, Brad Pitt is still old and wrinkly and I just couldn't wait to see the ending! The show is pretty predictable, not many surprise elements except for the part he went missing near the end. But well, we all know he'd come back, like in most movies. But it is interesting to see the little self in an old body and an old self hidden in the child... and to even have dementia when he's a kid. A nice perspective to see how the relationship works between Benjamin (Brad Pitt) and the beautiful woman, Daisy (Cate Blanchett).
My verdict: 3.5/5 (deducted 0.5 for being super slow)
22.8.10
Skyler & his invisible crowns
Meet Skyler, a man of talent :)
I first met Skyler (a Taiwanese) on my flight back from Taiwan. This is the first time I actually stay in touch with someone I have spoken to on the plane. It isn't really my kinda thing to start talking to strangers onboard the planes. Both of us were travelling alone, and somehow it was easy to start a conversation since we aren't at all arrogant ;)
We shared our love for travels, my thoughts about Taiwan and some pretty pictures during the 4 hours flight, of course, not the whole time... We sure needed our naps. Before we landed, he passed me his bookmark which was designed for his previous exhibition I believed. I learnt that he's an artist and would be having an exhibition here in Singapore too. So he told me the date and invited me... it was 3 days ago. His works are amazingly imaginative and I really will like to buy one of his paintings someday. I wish I could paint like him!
If you're keen to visit a nice art gallery to find something to hang on your empty wall, why not pay a visit?
Exhibition Title
Obscure Desire
Too Fast To Live, Too Young To Die – A group exhibition of 3 young artists
Duration
19 August - 9 September 2010
Organizer
Presented by Sunjin Galleries
Venue
Sunjin Galleries
43 Jalan Merah Saga
#03-62 Workloft @ Chipbee
Singapore 278 115
20.8.10
Stealing in your dream
Inception.
A science fiction action film. Not normally my type of movie, but I went ahead upon hearing so many interesting reviews. The depth of the dreams really boggle the mind. It's cleverly directed and the complexity of the details has surely left us all clueless about the ending. Is it still a dream with the top still spinning? Is it someone else's dream and he's only a projection? Or is it the reality?
Even though the movie is based on the impossible concept of sharing a dream with others, it took Christopher Nolan about 9 years to work on this. It's still fascinating nonetheless, at least it kept me to my seat without any toilet break and with my mind constantly intrigued.
Leonardo DiCaprio has aged so much since Titanic days, but the older he gets, the more charming he is ;)
My verdict: 4.5/5
A science fiction action film. Not normally my type of movie, but I went ahead upon hearing so many interesting reviews. The depth of the dreams really boggle the mind. It's cleverly directed and the complexity of the details has surely left us all clueless about the ending. Is it still a dream with the top still spinning? Is it someone else's dream and he's only a projection? Or is it the reality?
Even though the movie is based on the impossible concept of sharing a dream with others, it took Christopher Nolan about 9 years to work on this. It's still fascinating nonetheless, at least it kept me to my seat without any toilet break and with my mind constantly intrigued.
Leonardo DiCaprio has aged so much since Titanic days, but the older he gets, the more charming he is ;)
My verdict: 4.5/5
My Harajuku BABY collection
I finally got them all, after getting the last one in bikini few days back... After resisting for so long, I decided to give in to my temptation! I find a distinct similarity between me and Baby ;) I love her big fluffy hair and her musky baby powder scent suits me just fine!! Here's a cute picture of all their cute bums.
18.8.10
Mamee II
Mum's bad days are finally over...
I got her a new juice extractor and with some coaxing from the sisters, now she's back to her happy self. I just taught her how to use it, but you know, old people are just so lazy to learn new things. She was complaining how troublesome it is, when indeed it is VERY simple! Just use it once, then ta-dah... you know how to. Let's now hope she will stick to her strict health diet. We even joked we will all be vegetarians at home for her, but yes... we can.
I got her a new juice extractor and with some coaxing from the sisters, now she's back to her happy self. I just taught her how to use it, but you know, old people are just so lazy to learn new things. She was complaining how troublesome it is, when indeed it is VERY simple! Just use it once, then ta-dah... you know how to. Let's now hope she will stick to her strict health diet. We even joked we will all be vegetarians at home for her, but yes... we can.
17.8.10
So you know when you meet one
Quoted this from the plentyoffish forum by SWEETZSUGAR and thought this is very amusing but true!
"HI I SAW THIS AND JUST HAD TO RESPOND AND SHARE WHAT I HAVE LEARNED OVER THE YEARS. MY STEP DAD (WHO WAS A DETECTIVE FIRST GRADE) SAT ME DOWN A FEW MONTHS AGO AND TOLD ME THIS:
WHEN A MAN CARES FOR YOU HE WILL MOVE MOUNTAINS, CANCEL PLANS AND FALL ALL OVER YOU. THE LINE (I AM NOT READY, AS WE HAVE ALL HEARD 100 TIMES IS A BUNCH OF CRAP) MEN ARE AVOIDERS, THEY ARE NOT LIKE US WOMEN WITH ALL THE FEELINGS AND COMMUNICATION STUFF. HE TOLD ME TO LET A MAN ASK YOU THINGS HE WANTS TO KNOW, JUST DON'T VOLUNTEE INFORMATION, BE VAGUE BUT NICE. LET HIM GET THE INFORMATION HE WANTS FROM YOU. THE REASON BEING IS MEN FEEL AS THEY HAVE ACOMPLISHED SOMETHING WHEN THEY ASK YOU A QUESTION AND YOU ANSWER IT. WHEN WE TELL THEM WITHOUT THEM ASKING, ITS TOO EASY AND ALSO, THEY MAY NOT BE READY TO HEAR WHAT WE HAVE TO SAY BECAUSE THEY DON'T CARE ABOUT US YET. YOUR FAMILY PROBLEM COULD HAVE PUT A DAMPER ON THIS BUT I SERIOUSLY DOUBT IT. A MAN WHO IS ALL OVER YOU IMMEDIATELY HAS SOMETHING TO HIDE, A MAN WHO IS TOO QUIET OR STANDOFISH HAS PROBLEMS ALSO. NEVER ASK A MAN OUT OR ASK TO SEE HIM, IF HE REALLY LIKES YOU AND WANTS TO SEE YOU, HE WILL MENTION IT BEFORE THE DATE IS OVER.. ONE THING MOM TOLD ME ABOUT MEN IS THEY HAVE PATTERNS. IF THEY CONTINUE THE SAME PATTERN ALL IS WELL BUT... IF YOU SEE A SMALL CHANGE, BEWARE, KEEP YOUR EYES OPEN AND GET READY TO RUN FOR YOUR LIFE, YOUR GETTING DUMPED, OR THE PULL AWAY ROUTINE IS ON IT'S WAY. THIS MEANS MORE THAN 1 MISSED PHONE CALL, A CANCELLATION OF A DATE. I HAVE JUST TURNED 44 A FEW WEEKS AGO AND HAVE BEEN THROUGH IT ALL, BUT I RECENTLY GOT SMART AND REALIZED ANYONE WHO DUMPS ME WILL WIND UP WITH A HUGE LOSS, THIS GOES FOR YOU ALSO. I MET A MAN A FEW MONTHS AGO. I GOT VERY LUCKY, HE IS THE LOVE OF MY LIFE AND MY SOULMATE. I LISTENED (FOR ONCE) TO WHAT MY STEPDAD TOLD ME AND NOT ONLY DID IT WORK, BUT I FOUND A COMMITED, LOVING WONDERFUL MAN. UNFORTUNATELY, MY STEP DAD PASSED AWAY IN JANUARY AND I WON'T BE GETTING HIS WORDS OF WISDOM BUT I WANTED TO PASS THEM ALONG TO YOU AND GIVE YOU SOME LUCK HERE. HE TAUGHT ME SO MUCH ABOUT MEN.. BE STRONG AND MOVE ON IF YOU THINK YOUR HEART IS BEING PLAYED WITH, REMEMBER IT IS THEIR LOSS....."
"HI I SAW THIS AND JUST HAD TO RESPOND AND SHARE WHAT I HAVE LEARNED OVER THE YEARS. MY STEP DAD (WHO WAS A DETECTIVE FIRST GRADE) SAT ME DOWN A FEW MONTHS AGO AND TOLD ME THIS:
WHEN A MAN CARES FOR YOU HE WILL MOVE MOUNTAINS, CANCEL PLANS AND FALL ALL OVER YOU. THE LINE (I AM NOT READY, AS WE HAVE ALL HEARD 100 TIMES IS A BUNCH OF CRAP) MEN ARE AVOIDERS, THEY ARE NOT LIKE US WOMEN WITH ALL THE FEELINGS AND COMMUNICATION STUFF. HE TOLD ME TO LET A MAN ASK YOU THINGS HE WANTS TO KNOW, JUST DON'T VOLUNTEE INFORMATION, BE VAGUE BUT NICE. LET HIM GET THE INFORMATION HE WANTS FROM YOU. THE REASON BEING IS MEN FEEL AS THEY HAVE ACOMPLISHED SOMETHING WHEN THEY ASK YOU A QUESTION AND YOU ANSWER IT. WHEN WE TELL THEM WITHOUT THEM ASKING, ITS TOO EASY AND ALSO, THEY MAY NOT BE READY TO HEAR WHAT WE HAVE TO SAY BECAUSE THEY DON'T CARE ABOUT US YET. YOUR FAMILY PROBLEM COULD HAVE PUT A DAMPER ON THIS BUT I SERIOUSLY DOUBT IT. A MAN WHO IS ALL OVER YOU IMMEDIATELY HAS SOMETHING TO HIDE, A MAN WHO IS TOO QUIET OR STANDOFISH HAS PROBLEMS ALSO. NEVER ASK A MAN OUT OR ASK TO SEE HIM, IF HE REALLY LIKES YOU AND WANTS TO SEE YOU, HE WILL MENTION IT BEFORE THE DATE IS OVER.. ONE THING MOM TOLD ME ABOUT MEN IS THEY HAVE PATTERNS. IF THEY CONTINUE THE SAME PATTERN ALL IS WELL BUT... IF YOU SEE A SMALL CHANGE, BEWARE, KEEP YOUR EYES OPEN AND GET READY TO RUN FOR YOUR LIFE, YOUR GETTING DUMPED, OR THE PULL AWAY ROUTINE IS ON IT'S WAY. THIS MEANS MORE THAN 1 MISSED PHONE CALL, A CANCELLATION OF A DATE. I HAVE JUST TURNED 44 A FEW WEEKS AGO AND HAVE BEEN THROUGH IT ALL, BUT I RECENTLY GOT SMART AND REALIZED ANYONE WHO DUMPS ME WILL WIND UP WITH A HUGE LOSS, THIS GOES FOR YOU ALSO. I MET A MAN A FEW MONTHS AGO. I GOT VERY LUCKY, HE IS THE LOVE OF MY LIFE AND MY SOULMATE. I LISTENED (FOR ONCE) TO WHAT MY STEPDAD TOLD ME AND NOT ONLY DID IT WORK, BUT I FOUND A COMMITED, LOVING WONDERFUL MAN. UNFORTUNATELY, MY STEP DAD PASSED AWAY IN JANUARY AND I WON'T BE GETTING HIS WORDS OF WISDOM BUT I WANTED TO PASS THEM ALONG TO YOU AND GIVE YOU SOME LUCK HERE. HE TAUGHT ME SO MUCH ABOUT MEN.. BE STRONG AND MOVE ON IF YOU THINK YOUR HEART IS BEING PLAYED WITH, REMEMBER IT IS THEIR LOSS....."
Dear Shaun,
You rekindle my love for sheeps
How I miss you, woolly
The tiny black face of yours and that thick white furry coat
How I wish I can touch you
Rubbing my hand and stroking your fur
I yearn so much to feed you
To see that happy mouth of yours chewing
Shaun, oh Shaun, I do miss you
16.8.10
8. 最后一夜
8. One last night
Needless to say, I was exhausted from the lack of sleep. I informed the staff the moment they woke up and had a change of room. From a mixed room of 4 to an eight, with 6 other men. I couldn't say NO as it was the only one available, and it was just one more night. I decided to risk it after I was convinced that a staff was also staying in the same room.
It was BS last day in Taipei, so we went for breakfast (and bumped into the girls!). The bacon 蛋饼 is somewhat like crepe, but Chinese style. I totally enjoyed it, and I wondered what happened to all the other days in Taiwan, why did I miss out such good stuff!! Then a little steamed bun sprinkled with sesame and a yogurt milk tea. Then I parted with BS who left to do his last minute shopping, I headed to find Havaianas and my skincare product which is 25% cheaper in Taiwan! On the way, I chanced upon some illegal stalls along the street selling dresses, they were very pretty... after some bargaining, I got a beautiful blue maxi dress.
I caught up with the girls again to head to Danshui, it was our last day hanging out together as they would leave noon the following day. Danshui is the last stop on the red line and it didn't take as long as we thought, but my lack of sleep was turning me into a zombie. I didn't feel as enthusiastic as I wanted to be. We found Havaianas though which was a good consolation! Then we wondered around to sample the delicacies of Danshui. The tall ice-cream, BBQ squid, fish balls and 阿给 (tofu with fishcake and rice vermicelli) and some 鸡蛋糕 (mini sponge balls). We also did the caricature by the riverside, it was 100NT, so don't expect too much ;) It was a fun experience but the uncle seemed a bit weird and violent from the conversation we had while he was drawing us. Then we did some last minute souvenir shopping, and enjoyed the sunset while we walked back to the station. It's definitely worth a daytrip I say.
The girls headed back to Shilin for more shopping, and I had myself a date with Carrie at Ximending who was in town for the weekend! Ximending is an uptown where you can find more expensive but not necessary better clothings. I didn't have the chance to eat the 阿宗面线，food totally slipped out of my mind after a sleepless night. All my friends persuaded me not to go back to the hostel, and even offered me to stay with them but it was too much of a hassle. Well I guess I wanted to face my fear... that was the only way to overcome it.
Anyway, at Ximending, there is the 西门红楼, also known as The Red House. It is a historic building that offers space for creative and cultural exhibitions. Very arty! I was obsessed with it a bit too much that I almost missed meeting up with Carrie! There's this area where there were various petite boutiques with locally designed merchandise and I swear they were so delicately designed or made with love that I wished I had more money to spend on them! It was great to catch up with Carrie, we chatted while we window-shopped and talked about the plan for the following day. It wasn't too long before fatigue hit me hard. I wanted to do Shi-da nightmarket again but I wasn't really up for it. Sure enough, I bumped into the Finnish guy upon my return, he sure looked stunned to still see me around. I felt my stomach growling and went out to the supermarket to get a cup noodle and a packet of juice as fruit stalls had already closed by then.
I chatted with a few other Singaporeans and a roommate who definitely was more decent, but I just couldn't place my trust easily anymore. That night at 2am, I went to bed alone, no one was back yet. Each time the door opened, my subconscious mind would wake me up to check who was coming in... I was so glad when I woke up the following morning, everything was over :) I packed up, ready for check-out and lunch with Carrie.
Carrie took me to a tiny Vietnamese restaurant where she likes to dine, we had the vietnamese soup noodles. Then we were supposed to hunt for this chocolate place but it turned out that it wasn't selling their cakes in pieces, only as wholes. So we moved on to have Movenpick ice cream, Dan (my friend's friend) turned up and we all enjoyed the short time together. Then it was the last minute shopping time for me, Carrie and I went to Wufenpu 五分埔。She wasn't really keen at first, she said there wasn't much stuff for her. But after that trip, I think she has since changed her mind! LOL.
Wufenpu was really easy to get to from the metro station. However we got there near 2pm, and it seemed like there was too much to see and shop. The place was overwhelming. This is the place where wholesalers sell their clothes in bulk (don't go on Monday as it's only for distributors). I got myself quite a few good deals, hesitant about some... as cheap doesn't usually mean good! I kept prolonging my time there and I almost screwed up my flight! Before I left Wufenpu, I bought a packet of cherry tomatoes with prunes - my favourite!
It was a mad mad rush to the airport, not to mention trying to stuff my purchase into the already stuffed bags. I had to lug my bags to the metro station, then a high speed train to Taoyuan from Taipei Main Station, followed by another shuttle bus to Terminal 1. And guess what time was the flight? 730pm. I probably had to check in by 645pm latest. I left the hostel at 510pm... it left me with 1 hour 35 mins! I had mis-calculated the time, and best of all, left out the queueing time to get my high speed train ticket and the waiting time for train and shuttle bus. God was indeed looking after me, after 10 minutes in the queue, the train staff opened up the door for those whom would get free-seating seats and paid in cash, immediately I went for it. It saved my life! I got onto the train, and smoothly enough, got onto the shuttle without much waiting!
I arrived safely at the airport and checked in just about 645pm. I had some money left but there was nothing to get in the airport. I bought myself a drink, smiled at how miraculously I arrived there. I was one of the last to board... and I believed the person next to me had missed his/her flight, ended up having more leg room for myself! I sat beside a hunky Chinese guy who turned out to be Taiwanese, and we had a nice conversation.
And so this is the end of my Taiwan trip... Thanks for reading, thank God for seeing me through!
Needless to say, I was exhausted from the lack of sleep. I informed the staff the moment they woke up and had a change of room. From a mixed room of 4 to an eight, with 6 other men. I couldn't say NO as it was the only one available, and it was just one more night. I decided to risk it after I was convinced that a staff was also staying in the same room.
It was BS last day in Taipei, so we went for breakfast (and bumped into the girls!). The bacon 蛋饼 is somewhat like crepe, but Chinese style. I totally enjoyed it, and I wondered what happened to all the other days in Taiwan, why did I miss out such good stuff!! Then a little steamed bun sprinkled with sesame and a yogurt milk tea. Then I parted with BS who left to do his last minute shopping, I headed to find Havaianas and my skincare product which is 25% cheaper in Taiwan! On the way, I chanced upon some illegal stalls along the street selling dresses, they were very pretty... after some bargaining, I got a beautiful blue maxi dress.
I caught up with the girls again to head to Danshui, it was our last day hanging out together as they would leave noon the following day. Danshui is the last stop on the red line and it didn't take as long as we thought, but my lack of sleep was turning me into a zombie. I didn't feel as enthusiastic as I wanted to be. We found Havaianas though which was a good consolation! Then we wondered around to sample the delicacies of Danshui. The tall ice-cream, BBQ squid, fish balls and 阿给 (tofu with fishcake and rice vermicelli) and some 鸡蛋糕 (mini sponge balls). We also did the caricature by the riverside, it was 100NT, so don't expect too much ;) It was a fun experience but the uncle seemed a bit weird and violent from the conversation we had while he was drawing us. Then we did some last minute souvenir shopping, and enjoyed the sunset while we walked back to the station. It's definitely worth a daytrip I say.The girls headed back to Shilin for more shopping, and I had myself a date with Carrie at Ximending who was in town for the weekend! Ximending is an uptown where you can find more expensive but not necessary better clothings. I didn't have the chance to eat the 阿宗面线，food totally slipped out of my mind after a sleepless night. All my friends persuaded me not to go back to the hostel, and even offered me to stay with them but it was too much of a hassle. Well I guess I wanted to face my fear... that was the only way to overcome it.
Anyway, at Ximending, there is the 西门红楼, also known as The Red House. It is a historic building that offers space for creative and cultural exhibitions. Very arty! I was obsessed with it a bit too much that I almost missed meeting up with Carrie! There's this area where there were various petite boutiques with locally designed merchandise and I swear they were so delicately designed or made with love that I wished I had more money to spend on them! It was great to catch up with Carrie, we chatted while we window-shopped and talked about the plan for the following day. It wasn't too long before fatigue hit me hard. I wanted to do Shi-da nightmarket again but I wasn't really up for it. Sure enough, I bumped into the Finnish guy upon my return, he sure looked stunned to still see me around. I felt my stomach growling and went out to the supermarket to get a cup noodle and a packet of juice as fruit stalls had already closed by then.
I chatted with a few other Singaporeans and a roommate who definitely was more decent, but I just couldn't place my trust easily anymore. That night at 2am, I went to bed alone, no one was back yet. Each time the door opened, my subconscious mind would wake me up to check who was coming in... I was so glad when I woke up the following morning, everything was over :) I packed up, ready for check-out and lunch with Carrie.
Carrie took me to a tiny Vietnamese restaurant where she likes to dine, we had the vietnamese soup noodles. Then we were supposed to hunt for this chocolate place but it turned out that it wasn't selling their cakes in pieces, only as wholes. So we moved on to have Movenpick ice cream, Dan (my friend's friend) turned up and we all enjoyed the short time together. Then it was the last minute shopping time for me, Carrie and I went to Wufenpu 五分埔。She wasn't really keen at first, she said there wasn't much stuff for her. But after that trip, I think she has since changed her mind! LOL.
Wufenpu was really easy to get to from the metro station. However we got there near 2pm, and it seemed like there was too much to see and shop. The place was overwhelming. This is the place where wholesalers sell their clothes in bulk (don't go on Monday as it's only for distributors). I got myself quite a few good deals, hesitant about some... as cheap doesn't usually mean good! I kept prolonging my time there and I almost screwed up my flight! Before I left Wufenpu, I bought a packet of cherry tomatoes with prunes - my favourite!
It was a mad mad rush to the airport, not to mention trying to stuff my purchase into the already stuffed bags. I had to lug my bags to the metro station, then a high speed train to Taoyuan from Taipei Main Station, followed by another shuttle bus to Terminal 1. And guess what time was the flight? 730pm. I probably had to check in by 645pm latest. I left the hostel at 510pm... it left me with 1 hour 35 mins! I had mis-calculated the time, and best of all, left out the queueing time to get my high speed train ticket and the waiting time for train and shuttle bus. God was indeed looking after me, after 10 minutes in the queue, the train staff opened up the door for those whom would get free-seating seats and paid in cash, immediately I went for it. It saved my life! I got onto the train, and smoothly enough, got onto the shuttle without much waiting!
I arrived safely at the airport and checked in just about 645pm. I had some money left but there was nothing to get in the airport. I bought myself a drink, smiled at how miraculously I arrived there. I was one of the last to board... and I believed the person next to me had missed his/her flight, ended up having more leg room for myself! I sat beside a hunky Chinese guy who turned out to be Taiwanese, and we had a nice conversation.
And so this is the end of my Taiwan trip... Thanks for reading, thank God for seeing me through!
7. 台北夜市 & 九份，念念不忘
7. Taipei Nightmarkets & Jiufen, unforgettable
Back at Taipei, I wasn't sure if I was feeling more relieved and proud of myself that the solo traveling had more or less came to an end... or I was getting a little upset that my holiday was coming to an end very soon. But one thing for sure, I was looking forward to hooking up with 2 of my Singaporean babes whom freshly arrived for their short holiday!
After settling in at Cat's Pajamas, I made a trip down to Taipei Main Station for an easy night of shopping. Cat's Pajamas is a really nice cosy place, the beds are thoughtfully designed with what travellers would need! I wasn't sure about the bathroom though because it always seemed to be flooded. The location is great and feels very safe, even walking back at 1am! As the babes are staying near the Taipei Main Station, I rang them but to my disappointment, they were out. After much hoo-ha, we finally caught up that evening and went to Shilin nightmarket for some Oyster Omelette and Mango 绵绵 ice. It wasn't like the Matcha shaved ice I had, they seemed to have added condensed milk or some sort to sweeten the ice.
We did some quick shopping at Shilin too. I didn't get much as I had already bought a few things back at the main station underground and Shilin's stuff didn't really appeal to me. Bought the stuff friends back home had requested, normally I don't enjoy running errands during my holiday, but since I came across them, I guess I would just do them the favour. I just wished I had a bigger luggage then, and not a backpack :P
After that, it was back to the hostel and a good night of sleep. The next morning before I went out, I briefly chatted with this Finnish guy who was travelling alone. He had just arrived, and so I thought I would give him some suggestions where to go. Then I roamed around on my own at Taipei City Hall area, I went to get a recyclable bag from Daiso after I realised 7-11 never give us bags for our loots. It was also the first and only time I was near 101 building, so I used the chance to snap some photos before meeting the girls for lunch at Mr J restaurant.
Mr J restaurants are Jay Chou themed dining places with french-italian cuisine. The one we visited has a very classic design, the place is beautifully decorated with framed posters of Jay. It was extremely hard to locate, all my friends whom been there had the same problem, I hope they will put up prominent signages on the alleys! I got lost in that area for 10 minutes and was starving when I finally found it! The set lunch was very affordable, it came up to less than NT200 after excess charges if you didn't order anything extra. Food was good. I had soup, smoked duck salad and bubble milk tea, they didn't last long in my stomach though.
After lunch, next on the itinerary was to visit Jiufen, which is approximately an hour away by train and bus. I got myself another bento lunch box from the Ruifang station, but it wasn't as good as the one I had from the train (TRA's). When we finally arrived some time after 3pm, I was thrilled. It's situated at the north-east coast where you get a view of the Pacific Ocean. We caught a beautiful view when we alighted from the bus.
The must-do in Jiufen is probably walking down the old street (the entrance is below the 7-11 logo sign in the picture), there you walk down the cobbled pathway to lots of local food, eateries, souvenir shopping, leather shops... alongside a massive crowd of tourists :) Then you would come to an intersection where you could walk up or down the stairway lined up with teahouses. There by the 阿妹茶楼， it was indeed the one of the most beautiful parts of Jiufen to witness sunset! We tried the popular Taro balls at 賴阿婆芋圓 and then settled for a tea-making experience in 九份茶坊 which was quite a pricey experience, considering a NT1000 bill for 3 of us. Still we enjoyed it, well we were tourists... so I guess we ought to act like one. Some friends had recommended me to do Pingxi as a detour back to Taipei, however we were really in a rush, so I really hope to do that the next time! It was past 7pm when we caught the bus back to the train station, I had a feeling we missed the last train back. I was right, so we topped up some money to take another train back to Taipei. Then it was Miramar ferris wheel time! I really hate dislike the inconvenience of Miramar, so out of the way.
The ride was alright, there wasn't any sight nearby, we could almost see the lit up 101 from where we were. It was at Miramar we chanced upon Havaianas and they seemed much cheaper than Singapore, but it was almost closing time and we didn't have time to shop. I decided to hunt it down the following day! Then we bought ourselves dinner at Mos Burger, it was like way past 10pm!! The girls headed back while I decided to continue to Shi-da Nightmarket near my hostel.
I got to Shi-da near midnight, but there was still a crowd. Shi-da is a more funky nightmarket than Shilin, there were more exclusive boutiques selling better quality stuff. Shilin shopping gives me a more "thailand goods" impression, where goods' quality are relatively poor. I also realised on my photos (when I am back) that I missed out the Havaianas stores there! I didn't eat or buy anything, as nothing caught my fancy... guess being fussy sometimes helps ;) But I enjoyed the smaller nightmarket, with a cool younger crowd and better quality clothings. I headed back, and didn't sort myself out till about 2ish in the wee hours. I was still awake near 3am when I saw the Finnish guy came back. He climbed back on his bed (we were on the upper bunks) without a shower (eeewww) and then tried to make a conversation on seeing that I wasn't asleep. His breathe reeked of alcohol. I told him I was doing research for tomorrow, and he went to bed.
The most horrific thing I realised next was that he jumped onto my bed... the rest you can read on my earlier entry. Such a monster! It ruined my whole night, my sleep and my energy for the following day :(
Back at Taipei, I wasn't sure if I was feeling more relieved and proud of myself that the solo traveling had more or less came to an end... or I was getting a little upset that my holiday was coming to an end very soon. But one thing for sure, I was looking forward to hooking up with 2 of my Singaporean babes whom freshly arrived for their short holiday!
After settling in at Cat's Pajamas, I made a trip down to Taipei Main Station for an easy night of shopping. Cat's Pajamas is a really nice cosy place, the beds are thoughtfully designed with what travellers would need! I wasn't sure about the bathroom though because it always seemed to be flooded. The location is great and feels very safe, even walking back at 1am! As the babes are staying near the Taipei Main Station, I rang them but to my disappointment, they were out. After much hoo-ha, we finally caught up that evening and went to Shilin nightmarket for some Oyster Omelette and Mango 绵绵 ice. It wasn't like the Matcha shaved ice I had, they seemed to have added condensed milk or some sort to sweeten the ice.We did some quick shopping at Shilin too. I didn't get much as I had already bought a few things back at the main station underground and Shilin's stuff didn't really appeal to me. Bought the stuff friends back home had requested, normally I don't enjoy running errands during my holiday, but since I came across them, I guess I would just do them the favour. I just wished I had a bigger luggage then, and not a backpack :P
After that, it was back to the hostel and a good night of sleep. The next morning before I went out, I briefly chatted with this Finnish guy who was travelling alone. He had just arrived, and so I thought I would give him some suggestions where to go. Then I roamed around on my own at Taipei City Hall area, I went to get a recyclable bag from Daiso after I realised 7-11 never give us bags for our loots. It was also the first and only time I was near 101 building, so I used the chance to snap some photos before meeting the girls for lunch at Mr J restaurant.
Mr J restaurants are Jay Chou themed dining places with french-italian cuisine. The one we visited has a very classic design, the place is beautifully decorated with framed posters of Jay. It was extremely hard to locate, all my friends whom been there had the same problem, I hope they will put up prominent signages on the alleys! I got lost in that area for 10 minutes and was starving when I finally found it! The set lunch was very affordable, it came up to less than NT200 after excess charges if you didn't order anything extra. Food was good. I had soup, smoked duck salad and bubble milk tea, they didn't last long in my stomach though.After lunch, next on the itinerary was to visit Jiufen, which is approximately an hour away by train and bus. I got myself another bento lunch box from the Ruifang station, but it wasn't as good as the one I had from the train (TRA's). When we finally arrived some time after 3pm, I was thrilled. It's situated at the north-east coast where you get a view of the Pacific Ocean. We caught a beautiful view when we alighted from the bus.
The ride was alright, there wasn't any sight nearby, we could almost see the lit up 101 from where we were. It was at Miramar we chanced upon Havaianas and they seemed much cheaper than Singapore, but it was almost closing time and we didn't have time to shop. I decided to hunt it down the following day! Then we bought ourselves dinner at Mos Burger, it was like way past 10pm!! The girls headed back while I decided to continue to Shi-da Nightmarket near my hostel.
I got to Shi-da near midnight, but there was still a crowd. Shi-da is a more funky nightmarket than Shilin, there were more exclusive boutiques selling better quality stuff. Shilin shopping gives me a more "thailand goods" impression, where goods' quality are relatively poor. I also realised on my photos (when I am back) that I missed out the Havaianas stores there! I didn't eat or buy anything, as nothing caught my fancy... guess being fussy sometimes helps ;) But I enjoyed the smaller nightmarket, with a cool younger crowd and better quality clothings. I headed back, and didn't sort myself out till about 2ish in the wee hours. I was still awake near 3am when I saw the Finnish guy came back. He climbed back on his bed (we were on the upper bunks) without a shower (eeewww) and then tried to make a conversation on seeing that I wasn't asleep. His breathe reeked of alcohol. I told him I was doing research for tomorrow, and he went to bed.
The most horrific thing I realised next was that he jumped onto my bed... the rest you can read on my earlier entry. Such a monster! It ruined my whole night, my sleep and my energy for the following day :(
It is time!
Damned, I really have lost track of time.... It has been 4 weeks since I returned from Taiwan. Time to quicken up my pace and do more things before time runs out! A few job applications and finally someone is responding :) Monday is awesomeness.
15.8.10
Losing my touch
I don't know how to feel it anymore.
I don't know what I can expect.
I don't know what to expect.
I don't know why my head hurts so much.
I don't know why I am reacting like I am.
I don't know, I don't know, I don't wanna know.
I don't know what I can expect.
I don't know what to expect.
I don't know why my head hurts so much.
I don't know why I am reacting like I am.
I don't know, I don't know, I don't wanna know.
13.8.10
6. 清境天堂
6. Celestial Cingjing
After a few hours of bus journey, we arrived in heaven. That's what I would describe Cingjing. Cingjing is located in Nantou county which lies in the centre of Taiwan. The mountainous area makes it perfect for just chilling, doing nothing at all, watching stars at night, feeding sheeps and goats and enjoying the cool weather (24°C).
I had booked myself a room at Shangrila Hanging Garden & Resort after chancing upon it on the brochures from the Taiwan visitors' centre.The pictures were stunning and so was the real thing! It lives up to its name and beauty, but the pictures must be pretty old now as they have built a shelter over the stairway and the trees have grown so much that they cover its side view and it's impossible to take a shot like the one on the website.
It was slightly past 3pm, we checked in and was led to a room on the very top at the attic. The whole place seems to be in accordance with the wooden theme, yet with a bit of an elegant touch. There are cute handmade sheep figurines, plenty of teddy bears and a huge dog living under the same roof. The staff was exceptionally hearty and remembered my name throughout the stay, I was really impressed! The room was tiny, with soft bouncing-perfect twin beds. The beds were right under the low walls of the attic so we risked our heads getting bumps in the morning, and I decided to sleep facing the other way round. The room though small was well-equipped, it had a fan, TV, table, coffee & tea and a private bathroom which had literally no wallking space.
I was pleased. Everything seemed perfect. I would not regret or gave up anything to skip Cingjing for sure, that few hours of bus was worth investing. We sorted ourselves out, then headed out for a walk around the surrounding... There were plenty of lovely places to stay nearby too and each with their own unique style and a panoramic view of the amazing mountain scenery. It was then we felt our stomaches growling and decided to head to 7-11 for quick fixes, there were a couple nearby and there was no issue finding food when needed. I sure began to love 7-11.
Right besides 7-11, there was this honey store where they exhibited the bee-making-honey process and a paper museum named Carton King Creativity Park accompanied with a paper themed restaurant and a park named 小瑞士。I had the honey ice-cream as my dessert and it was a pleasant surprise! It was really so good that I couldn't bear to finish it... It tasted just like the real honey melted in your mouth, and the fragrance had overpowered my senses. It was a very sweet feeling, just like falling in love :) Friends are telling me to import them now!
It had started to rain by then, so we just hanged around till it stopped. I didn't go to 小瑞士 though, BS wasn't keen and I guess it wouldn't be fun without anyone snapping photos for me. We got back, and we watched TV till we knocked out... BS went out to shoot some pictures, whilst I stayed in and tested my strawberry hair curlers (left overnight) :)
At probably 5am, I heard BS leaving the room, he had gone out to snap the sun rise. So I sat up on my bed and peeked out of the window. The morning was chilly, my hair was curly, and dawn was breaking in... It was serene and a beautiful morning. I went back to bed and when BS got back, we went down for breakfast. It was buffet style and a really nice spread; there were coffee, a few types of tea, milk, soft drinks, cereals, porridge, hams, eggs, mushrooms, fruits, salad, breads with butter or jam (brown, green, purple and black!) and probably more that I couldn't remember. It was a great start... then we saw someone who looked like Angela!
The plan for the day was to visit the Cingjing farm (@ Green green grassland), there was a 20-30 minutes trail to follow from where we were staying. The hardest climb was the 步步高升 which consists of 487 steps to the top, there we walked along a nature path and bypassed many adorable fluffy rabbits with almost no eyes to get to the entrance of the farm. The admission was cheap... but the downside was that the sheeps and goats weren't allowed to roam around due to precaution against disease outbreak. It was a letdown but I just had to see them even if I couldn't touch them! :)
We saw the goats behind the fence first, and tried to feed them with grass! It was fun. I love nature... I feel so at home everytime! After the goats, there was only greens and mountains, no sheeps in sight... except probably from a faraway farm. I was getting a little disappointed, but decided to head further to see what the farm offered. There was also pony or horse riding, but I didn't try it because the space for the riding was so confined. There was this musical sheep castle, wonder what they used it for, it was empty except for a souvenir shop but it was a great spot for pictures.
Cingjing is truly enchanting... I will even consider having a B&B here! With the perfect weather, lots of greens, sheeps and easy access of 7-11, tell me why not? We walked and walked, enjoyed the beautiful greenery, nice blue sky... Then to my surprise, BS pointed out sheeps to me! I was thrilled!! I rushed forward to see a lining up of sheeps' backsides. Obviously they weren't that keen to meet me huh, but I found one feeding very near the fence and we took pictures :)
I was satisfied, even though there was no touching involved... but someday I will be able to! That was almost it, we had seen what we could at the farm... We went for some food and sheep souvenir shopping (for myself, of course). On the way back, we fed the rabbits!! Look at her (I guess it's her), she is a darling, isn't she!!
We went to the nearby malls to check out restaurants and more souvenirs. Well there wasn't much to do there anymore! It was impossible to walk down the road to look at further places as it wasn't safe, there were signs to prohibit walking down the winding road. Then on the way back to the resort, rain started to pour. We stayed in to watch TV, and then it was still pouring, so I decided we should have dinner at the resort instead. It wasn't cheap but for great comfort, it was worth it :) It was salad buffet dinner. Then more TV till I fell asleep. That night, BS went out to take pictures again, I opened my eyes on my bed and was stunned to see the sparkles. I sat up, peered out of the window, it was pitch dark up there but it was dotted with many many diamonds, I couldn't count. But I just stared in awe.
The next morning, I woke up with great reluctance to leave this place! I had breakfast with heavy heart, just thinking of how lovely it would be if I had a week here! Then we did a last minute looking around before checking out. The 1 hour bus journey down to Puli made me nauseous (too much winding down the road), my motion sickness was back. Fortunately, it did not persist during my 4.5 hours bus journey to Taipei, it was a comfortable ride with TV and big chair... and I fell asleep.
It was 6ish in the evening we arrived back in Taipei.
After a few hours of bus journey, we arrived in heaven. That's what I would describe Cingjing. Cingjing is located in Nantou county which lies in the centre of Taiwan. The mountainous area makes it perfect for just chilling, doing nothing at all, watching stars at night, feeding sheeps and goats and enjoying the cool weather (24°C).
I had booked myself a room at Shangrila Hanging Garden & Resort after chancing upon it on the brochures from the Taiwan visitors' centre.The pictures were stunning and so was the real thing! It lives up to its name and beauty, but the pictures must be pretty old now as they have built a shelter over the stairway and the trees have grown so much that they cover its side view and it's impossible to take a shot like the one on the website.
It was slightly past 3pm, we checked in and was led to a room on the very top at the attic. The whole place seems to be in accordance with the wooden theme, yet with a bit of an elegant touch. There are cute handmade sheep figurines, plenty of teddy bears and a huge dog living under the same roof. The staff was exceptionally hearty and remembered my name throughout the stay, I was really impressed! The room was tiny, with soft bouncing-perfect twin beds. The beds were right under the low walls of the attic so we risked our heads getting bumps in the morning, and I decided to sleep facing the other way round. The room though small was well-equipped, it had a fan, TV, table, coffee & tea and a private bathroom which had literally no wallking space.
I was pleased. Everything seemed perfect. I would not regret or gave up anything to skip Cingjing for sure, that few hours of bus was worth investing. We sorted ourselves out, then headed out for a walk around the surrounding... There were plenty of lovely places to stay nearby too and each with their own unique style and a panoramic view of the amazing mountain scenery. It was then we felt our stomaches growling and decided to head to 7-11 for quick fixes, there were a couple nearby and there was no issue finding food when needed. I sure began to love 7-11.
Right besides 7-11, there was this honey store where they exhibited the bee-making-honey process and a paper museum named Carton King Creativity Park accompanied with a paper themed restaurant and a park named 小瑞士。I had the honey ice-cream as my dessert and it was a pleasant surprise! It was really so good that I couldn't bear to finish it... It tasted just like the real honey melted in your mouth, and the fragrance had overpowered my senses. It was a very sweet feeling, just like falling in love :) Friends are telling me to import them now!It had started to rain by then, so we just hanged around till it stopped. I didn't go to 小瑞士 though, BS wasn't keen and I guess it wouldn't be fun without anyone snapping photos for me. We got back, and we watched TV till we knocked out... BS went out to shoot some pictures, whilst I stayed in and tested my strawberry hair curlers (left overnight) :)
At probably 5am, I heard BS leaving the room, he had gone out to snap the sun rise. So I sat up on my bed and peeked out of the window. The morning was chilly, my hair was curly, and dawn was breaking in... It was serene and a beautiful morning. I went back to bed and when BS got back, we went down for breakfast. It was buffet style and a really nice spread; there were coffee, a few types of tea, milk, soft drinks, cereals, porridge, hams, eggs, mushrooms, fruits, salad, breads with butter or jam (brown, green, purple and black!) and probably more that I couldn't remember. It was a great start... then we saw someone who looked like Angela!
The plan for the day was to visit the Cingjing farm (@ Green green grassland), there was a 20-30 minutes trail to follow from where we were staying. The hardest climb was the 步步高升 which consists of 487 steps to the top, there we walked along a nature path and bypassed many adorable fluffy rabbits with almost no eyes to get to the entrance of the farm. The admission was cheap... but the downside was that the sheeps and goats weren't allowed to roam around due to precaution against disease outbreak. It was a letdown but I just had to see them even if I couldn't touch them! :)We saw the goats behind the fence first, and tried to feed them with grass! It was fun. I love nature... I feel so at home everytime! After the goats, there was only greens and mountains, no sheeps in sight... except probably from a faraway farm. I was getting a little disappointed, but decided to head further to see what the farm offered. There was also pony or horse riding, but I didn't try it because the space for the riding was so confined. There was this musical sheep castle, wonder what they used it for, it was empty except for a souvenir shop but it was a great spot for pictures.
Cingjing is truly enchanting... I will even consider having a B&B here! With the perfect weather, lots of greens, sheeps and easy access of 7-11, tell me why not? We walked and walked, enjoyed the beautiful greenery, nice blue sky... Then to my surprise, BS pointed out sheeps to me! I was thrilled!! I rushed forward to see a lining up of sheeps' backsides. Obviously they weren't that keen to meet me huh, but I found one feeding very near the fence and we took pictures :)
I was satisfied, even though there was no touching involved... but someday I will be able to! That was almost it, we had seen what we could at the farm... We went for some food and sheep souvenir shopping (for myself, of course). On the way back, we fed the rabbits!! Look at her (I guess it's her), she is a darling, isn't she!!
We went to the nearby malls to check out restaurants and more souvenirs. Well there wasn't much to do there anymore! It was impossible to walk down the road to look at further places as it wasn't safe, there were signs to prohibit walking down the winding road. Then on the way back to the resort, rain started to pour. We stayed in to watch TV, and then it was still pouring, so I decided we should have dinner at the resort instead. It wasn't cheap but for great comfort, it was worth it :) It was salad buffet dinner. Then more TV till I fell asleep. That night, BS went out to take pictures again, I opened my eyes on my bed and was stunned to see the sparkles. I sat up, peered out of the window, it was pitch dark up there but it was dotted with many many diamonds, I couldn't count. But I just stared in awe.
The next morning, I woke up with great reluctance to leave this place! I had breakfast with heavy heart, just thinking of how lovely it would be if I had a week here! Then we did a last minute looking around before checking out. The 1 hour bus journey down to Puli made me nauseous (too much winding down the road), my motion sickness was back. Fortunately, it did not persist during my 4.5 hours bus journey to Taipei, it was a comfortable ride with TV and big chair... and I fell asleep.
It was 6ish in the evening we arrived back in Taipei.
12.8.10
11.8.10
5. 吃喝玩乐在台中
5. Eat & be merry in Taichung
The first sight of Taichung wasn't impressive, more so after I had a short stroll around. The location of the hostel was a mess, I ended up on the right address but the place wasn't there. After getting lost for 15 - 30 minutes with my 10kg burden, I finally saw a familiar face. My friend had arrived and I managed to get into the hostel. The owner is a real beautiful Taiwanese woman, I swear the most beautiful I saw on this trip! And she carries a very unique style, I like her. She lives across the road but checking in is troublesome as she's not always at the place. There are only male and female dorms, and I had only one roommate, a Hong Kong girl who was travelling alone too.
It was great to get around Taichung with the locals. BS had arranged a steamboat dinner with his friend, and she had reserved a table and also came to pick us up from the hostel. Taiwanese are a welcoming bunch of people! The steamboat was in this lovely local restaurant that was apparently very busy... no reservation probably means you won't be able to dine there! The girls ordered so much food that I was already stuffed after the first 15 minutes!
After the rest managed to clear the plates on the table (they really did, so impressed!), the girls drove us to an area of Taichung with uptown fashions. Things were definitely pricier than many places I been to, but it was a quiet and nice chill-out place. They introduced us the famous Taichung's "Sun Biscuit" (Thanks Fenny & friend), and I am so in love with it! I still can't bear to finish the 2 precious pieces in my box! Pineapple tart is another of the popular Taichung delicacies but I don't fancy them really. I tried the ones friends brought back, they were moist, sweet and a bit too heavy for my liking. I also found a cute affordable "Alice in the Wonderland" necklace in one of the petite boutiques the girls brought me to! Then we settled for a bubble tea place (which is also well-known), and only 2 of us still had some space in the tummy for the drinks. I couldn't find space in mine for even a sip!
The night ended with the girls surprising us each with boxes of sun biscuits and cheese cake. They are seriously too kind... Now we owe them a favour when they are in Singapore! We returned to the hostel. I took hours to settle in: showered, chatted with the roommate, laundry before finally knocking out... and more packing the next morning!
I forgot to mention I arrived on a Monday, the two exciting museums in Taichung are closed on Mondays. What a shame! It would be great to see them, oh well... next time! We also didn't go to the Feng Jia night market which was supposedly very good. It was rainy that evening and well we had very good dinner too. It all has to be a next time!
The journey to Cingjing the following morning wasn't the easiest but we had yummy cheesecake for a good start. We took a cab for 100NT to get to the Nantou bus station where we had to take a 1.5 hour coach to Puli and then another hour of bus up to Cingjing. The cab driver kept trying to talk us into taking a cab there which will cost 2500NT (after his discount!)... God, that is a lot of money! So glad we found our way there...
The first sight of Taichung wasn't impressive, more so after I had a short stroll around. The location of the hostel was a mess, I ended up on the right address but the place wasn't there. After getting lost for 15 - 30 minutes with my 10kg burden, I finally saw a familiar face. My friend had arrived and I managed to get into the hostel. The owner is a real beautiful Taiwanese woman, I swear the most beautiful I saw on this trip! And she carries a very unique style, I like her. She lives across the road but checking in is troublesome as she's not always at the place. There are only male and female dorms, and I had only one roommate, a Hong Kong girl who was travelling alone too.
It was great to get around Taichung with the locals. BS had arranged a steamboat dinner with his friend, and she had reserved a table and also came to pick us up from the hostel. Taiwanese are a welcoming bunch of people! The steamboat was in this lovely local restaurant that was apparently very busy... no reservation probably means you won't be able to dine there! The girls ordered so much food that I was already stuffed after the first 15 minutes!After the rest managed to clear the plates on the table (they really did, so impressed!), the girls drove us to an area of Taichung with uptown fashions. Things were definitely pricier than many places I been to, but it was a quiet and nice chill-out place. They introduced us the famous Taichung's "Sun Biscuit" (Thanks Fenny & friend), and I am so in love with it! I still can't bear to finish the 2 precious pieces in my box! Pineapple tart is another of the popular Taichung delicacies but I don't fancy them really. I tried the ones friends brought back, they were moist, sweet and a bit too heavy for my liking. I also found a cute affordable "Alice in the Wonderland" necklace in one of the petite boutiques the girls brought me to! Then we settled for a bubble tea place (which is also well-known), and only 2 of us still had some space in the tummy for the drinks. I couldn't find space in mine for even a sip!
The night ended with the girls surprising us each with boxes of sun biscuits and cheese cake. They are seriously too kind... Now we owe them a favour when they are in Singapore! We returned to the hostel. I took hours to settle in: showered, chatted with the roommate, laundry before finally knocking out... and more packing the next morning!
I forgot to mention I arrived on a Monday, the two exciting museums in Taichung are closed on Mondays. What a shame! It would be great to see them, oh well... next time! We also didn't go to the Feng Jia night market which was supposedly very good. It was rainy that evening and well we had very good dinner too. It all has to be a next time!
The journey to Cingjing the following morning wasn't the easiest but we had yummy cheesecake for a good start. We took a cab for 100NT to get to the Nantou bus station where we had to take a 1.5 hour coach to Puli and then another hour of bus up to Cingjing. The cab driver kept trying to talk us into taking a cab there which will cost 2500NT (after his discount!)... God, that is a lot of money! So glad we found our way there...
10.8.10
4. 老台南，老朋友
Chapter 4 - Old Tainan, Old friend
Tainan, one of the oldest cities in Taiwan, has become one of my favorites. It's no doubt the friendliest place so far, which I already felt it when I arrived.
It was about 3pm when I settled down and was ready to put my roaming feet to good use. I was informed of the sightseeing bus numbered 88 and 99 which would take me around the city! Not for free though, it's free for people living in Tainan though, how lovely that is! Singapore doesn't offer me to sit on the ducktour for free!
I paid the bus fare to take me to Anping Fort 安平古堡, one of the old remains since Dutch occupation. There was a guide in every sightseeing bus, and this uncle was really friendly. We spoke for a bit, he gave me really good advices about getting around. Then I realised I could have bought the 100NT day ticket in Tainan which would give me admission to 2 attractions and unlimited bus rides! Felt a little silly for not getting this when I boarded, but I got it since it was the only day I had, tomorrow I had to leave for Taichung.
The Anping Fort is not too huge and has walls made of beautiful red orange bricks, it is actually over 300 years old and is the oldest fort in Taiwan. Worth a read about its brief history with the link I've provided :) I also climbed up the tower where I could catch a pretty view of the city... After the fort visit, I paid a visit to a famous temple situated right behind, then was led to a whole street of food and shopping. It was packed as it was a Sunday... people were everywhere. I found myself a nice BBQ stick of stinky tofu and a "cow tongue" biscuit which they named it literally from its shape, not that it's from the cow of course!
The clumsy me accidentally kicked a stick which then poked a little hole on my feet... ouch! It was bleeding quite a bit that I thought it was time to end my walk and head back soon. The last bus timing was pretty near too, but it was a shame I didn't get to see more than the fort in Anping district. There are so much more, but I believe if I will return on my next Taiwan visit!
On the bus back, there was this lady guide, she was also telling us all the nice food in Tainan as the bus went by many places. I decided to ask her about getting to Flower garden night market 花園夜市 which is not accessible by walking. It is quite far and the bus would only take you to a place 10 minutes walk away. I asked if I could take a cab and suddenly she seemed hesitant and said she wasn't sure if it was safe to take a cab alone (being a girl). Carrie also called me earlier to check if I arrived safely and warned me that about lots of "army boys" in Tainan. But I only saw a lot of OLD MEN!!! I brushed off the thought and decided to wait for a bus to the night market.
While waiting, I saw a bunch of chinese girls. I spoke to them and realised they too were heading to the night market. So we waited together. It was nearly 15 minutes and no bus arrived... but many cabs stopped by the girls and asked if they wanted to get in. ALL THE OLD UNCLES. For once, I suddenly didn't feel so right, and I wondered if I would be able to run when needed with my "injured" foot. So I turned back, decided to do something else instead. I walked back to the hotel, and on the way, indulged myself with a nice orange pamelo passion fruit tea and a takeaway of 5 delicious dumplings for supper... Lovely.
I decided to pay Chikan Tower a visit since it was open till 930pm, and it was situated near my hotel. Chikan Tower or Fort Provintia was built during Dutch occupation and served as an administration centre, during the Japanese occupation, it was turned into an army hospital. But since it has been restored and looks absolutely stunning at night. It was packed with aunties and uncles seated on the chairs near the entrance, listening to a pretty Chinese lady singing English songs. I thought that was a little weird but she sang really beautifully and even I was charmed.
Quoted from the blog link above, "Two ornate stone and wood towers sit amongst the grounds of lovely gardens that include a koi fish pond and several statues." Can you already imagine its beauty? Plus, it was brightly lit up at night. I took my time and walked around the towers, took pictures... and couldn't bear to leave the place really! Up on top of one of the the towers, there is a deity statue where students come to pray for success in their studies.
It was about 10pm I decided to head back for a shower and relaxed in front of the TV. I decided to nap a little with the TV on, so I could just watch the final World Cup match when it came on. Christ, the match lasted till 5am!!! Spain won! Adeline must be thrilled now I thought since she betted on them! :P I was glad I could laze and enjoyed the free breakfast till my check-out before taking a last look around Tainan. Tainan's temples are amazing but a little too overwhelming, I visited 2 or 3 and decided to end it by having another bubble tea (Oolong with milk foam on top). I also managed to DIY some amulets for my family :)
The hotel was kind enough to arrange me a scooter ride to the train station! They do offer free pick up if you arrange in advance, which I didn't realise when I arrived. When I got to the train station at 1215pm, I was told that the next train to my destination would be over an hour later. The uncle at the train station teased that he would normally charge for keeping bags but would look after mine for free. Cheeky. He told me where to get some local delicacies and said I must have them while I was there.
And I did :) I followed his advice, walked and shopped a little on the way. I also bought the recommended famous shrimp rolls 周氏虾捲 and 安平豆花 bean jelly (it comes with 2 accompanying add-ons, so I had green beans and mini pearls). They became my lunch onboard the 3 hours ride to Taichung! Thanks uncle, he really made my day and a perfect exit from Tainan. BS should have arrived at Taoyuan by then, we had arranged to meet in the hostel in Taichung, from there we would be going to Cingjing the day after.
Tainan, one of the oldest cities in Taiwan, has become one of my favorites. It's no doubt the friendliest place so far, which I already felt it when I arrived.
It was about 3pm when I settled down and was ready to put my roaming feet to good use. I was informed of the sightseeing bus numbered 88 and 99 which would take me around the city! Not for free though, it's free for people living in Tainan though, how lovely that is! Singapore doesn't offer me to sit on the ducktour for free!
I paid the bus fare to take me to Anping Fort 安平古堡, one of the old remains since Dutch occupation. There was a guide in every sightseeing bus, and this uncle was really friendly. We spoke for a bit, he gave me really good advices about getting around. Then I realised I could have bought the 100NT day ticket in Tainan which would give me admission to 2 attractions and unlimited bus rides! Felt a little silly for not getting this when I boarded, but I got it since it was the only day I had, tomorrow I had to leave for Taichung.The Anping Fort is not too huge and has walls made of beautiful red orange bricks, it is actually over 300 years old and is the oldest fort in Taiwan. Worth a read about its brief history with the link I've provided :) I also climbed up the tower where I could catch a pretty view of the city... After the fort visit, I paid a visit to a famous temple situated right behind, then was led to a whole street of food and shopping. It was packed as it was a Sunday... people were everywhere. I found myself a nice BBQ stick of stinky tofu and a "cow tongue" biscuit which they named it literally from its shape, not that it's from the cow of course!
On the bus back, there was this lady guide, she was also telling us all the nice food in Tainan as the bus went by many places. I decided to ask her about getting to Flower garden night market 花園夜市 which is not accessible by walking. It is quite far and the bus would only take you to a place 10 minutes walk away. I asked if I could take a cab and suddenly she seemed hesitant and said she wasn't sure if it was safe to take a cab alone (being a girl). Carrie also called me earlier to check if I arrived safely and warned me that about lots of "army boys" in Tainan. But I only saw a lot of OLD MEN!!! I brushed off the thought and decided to wait for a bus to the night market.
While waiting, I saw a bunch of chinese girls. I spoke to them and realised they too were heading to the night market. So we waited together. It was nearly 15 minutes and no bus arrived... but many cabs stopped by the girls and asked if they wanted to get in. ALL THE OLD UNCLES. For once, I suddenly didn't feel so right, and I wondered if I would be able to run when needed with my "injured" foot. So I turned back, decided to do something else instead. I walked back to the hotel, and on the way, indulged myself with a nice orange pamelo passion fruit tea and a takeaway of 5 delicious dumplings for supper... Lovely.
I decided to pay Chikan Tower a visit since it was open till 930pm, and it was situated near my hotel. Chikan Tower or Fort Provintia was built during Dutch occupation and served as an administration centre, during the Japanese occupation, it was turned into an army hospital. But since it has been restored and looks absolutely stunning at night. It was packed with aunties and uncles seated on the chairs near the entrance, listening to a pretty Chinese lady singing English songs. I thought that was a little weird but she sang really beautifully and even I was charmed.
Quoted from the blog link above, "Two ornate stone and wood towers sit amongst the grounds of lovely gardens that include a koi fish pond and several statues." Can you already imagine its beauty? Plus, it was brightly lit up at night. I took my time and walked around the towers, took pictures... and couldn't bear to leave the place really! Up on top of one of the the towers, there is a deity statue where students come to pray for success in their studies.
It was about 10pm I decided to head back for a shower and relaxed in front of the TV. I decided to nap a little with the TV on, so I could just watch the final World Cup match when it came on. Christ, the match lasted till 5am!!! Spain won! Adeline must be thrilled now I thought since she betted on them! :P I was glad I could laze and enjoyed the free breakfast till my check-out before taking a last look around Tainan. Tainan's temples are amazing but a little too overwhelming, I visited 2 or 3 and decided to end it by having another bubble tea (Oolong with milk foam on top). I also managed to DIY some amulets for my family :)
The hotel was kind enough to arrange me a scooter ride to the train station! They do offer free pick up if you arrange in advance, which I didn't realise when I arrived. When I got to the train station at 1215pm, I was told that the next train to my destination would be over an hour later. The uncle at the train station teased that he would normally charge for keeping bags but would look after mine for free. Cheeky. He told me where to get some local delicacies and said I must have them while I was there.
And I did :) I followed his advice, walked and shopped a little on the way. I also bought the recommended famous shrimp rolls 周氏虾捲 and 安平豆花 bean jelly (it comes with 2 accompanying add-ons, so I had green beans and mini pearls). They became my lunch onboard the 3 hours ride to Taichung! Thanks uncle, he really made my day and a perfect exit from Tainan. BS should have arrived at Taoyuan by then, we had arranged to meet in the hostel in Taichung, from there we would be going to Cingjing the day after.
9.8.10
My heart is like a simmering pot of stew
Liking someone all over again. How does that feel? I dread that feeling...... I am a little exhausted, a little afraid, a little hesitant, a little protective, a little worried, a little happy, a little sad and most importantly very confused a lot of the times. It all seems so familiar, it all seems like I was feeling that yesterday. But it has been a while, and I have so gotten used to just showering love on myself, focusing on myself and doing things for myself. It always is very comforting to have someone isn't it, but I'm not quite sure if I will feel comfortable again. Life is unpredictable, future is uncertain... but there is only one thing for sure, and that is I will only live once :)
3.8.10
3. 屏東之星，Carrie
Chapter 3 - Superstar of Pingtung, Carrie
Thanks to Anson, I made one more friend. She's a god-send to me, and she is Carrie! Before I departed, Carrie had been helping me lots, she even rang up to confirm a booking for one of the places I was going to stay. We had been e-mailing in Facebook for a few weeks before my arrival... and I couldn't wait to meet her.
It was about 1pm when I arrived a Chaozhou 潮州 station, it's a real tiny station... And there she was, with that prominent curly hair, I would recognise her from afar. She recognised me too and was shocked by the weight I was carrying on my back! She was driving down to Kenting with her niece to catch up with a couple of friends there, so I chucked my bag in her car and followed. I never had the intention to go Kenting on this trip because it was not near the train station and would take another 2 hours of bus journey... but it suddenly became part of it, I was certainly more than happy to go!
Carrie took us to a less touristy beach, which was apparently much cleaner. I met her 3 friends who awed me with their fluent Spanish. Carrie's niece was so engrossed playing in the waters that she was sulking when we asked her to come under the shade. I was sitting under the shade enjoying my belated lunch from KFC, not very keen to get under the blazing sun! But Kenting is truly beautiful, the blue waters. We stayed till about 5pm and had to leave as her niece had to collect an award at school in the evening.
It took about two hours for her to drive back, on the way we enjoyed bubble tea and saw the most romantic sunset. We couldn't help but stopped for a few pictures! We were almost too late when we got back, her poor niece had to rush for a quick shower and skipped dinner to go out. Carrie's family live in a small town near Pingtung, it's probably a 3 storey house and fits the family of 5 comfortably. Carrie's mum cooked us a fabulous dinner... very chinese, but not what we normally have in Singapore. I decided to join in the fun and went along to see the school Carrie's niece was attending. I had my first two scooter rides!
We got back with the little girl very pleased about her 300NTD prize money. She's adorable and reminded me of myself when I got my scholarship too. After a short while chilling out in her brother's room, her brother's friend arrived. He was taking all of us in his car to 東港 night market, a very local one. Carrie and her brother are such hospitable people and I felt so at home!! They bought a lot of food for me to try but I was already so full!! I really like the mango shaved ice though!
The next day, Carrie was supposed to go Tainan with me but unfortunately work caught up and she couldn't. Her friend whom was supposed to host me couldn't make it either. It was a panicking night... but I assured her it would be okay, I could always arrive and asked at the visitor centre. That night, we watched the World Cup match for 3rd placing... but Carrie dozed off. I did too but eventually I finished the match!
The next morning, with a bit of luck, I found a budget hotel at an affordable price in Tainan. I was so pleased with myself, and of course it did give Carrie peace of mind! She got me a bus ticket to the train station after a nice Taiwanese breakfast her family bought. I sure miss them, they were super nice!
The train ride to Tainan was pretty fast, but I had to switch at Kaohsiung. It was easy though. Soon enough, I was there and I visited the visitor centre for the first time in Taiwan. The staff were super helpful and suggested all the things I could do given the time I was there, and gave me lots of helpful maps. Right then, I knew I was right for not skipping this wonderful city! I love Tainan and the friendliness.
Getting to the hotel was a bit of a walk but I had no trouble finding it! There were signs along the way and definitely very helpful! The old lady at the reception was just as nice, she gave me a room key and even told me where I could take the sightseeing bus. She asked me to check the room if I liked it or I could switch. Then I realised I was given the biggest corner room, what more could I ask for? I felt so blessed!
Thanks to Anson, I made one more friend. She's a god-send to me, and she is Carrie! Before I departed, Carrie had been helping me lots, she even rang up to confirm a booking for one of the places I was going to stay. We had been e-mailing in Facebook for a few weeks before my arrival... and I couldn't wait to meet her.
It was about 1pm when I arrived a Chaozhou 潮州 station, it's a real tiny station... And there she was, with that prominent curly hair, I would recognise her from afar. She recognised me too and was shocked by the weight I was carrying on my back! She was driving down to Kenting with her niece to catch up with a couple of friends there, so I chucked my bag in her car and followed. I never had the intention to go Kenting on this trip because it was not near the train station and would take another 2 hours of bus journey... but it suddenly became part of it, I was certainly more than happy to go!
Carrie took us to a less touristy beach, which was apparently much cleaner. I met her 3 friends who awed me with their fluent Spanish. Carrie's niece was so engrossed playing in the waters that she was sulking when we asked her to come under the shade. I was sitting under the shade enjoying my belated lunch from KFC, not very keen to get under the blazing sun! But Kenting is truly beautiful, the blue waters. We stayed till about 5pm and had to leave as her niece had to collect an award at school in the evening.
It took about two hours for her to drive back, on the way we enjoyed bubble tea and saw the most romantic sunset. We couldn't help but stopped for a few pictures! We were almost too late when we got back, her poor niece had to rush for a quick shower and skipped dinner to go out. Carrie's family live in a small town near Pingtung, it's probably a 3 storey house and fits the family of 5 comfortably. Carrie's mum cooked us a fabulous dinner... very chinese, but not what we normally have in Singapore. I decided to join in the fun and went along to see the school Carrie's niece was attending. I had my first two scooter rides!
We got back with the little girl very pleased about her 300NTD prize money. She's adorable and reminded me of myself when I got my scholarship too. After a short while chilling out in her brother's room, her brother's friend arrived. He was taking all of us in his car to 東港 night market, a very local one. Carrie and her brother are such hospitable people and I felt so at home!! They bought a lot of food for me to try but I was already so full!! I really like the mango shaved ice though!
The next day, Carrie was supposed to go Tainan with me but unfortunately work caught up and she couldn't. Her friend whom was supposed to host me couldn't make it either. It was a panicking night... but I assured her it would be okay, I could always arrive and asked at the visitor centre. That night, we watched the World Cup match for 3rd placing... but Carrie dozed off. I did too but eventually I finished the match!
The next morning, with a bit of luck, I found a budget hotel at an affordable price in Tainan. I was so pleased with myself, and of course it did give Carrie peace of mind! She got me a bus ticket to the train station after a nice Taiwanese breakfast her family bought. I sure miss them, they were super nice!
The train ride to Tainan was pretty fast, but I had to switch at Kaohsiung. It was easy though. Soon enough, I was there and I visited the visitor centre for the first time in Taiwan. The staff were super helpful and suggested all the things I could do given the time I was there, and gave me lots of helpful maps. Right then, I knew I was right for not skipping this wonderful city! I love Tainan and the friendliness.
Getting to the hotel was a bit of a walk but I had no trouble finding it! There were signs along the way and definitely very helpful! The old lady at the reception was just as nice, she gave me a room key and even told me where I could take the sightseeing bus. She asked me to check the room if I liked it or I could switch. Then I realised I was given the biggest corner room, what more could I ask for? I felt so blessed!
2.8.10
2. 花莲及太魯閣历险记
Chapter 2 - Hualien & Taroko adventure
That morning I got my 5 days unlimited train pass which was valid on normal & semi-express trains, after some difficulties (hehe, luckily I managed to convince the staff!). But travelling with the pass, I wasn't allowed to reserve seats, so I got chased around and finally had to stand till everyone alighted at Ruifang (for Jiufen). It was 4 hours train ride to Hualien, and I was fortunate to be able to find a seat for over half the journey! I was also starving by noon time and fortunately they sold bento lunch in the train! I got mine after reserving one, apparently they were selling like hotcakes and it was quite impossible to get them if you were at the last few cabins. Delicious, I tell you!
When I arrived at Hualien finally, the weather was incredibly hot! I finally found the hostel, Colorful Taiwan, after walking for like 10 minutes, it seemed forever with that nearly 10kg backpack! The staff was kind enough to pour me a drink, and helped me settle in. It was ridiculous the weather, I didn't even want to head out... I surfed the internet, had a nice shower and did my laundry. Not long after, I saw a Hong Kong girl in the same room, we chatted and she was travelling alone too. She was keen to go out, if I wanted to tag along, so I agreed. She suggested cycling to the coast... "Did I hear cycling??" My mind went blank, because I haven't cycled for the longest time (if you read my post earlier) and I was such an accident-prone cyclist. But instead of being a wet blanket, I decided to give it a go. Then that was 4 hours of hell. LOL. Seriously.
But that certainly has helped me overcome my fear and I think I will try cycling in Singapore again! It was still an exciting night nevertheless, we went to 南滨海岸 where we saw someone litting a sky lantern (oooooh, I so wanna try next time!!) and also had stinky tofu at the local night market. It was served with pickled cabbage and chilli, unlike the ones in Hong Kong. We then cycled on to the city centre to hunt for more food as my companion wasn't keen about the food at the night market. So we shared some 小笼包 (little basket buns)， 香酥鸡 (fried pieces of chicken with mint leaves) and I had my first shaved ice, matcha flavoured! I had to thank Stella, my companion, for remembering the way back because I was terrible without a map. So we finally got back, and I was sweaty, dirty and very exhausted!
The next morning, I had booked myself a bus tour to Taroko National Park, I was looking forward to some comfort and shade from the sun. A Malaysian couple in my hostel happened to be on the same tour too, and Stella decided to join in the very last minute. Though she wasn't a good sport really, she didn't really enjoy herself and was complaining a lot about spending too much money on this trip. She's only 19, and this probably was one of her first few trips so I tried to sympathize.
The tour was okay, not impressive but it took us to enough places to have an idea of what Taroko offers... I certainly would like to go on my own and do a trail or something! But it was inconvenient to do so without a car or scooter... I like the short trails at Swallow Grotto and Tunnel of Nine Turns, which were great for photos (but didn't have a great photographer with me, what a shame!). The bus ended its tour at Chi Sing Tan Beach, a quiet simple stretch of very pale colored beach... It was peaceful, kids were blowing bubbles, there were small kiosks selling ice cream. Stella had 2 cones, while I had one!
I dropped off at the train station where I wanted to buy some handmade nougats which looked really good, I saw them when I arrived. As I had to catch a super early train the next morning, I decided to make this detour to get them... The uncle was really friendly and patient with me, I got a bag enough to split into three as I wanted to give to friends whom I would meet later on. Then I had a problem, I couldn't go back to my hostel as there was no way I could walk from this exit of the train station. I went up to a train staff and he suggested me to get a "platform ticket", it was the first time I ever heard of such thing! As I didn't bring my train pass with me, I just paid 6NTD so I could get across to the other exit which was 10 minutes from my hostel.
It was 7-11 dinner for me as I couldn't be bothered to get out of the hostel again... Everything was pretty far away. The owner Sunny was kind enough to offer her daughter as my dinner guide but I told her I already bought some food. Gloria was also very approachable and asked about the tour I did.
I had a very early night. Stella and the others had left by now and I was joined by an old Chinese couple and two American-chinese blokes. The next morning I woke up at 515am, to catch the 630am train. I couldn't miss that or I would have to wait 4 more hours! It was then I realised the sun was already out at 5, it was bright and certainly very safe to walk! :)
I got my breakfast from 7-11... and also a magazine to last me for the next 6 hours! I had 6 hours to waste on the train, but I love taking trains!!! I was almost never bored (even without a magazine!). I had to switch train at Taitung as there was no direct train I could use with my pass. Then I would alight at Chaozhou (near Pingtung) where Carrie (my friend's friend who is now a good friend of mine!) would pick me up.
That morning I got my 5 days unlimited train pass which was valid on normal & semi-express trains, after some difficulties (hehe, luckily I managed to convince the staff!). But travelling with the pass, I wasn't allowed to reserve seats, so I got chased around and finally had to stand till everyone alighted at Ruifang (for Jiufen). It was 4 hours train ride to Hualien, and I was fortunate to be able to find a seat for over half the journey! I was also starving by noon time and fortunately they sold bento lunch in the train! I got mine after reserving one, apparently they were selling like hotcakes and it was quite impossible to get them if you were at the last few cabins. Delicious, I tell you!
When I arrived at Hualien finally, the weather was incredibly hot! I finally found the hostel, Colorful Taiwan, after walking for like 10 minutes, it seemed forever with that nearly 10kg backpack! The staff was kind enough to pour me a drink, and helped me settle in. It was ridiculous the weather, I didn't even want to head out... I surfed the internet, had a nice shower and did my laundry. Not long after, I saw a Hong Kong girl in the same room, we chatted and she was travelling alone too. She was keen to go out, if I wanted to tag along, so I agreed. She suggested cycling to the coast... "Did I hear cycling??" My mind went blank, because I haven't cycled for the longest time (if you read my post earlier) and I was such an accident-prone cyclist. But instead of being a wet blanket, I decided to give it a go. Then that was 4 hours of hell. LOL. Seriously.
But that certainly has helped me overcome my fear and I think I will try cycling in Singapore again! It was still an exciting night nevertheless, we went to 南滨海岸 where we saw someone litting a sky lantern (oooooh, I so wanna try next time!!) and also had stinky tofu at the local night market. It was served with pickled cabbage and chilli, unlike the ones in Hong Kong. We then cycled on to the city centre to hunt for more food as my companion wasn't keen about the food at the night market. So we shared some 小笼包 (little basket buns)， 香酥鸡 (fried pieces of chicken with mint leaves) and I had my first shaved ice, matcha flavoured! I had to thank Stella, my companion, for remembering the way back because I was terrible without a map. So we finally got back, and I was sweaty, dirty and very exhausted!The next morning, I had booked myself a bus tour to Taroko National Park, I was looking forward to some comfort and shade from the sun. A Malaysian couple in my hostel happened to be on the same tour too, and Stella decided to join in the very last minute. Though she wasn't a good sport really, she didn't really enjoy herself and was complaining a lot about spending too much money on this trip. She's only 19, and this probably was one of her first few trips so I tried to sympathize.
The tour was okay, not impressive but it took us to enough places to have an idea of what Taroko offers... I certainly would like to go on my own and do a trail or something! But it was inconvenient to do so without a car or scooter... I like the short trails at Swallow Grotto and Tunnel of Nine Turns, which were great for photos (but didn't have a great photographer with me, what a shame!). The bus ended its tour at Chi Sing Tan Beach, a quiet simple stretch of very pale colored beach... It was peaceful, kids were blowing bubbles, there were small kiosks selling ice cream. Stella had 2 cones, while I had one!I dropped off at the train station where I wanted to buy some handmade nougats which looked really good, I saw them when I arrived. As I had to catch a super early train the next morning, I decided to make this detour to get them... The uncle was really friendly and patient with me, I got a bag enough to split into three as I wanted to give to friends whom I would meet later on. Then I had a problem, I couldn't go back to my hostel as there was no way I could walk from this exit of the train station. I went up to a train staff and he suggested me to get a "platform ticket", it was the first time I ever heard of such thing! As I didn't bring my train pass with me, I just paid 6NTD so I could get across to the other exit which was 10 minutes from my hostel.
It was 7-11 dinner for me as I couldn't be bothered to get out of the hostel again... Everything was pretty far away. The owner Sunny was kind enough to offer her daughter as my dinner guide but I told her I already bought some food. Gloria was also very approachable and asked about the tour I did.
I had a very early night. Stella and the others had left by now and I was joined by an old Chinese couple and two American-chinese blokes. The next morning I woke up at 515am, to catch the 630am train. I couldn't miss that or I would have to wait 4 more hours! It was then I realised the sun was already out at 5, it was bright and certainly very safe to walk! :)
I got my breakfast from 7-11... and also a magazine to last me for the next 6 hours! I had 6 hours to waste on the train, but I love taking trains!!! I was almost never bored (even without a magazine!). I had to switch train at Taitung as there was no direct train I could use with my pass. Then I would alight at Chaozhou (near Pingtung) where Carrie (my friend's friend who is now a good friend of mine!) would pick me up.
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