travel by iPhone // a day in Taipei

one of the greatest dangers of expat life is that even living in a foreign place can become familiar over time. some days, even living in Taiwan, I have to force myself to look at things as an adventure.

today I'm going to take you along with me to Taipei for an afternoon. something that - strangely enough - doesn't seem all that strange to me anymore. so I decided to go out of my way to make my everyday a little more touristy.

I admit it. living in manhattan gave me city skyline bias. but having this building be the first thing you see when walking out of the subway [after entering Taipei on the high speed rail which runs underground as well] is still pretty impressive. the skyline is strange, because Taipei 101 is twice as tall as any other building in the city. but if you're going to play tourist, this is the right place to do it.

it seems like any city you visit has some kind of outdoor traveling art exhibit. the golden globes above [currently across from Taipei 101 as you can tell by the reflection] have something to do with the moon. I know this, because there was a painted bus parked nearby that said "moon bus."

and then... ah, yes. Taipei has one of these too. I figured a touristy set of photos needed to include the famous "LOVE" statue. unfortunately the group of middle aged businessmen who were taking pictures in front of it when I walked up decided to stand there reviewing their photos for a solid 5 minutes. after waiting that long I wasn't going to just walk away... so I hope you appreciate this photo extra for the effort I had to put in to get it.

tourists go shopping, right? Taiwan has recently opened several Gap stores. so of course I had to go in and try a few things on to verify that - yes! - they use the same sizing as in the US. meaning I can find pants that will fit my American thighs, and are not marked up with brand-label import tax. the downside [or probably, the upside for my bank account] is that the styles right now are a lot of baggy/boxy things that don't really flatter my shape. but if I find myself in need of a basic shirt or new jeans or a sports bra, I know where I can go and not be frustrated by the sizing.

and I'll leave you with a few of my favorite city sightings: narrow alleys, cat cafes, the goat park, cute old couples on the MRT, and this amazing green Volkswagen bus. do you every play local tourist in your own city?

PS: my blog reader survey is still open. you can take it here, and I'd love you forever if you did! thanks to everyone who has participated so far!

linking up with Bonnie, Courtney, Cynthia, and Yalanda for Travel Tuesday

Read more

Hong Kong // Chi Lin Nunnery

the sign at the entrance says: when one enters the mountain gate, one leaves behind the tribulations of secular life. with its symmetrical wooden structures, fountained louts ponds, and quiet atmosphere, the Chi Lin Nunnery lived up to this promise for me. it was just the spot of serenity I needed to put behind my uncomfortable experience from earlier that day down by Victoria Harbor.

Chi Lin Nunnery is set into the base of the mountains on Kowloon, near the Diamond Hill MTR stop. this Buddhist monastery is one of the most unique I have seen, being constructed out of a beautiful dark wood. all the small trees they had potted and sculpted around the complex gave it a natural feeling. don't get me wrong - I love colorful and ornate temples. but this little oasis from the bustle of Hong Kong was exactly what I needed.

this is an active monestary, so not all is open to the public and photos are not allowed in some areas. but it is free to enter, and next to the nunnery is an entire garden park you can explore: the Nan Lian gardens [also free - more of that in an upcoming post.]

if you find yourself in Hong Kong and wanting to escape for a few hours, I suggest you follow Shakespeare's advice and get thee to a nunnery. [come on, you know I had to reference Hamlet at least once in this post!]

Read more

2014 reader survey

whether you are a loyal reader or only stop by this blog on occasion, I would greatly appreciate your feedback in taking the below survey.

I've been taking this blog thing seriously for about a year now. while I've experienced enough growth to know I must be doing something right, I want to hear from you on how I can improve your experience. [also... you guys know a lot about me, and I'm curious about YOU.] this survey will give me some helpful input, especially from those of you who aren't regular readers or commenters.

to make this as painless as possible, I've embedded the survey below. it should take less than 5 minutes of your time to complete. be sure to click submit when you're finished!

update: the survey is now closed. thank to everyone who participated! results coming soon.

Read more

Hsinchu // Jhulian Temple

unlike some of the smaller temples around town, the Jhulian Temple is tough to miss. an imposing courtyard flanked by food stalls and stone carvings, a large golden brazier for burning incense, and [of course] dozens of colorful dragons.

according to the helpful sign posted nearby, the Jhulian Temple [also known as the Bamboo Lotus Temple] is one of Hsinchu's 3 main temples. it is dedicated to the boddhisatva Guanyin and subsidiary deities Jhusheng Niangniang [Registrar of Births], Fude Jhengsheng [Lord of the Land], and Jing Jhugong [Lord Protector of the Boundary]

I don't really have much to add to that [other than: "blue sky, pretty dragons"] so how about some pictures?

Jhulian Temple is probably the most impressive I have discovered [yet] in Hsinchu. I love the tiny temples tucked into alleyways, but places like this are real stunners too. I hope you guys don't ever get sick of seeing photos of dragons, because I doubt I'll ever be tired of taking them...

Read more

legends of the hidden temple

for the past 2 years, I have been spying this temple out of the corner of my eye. a quick flash of red and a dragon-topped roof, peeking out of an alley. it's just off one of the main roads I drive on a weekly basis.

nearly every time I'd drive past, I would tell myself "I should stop there are and take pictures." or "I should drive down that alley and check it out." BUT I didn't have my camera, or was on my way to get my haircut, or had groceries that needed to get home. so in my mind this place became more and more of a mystery. I started referring to it as "that hidden temple in that alley" which inevitably led to 90s gameshow flashbacks.

well, I finally made it a point to stop with my camera and grab some pictures.

it's not the largest temple. not the prettiest or oldest. it's build in the most awkward of places. but it's a symbol of something I love most about Taiwan - the unexpectedness. because around these parts, you never know when a hidden temple will reveal itself around the next corner.

and now I'd like to introduce you to this month's featured sponsor: Maria of Wanderlust. she is currently living on the coast of Portugal, and it is every bit as lovely as you'd imagine. [I'm dying over the photos of this beach!] her recent posts detailing her travels to London are filled with gorgeous photos as well.

I'm Maria Ana, an nineteen-year-old university student who's currently living in Lisbon. My biggest passion is to travel and that's the main subject of my blog. Explore new cultures, its people, its food, its art, its language, fascinates me. I'm also very interested in photography, books and cinema. In regular days, I like to take long walks to rest my head from this crazy world or enjoy, with good company, some hours talking about anything and everything.

your two favorite posts to share: One of my favourite posts is about Barcelona. It was such an amazing trip, and I loved all the photos I took. Barcelona is such a vivid city: the architecture, the markets, the streets... The beauty of this city is beyond words.

I think it's important to travel inside our country. That's why I really like to share some photos and info about the beautiful places near where I live. This post is one of my favourites. It's about my "home", it's about the beauty of the region and it is something I like to share, because I think everyone would enjoy to visit these places.

what is your favorite trip/vacation you've ever taken - where to and why? It's really hard to choose one favorite trip, I must say it is impossible! I've been to quite a few places, but I didn't have my blog back then, so you won't find any photos or details about those adventures. I loved every trip I've been, but I can refer two "special":

New York City: I was only ten years old when I went to NYC, but I will never forget those days. I was astonished with the tall buildings, the people, the environment... It was all new, different and amazing at the same time. I was just a kid, but since those days that I wish I could live there. There, you have the world in just one city. I remember that when we went to Chinatown, it amazed me how every neighbourhood made you feel your where in a different part of the world. I also visited Newark, which is where many portuguese live and I felt like I was home when, truly, I was in NYC. I can't find the words to describe the hapiness and the marvel of a kid that was suddenly transported to the most amazing city in the world.

Italy: I went on a nine-day trip to Italy with my mother and some of her friends back in 2009. From Milan to Rome, we visited many many italian villages and cities along the way. This country is so welcoming, so comforting. The culture, the food, the language, the people, it is impossible not to love it all. In almost every city, you are literally walking through history. You have beautiful monuments everywhere. You have the most amazing museums. And of course, you'll eat the best pizzas of your life, what's not to love? I can never forget Italy, it's a magical country where the history and the art really touch you, deep in your heart.

where would your dream trip take you? That's an excellent question! I wish I could travel all around the world, but there are certain places that are definitely on the top of the list, such as: Egypt, Mexico and a road trip across the United States.

describe yourself in 3 words: I think I can describe myself as a fair and compassionate person who is, above all, a dreamer.

learn more about Maria Ana on her blog: Wanderlust

or follow along with:

bloglovin + instagram

Read more

fall and other things.

every year [that I've been living in Taiwan] my mom sends me leaves from Michigan. I also always buy a tiny pumpkin. these are pretty much the only fall things going on around here, as it's currently 88F feels like 90F outside.

there are a lot of things I love about life in Taiwan, but I sure as heck miss a good Michigan fall. tailgates, apple cider, sweatshirt weather... I don't get that here. so please excuse me while I turn on my air conditioner and create myself a little fall photoshoot.

I've been sleeping awful lately. I'm not sure if it's because we started watching Twin Peaks and the freaky dream sequence is giving me nightmares, or that I found a 2.5 inch long cockroach waving its antennae at me in the bathroom the other night. [because that's also giving me nightmares.] Happy Hallo-week?

we're planning to celebrate this friday by cooking burgers and fries [I've deciphered the In-N-Out animal style sauce] and a movie marathon. my movie choice would be Hocus Pocus, obviously. though I could possibly be persuaded to watch Cabin in the Woods or Army of Darkness. that's about as scary as I can handle. how did I end up marrying someone who LOVES horror films?

in other news: I gave my blogging class students a survey yesterday and I really really loved it. I used Typeform and the survey turned out beautiful, and the results were easy to interpret and share with the class. I feel like I have a good plan for the rest of the semester now.

the feedback was helpful, and I actually had fun putting it together. so I'm thinking of creating one for this blog... hopefully you'll take it if I do? I'm not planning any major changes around here, but there are a few things I've considered doing. I think some feedback from my readers would be helpful.

speaking of readers... I realized I have almost 900 followers on bloglovin. first thought: AWESOME. second thought: when/how did this happen? about a year ago I started "blogging seriously" and I had a thought that maybe I could reach 1,000 followers by the end of 2014, but decided that might be an unrealistic goal. well, not so unrealistic now, thanks to every one of you who has come on board this journey with me!

have I mentioned lately that I love you guys?

there's been a lot of unbloggable things happening around here too. I'll try to keep the cryptic tweets and posts to a minimum... but I can't just say nothing. there's a few not-so-great things, but mostly good stuff, and a lot of decisions to be made. I'd appreciate any prayers/thoughts/good vibes/juju you could send my way in the next few weeks.

I hope you're enjoying fall where you are [and whatever it looks like!] how are you planning to celebrate this Halloween weekend?

linking up with Nicole for TYS Thursday

Read more

the writer's block: around the world in 8 minutes

this month for the writer's block feature, my sponsors are going to take you on a tour of their favorite destinations around the globe. pack your bags, read on, and be sure to visit their blogs for more when you're done!

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

I'm Brittany Ruth and I'm an American living in Germany. I write about my travels all over Europe. I also share my antique and flea market adventures, occasional DIY projects, and anything else that inspires me to write!

featured destination: Iceland

what do you consider a must-do for visitors here? There are several must-sees for Iceland. I recommend that you tour The Golden Circle. You can do this on your own or with a tour. I also recommend you spend some time in downtown Reykjavik exploring the town, talking to the super nice locals, shopping for a woolen sweater, and eating some yummy seafood. Also, make sure you stop by The Blue Lagoon before or after you head to the airport.

what is your favorite thing to eat in Iceland? There were so many good eats in Iceland. My favorite thing that I ate would have to be down by the Reykjavik Harbour at a restaurant called the Seabaron. You can get in line for some delicious and affordable lobster soup with a side of crusty bread.

any fun or largely unknown facts to share? Many of the people in Iceland still believe in Elves. I happened upon what is called an Elf Rock while in Reykjavik. The sign next to the rock explained the history of elves and that you should come and go as you please but never do harm to them and they won't use magic to punish you.

what is your favorite part about visiting Iceland? I had been excited to visit Iceland because I love the fact that so many of my favorite musical artists are from Iceland. The beautiful landscape and unreal views drew me in and I was so impressed with Iceland that I would love to return. I loved everything about it. Except for the how expensive Iceland was.

tips for anyone traveling there? If you are wanting to book any excursions like a puffin tour or whale watching you can walk down to the harbour and book it on the spot. Wanting to book something more adventurous like snorkeling between the tectonic plates? You can book through Arctic Adventures on the main shopping street or visit their website. The best way to get around is by car. The best time to come would depend on what you want to see. I prefer the summer but you can also see the Northern Lights in the winter. Don't forget to pack a rain jacket, warm clothes, and some hiking shoes!

learn more about Brittany Ruth on her blog: The Rococo Roamer

read her favorite posts:

My Second Year in Europe

How to Drive the Golden Circle in Iceland on Your Own

DIY Hanging Jewelry Organizer

or follow along with:

twitter + instagram + google+ 

I'm Christina, the girl behind the scenes here at Route Bliss. I'm a 30-something single wannabe vagabond whose practicality and realist side keeps her planted in East Texas. By weekday I write lots of reports at my job as well as daydream frequently where I want to travel to next, ways to motivate myself to getting fit for health and happiness's sake, and experimenting in the kitchen to make my favorite not so healthy foods healthier. I also like to take lots of photos of pretty things, furry critters (aka canines and felines), and beautiful destinations.

featured destination: Colorado Springs, Colorado

what do you consider a must-do for visitors to Colorado Springs? Travel to the top of Pikes Peak (via car or train), tour the Air Force Academy Chapel, the US Olympic Training Facility, Miramont Castle, and spend some time with nature at Garden of the Gods. Have more time? Hike the Manitou Incline!

what is your favorite thing to eat there? Anything served at the Airplane Restaurant ... or one of the food places in Old Colorado City

any fun or largely unknown facts to share? The Air Force Chapel actually contains four chapels -- the Protestant one that is on the upper level with the beautiful stained glass + on the lower level, a Catholic chapel, a Jewish synagogue area, and a area for Buddhists to worship.

what is your favorite part about visiting Colorado Springs? I've been here twice and both stops enjoyed spending time walking through the Old Colorado City neighborhood as well as the views while walking/driving through the Garden of the Gods

tips for anyone traveling there? Car is the best way to get around -- you can fly in to Denver and drive down or catch a flight directly into Colorado Springs. I visited in May and in June; May was a bit cooler and fewer crowds. If you're from a higher humidity area, don't let the lower temps frighten you -- what 35 degrees felt like on a May morning was the same as what 50 degrees feels like on a spring/fall morning in East Texas thanks to the lack of humidity. Don't forget lotion (drier area) + extra water if you're from a lower elevation!

learn more about Christina on her blog: Route Bliss

read her favorite posts:

budgeting: the basics part 2

fitness friday: what to do and where

budgeting for price fluctuations: a challenge

or follow along with:

instagram + bloglovin + twitter

Hi! I'm Olivia. I write about living overseas and travelling at Halfway Somewhere. I'm back home in Australia finishing university right now, as soon as I finish I plan to exhaust as many working holiday visas around the world as I can before I get too old to qualify for them. My biggest goal is to get my hands on a 1974 Winnebago motorhome and spend my days driving around. Hopefully in the next few years I'll get that going - after I graduate and work out the money situation!

featured destination: Madrid, Spain. I just got home after spending a semester living and studying there and it's skyrocketed up my 'favourite places' list. The first time I went I didn't like Madrid at all but now I'm a big fan.

what do you consider a must-do for visitors there? A walk down Paseo del Prado stopping in at the different museums along that road is a great way to spend a day. The Prado is the most famous, but I prefer the Reina Sofia and the Thyssen museums. They're much more modern and are more my style.

what was your favorite thing to eat in Madrid? An easier question would be what don't I like to eat in Madrid! The food there is insanely good, and cheap too. It's somewhere you can afford to eat at a lot of restaurants, thanks to the cheap menu del día's available. I did write a post earlier this year called An ode to croquetas, so it's safe to say those are one of my favourite things to eat there. They're gooey inside, crispy outside, and you can get them in all sorts of flavours. They're just amazing.

any fun or largely unknown facts to share? My favourite fun fact about Madrid is about the Fuente de la Cibeles, a fountain in the city centre. It's located next to the Banco de España and above the old gold reserves. Back in the day if the gold reserves were in danger of being stolen, the bottom of the fountain would give way and the water would flood the basement room where the gold was kept to keep it safe.

what was your favorite part about living in Madrid? I love how cheap it is to live in Madrid. Being the capital city, it's obviously not the cheapest place in Spain, but compared to other capitals in Europe it's a bargain. You still have world class art galleries, shopping, history, culture, and sport like many other places but the cost of living is much lower than Paris or London. It's also really easy to get out of the city and explore the rest of the country - an hour or two by train has you in a whole new place with its own stories and customs, which I love.

tips for anyone traveling there? Summer in Madrid can be a killer - there's just nowhere to go to escape the heat coming off all the concrete and buildings. But spring is perfect. It's beautiful, everybody's happy winter is over, and the vibe just changes. You still might need a coat though! The weather can be fickle at times.

learn more about Olivia on her blog: Halfway Somewhere

read her favorite posts:

how to take photos of yourself when travelling solo 

an Australian's first impressions of America 

that time I was robbed in a hostel dorm room 

or follow along with:

bloglovin + twitter + instagram

if you're interested in being featured next month on the writer's block, I still have ad spaces available!

Read more