Gorge-ous Taiwan

Although Molly and I have been thoroughly enjoying glorious Taipei...

there's so much more of Taiwan to explore!

Tamsul is a harbor district that lays on the outskirts of Taipei. Of course, the local night market is the center of activity.

Deep-fried squid-on-a-stick is a popular local treat.

But enough night market adventures...

Hiking Yangming Mountain is a great way to stretch your legs, see some lovely mountains, and…

meet some mountain cows!

After the chill of the foggy mountains, we decided to warm up in one of Taiwan’s best natural treats…

The hot springs!

(no clothes allowed, so photos are limited)

Aahhh….soaking in the steamy hot pools under a dazzling sun amidst beautiful tropical plants…only seems appropriate to further the pampering….

with a fish-pedi!

I must say, enjoying hot springs and fish pedis will work up quite an appetite.

Luckily, Chinese New Year celebrations mean two things–family and food!

This restaurant is nestled in the mountains and serves up amazing Taiwanese cuisine.

And...

Deep-fried bees!!!

Not gonna lie…they’re actually pretty tasty.

More bees, please!

After several courses of amazing food, we celebrated the upcoming Chinese New Year by exchanging red envelopes filled with Taiwanese money. After receiving each envelope, we thanked the gifter with blessings of happiness and health in the upcoming year.

Our next adventure led us to Hualien, a smaller city located on the coast, south of Taipei.

Noodle Soup with fresh Pork Dumplings

Noodle Shop

Tofu Pudding with Chocolate, Egg, and Milk

This joint serves up the BEST steamed buns that I’ve ever tasted.

However, the real local attraction is…

the gorge at Tarako National Park!

These mountains and temples truly took my breath away. So gorge-ous!

And finally…

our first beach!

Back in Hualien...

Chinese New Year Festivities!

Such a delight!

Though Hualien was great, we had to return to our lovely home in Taipei.

(where we eat all the time)

Hot Pot-style dinner! Very common in Taipei and very delicious!

Helpful tip: In Taiwan, you don’t. Tip, that is. Not for food, cabs, or any services. Nice.

Well, only one week left! Chinese New Year is almost here!