First Day in Taipei

After identifying our hostel by the Coors Light umbrella in the courtyard outside, we checked in, cleaned up, and departed for the National Palace Museum via the metro. While fumbling through our transit map, a young Taiwanese woman ensured that we were headed in the right direction. When we asked her about a few nightclubs we had heard of, she responded with: "You will have much pleasure there. You both very cute." Her English skills stemmed from her 1 year stint as a housemaid in South Dakota. Weird. She then tried to seduce us into joining her for lunch, but unfortunately for her we were set on visiting the museum.

The museum had an impressive collection of Asian art and artifacts dating back from the neolithic period to modernity. It turns out, most of it was stolen from mainland China by Chang-Kai Shek in an attempt to preserve it during the cultural revolution. We don't think we've ever seen more Jade "pi-discs" or blue and white china in our lives. The emperors sure had posh lives.

2 hrs at the museum tired us out, so we headed to Taipei 101, the tallest building in the world with amazing 360 degree views of the greater Taipei area. The 5 story shopping center in the bottom floors rivaled Rodeo Dr.

We then dined at the notorious Din Tai Fung restaurant, which the NYT claims to have the best dumplings in the world. And we wholeheartedly agree. After dinner, we walked aroung the night market near our hostel, which was bustling with young folk grabbing late night dinner. We were unable to identify about 95% of the food being served. We don't think this will change any time soon.

Pictures coming soon...