Hello Taiwan, Nice To Meet You

I have finally arrived in Taiwan and set up home in the island’s second largest city, Kaohsiung.

I chose Kaohsiung for a number of reasons.

1. The weather. To put it simply, its HOT. I didn’t realise just how hot until I got here but I’m a Durban girl and I need my sunshine.

2. The location. It’s located down South in close proximity to the beach and mountains. Oh yes, oh yes.

3. The parks. There are beautiful parks located throughout the city.

4. The yogi community.

View from Escape 41 Restaurant at Kaohsiung beachside

Kaohsiung sometimes gets a bad rep because of the pollution down here, but to be honest I feel like I can breathe better than up in Taichung, for example. The streets are wide and it’s more spacious. There’s also a lot more happening down here.

Yoga in the park (photo: Farrah Furtado)

So far I’ve hiked up Monkey Mountain, ventured down to the beach, been on numerous scooter rides throughout the city, done yoga in the park, ended up in the hospital at 2am with my poorly housemate, found my favourite iced matcha latte and sushi spot, and tried the most delicious street food. I’ve also made some amazing friends. I couldn’t have done all of this without the help of my buddy Tom.

So yes, it’s good to meet you Kaohsiung.

I think I’ll stay a while.

Tessa & I in the pagoda at Lotus Lake