Taiwan – Hidden Gem of Asia
Taiwan – Sightseeing in Taipei (Fri 9 Nov 2018 and Sat 10 Nov 2018)
Weather: Fri 9 Nov 2018: 22⁰C min – 24⁰C max, showers; Sat 10 Nov 2018: 21⁰C min – 28⁰C max, mostly overcast
“There are always flowers for those who want to see them” ~ Henri Matisse
Taiwan is sometimes referred to as the “hidden gem of Asia” and, after two days in its vibrant capital Taipei, you will get no arguments from me.
Arriving in Taipei at 4 am yesterday, I dropped my bag and boxed bicycle at the hotel, enjoyed a courtesy shower, then proceeded to explore the city via the very good metro train network. The highlights of the day were the Lin Family Mansion and Garden (where I enjoyed peace and tranquility away from the madding crowd) … and a feast of street food last night at the Raohe Night Market. Just as well my huan-dao (around Taiwan) solo bicycle tour commences tomorrow!
Although there are apparently lots of good cycle paths along the rivers, as well as some marked bicycle lanes on the footpaths, I was not tempted to ride in the city area because, quite frankly, I was terrified of the millions of crazy motor scooter riders. Screaming through crowded pedestrian crossings and footpaths, and weaving from side to side across the roadways, adhering to normal road rules seems to be foreign to their nature.
Taipei is cosmopolitan and lively, with a nice mix of the modern and traditional. Colourful, ornate, temples are everywhere, and there is a wide variety of excellent, affordably priced, food wherever you go.
After getting full value from my metro rail day pass yesterday, today was spent strolling around the back streets and laneways near where I am staying in the Datong area of Taipei. Being Saturday, there were busy street markets, with streets closed to traffic … not that this stops the motor scooter maniacs!
But that is enough of sightseeing in the busy metropolis of Taipei. Tomorrow the hard work starts, with a 72 Km hilly ride to Hengshan. I could have created a more direct route, but elected to detour through a couple of interesting “Old Streets” at Sanxia and Daxi, as well as the scenic Shimen Reservoir. The forecast is for a clear and sunny day with a maximum of 29 degrees C, so bring it on!
Looking forward to following you Kevin
Pleased that you are coming along for the ride Paul. A nice sunny day for my first stage today.
Hi Dad – I’m glad you arrived safe and sound, and that you enjoyed your stay in Taipei. I hope your ride to Hengshan isn’t too much hard work – 72km of hills sounds like more than enough! It’s great that you managed to get some delicious street food – I hope it lived up to your expectations. Ride safe and enjoy yourself! Soph xo
PS I love the look of the Lin family garden, and the temple, too! 🙂
Enjoyed the Lin family place. Very tranquil.
Thanks Sophie. The street food is amazing … and cheap!
Take it easy and be careful of the scooter riders. Tomorrow seems like a big ride just be safe and be careful
Lots of love
Oh the photos of the market with all that fried up food watch the figure. A very colourful place