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Leofoo Village @ Hsinchu, Taiwan

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Hello Everyone,
we really hope you like what we have covered about our recent Taiwan trip. Continuing from where we left off in our last blog entry about the Beitou Hot Spring and the Golden Spring Hotel, we would be covering the Leofoo Village in this blog entry.

As Baby and I have already planned to stay a night at the Mulan Motel, we checked out of the Golden Spring Hotel and left for Mulan Motel right away. Because we were only due for check-in at 6pm, Baby and I left our luggage there so that we could proceed with our plans for the day, that was; to go to Leofoo Village.

Anyways, Breakfast at Golden Spring Hotel was pretty bad. We should have just went to the nearby fast food restaurant but since its complimentary, we shouldn’t complain much.

From Day 4 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

The Dining Area for Breakfast at Golden Spring Hotel

From Day 4 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

Some photos while checking out.

From Day 4 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]
From Day 4 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

Ok, from Taipei to Leofoo Village, there are a few ways that you can go about to get there. First, you can either hail a cab [which we personally would not recommend because of the huge costs]; second, you can take the public E-Go Bus which will cost $130 TWD [approx. $5.52 SGD] per person for a single trip ticket; or third, you can take a private chartered vehicle to Leofoo Village which will cost $150 TWD [approx. $6.37] per person for a single trip ticket.

Allow us to elaborate more about the difference of taking the E-Go Bus and the private chartered vehicle.

The public E-Go Bus can be found at the Bus Stop that is situated outside Jingan MRT Station. The bus comes at different time intervals so it is highly recommended that you check out their website to plan your itinerary. The journey via E-Go Bus to Leofoo Village will take more than an hour’s journey.

About the private chartered vehicle to Leofoo Village, we didn’t know it existed until we were waiting at the Bus Stop for the E-Go Bus. A lady in a pink tee-shirt approached us and asked if we were going to Leofoo Village. Then, we found out that the lady and her husband are operating a shuttle service from Jingan MRT Station to Leofoo Village. To be honest, we were rather apprehensive but we decided to give it a go as we were not the only ones in the vehicle. In fact, there were other tourists whom were going to Leofoo Village too. The best part is, the journey took lesser time than if we were to take the public E-Go Bus; resulting in more time for us to spend at Leofoo Village. However, a word of advise here, don’t anyhow just hop onto any private chartered vehicle.

Moving on, an adult entrance ticket to Leofoo Village cost $890 TWD [approx. $37.82 SGD] but all thanks to Taiwan Tourism Bureau [Singapore], we were given a pair of complimentary theme park tickets that grants us entrance to just about any theme parks in Taiwan! So here’s a really nice tip for you, if you are travelling free and easy to Taiwan, be sure to head down to Taiwan Tourism Bureau [Singapore] with your flight tickets/itinerary and your accommodation booking details to redeem some free goodies! Also, do check out their Facebook Page for the latest updates about travelling to Taiwan!

So here we are at Leofoo Village in Hsinchu, Taiwan!

From Day 4 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

Some really colourful flowers at the entrance of Leofoo Village

From Day 4 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

There are 5 main areas of Leofoo Village; there are the Magic Water Fountain, the Wild West, the Arabian Kingdom, the South Pacific, and the African Safari.

Here’s a picture of me and the Arabian Kingdom.

From Day 4 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

We went to check out the African Safari first as it was quite near to where we were.

Here are some candid photos of us at the African Safari.

From Day 4 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]
From Day 4 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]
From Day 4 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

At the African Safari, there is a parrot feeding area. So, to feed the parrots, you can buy the parrot food which cost $10 TWD [approx. $0.42 SGD].

From Day 4 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

An awesome shot of the blue parrots by Baby.

From Day 4 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

I looked like I was taking a photo at the Singapore Zoo.

From Day 4 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

Our first ride for the day was a harmless slow moving ride known as the Monkey Trail.

From Day 4 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]
From Day 4 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

Basically, for the Monkey Trail Ride, you have to pedal the ride with your partner and the track brings you around to the different monkey enclosures.

From Day 4 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

Here comes the swinging monkey!

From Day 4 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

At the African Safari, you can also have a ride on the Camel but it will cost you some money. We’re not sure how much it cost but well, if you’re interested, I’m sure you wouldn’t mind paying.

From Day 4 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

If you like, you can even board the Mini Train at the African Safari which brings you around the Leofoo Village Zoo!

Here are some candid photos while waiting for the Mini Train.

From Day 4 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]
From Day 4 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

All onboard the train! Anyways, the total duration of the train ride is about 15-20 minutes because it goes really really slow!

From Day 4 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]
From Day 4 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

The Leofoo Village Zoo is really huge! There are quite a number of animal exhibits.

There’s the Hippotamus.

From Day 4 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

The Rhinoceros.

From Day 4 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

The Giraffe.

From Day 4 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

The Zebras.

From Day 4 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

The Emus.

From Day 4 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

The Mountain Goat.

From Day 4 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

So after the long train ride, we took some more photos before leaving for the Arabian Kingdom.

From Day 4 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

Here we are at the Arabian Kingdom in Leofoo Village.

From Day 4 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]
From Day 4 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

The Arabian Kingdom has a few main rides and the classic merry-go-round is one of them.

From Day 4 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

At the Arabian Kingdom, we had a go at the Sultan’s Adventure, an indoor ride.

From Day 4 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]
From Day 4 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

We also had our late lunch at the Oasis Restaurant.

From Day 4 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]
From Day 4 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

The quality of the food was average and good enough to satisfy our hungry stomachs.

From Day 4 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

Baby had the rather cute Bento set while I had the chicken wrap.

From Day 4 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]
From Day 4 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

We then moved on to the South Pacific area where we tried the Captain Cook’s Swinging Boat and the Mighty Mountain Flume Adventure.

The Captain Cook’s Swinging Boat is the largest swinging boat in Taiwan, and there are only 3 other swinging boats of its size around the world. The swinging boat is 18.5 m long, 2.5 m wide and seats up to 84 people. A height of 7-stories is reached at the highest point of its swing, and the swing itself is measured at 70°.

From Day 4 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]
From Day 4 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

After the ride, Baby’s leg became like jelly and I went to try the Pagoda’s Revenge all on my own.

The Pagoda’s Revenge takes up to 20 brave souls slowly up to a height of 53 m (17 stories) and shows them the magnificent view of the Leofoo Village and the surrounding Guansi area. Then, without any warning, the brave souls are released to the mercy of gravity. This is a true free fall experience not to be missed.

From Day 4 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

When Baby has finally recovered from her traumatising experience at the Captain Cook’s Swinging Boat, we went for another exhilarating ride on the Mighty Mountain Flume Adventure.

The Mighty Mountain Flume Adventure Riders embark on a journey through a Jurassic lost world. As the canoe reaches the top of the volcano, riders come face-to-face with a 3-stories plunge. If one terrifying experience was not enough, Mighty Mountain Flume Adventure is the only ride in the world that takes you through the same adventure twice.

We ended up totally drenched after the ride.

From Day 4 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]
From Day 4 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

Some fun shots at the South Pacific area.

From Day 4 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]
From Day 4 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

When we were done checking out the rides at South Pacific, we went to the Wild West and were just in time to catch a performance.

From Day 4 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]
From Day 4 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]
From Day 4 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]
From Day 4 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

Some photographs taken at the Wild West.

From Day 4 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]
From Day 4 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]
From Day 4 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

As the park was also celebrating Halloween, they had some Halloween features where visitors can take photographs with.

From Day 4 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]
From Day 4 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

This is one ride you must absolutely try if you are a thrill-seeker. Known as the Screaming Corridor, this U shaped suspension roller coaster brought from Switzerland is the second in the world and the only one in Asia. The track is 190 m long, and the roller coaster reaches 122 km/h when it rushes down its biggest drop of 56 m. The 90 second suspended experience incorporates 360° spiral acceleration and vertical dives, bringing you the excitement and thrills of an eagle in flight.

From Day 4 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

An overall map of Leofoo Village.

From Day 4 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

While waiting for our vehicle to head back to Taipei, we sipped some coffee to unwind ourselves after a long but fun day at Leofoo Village.

From Day 4 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

There are a lot of attractions that you can check out at Hsinchu; Leofoo Village is just one of them. Also, we wanted to stay at the Leofoo Village Safari-Themed Hotel but because it was fully booked, we didn’t manage to book it.

Anyhows, in our next blog entry, we will be sharing with you about our stay at Mulan Motel and the amazing dinner we had at Five Dime Restaurant in Taipei.

Stay tuned to more updates from us!

God bless!

by
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Beitou Hot Spring and Golden Spring Hotel @ Taipei, Taiwan

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Hello Everyone,
in our blog entry today, we will be covering the Beitou Hot Spring and Golden Spring Hotel in Taipei, Taiwan.

Last year, Baby and I wanted to go to Beitou Hot Spring but as the weather was rather unfavourable, we had to give it a miss. This time round, lady luck was smiling on us and we really thank God for giving us a really perfect weather and timing to go to Beitou Hot Spring and rejuvenate ourselves.

After arriving in Taipei High Speed Rail Station, Baby and I lugged our heavy baggage to take the Taipei MRT to XinBeiTou Station. The journey from Taipei Main Station to XinBeiTou Station took about 27 minutes and it was extremely fast!

Here’s some photographs while waiting for the train to arrive.

From Day 3 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]
From Day 3 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

During the train ride to XinBeiTou Station, we noticed that most of the residential houses were constructed rather near the MRT tracks. In fact, you could see what the people are doing in their houses from the train. Hence, it really makes us wonder how the people could stand the noise coming from the train.

From Day 3 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

When we stepped out of the train at XinBeiTou Station, we can literally smell that the air has changed somewhat. In fact, the atmosphere smelt quite pungent and it could be due to the sulphur content in the hot spring.

From Day 3 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

As we had lots of heavy baggage, the most urgent and most important thing we had to do was to check into our hotel and unload our heavy baggage before we could even think about exploring the area. So, we checked into our accommodation for the night, the Golden Spring Hotel.

From Day 3 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

The exterior of Golden Spring Hotel looks rather shabby but once you step inside, its a different matter altogether.

From Day 3 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

Here is a photograph of the lobby at Golden Spring Hotel.

From Day 3 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

All of the rooms are equipped with the Hot Spring Facility and this plaque basically serves to inform guests that the hotel has been certified by the relevant agencies. It even tells you what is the type of spring water, the contents of the spring water, and the temperature of the spring water.

From Day 3 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

After the checking-in process, we adjourned to our room.

From Day 3 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

Here’s some photographs of the room that we took. The room comes with a television, a safe deposit box, a cupboard to put your clothing, a mini-bar fridge, and coffee/tea making facility.

From Day 3 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]
From Day 3 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]
From Day 3 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]
From Day 3 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

Here’s some photographs of the bathroom.

From Day 3 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

Again, there is a see-through glass panel and to be honest, I personally feel that the see-through glass panel was constructed out of safety reasons. You can choose to shower standing or soak in the bath. The bath has three types of knobs; one for the normal hot water, one for the normal cold water, and one for the hot spring water.

From Day 3 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]
From Day 3 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

The complimentary toiletries kit.

From Day 3 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

Before I continue on with the rest of the blog entry, do allow me to share some tips with you when you are planning to soak yourself in the hot spring water.

1). When you are soaking yourself in the hot spring water, remember to shut the bathroom door tight; if not, the strong smell of sulphur will seep into your room, causing you to have a rather uncomfortable sleep at night.

2). Do not soak your body in the hot spring water for more than 30 minutes.

3). When planning to soak in the hot spring water, don’t plunge your body into the water at one go; start by entering the water with your feet, then to your legs, and followed by your waist. This is to allow your body to slowly acclimatise to the temperature of the hot spring water.

4). Never ever soak into the water near where your heart is.

5). It is perfectly normal to feel your heart beating fast. However, if you start feeling giddy/nauseous, get out of the hot spring water immediately. If you don’t, you might become unconscious and the consequences can be worse.

6). Do not soak in the hot spring water immediately after a meal.

Now that you more or less know the dos and don’ts of soaking in the hot spring water, allow me to continue with the rest of the blog post.

Well, since it was already evening when we more or less settled down, we went around to explore the area and we were quite lucky that we actually caught a wedding photoshoot in progress. And so, Baby went around shooting photographs of the beautiful couple.

From Day 3 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]
From Day 3 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]
From Day 3 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

Taiwan is really a beautiful place for shooting wedding photos and we are just so excited that we can’t wait for our next trip to Taiwan next year.

All over XinBeitou, you will see streams of water flowing [like the one shown in the photograph below] and there are some people whom will just take off their shoes and soak their legs into the water.

From Day 3 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]
From Day 3 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

We also went to check out the Taipei Public Library Beitou Branch.

From Day 3 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

Some photographs taken around XinBeitou.

From Day 3 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]
From Day 3 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]
From Day 3 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

Here is a photograph of the XinBeiTou Hot Spring Zone Guide Map

From Day 3 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

While walking, we chanced upon a squirrel munching on some munchies.

From Day 3 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

A really beautiful shot of XinBeiTou by Baby.

From Day 3 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

Anyways, for the first 3 days of our trip, we did not have a portable data connection. Hence, when we reached XinBeiTou, we were seeking high and low for a mobile shop that sells prepaid mobile data connection. A lot of friends recommended us to get the Taiwan Da Ge Da prepaid mobile data connection as it was considered quite value-for-money. For 5 days worth of mobile data, it cost only $600 TWD [approx. $25.50 SGD].

From Day 3 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

Since we weren’t that familiar with the area, we headed to Sushi Express for dinner and boy, we had a rather filling dinner! Just look at all the food that we had!

From Day 3 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]
From Day 3 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]
From Day 3 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]
From Day 3 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

Ok, we shan’t tempt you any further but this was the amount of plates of food that both Baby and I had for dinner. The entire dinner cost us about $700 TWD [approx. $29.75 SGD].

From Day 3 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

To end the night on a sweet note, we finally have the opportunity to eat the Feeling 18 Degrees C Chocolate Factory‘s Dark Chocolate that we bought from Puli!

From Day 3 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]
From Day 3 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

In case anyone is wondering how much we paid for a night’s stay at Golden Spring Hotel, we paid $3500 TWD [approx. $148.75 SGD], inclusive of breakfast for 2 persons.

In our next blog entry, we will be blogging about Leofoo Village.

Stay tuned to more updates from us!

God bless!

by
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Taiwan High Speed Rail & Tai Chung City

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Hello Everyone,
in our blog entry today, we will be covering the Taiwan High Speed Rail and also a little bit about Tai Chung City.

So, we were on the last day of our trip in the central region of Taiwan and we were leaving for the Taiwan High Speed Rail to board the High Speed Train from Tai Chung City to Taipei City.

As promised, here are pictures of the sumptuous breakfast that we had at Skylight B&B. There are two types of breakfast choices that you can choose from, either the Oriental or the Western. Being typical Singaporeans, we chose the Western.

A photo of the two different breakfast types that are available at Skylight B&B.

From Day 3 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

The Western breakfast type comes with a main dish consisting of hashbrown, mushrooms, bacon, sausage, and scrambled eggs.

From Day 3 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

There’s also 2 pieces of toast bread, a glass of orange juice, and a cup of tea!

From Day 3 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]
From Day 3 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]
From Day 3 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

Oh, I almost miss out this one. There is also a fruit platter that consist of passionfruit, watermelon, grapes, pear, mango, and guava!

From Day 3 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

So, as you can see from the pictures above, the breakfast was a rather filling and appetising affair. Anyways, the breakfast was situated on the 8th level of the property and there is both an indoor and an outdoor dining area; both of which offers you stunning views of Sun Moon Lake.

From Day 3 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

Here are some photographs that we took whilst having breakfast.

From Day 3 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]
From Day 3 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

After our breakfast, we hurried back to our room, packed up everything, and boarded our vehicle to Tai Chung High Speed Rail Station.

A snapshot of Tai Chung City from our vehicle.

From Day 3 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

As we had quite a fair bit of time, we told our driver to bring us to the place that sells the best Tai Yang Bing in Tai Chung City because my mum wanted some Tai Yang Bing. And so, our driver brought us to Yi Fu Tang.

From Day 3 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

There are quite a lot of goodies and snacks for us to choose from and we were so spoilt for choices. However, besides the usual Tai Yang Bing, one other thing you must buy at Yi Fu Tang is their Lemon Cake! It’s really delicious and honestly, I regretted not buying a few more boxes to bring home.

Knowing that I was a car enthusiast and since we had some more time, our driver brought us to one of Tai Chung’s largest car mart [similar to our local Autobacs]. There, I went crazy because I bought so much car accessories to zhng my Picanto. Seriously, the car accessories are freaking cheap! There, I bought a new JVC head unit, a car freshener, car mats, a car decal, and an aluminium alloy car pedal kit which in total cost about $4000 TWD [approx. $170 SGD]. If only I could lug back car rims and tyres, I would have done so!

From Day 3 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]
From Day 3 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

After the mini shopping spree, we left for Tai Chung High Speed Rail Station and bade farewell to our driver. Honestly, it was quite an emotional moment because after having spent 3 days in the central region of Taiwan, we really do miss the fresh mountain air, the cute little sheeps, and the beautiful scenery. We will definitely be back if we have the time!

From Day 3 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

So while we were at Tai Chung High Speed Rail Station, we took the liberty to take photographs after photographs.

From Day 3 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

I know in Singapore, we so often see vending machines selling can drinks, but how often do you see vending machines selling cosmetic products and souvenirs?

From Day 3 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]
From Day 3 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]
From Day 3 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]
From Day 3 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

Anyways, for those of you whom are planning a free and easy trip to Taiwan, there are a few types of transportation that you can utilise to get to different regions of Taiwan. The Taiwan High Speed Rail is one such transportation but it only runs along the western coast of Taiwan; hence, for journeys to the eastern cost of Taiwan, you can consider taking the Taiwan Railway which is slower than the High Speed Rail.

You can purchase the High Speed Train tickets on the actual day of departure using these automated machines but we will highly recommend that you book them in advance on Taiwan High Speed Rail’s Website as you get to enjoy early bird discounts if you book your High Speed Train tickets early.

From Day 3 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

Prior to boarding the High Speed Train, Baby and I bought a Pork Ribs Cutlet Bento Set from the Railway Souvenir Shop for $80 TWD [$3.40 SGD] and it was damn good! The portion size of the Pork Ribs Cutlet Bento Set was just right for 2 persons.

From Day 3 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]
From Day 3 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]
From Day 3 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

For both Baby and I, we chose the Business Class Seats because we had lots of heavy baggage.

From Day 3 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

The Business Class Seats were extremely spacious and comfortable.

From Day 3 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

Business Class Guests are entitled to a set of complimentary snack and drink.

From Day 3 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

And Business Class Guests are also entitled to a copy of the local newspaper.

From Day 3 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

The journey from Tai Chung High Speed Rail Station to Taipei High Speed Rail Station took less than an hour and it was extremely fast! The train was travelling at a top speed of 300 KM/Hour! Here are some photos of Tai Chung High Speed Rail Station and the scenery taken from the High Speed Train.

From Day 3 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]
From Day 3 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]
From Day 3 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

Parting Shot at Tai Chung High Speed Rail Station

From Day 3 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

In our next upcoming blog entries, we will be blogging about Leofoo Village, Beitou Hot Spring, Mulan Motel, and a few other interesting sights in Taipei.

Stay tuned to more updates from us.

God bless!

by
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Skylight B&B @ Sun Moon Lake, Taiwan

By

Hello Everyone,
in our blog entry today, we will be covering the Skylight B&B, a luxurious chic and contemporary boutique accommodation that we stayed in for a night at Sun Moon Lake, Taiwan.

The best room available in Skylight B&B is situated on the 7th floor and it has a magnificent view of the Sun Moon Lake. Here are some photographs of the views from our room.

From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]
From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

They even have a digital panel/console for controlling the room’s lighting and television.

From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

We’re pretty sure many of you are curious about how the room looks like, so here are just some photographs that we took of the room. If you look closely, the curtains in the room can all be drawn and that actually allows you to have an all-rounded view of the surrounding areas.

From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]
From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

The room was definitely cosy and spacious enough for us.

From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

Here are just some of the amenities that we found in the room.

We found the cupboard slightly too small but well, it didn’t matter to us because we were staying only for a night.

From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

Some spare pillow and mattress we found in the cupboard.

From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

Some Biscuits, Bottled Mineral Water, and Tea-Making Facility in the Room

From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

Toiletries Kit we found in the Bathroom

From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

So now, let us show you how the bathroom looks like.

From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

Yes, it’s a see-thru glass panel that allows you to look into the bathroom from the room. A lot of hotels are now adopting a concept like this.

From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

You can have a standing rain-shower too.

From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

From the bathroom, you can actually look outside and that also means people from the outside can look in as well. So, if you’re planning to book this hotel room, make sure you put down all the curtains before you shower.

From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

This is what I personally like best about our room! There is a bath tub [zen-style] to soak in while listening to some soft classical music.

From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]
From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

Well, since we wanted to explore more of the surrounding area of Sun Moon Lake, Baby and I decided to check out the shops and night market which were extremely near to our accommodation.

From Day 2 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

A rather entertaining performance that we caught while walking around the area.

From Day 2 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

We tried some of the food that were sold at the street stalls.

From Day 2 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]
From Day 2 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

And we chanced upon these rather interesting flowers! I am pretty sure some of you might have seen photos of these flowers posted on Facebook. These are real flowers and not fake! In fact, the flower petals close when they come into contact with water and the flower petals open when they come into contact with light. The best thing is, the flowers will never die with proper handling and care; thus it makes a perfect souvenir to get for someone who loves flowers.

From Day 2 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

They are really so beautiful that I bought 1 for myself to display on my working desk. A small jar like this cost $380 TWD [approx. $16.15 SGD]

From Day 2 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

We also happened to pass by one desserts store that sold crepes. Since we had a craving for something chocolatey and sweet, we ordered a chocolate ice-cream crepe.

From Day 2 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

While waiting for our crepe to be ready, we took some photos of the shop.

From Day 2 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]
From Day 2 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

And when our crepe was ready, it looked and tasted really delicious!

From Day 2 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]
From Day 2 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

Anyway, as we were in Sun Moon Lake on the actual day of the Mid-Autumn Festival, there were mini fireworks that were launched by the people residing at Sun Moon Lake. We didn’t manage to take any photographs of the fireworks but we sure heard them loud and clear. Since it was Mid-Autumn Festival, the shops closed rather early and we went to the nearby 7-Eleven Store to buy our dinner.

This was our dinner for the night. Boy, we sure love the 7-Eleven Store in Taiwan a lot!

From Day 2 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

If you’re wondering how dinner tasted and looked like. Here you go!

From Day 2 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]
From Day 2 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]
From Day 2 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

So, this was how we spent the night in Sun Moon Lake. If you’re wondering how much it cost us to stay at Skylight B&B, you will be quite surprised to find out that we only paid $4200 TWD [approx. $178.50]  for a night’s stay in the best room available at Skylight B&B [inclusive of a really sumptuous breakfast which we will blog about in our next blog entry]. If you’re planning to book a room at Skylight B&B, be sure to book it fast because their rooms are selling like hotcakes!

In our next blog entry, we will be covering about the Taiwan High Speed Rail and of course, many other attractions that we went to during our 9 Days 8 Nights trip in Taiwan.

Stay tuned to more updates from us!

God bless!

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Ci En Pagoda @ Sun Moon Lake 2012

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Hello Everyone,
in this blog entry, we will be covering solely on the Ci En Pagoda.

The word “Ci En” in Mandarin means kindness, grace and mercy. Located about 954 metres above sea level, Ci En Pagoda is 46 metres high and is the highest structure in Sun Moon Lake. Built by Chiang Kai-Shek in memory of his mother in 1971, the construction was very difficult because the materials had to be shipped over the lake and moved up the mountain.

Getting Ready to Hike Up To Ci En Pagoda

The distance to Ci En Pagoda is approximately 700 metres from where Baby was standing.

From Day 2 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

From the carpark to Ci En Pagoda, it is about 570 metres away.

From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

The hiking trail is surrounded by beautiful plants and trees, and the air was superbly fresh!

From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

And so, the countdown begins. We were 400 metres away from reaching the Ci En Pagoda.

From Day 2 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

And we stopped for another photo shoot.

From Day 2 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

And we were 300 metres away…

From Day 2 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

200 metres away…

From Day 2 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

and finally, 100 metres away!

From Day 2 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

We finally made it after the tiring hike up to Ci En Pagoda! Just look at our exhausted faces!

From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

So since we were there already, we made use of all the time we had by snapping lots of photographs!

Here’s Baby and I trying out some jump shots.

From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]
From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

Then I decided to do a Kung Fu Kick.

From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

and Baby tried to do the same.

From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

I like this shot of Baby. So comical!

From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

So after much fooling around, we decided to conquer Ci En Pagoda. Just look at all those long, winding, and never-ending steps! It certainly reminded me of the SAFTI Tower Run that I did during my CLM Term in OCS.

From Day 2 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

After the long and arduous stairs-climbing, we finally reached the top and can’t stop admiring the beautiful scenery. It’s a real pity the weather was too foggy for us to have good photographs.

From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]
From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]
From Day 2 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]
From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

Having shot enough photographs, there was just one last thing left to be done; that is, ringing the bell!

From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]
From Day 2 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

Well, we certainly had lots of fun hiking up to Ci En Pagoda and in our next blog entry, we will be covering about our stay at Skylight BB in Sun Moon Lake!

Stay tuned to more updates from us!

God bless!

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Liao Mayor Black Tea Store + Sun Moon Lake Boat Ride @ Sun Moon Lake, Taiwan

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Hello Everyone,
Today, we are going to cover the Liao Mayor Black Tea Store and the Sun Moon Lake Boat Ride that we went to when we were at Sun Moon Lake in Taiwan.

Sun Moon Lake is extremely popular for its Black Tea. In fact, if you have family members, relatives, or friends who loves drinking tea, then you must buy Sun Moon Lake‘s Black Tea for them. I was told by our driver that Alishan is famous for its Oolong Tea, Sun Moon Lake for its Black Tea, and Cing Jing for its Green Tea. Well, since my dad is a fan of black tea, Baby and I decided to check out Liao Mayor Black Tea Store in Sun Moon Lake.

The entrance to Liao Mayor Black Tea Store.

From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

With decades of experiences in making the finest black tea, you can be rest assured that the tea you purchase from Liao Mayor is of the finest standard and quality.

From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

Here’s where the tea leaves are being processed.

From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

Parting shot at Liao Mayor Black Tea Store.

From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

Anyways, if you are not sure what kind of tea to purchase, you can take your time and sample the tea leaves they are selling. There are no obligations for you to make any purchase to try their tea and that is a plus point.

This was what we eventually got for my dad.

So after checking out the Liao Mayor Black Tea Store, we journeyed by car for about 20 minutes to Sun Moon Lake.

When we reached the vicinity of Sun Moon Lake, we had lunch at one of the restaurants that our driver recommended.

From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

Baby fooling around while waiting for our dishes to arrive.

From Day 2 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

Here are the dishes that we ordered. In fact, we ordered the smallest portion but its still quite a lot!

Some Vegetable Soup [you see the white thingy and the yellow thingy? they’re a type of edible vegetable and flower respectively that is unique to Sun Moon Lake].

From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]
From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

Fried Tofu with Vegetables

From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

Dragon Beard Vegetable [we’ve heard of Dragon Beard Candy but not Dragon Beard Vegetable. Since it was something new to us, we decided to give it a try].

From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

Steamed White Chicken

From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

Fried Rice

From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

After the rather filling meal, we then went to purchase our tickets for the Sun Moon Lake Boat Ride which cost us $300 TWD [approx. $12.75 SGD] per person. If you’re planning to have a meal before the boat ride, it is highly recommended that you don’t eat so much because Baby and I almost “merlioned”/puked.

From Day 2 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

Onboard The Ship!

From Day 2 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

There are many different boat companies that operate the boat ride. So, choose one which has lesser people so that you can take all the pictures that you want with no obstruction.

From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

Baby look like a model hor?!

From Day 2 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

Some photographs taken during the boat ride.

From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]
From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]
From Day 2 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

That’s Ci En Pagoda from afar! We will be covering Ci En Pagoda in our next blog entry.

From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

And we finally arrived at Ita Zhao.

From Day 2 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]
From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]
From Day 2 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

While waiting for our driver to fetch us to Ci En Pagoda, we took the liberty to walk around the night market and bought some Muah Chee to satisfy our cravings.

From Day 2 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]
From Day 2 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

And guess what, we found out that our accommodation for the night was just around the area. How perfect!

So anyways, because there are just so much things to cover about our trip to Taiwan; in our next blog entry, we will be covering the Ci En Pagoda and also the Ita Zhao night market. Thereafter, we will be blogging about our stay at Skylight BB, a rather chic and contemporary boutique accommodation!

Stay tuned to more updates from us!

God bless!

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Puli Winery + Guangxin Paper Mill @ Puli

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Hello Everyone,
in our blog entry today, we will be covering the Puli Winery and the Guangxin Paper Mill that Baby and I went to when we were in Puli.

Puli Winery

Puli Winery is devoted to establishing the landmark feature of Puli as the Hometown of Shaoxing Wine. Being Taiwan’s first Wine Culture Museum, Puli Winery is actively promoting the culture of Shaoxing Wine and it is also constantly putting more efforts in preserving the history of the winery.

From Day 2 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

Due to the warm weather, sweet and clear water that the Puli area of central Taiwan enjoys, the Puli Winery has come to be known for producing excellent quality Shaoxing Wine that has a bright yellow appearance and a vigorous fragrance.

Baby posing for a photograph at the entrance of Puli Winery.

From Day 2 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

Just look at all the wine pots that are used in the process of wine fermentation.

From Day 2 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]
From Day 2 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

Here’s Baby and I fooling around in Puli Winery.

From Day 2 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]
From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

Some of the wine pots were designed by different craftsmen and in order to distinguish themselves, some of wine pots bear the unique seal of the different craftsmen.

From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

Truth be told, I don’t really know how to appreciate the museum aspect of Puli Winery because there isn’t really anything that is fascinating. But, if you’re planning to buy some Shaoxing Wine or its related products, you could just head straight to their retail area and skip the museum part. If you’re not into alcohol, you might want to take Puli Winery out of your itinerary.

Puli is popular for its sugar cane and if you’re a fan of sweets and sugar, you might want to try this non-alcoholic sugar cane candy. It is crunchy like a biscuit but doesn’t sticks to the teeth. A bag of sugar cane candy cost $80 TWD [approx. $3.40 SGD].

From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]
From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

This is how the Sugar Cane Candy is being made. A rather similar technique as how Sticky’s candies are being made.

From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

They have flavoured Shaoxing Wine Ice-Cream too and they cost $15 TWD [the cheapest] approx. $0.64 SGD It’s something you must try if you’re here!

From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]
From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

Parting shot at Puli Winery

From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

If you’re planning to get some souvenirs and gifts for your family members and friends, you can buy some Shaoxine Wine or some other food products like the Flavoured Shaoxing Wine Jellies. For myself, I bought 6 boxes of Flavoured Shaoxin Wine Jellies that cost $200 TWD [approx. $8.50 SGD] a box!

Guangxin Paper Mill

Do you know that water is an important factor in the process of making paper. Thanks to the fine quality of the water in Puli, the paper made in Puli had all along enjoyed great prestige. Hence, Puli was also called “The Hometown of Handmade Paper”in Taiwan. So, being interested in how paper was traditionally made, Baby and I decided to check out Guangxin Paper Mill.

Here’s me posing for a photograph outside the entrance of Guangxin Paper Mill

From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

As we were there during lunch time, there wasn’t any tour being conducted. Thankfully, there was a tour group that arrived and we happily tagged on.

From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

The guide showing us the various raw materials which could be used to make paper. So, if you think paper only come from trees, you’re wrong.

From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

Here are some of the equipment that are used in the production of paper.

From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]
From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]
From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]
From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]
From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]
From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

Honestly, the tour around Guangxin Paper Mill was rather fascinating and informative because most of the time, we use a lot of paper but don’t really know what goes on in the production of paper. Hence, after this tour, I have learnt to appreciate the use of paper. If you’re planning to make a trip to Guangxin Paper Mill; be sure not to miss out on their tour.

The guide demonstrating to us how to make paper.

From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

After the tour, you can choose to make your own paper product. If you’re going for the full workshop, it will cost you $220 TWD [approx. $9.35 SGD].

From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

A small boy boy learning how to make paper.

From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]
From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]
From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]
From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]
From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]
From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]
From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

Instead of buying souvenirs home, why not make a souvenir yourself and bring it home?

From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

Here’s Baby making her own souvenir. Of all the designs that are available, Baby chose the one which resembles Taiwan.

From Day 2 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]
From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]
From Day 2 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

Baby drying her souvenir on the heating panel.

From Day 2 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

The final product [which we forgotten to take when we were staying in Sun Moon Lake] 🙁

From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

Baby putting a stamp of Guangxin Paper Mill on her souvenir.

From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

If you don’t fancy making your own souvenir, you can purchase some souvenirs from Guangxin Paper Mill too.

Here’s a short video on making your own souvenir at Guangxin Paper Mill.

In our next blog entry, we will be blogging about Sun Moon Lake and the Liao Mayor Black Tea Shop, so stay tuned to more updates from us!

God bless!

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Guan Yin Waterfall + Feeling 18 Degrees C Chocolate Factory @ Puli

By

Hello Everyone,
after spending a night in Cing Jing, Baby and I went to a few attractions in Puli before heading to stay at Sun Moon Lake for a night. The attractions that we went to in Puli are the Guan Yin Waterfall, the 18 Degrees C Chocolate Factory, the Puli Winery, and the Guangxing Paper Factory.

In this blog entry, we will be covering the Guan Yin Waterfall and the 18 Degrees C Chocolate Factory.

Before we left Ming Qin Minsu, we took a few photographs around the area because the weather was clear and it wasn’t as cloudy as it was the day before.

Waking up to these very beautiful scenery in the early morning is just so calming and soothing!

From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

Also, the background is perfect for a natural photo like these! Won’t you agree with me that Baby looked like a super model?

From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]
From Day 2 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

Now, now, what about me? Do I qualify for Manhunt? hahas. 😛

From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

All thanks to our tripod, we managed to get a photo together with such a beautiful landscape.

From Day 2 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

Here’s a short video of the view from our room at Ming Qin Minsu.

Breakfast at Ming Qin Minsu was nothing extraordinary.

From Day 2 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

Trying hard to smile during breakfast but how to when the breakfast isn’t that appetising at all?

From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

I didn’t know Ming Qin Minsu has maple trees until I looked up and Baby took a shot of these maple leaves. I regretted not picking up the maple leaves that have fallen off the trees, otherwise, it would have made a great keepsake.

From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

Before leaving Ming Qin Minsu, we took more parting shots of our room.

From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

The room’s wallpaper really makes a perfect backdrop eh!

From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

And so, our long and winding journey to our first stop of the day began.

From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

We definitely miss the cool and fresh mountain breeze. Cing Jing was such a beautiful place that we will definitely go back to visit again.

From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

Guan Yin Waterfall

The Guan Yin Waterfall used to be one of the most popular tourist attractions in Puli. However, due to the 921 Earthquake that took place on 21 September 1999, a wooden trail was broken and as a result, there are lesser visitors now. Though it is less crowded now, the beauty of the Guan Yin Waterfall is still there. There are two parts to the Guanyin Waterfall, one which is the outer waterfall and the other which is the inner waterfall. The outer waterfall can be reached within 5 minutes from entrance by foot, and it is around 20 metres in height. The inner waterfall which is more magnificent, is around 60 metres in height and it is currently sealed off as the wooden trail is still under repair. Between the inner waterfall and the outer waterfall, there are many small waterfalls along the trail.

And so, we arrived at the entrance of Guan Yin Waterfall and it took us 5 minutes to reach the outer waterfall.

From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

A short video introduction to Guan Yin Waterfall

Some shots of the outer waterfall. The first shot is taken with the Olympus EPL-3 while the second shot is taken using the Canon Powershot S100.

From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]
From Day 2 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

Baby taking a photograph with the outer waterfall.

From Day 2 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

After taking a few photographs with the outer waterfall, our hike up to the inner waterfall began. From the outer waterfall to the inner waterfall, it would take about 30 minutes [depending on walking speed].

Here’s me pointing to the wilderness!

From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

Along the trail, we saw some small waterfalls like this one.

From Day 2 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]
From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

And we also saw signs like this, which made us pretty cautious about our surroundings.

From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

After a long hike up, we finally reached the inner waterfall. By the way, as the wooden trail is currently under repair, I strongly will not advise you to go further up because it can be rather slippery.

A short video about the inner waterfall.

Our parting shot at the inner waterfall.

From Day 2 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

The hike down was a breeze and we saw some people whom were rather daring to go into the waters. You can too if you wish to but I generally will not recommend for safety reasons.

From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

Anyways, the water is really clean! I doubt you can drink from it straight; you probably would need to pop in a purifying tablet.

From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

What you see in the background are not stones but they are actually wooden tree pieces that have accumulated over the years.

From Day 2 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

Trust me, I love shooting with my Canon Powershot S100 because it is extremely compact. When I go for media events using only my trusty Canon Powershot S100, people tend to look at me in a rather awkward fashion but I don’t really care.

From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

Symbol of Achievement!

From Day 2 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

Opposite the entrance of Guan Yin Waterfall, there’s also a Guan Yin Bridge. Since we were there, we decided to take a few photographs before leaving for our next stop, the 18 Degrees C Chocolate Factory.

From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]
From Day 2 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

Feeling 18 Degrees C Chocolate Factory

Master Mao is the owner of Feeling 18 Degrees C Chocolate Factory and he has more than ten years of experience in making chocolates. To further hone his skills, Master Mao went to Japan to master the art of making chocolates. Upon his return to Taiwan, Master Mao started Feeling 18 Degrees C Chocolate Factory with the intention of making the best affordable chocolates; hence, he chose Puli due to the lower rental rates. Soon after, Master Mao and his family created an attraction on Puli map for tourists and this is what he has done in return for this small town which is also their hometown.

From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

When we reached Feeling 18 Degrees C Chocolate Factory, there were already tons of people whom were already queuing up to buy chocolates. In fact, you have to get a queue number in order to go into their display store.

From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]
From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

Thankfully, they had an express booth where you can buy pre-packed chocolates.

From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]
From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

I was really spoilt for choice.

From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

Just look at all their product offerings!

From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]
From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

And I decided that I was going to try their 65% dark chocolate that cost $250 TWD [approx. $10.62 SGD].

From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

The Box Packaging looks rather pretty and classic.!

From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

Baby was just so excited to pose with the box of chocolates!

From Day 2 Taiwan Holiday 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

And if you’re in the mood for ice-creams, you might want to try their gelatos. I’m not sure if they’re good cause we didn’t try it.

From Day 2 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

In our next blog entry, we will be covering the Puli Winery and the Guangxin Paper Mill; so do stay tuned to more updates from us! In case you’re wondering how the chocolates taste like, it tasted like Royce’s chocolates; except that Royce’s chocolates are much sweeter.

God bless!

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Ming Qin Minsu

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Hello Everyone,
in this blog post, we are going to share with you about our 1 night stay at the Ming Qin Minsu in Cing Jing.

Background Information:

We initially wanted to stay at the Sunnydale Minsu but because it was fully booked, we have no choice but to seek for other accommodations to stay at. Having spent a lot of time researching for a Minsu to stay at, we chanced upon Ming Qin Minsu and we decided to stay there for a night. Ming Qin Minsu has 4 blocks and in each of this block, there are many different room types and some of their rooms can accommodate up to 5 persons. For us, we chose to stay at Block A, Room 1205 and it was really cosy. For a night’s stay, it cost us $6000 TWD [approx. $254.99 SGD].

A Short Video Introduction to Ming Qin Minsu

Baby posing for a photo right outside Ming Qin Minsu

From Day 1 Taiwan 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

When we arrived at Ming Qin Minsu, the exterior literally looked like this because the weather was extremely cloudy and cool. In fact, the temperature and atmosphere is somewhat similar to what you would experience at Genting Highlands.

From Day 1 Taiwan 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

Here’s the interior/lobby area of Ming Qin Minsu

From Day 1 Taiwan 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]
From Day 1 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]
From Day 1 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

Here’s the exterior/outdoor area of Ming Qin Minsu

From Day 1 Taiwan 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]
From Day 1 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]
From Day 1 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

As it was really foggy, we didn’t really take much photographs. Also, they have an Alfresco dining area where you can chill and relax. In fact, on the night that we stayed at Ming Qin Minsu, they had a simple concert put up by a two-piece band.

From Day 1 Taiwan 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

And here’s where we stayed at, Room 1205

From Day 1 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

The Interior of Our Room

From Day 1 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]
From Day 1 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]
From Day 1 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

Simple Bath Setup

From Day 1 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

The Bath Equipment

From Day 1 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

A Classic Work Desk

From Day 1 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

A Classic Dressing Table

From Day 1 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

Complimentary Pineapple Tarts/Cakes

From Day 1 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

As dinner wasn’t provided, we had to settle our own dinner and because Ming Qin Minsu was situated quite a distance from the main bustling area of Cing Jing, we decided to dine at their in-house restaurant that served Western/Italian/ cuisine.

From Day 1 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]
From Day 1 Taiwan 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

We had 2 of their set meals and here are what we ordered.

Beverage, some fruit vinegar

From Day 1 Taiwan 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

Starter, Salad

From Day 1 Taiwan 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

Pumpkin Soup

From Day 1 Taiwan 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

Mains, Meatball Bucatini

From Day 1 Taiwan 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

Mains, Creamy Chicken Bucatini

From Day 1 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

Dessert, Yoghurt and Starfruit

From Day 1 Taiwan 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

Honestly, we didn’t really fancy their dinner set meal. Thankfully, we bought some food from the 7-Eleven Store at Carton King and Small Swiss Garden before heading over to Ming Qin Minsu. If you ask me, the food from the 7-Eleven Store taste much better. By the way, the rooms are not equipped with a microwave oven so if you’re planning to buy some food from the 7-Eleven Store, you might want to get them heated up first before heading over to the Minsu. Alternatively, you can get the kitchen staff at the Minsu to heat it up for you.

From Day 1 Taiwan 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]
From Day 1 Taiwan 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

Stay tuned to more updates from us!

God bless!

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Small Swiss Garden + Green Green Grasslands @ Cing Jing

By

Hello Everyone,
we really hope you like our most recent blog post on the Old England Manor and the Carton King. For this particular blog entry, we will be sharing about our experience at the Small Swiss Garden and the Green Green Grasslands with you.

Small Swiss Garden
Because of its Northern European atmosphere, the Small Swiss Garden has been called “Taiwan’s Little Switzerland”. Entrance fees to Small Swiss Garden cost $120 TWD [approx. $5 SGD] and if you’re the sort of person whom don’t fancy flowers and birds, then I would probably recommend you to give the Small Swiss Garden a miss. However, if you’re looking for great photo opportunities, then you must check out this place!

The Small Swiss Garden has some sort of a water show and it is probably better to catch the night show as the whole place would be lighted up with beautiful lights. However, as it was a distance from our accommodation to Small Swiss Garden and the roads were foggy, we gave it a miss for safety reasons.

From Day 1 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

At the entrance of Small Swiss Garden

From Day 1 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

You can purchase some bird food that cost only $10 TWD [approx. $0.42 SGD] to feed the pigeons and ducks. If you’re lucky, some of the birds will perch on your shoulders and provide a good photo opportunity. However, do beware that the birds might just decide to release their poo unto you.

From Day 1 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]
From Day 1 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

Princess on the Carriage

From Day 1 Taiwan 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

I know its not Christmas yet but since I was there and they had this huge Christmas tree, why not?

From Day 1 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

Baby with the Beautiful Lavender Flowers~!

From Day 1 Taiwan 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

Fooling around in Small Swiss Garden

From Day 1 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]
From Day 1 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

Some Rather Beautiful Shots of Small Swiss Garden

From Day 1 Taiwan 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]
From Day 1 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]
From Day 1 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]
From Day 1 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]
From Day 1 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

There is a small cosy cafe in Small Swiss Garden and if you have some spare time, you might want to spend the time sipping some coffee or tea while admiring the peaceful scenery.

From Day 1 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]
From Day 1 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

Our first time seeing white ducks

From Day 1 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

Parting Shots at Carton King and Small Swiss Garden

From Day 1 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]
From Day 1 Taiwan 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

Green Green Grasslands
Green Green Grasslands is situated on much higher grounds in Cing Jing as compared to Carton King and Small Swiss Garden. Hence, it is highly recommended that you have your own transportation up to Green Green Grasslands because climbing can be a rather tedious task. The entrance fees to Green Green Grasslands cost $200 TWD [approx. $8.50 SGD] and trust me, it’s really worth the money. There, you can see herds of sheep grazing on the grassy hill and if you would like to feed them, the sheep food will cost you $10 TWD [approx. $0.42 SGD]. Also, if you visit on a weekends, there will be a Sheep Shearing Show which we found pretty amusing.

Having some fun right outside the entrance of Green Green Grasslands

From Day 1 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

Entrance Tickets to Green Green Grasslands

From Day 1 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

Entrance to Green Green Grasslands

From Day 1 Taiwan 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

Our “Couple Stamps” to Green Green Grasslands

From Day 1 Taiwan 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

An Overall Map of Cing Jing

From Day 1 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

Baby having her share of fun at Green Green Grasslands

From Day 1 Taiwan 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]
From Day 1 Taiwan 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]
From Day 1 Taiwan 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]
From Day 1 Taiwan 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

My turn to have some fun at Green Green Grasslands

From Day 1 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]
From Day 1 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]
From Day 1 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

While waiting for the Sheep Shearing Show to begin, we decided to have a ride on their incredibly big horse! The ride cost us $150 TWD [approx. $6.37 SGD].

From Day 1 Taiwan 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

A Short 4-Minutes Video on The Sheep Shearing Show.

The Sheep Shearing Show

From Day 1 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

Make sure you get good spots for the Sheep Shearing Show and do not take the seats where the horses were stationed at [for the rides] because the floor is littered with horse pee and poo.

From Day 1 Taiwan 2012 [Melvin’s Perspective]

At the end of the Sheep Shearing Show, we decided to take a parting shot with this Sheep Shearer cum Shepherd from New Zealand whom spoke really good Mandarin.

From Day 1 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

A rather “interesting” sheep we saw along the way. While the wool of other sheeps were curly, the wool of this particular sheep is rather straight [as if it was straightened using a hair straightener].

From Day 1 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

Parting Shot of Green Green Grasslands

From Day 1 Taiwan 2012 [Jacqueline’s Perspective]

Now that you know about the Old England Manor, Carton King, Small Swiss Garden, and Green Green Grasslands in Cing Jing, our next blog entry will be about our accommodation [Ming Qin Minsu] in Cing Jing. So, do look out for it and stay tuned to more updates from us!

God Bless!

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