I'm back from Taiwan! The trip was fantastic... Definitely draining, but worth every penny! A lot of people ask me why I love Taiwan so much... Honestly, it's so hard to answer in just a sentence or two. There's just something about Taiwanese culture so unique that I can't seem to find anywhere else. But... What's 'Taiwanese'? Now, I'm not one to talk politics, but this time around I've noticed some things that are distinctively what I call 'Taiwanese'. In my opinion only... So feel free to disagree.
1. The food
Undoubtedly, many people come to Taiwan for the food. But what's so special about Taiwanese dishes that you can't find elsewhere? Take a look yourself!
....at a bear-themed restaurant! 
2. The hospitalityTaiwanese people love foreigners. At least from my experience, southern Taiwanese folks seem to be genuinely interested in the non-locals... There wasn't a day when I wasn't asked about my nationality. Everyone thought I was Japanese, which I found pretty ridiculous though...
"Which country are you from?"
"Canada--I'm an overseas Chinese"
"Oh... Overseas Chinese from Japan?"
Also, my friends are the best. I had so much fun with them this past week... From helping Tooz with her costume for the local bazaar to stuffing our faces to ransacking Ikea... You guys are irreplaceable!
With Holly & Charlie.
3. The fashionAside from Japanese and Korean imports, Taiwanese fashion is characterized by spunky, colourful clothing and accessories... Namely street style as inspired by artists like Edison Chen. Baggy pants, trucker hats, colourful sneakers and hoodies are all the rage.
I've been trying to add more colour to my wardrobe, and this was the perfect opportunity. I bought so much freakin' clothing. Everything I got was, let's say... really well-priced. I had bought a pair of shorts for $3CDN, and two sweaters for $12CDN combined. I stuck dangerously close to my budget though... I left Taiwan with roughly $2CDN.
I didn't go to any bars or clubs this time around, but I figured... I can go drink and dance anywhere else in the world, right? I came for the night markets. Food is instantly prepared in front of you--there is a huge variety available, ranging from steaks to sushi to fruit kabobs.
I am in love with Taiwanese music. I love how the most successful artists are usually the ones who are the most well-rounded (I.e. Jay Chou, Khalil Fong, Gary Cao, JJ Lin, etc etc etc!!!) Obviously there are groups like Lollipop and the Blackies Girls who I think should just go in hiding... But... yeah, you get my point.
This week, I attended a bazaar! People sold handicrafts, which is something that's also pretty big in Taiwan.
I miss this place so, so, so much already... I hope this entry gave you a glimpse of what Taiwan is like! If given the opportunity, please do give this country a visit :)