Taipei (China): Typhoon, hot springs and excellent food

On Sept 19, we, A Vah and I, flew to Taipei. We arrived at the same moment as the big typhoon. Very impressive. Storm and rain, perfect for our first time in Taiwan. But we survived. Interesting experience.

Taiwanese people are very kind. It's so different from the mainland Chinese.

Our friend Mike joined us the second day and showed us around. Taipei is a city with modern areas but also small traditional streets. The average quality of living is clearly better than in the mainland. Food and activities are more expensive, although compared to Europe, it is still very cheap.

Have I mentioned that the food in Taiwan is amazing? ;o)

The second day, we decided to enjoy our stay and try the hot springs, which are very famous in Taiwan. It was a very relaxing afternoon.

Next stop: Honk Kong, China

Shanghai (China): Expo, friends and excellent food

I arrived on Sept 14th early in the morning after a terrible flight. No one should fly in economy class, we should all fly business. I traveled during 11 hours next to a chinese old man, with only one big yellow tooth on the below side. Very nice but a bit stinky. Anyway, the flight was ok.

Shanghai has changed so much since last time I came, 10 years ago. People are more nicer, city is cleaner and there are still more and more buildings and more and more cars.

I spent 4 days in Shanghai. I met up with my 2 cousins, Monique the Belgian one and Maly the French one. It was very nice seeing them after so long. I also met my other "yellow" friends. I met those friends 10 years ago when we studied all together in Beijing. So this time, it was a great reunion with A Vah from UK, Wayne from HK, Mike from the US, Caihong from France and Tiger from Shanghai.
All we did for 4 days was to eat, eat and eat again. Those who know me will not be surprised about that.
But food is so good in Asia, it's unbelievable. I think in Shanghai i gained about 1 kg. Good start, only after 4 days. Well, other consequences are there as well... average 4 times per day to the toilet. I love Asia!

We also went out clubbing in a very trendy club, The Muse. But immediately the moment we stepped in, we felt old, very old. Average age: 20 years old. But though we had a great time, it reminded us the old good times, when we were young and innocent...

Next stop: Taipei, Taiwan (China :o))

D-1, ready to hit the road...

When I told my relatives and friends that I was taking a long break in my professional career 5 months ago, everyone was very surprised. But they were happy for me, well I hope so...

5 months later, here I am, sitting on the coach in front of the TV for the last time before my departure. Writing is not my greatest quality but I'll try my best to make this blog alive so that everyone can follow me virtually. All comments are of course more than welcome.

As most of you know, my plan is not really defined yet but I think that a little bit of improvisation can only be positive.

Well, let's get into the heart of the matter. First destination: Shanghai (China) where I will stay for 5 days, enjoying Chinese food, karaoke and meeting up with my old Huaqiao friends and cousins. Really looking forward.

Next stop confirmed: Taiwan.