My experiences in Taipei...

The architecture of the temples and shrines are amazing. Highlights included Longshan temple, the observatory of Taipei 101, Chang-Kei Shek Memorial Hall, Snake Alley, all the night markets and going for beers with Amy from Saskatchewan and (forget his name) from Hawaii.

Streets are a lot dirtier than in Japan but good and hostels are significantly cheaper. Started to miss family and friends. I catch myself thinking about work every once in a while which is a good thing because I do miss the people! However, I'm off to Hualien which is just off the ocean with lots of beaches and surfing. Should be fun!

One thing I've definitely learned is seeing parts of the world or tourist attractions is cool but it's the people that are around you that make the experience. For example, the best thing I've done so far was certainly climbing Fuji because of the cool people I met and climbed with. By the way, if you want to see more pictures, go to
www.offexploring.com/mountfuji

For this reason, I hope to climb Yushan before leaving Taiwan. It is Taiwan's highest mountain (slightly higher than Fuji-San). It's different than Canada and Japan though, you need to get a climbing permit to do it. Cross my fingers, I hope to get one.

That's it from me for today. I hope all is good at home with everyone.