Am referring to the often loud and seemingly uncaring demeanor displayed by large tour groups (bus) from mainland China taking over wherever they seem to be -- South of France, Paris, Rome, Bangkok, ski resorts, Hong Kong etc. I seem to run into this growing industry everywhere I go now.
But Taipei was different. The city, while not glitzy, was quiet. People spoke Mandarin softly, often with gentle personalities. What a surprise that was to me! You can actually relax there. Certainly didn't expect that in a large Asian capital city. And the city is low key (in my opinion) in the best sort of way.
This country may very well be as close as I'll ever get to visiting China (as an adult, been there as a child but don't remember a whole lot) just because of how I've come to dislike that type of behaviour and disruption. Despite knowing I'll be missing out on world treasures, beautiful landscapes and great food.
Before arriving here, I had thought places like Bangkok cornered the market with food availability and density but Taipei blew it right out of the park. Barely had time to eat at all the places within a 2 block radius in the 5 days I was there.
It was pretty unbelievable that so many small restaurants / food stalls can be supported. Found it unnecessary to have to seek out certain places I read about, as the standard was high almost everywhere I went. Also noticed a strong Japanese presence and influence. Another aspect I hadn't expected.
Taipei is known for their night markets and I only went to a small neighbouring one. Pretty exotic food options. Found some of the smells a bit too much for me but that's my issue. Everyone there were enjoying themselves. Loved all the carnival like games that attracted the young and older.
This is the type of short taster trip I tend to take nowadays. If the place catches me, I'll go back and delve deeper. And I'll definitely go back. The rest of the country is quite rural with some high mountains, known by climbers and bike packers. So that has peaked D's interest too.
He will likely never want to travel as much I do in a year, but there are certain places (the likes of Istanbul -- done, Hong Kong -- this year, Bangkok -- done, Palestine, rural Jordan, Rio, rural Norway, Greenland, Mongolia etc.) I really would like for us to experience together, and this is yet another great city to add to the list.
Don't have any new photos to add -- They are located 2 posts back.
Don't have any new photos to add -- They are located 2 posts back.
