Taipei

Taking youth on an out-trip on the skytrain is a piece of cake compared to the MRT in Taipei. The capital of Taiwan is insanely busy and overcrowded at times. Travel safety 101...we felt like we were pregnant and carrying babies with our significant others (buddy partners) by our sides.

Our first stop was the Yangmingshan National Park known for its famous hot springs. The girls and boys are separated into two areas. Cultural differences kept us from going in...wearing swim suits is not allowed. At least I got a chance to dip my foot in! Our second stop was the Flora Expo. So many diverse plants, flowers, and gardens to see, I got lost in a maze with Emily, Steph, Amy, and Sophia. The Future Pavillion featured solar powered book shelves for plants and climate change inspired art. One of my favourite pieces was created by a university student. It features a carved wooden polar bear with a glass table top representing the arctic ocean.



The Shilin Night Market is a hot spot for food. I have to agree with Jame's travel guide book...it has the best night market food...trust me we have seen our share! The variety of shish kabobs, dumplings, noodles,and rice dishes were endless!




Our third day in Taipei, we witnssed a Taiwanese wedding. On a count of 3 we shouted "congratulations". I snuck in and got some pics! We also explored the National Palace Museum and the National Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall. This hall consisted of a bronze statue of the former president of the Republic of China. The statue is watched over by 2 motionless guards who are replaced every hour in a rifle swirling ceremony. It is also a spot where locals practice martial arts and drumming.