Trip to Taiwan

You always hear of people traveling to fun and exciting places over the summer. Your Facebook wall and Instagram thread will be covered in pictures and stories from their far away adventures. When you see these pictures you crave to be on the shores of Ibiza, climbing the mountainside to Machu Picchu or bungee jumping off a bridge in New Zealand. But when we travel to these places, we don't fully take in the customs and culture of the country we are visiting. It's actually hard to do that in a 10 day or 2 week vacation.

Although, TJ and I were in Taiwan for only 3 weeks we tried to not focus on the touristy areas but to really explore the city as the locals do. This leads me to my post on my trip to Taiwan! For 3 weeks we traveled with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of China (Taiwan) and were able to see the country in a new light. As the only democracy in Asia, we learned about their democratically held elections and how they live as freely as we do. They have student protests, just like we do, they have dozens of news shows late night, just like we do. The people in Taiwan are so humble and enjoy their life in the present which is refreshing to witness. On a typical week night you can witness thousands of locals going to their local night market which features cuisine, local to the area, and of course many stores open to pick up the latest clothing trends. Our generation in Taiwan is focused on the same things that we are: getting a job after graduation, hanging out with friends, and drinking the craft coffee/tea from the local coffee shops. It really isn't that different from the life that we live apart from the stinky tofu and bubble tea that blanket every street corner. 

The natural scenery and east coast of Taiwan was indescribable. Lush green forests covered the mountains with a beautiful blue ocean crashing against the mountains. We drove through the Taroko Gorge in Hualien, Taiwan which also has the nickname of "The Marble Gorge". As we drove through the narrow 2-lane road, we were surrounded by marble and breathtaking views of the mountains. It was a unlike any other National Park I have been to.

Looking back at my time in Taiwan, I have grown a deeper appreciation for their culture and way of life. I will miss my daily/sometimes two-a-day bubble teas, all the delicious food, the experiences I had, and mostly will miss the people I met while there. I know this is not the first or last time that I will visit Taiwan, and I look forward to going back in the coming years!