18 Comments

I can definitely feel your current vibe in your writing. That feeling of coming back home. I lived in Taipei from 2012-14 and this brought back some good memories. Also, remember coming back to the U.S. and awkwardly waiting outside stores expecting the doors to automatically open like at 7-11. I hope you enjoy all the delicious food, the slow/reflective energy of the country, perusing through an Eslite bookstore while sipping on some Cama coffee, and the warmth of the people and community there.

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Thanks Jon. I wish we could have the 7-11s of Taiwan or Japan back home 😂

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This is fantastic, Paul. I had my third trip to Taiwan earlier this summer and, like you, have been studying the language for a while now. Seriously, there is a lot that resonates here... I've made many friends and just fall more and more in love with the people, the scenery, and the food each time I go. I'm currently debating on taking the plunge next summer, quitting my 9-5, moving to teach English for a year or two and writing about the experience.

Enjoy! Nothing beasts a good 蛋餅!

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You have my permission to quit 😂

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Loved this. It's cool how other places can hold memory for you, and just traveling through them can unearth this rich sensory experience.

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All the food items make me slightly homesick! Danbing and porkfloss rice rolls are essential!!!

The relaxing vibes and slowness of the streets of Taipei via your lens is 💯 Can't wait to hear more

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I’ve had more pork floss in a week than I did last year and it’s the best haha

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Love it

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Wow, this piece. I resonate with the same elations and fears when discovering (or rediscovering) a new place. I can’t wait to do it myself soon.

Have an amazing trip Paul!

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Loved reading this, Paul! Enjoy Taiwan and the street snacks. This made me want to travel again, to somewhere new and feel like a young fool who can't speak the language.

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I enjoyed this -- and recapturing for myself those first few days in an old place made new again by revisiting.

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I really enjoyed strolling alongside you in today's post. It is wonderful to see a place through fresh eyes - because it is familiar, yet new through time away.

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Hi Paul,

Really loved reading this post, on multiple levels. It is great - thanks.

Hope you’re settling in.

Best regards,

Michael

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As someone moving to Taiwan in a year and very scared about it, I enjoy these so so much

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Why scared?!?

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It’s a move, likely permanent. And I’m a scaredy cat. Afraid of noise and change

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Permanent is scary but I think you’ll like it.

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Had to look up natatorium. Thanks for sharing!

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