Day 12 - Disney Land - oops Sea

After four trains, we made it to Disney Sea (like Disney land but with more Water).

Very cute place, even the train to the front gate had mickey ear shaped windows. See the Disney Castle (far) in the background.


It was pretty fun over all, getting there at 10:30am and staying until about 7:30pm. The best thing was that there were none of the usual expected queues. I think they (the rest of Tokyo) were scared off by the cold weather.

This is the first show that we saw when we had just arrived.


The rides are superb and very entertaining. There were a few "scary-ish" ones but over all they were pretty tame - just entertaining. We did all of the interesting rides and also saw most of the "shows". Got my photo taken with Minnie Mouse and yeah got my fill of all that is Disney.

We have an early start in the morning - the fish markets are on the books - so have to try and get an early night.

Day 11 - Akihabara & Beyond

The day started with a traditional Japanese breakfast (read rice ball & miso soup). We then ventured to Akihabara on the kind recommendation to purchase some ceramic knives. I also bought a vegetable / Mandoline slicer which I have been craving since Andrew's Xmas Party. After stocking up - we were dangerous - we had lunch at Yoshinoya, I don't know what it was called, but it was yummy and definitely an experience - the guy serving was funny to watch - he wouldn't sit still!! This meal only cost 380 yen. Bargain!!
After eating this meal, we went to Tokyo Bay utlising a monorail type service called Yurikamome. The area is on an artificial island, called Odaiba.

The excitement of going over the rainbow bridge quickly abaited.

We were finally at our destination, Venus Fort (a really interesting shopping center) which is decked out inside like a european street and full of very expensive stores. The fountain in the middle and the casino in the bottom were also interesting quirks.

We then went to Toyota Mega Web - which was like a theme park crossed with a showroom. I "drove" (more like rode in) a self driven car, we played this racing car driver game which they use to practice their response times, we looked at some strange cars which I doubt wil ever come to Australia and Sean played GT4 in a fully function VR device.

After all of this fun we went to a copy of the statue of liberty and then browsed the shops in Aquacity Odaiba. Our tummies were rumblings so we then quickly found a restaurant (many to choose from) in the centre, which was very tasty - Sean and I both chose the teriyaki chicken which came with rice, veges and miso soup.

After all this excitement and with sore feet we trundles home to a hot shower and a Bailey's on ice (yum - only $15 AU for a bottle).

Tomorrow Disney Land ... or Sea - not 100% sure yet.

Day 11 - Akihabara & Beyond

The day started with a traditional Japanese breakfast (read rice ball & miso soup). We then ventured to Akihabara on the recommendation of a friend for the purchase of some ceramic knives. I also bought a vegetable / Mandoline slicer which I have been craving since Andrew's Xmas Party. After stocking up - we were dangerous - we had lunch at Yoshinoya, I don't know what it was called, but it was yummy and definitely an experience - the guy serving was funny to watch - he wouldn't sit still!! This meal onl cost 380 yen. Bargain!!

After eating this meal, we went to Tokyo Bay utlising a monorail type service called Yurikamome. The area is on an artifical island, called Odaiba. The excitement of going over the rainbow bridge quickly abaited and we were finally at our destination, Venus Fort (a really interesting shopping center) which is decked out inside like a european street and full of very expensive stores. The fountain in the middle and the casino in the bottom were also interesting quirks.

We then went to Toyota Mega Web - which was like a theme park crossed with a showroom. I "drove" (more like rode in) a self driven car, we played this racing car driver game which they use to practice their response times, we looked at some strange cars which I doubt wil ever come to Australia and Sean played GT4 in a fully function VR device.

After all of this fun we went to a copy of the statue of liberty and then browsed the shops in Aquacity Odaiba. Our tummies were rumblings so we then quickly found a restaurant (many to choose from) in the centre, which was very tasty - Sean and I both chose the teriyaki chicken which came with rice, veges and miso soup.

After all this excitement and with sore feet we trundles home to a hot shower and a Bailey's on ice (yum - only $15 AU for a bottle).

Day 10 - In Tokyo, Japan

The eagerly awaited day had finally arrived - woo hoo Japan!!! The early start was a bit depressing, as it was a rainy & cold exit from Taipei. We seem to have brought the wet weather with us to Tokyo as it is a bit dismal (and a might cold) over here.

After an early start, waiting for and then the two and half hour flight, an over an hour long train trip to metro Tokyo, and a slight misadventure (got on the right train, but in the wrong direction), we finally caught the right subway train to our stop. We then were assisted by a friendly Japanese woman who even called our hotel to find out the location, and then a short walk from the station we were not too eagerly welcomed by the front desk staff / woman. Asking for twin beds turned out to be OVERLY difficult to communicate to the silly woman who obiosuly did not have ANY English (not that I expect this but a bit of patience and personality goes a long way). The funny thing was when we realised that she was actually speaking japanese at us even though we had no understanding, we were expected to understand what she was demanding. Anyway end of rant. Once we were in (our thankfully TWIN room - I wasn't paying money to share a double with my brother) our room. The exploration of the quirks was amusing, such as the heated toilet seat withh front & back bum washing capabilities, the bizarre stove stop (1 cup only) jug and dubbed spiderman movie - to count a few. Jut wondering how I can fit the heated toilet seat into my suitcase.

Then as we were a bit hungry, we went for a stroll to the centre of Akusaka, where there is a temple and a maze of stalls selling lots of bits & pieces. Having browsed the stalls, we went to a Japanese (surprise suprise) Restaurant where we sampled the fare. I was going to have a nigiri platter as I have been craving it for a few days although decided to get Sashimi, which is some thing slightly different which had the similar meats as would be included on a nigiri platter - without the rice. It included pickled radish, a bowl of (hot) rice, and some miso soup. Not bad for the price, especially when compared to the nigiri platter which Sean ordered.

The Temple was then visited and some more borowsing of shops. Sean had a go at the Pachinko machines which is the Japanese eqivalent of a "pokie" machine - ike a mix between a pinball machine and a pokie machine, served up in a amusement parlor setting. A bit boring in my books, but then again I am not a gambler. I don't think Sean was impressed either.

After a bit more shopping, a trip to the local supermarket (love visiting supermarkets in foreign cities) we meandered home for an early night as we have a big day planned for tomorrow (not sure exactly what - but I am sure it will all be revealed in time) ...

Day 9 - Happy Australia Day!

Today was a relatively short one, as we slept in at Elaine's place. We finally caught the MRT to the rendevou point, meeting Hyatt & Christine at Noon.

We then went to a place to have lunch - we ended up choosing to eat at "Italian" place. I had lasagne.

Sean had marinara, which he ate very quickly, so must have been nice!!

We also had a vienna sausage which was suprisingly tasty!

After eating our fill, we went and had a foot & shoulder massage. The guy was pretty hard, but I think I had a few (lot) sensitive bits. I feel a lot better now! Not cheap though at $880 TWD.

After this we had a quick shop for some suitable shoes for Leigh (the hallo kitty ones were killing my feet and appeared to leak). - ooh la la - lacoste!

We then caught the train to Yvonne's city and were picked p by her dad! Now at home preparing for Japan tomorrow!

Sayonara!

Day 8 - Taipei with Bruce

We were picked up early from Elaine and Allen's place by their good friend Bruce. We were driven in his Toyota Camry to the Shihsanhang Museum of Archaeology, which is located near the mouth of the Danshui River in Bali.

After all that fun, we drove off to this funny flapping noise which turned out to be a flat tyre. None of the Taiwanese boys knew how to fix, so Sean was our hero and replaced the tyre, much to the admiration of all. We were back on the road again with the spacesaver tyre!!

Next we went up into the mountains to Jio Fen. This is a small area which is very touristy - full of little shops to pick up Taiwanese souvenirs. We stopped for some strange food which was pork meat in a gelatin shell. Not on my list of top things eaten in Taiwan. Apparently it has chinese medicine in it, which makes it red.

After this a hot sweet soup that had funny little balls that were purple and yellow. Very tasty. It was raining - which mean my shoes were sodden. Not happy Jan.

After this (and a change of shoes - don't ask), we went to Keelung, which is a major port city situated in the northeastern part of Taiwan, near Taipei. Here we saw the big boats in the port and then we went and saw Buddha's hand which is a Rock formation which appears to be a hand, in this cave. We also went to an adjoining temple, which is reputed to be "in the top 8 of taiwan temples"... I dunno about that.....

On the way back to Taipei we tried a Taiwanese burger establishment called MOS Burger. Kinda like the equivalent of Hungry Jacks. Finally we went home, via KFC and chilled out in front of the TV.

Day 7 - Up into the Mountains

Today we were driven by Julia to a shopping mall called Miramar in Neihu which has a Ferris Wheel. I bought a Canadian shirt. We then went to the former residence of Generalissimo Chiang Kai-shek (蔣介石) in Taipei's Shilin district. This was full of beautiful gardens including a Rose garden.

After this, we went to the HOT SPRINGS! For $200 Taiwan dollars I spent I got a private room with a hot springs bath for 40 minutes... It was a really good experience and one that I would like to try again.

After this excitement we had teppanyaki at a local restaurant, it was a very quick meal which was cooked right in front of us. I chose prawn & chicken. It also came with been sprouts and cabbage. rice and a post-mix drink. All this for only $190 Taiwan dollars!

Finally, Sean and I caught the MRT to Elaines house where we have been catching up over a Bailey's and some Taiwanese snacks......

Day 6 - Daytrip to Taichung

Today we slept in, and then took a bus to Taichung. Once we got there we went to a old street in the city which had some interesting shops. We stopped for a Pearl Milk tea and a variety of snacks - including deep fried shitake mushrooms and beef and cheese roll (delicious).

After this we went to pick up some stickers for our mother who has a sticker printing sideline.

When the business side of things were done we went to visit some night markets and managed to find some clothes that fit. I also boughts some ADIDAS shoes and sean bought some shoes that aren't nikes (air jordans).
For dinner we had some Japanese squid balls that were "ok".

After all this fun it was time to catch the last bus back to Jhongli...

Scenic drive in one of Yvonne's friend's cars and a dip in a hot spring....

Day 5 - Taipei to Danshui to Jhongli

Today we caught the MRT to the main station again and met yvonne at maccas. Had a happy meal while I was waiting, I can confirm that they taste the same here in Taiwan.

When Yvonne arrived we took the ooprtunity to look at another department store which is near the train station, called Mitsukoshi Department Store. It is apparently Japanese. It is similar to David Jones in Australia. We didn't buy anything although I nearly bought a harrod's bag.

We then met two of yvonne's friends and had lunch at Vietnamese restaurant in the newly built area in the train station - on the top level.

After all of this, we caught the MRT to Danshui a northern area to the northern edge of outer Taipei - this is where the river meets the ocean. We went up an old street and saw a lot of shops and went to a "Believe it or not" show/museum. I also bought a fake sportsac bag. We seemed to do a lot of eating as during this walk, we ate a beancurd, ginger dessert and at another place, a special local meal which consisted of tofu with noodles inside (looked like a animal's organ). After all of this caught a train back to CBD and I went with Julie & Julia to a clothing area; while sean and yvonne caught up with Scott and went to another fishing store to purchase a reel. The shopping area had HEAPS of clothing although not much of it that I liked and the ones I did were not in my size. I did end up buying two tops and a scarf.

Finally we caught a train home to Yvonnes place where we will spend the next 2 nights.

Day 4 - Tour guide Scott in Taipei

Another day in Taipei as we caught the MRT to Taipei main station all by ourselves! We made it to the meeting point by the prescribed time and picked up by Scott for our adventure! Drive to Illy for a coffee (YUM) after that we drove to computer market and walked around this area (again) - Sean bought a video card and I bought a 8 gig SD card for my EEEPC. I think I got a bargain - less than $50. We seemed to do a lot of driving...

Lunch was at a local food cafe which specialised in deep fried pork, this meal was very tasty and only cost 90 Taiwan Dollars (about 3 bucks).

We then went to Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall (now called freedom hall) there was previously the old president's body there and guards - well guarding it, the changing of the guard was apparently "something to see" although the current president has removed the body and there is no longer the guards - so was not as expected. Although, still interesting to view...

Tonight for dinner we went with Scott & Elaine to a famous Japanese Hot Pot Restaurant - a very interesting experience! This was followed by another fishing tackle store where sean had an extended discussion (through translators) about fishing in Taiwan & Australia. After this, on the way home, the guys had pearl milk tea, followed by MRT safely home. Tomorrow is yet to be planned, hopefully things will be organised SOON! I ave had a headache for the past few days which went away about lunch time! I hope it stays away now.....

Day 3 - Around Taipei

Today Elaine had a day off work to show us around Taipei. We used the MRT which is the city subway service. It was pretty convenient and very easy to use - tomorrow we wil be catching the subway all by ourselves to meet Scott at the Taipei Main Station. I bought shoes at this train station for $6 Australian dollars - I was initially dubious as to the quality - although wore them all day - we will see what my feet are like tomorrow when I wake up!

It all started with a trip to traditional Chinese markets especially for Chinese new year - we were offered lots of apparently "delicious" foods - although tried lots of interesting delicacies including anchovies with sesame, ginger tea, sweets, fish candy, various nuts and saw lots of other strange and interesting things. Lots of dried foods.

We then went to computer market via custard pancake with custard inside. After this we had dumplings for lunch at a chain restaurant which serves dumplings - we ate a variety of pork, vegetable and kimchi (korean spicy pickled cabbage) flavours. We went to Taipei 101 which is the tallest building - but we didn't go up because of the fog. I looked at lots of cameras as I was going to buy a new camera although at the end I decided to buy a new battery & charger (left these bits in Australia).

We then went to some fishing shops for Sean. Final destination was the Shilin night markets which was very big and very busy. I bought a towel, socks and a cheap watch (so that I can tell the time while I am here). Walked round here for ages - was very big! Even went and looked at the puppy alley which sells all sort of pets - mainly dogs - very cute!!! They cost $1200 - which is very expensive considering that the wages are around $400 per week...

Finally home - with sore footsies and resting on the couch - contemplating a shower and then bed. I hope I don't snore tonight as I am sharing a double bed with Sean and I think I woke him up last night!! Tomorrow, Scott has the day off hoping to go to memorial and then Hot Spring in the evening!

Day 2 - Jhongli to Taipei

Last night we went to night markets and exposed to many new and exciting experiences such as tangy fruit on sticks and pancake like bird cake. I bought a dress for Jess (chinese one), so bling hair clips and some cat slippers.

Yvonne's family live in Jhongli which is a city about 30 minutes by train from Taipei. Today we woke up at yvonne's parents house around 9am and had breakfast of steamed bun with pork floss; we also had a toast with a sweet spread which smelt like popcorn and tasted very nice!! This was washed down with lavender tea. We then went on train to Taipei, Scott picked us up and took us out to lunch at a dumpling restaurant - very nice! We then went shopping at a department store called sogo. Very expensive goods... I ended up buying a KAPPA jackets (down-filled bet I will get HEAPS of use in Australia so the wogs better watch out!) and Sean also bought a TOMMY jacket whichs is VERY nice! We spent many many hours in this store - it was over 12 levels including supermarket in the basement.

We then caught MRT (subway train) and met up with Christine, Scott and Elaine and had dinner at the Prawn Restaurant which served fresh hot prawns (we saw them alive before they were cooked) with different fried cooking styles. We then were driven to Elaine & Allen's place where we stuffed around on their couch and Allen finally got my laptop to work on the internet (he is very smart!!).

Day 1 - Taiwan here i am

well i made it to Taiwan.... here I am... had my doubts about the plane landing...... China Airlines does not have the BEST reputation and then there was the sh1t with British Airlines..... Anyway - would rate it as one of the best (easiest) flights in my brief travels.

Only been here for 2 hours so have not had much experience - but going out to night markets soon.... Should be interesting - the beds are hard by the looks of it as well.... hope I sleep ok tonight - but will do cos I am a tad tired!!!!

More later... think I left part of my camera at home - so might need to BUY a new one - WHOOPS! :P