I woke up at 9:00 am and couldn’t believe that it was already time to start the day. I was so groggy and tired from the past day’s adventures that the idea of more sleep was extremely appealing. Nevertheless, with only 2 more full days left of Taiwan, it was time to rally and explore …
Today was planned around a guided tour of Taroko National Park, home of, and named after the famous Taroko Gorge. We started off the morning with a hearty Taiwanese breakfast of hot noodles with beef and pan fried turnip cakes covered in hoisin sauce. The noodles were good, but I wished the turnip cakes had …
Today began our travels to Hualien, a city located on the eastern side of Taiwan. After a fancy hotel breakfast complete with an omelet, smoked salmon, and tropical fruits, we packed up for an overnight trip and left for the bus station. After much research on transportation methods between Taipei and Hualien, the best route …
With the Japan program completed, it was finally time for Taiwan travels with mom! Since we were both already half way across the world, I figured it was a good way to make the most of my travels and get one more country under my belt. Taiwan was selected and the Sunday after the program …
As my days in Tokyo draw to a close, I have become more adamant about making my last moments (and meals) count. I spent all of last night researching different eateries in Shinjuku and around Tokyo before deciding that I was craving a good meal of gyoza. My searches brought me to the Champagne & …
Yesterday I got a special evening glimpse of Mt. Fuji during my onsen bath. Motivated by the incredible sight, I decided to try my luck at a sunrise viewing. I woke up at 4 am, packed my camera and sleepily left my room. I made my way back down to the lake area where I …
A weekend of Mt. Fuji viewing attempts. With one full weekend left before leaving Japan, I was intent on finding a good place to visit. After a bit of research, I settled on Kawaguchiko, a small area surrounding Lake Kawaguchi known for its good views of Mt. Fuji. Most people come to this area as …
Lunch in American Village After parting with my host family, I was able to meet up with a friend who was staying in Okinawa. Together we walked around American Village, a small part of the island dedicated to “American culture”. The place had an old-town, nostalgic vibe with many clothing stores and restaurants scattered about. …
Okinawa’s American Village, Rooftop Views, and Snake Liquor Read More »
I quickly found out that my host family loved water activities and I was thrilled to join them on a few boating and snorkeling adventures. The first time we went out was during the evening after the last day of class. We drove to Ginowan Port just as the sun was setting below the horizon. …