Greetings from Taipei

Taipei, the land of nature and lush greenery.

Arriving at Taipei last Saturday, my sister and her family picked us up at the airport and after 40 minutes we reached Neihu district along gang qian road, right in the heart of where the action is. It is a strategic location as facilities and wet marketing are in the vicinity and convenience is the key to living.
Though we have been here a mere three days, we have seen much ... too much to be shared at one sitting. So, the cake will be savoured piece by piece...in due time.

Today was a wonderful day. Though in winter, the city boasted of good weather and perfect for travelling. The hired van took us to the countryside and the famous mountains...Yangmingshan, Jinshan and so many other shans (mountains) except of course Alishan. We were told that Alishan will not be accessible to the public until after a couple of years later...kept apart for upgrading.

Situated to the north east of the island, Yangmingshan is an hour away from Taipei. The dormant volcanic mountain is home to many hot spots or rather hot springs which sprang up as as a result of volcanic activities underground. These springs are actually sulphur springs and are a great source of natural hot water supplied to Spas and hot baths centres in the capital city.
It was a magnificent sight from afar as smoke from the heat rose from the hot spots and it was a sight to behold.




The peak was too much for mum to conquer so she was left behind in the van. Notice the thick smoke behind us. All along the mountain area, the dotted hot springs may have a different story to tell in the future because it is an indication of volcanic activity. I casually asked the tour guide if he was afraid of impending earthquakes and he confidently replied that he was not. He added that the local people are so experienced that they can tell if the frequent tremors that occur are to be taken seriously or not.

Besides providing the source for hot baths, we have been informed that the piped sulphur spring water is used to cure gouts, skin diseases and other ailments.






At Yangmingshan, people attempt the Yangmingshan ridge walk in the mornings and evenings and the refreshing air promises long life to the local folks. The unpolluted atmosphere is a good change from city life.








Geography came alive as we witnessed the boiling water at a hot spot. I remembered learning and teaching about hot springs in eathquake regions and how eggs can be boiled in the springs. This is so true and I quickly related the same scenario to the Rotorua region of New Zealand.

Passers by are warned of the danger of fingers being burnt in the hot springs and to avoid stepping into them... so follow the assigned trails.

I am so grateful to my dear sister for organising such a fantastic ride to Yangmingshan; giving us an opportunity to witness an unforgettable sight and experience. This is the first time I see geography in action at such proximity.

Yangmingshan is beautiful. Even at sunset, the panaromic view catches one's breath and the natural beauty is difficult to be contained in mere words. The cool and slightly chilly air adds charm to the place...the place you will want to be to retire.

It was a good day for us...on the road from 10am to 6pm.