I figured that too much a day would probably kill my readers. So here's long-awaited day 2 where we'll be moving from the North to the East.

Did i mention travelling to places by bus in Taiwan take hours? I fear long bus rides cos 1) i get strained neck from the uncontrollable jerks 2) my poor butt experiences numbness 3) will disclose this on my entry to Alishan. Before i forget, tour guides love to share this common "joke", i remember hearing this during my previous trip to HK. The Da-ge (this is what bus drivers are known as) who's driving the bus now is top notch, the rest are either hospitalised or not driving anymore. Okay, so they stooped this low to assure us that we'll be safe in these rollercoaster rides.

First stop, Yeliu Stone Park

You must be wondering how interesting these rocks can get. Think differently, cos these rock formations are sculpted by nature. How often do we get to see this Singapore? Or rather do we even have a chance to see this. The azure skies, lush greenery..


Shop houses near the park. These shops look run down, but they probably appear so because they are operating in the less developed areas.

These were taken on my way to Jiufen. Notice the 槟榔 store. This is one of the many along the roads after the expressway. 槟榔 sold is mixed with lime (not the fruit!) and wrapped in a leaf. There is also a story behind those skimpily dressed girls which i can barely remember. Opps.

Next stop, Chiufen

A village with many teahouses and shops selling famous local dishes, snacks and crafts. We left with boxes of sun biscuit, assorted flavours of mochi, fruit jelly. The bus ride down was horrible. Sharp turns were made without any warning and i had to stand at a weird angle beside the da ge for closed to 2o minutes. Can you tell how relieved i was when i alighted from the bus? But I could barely walk properly as my legs pressed against the safety handles throughout the whole journey. Although it was a good experience to take the public transport, i would only try it again when it is less packed.

Train ride to Hualien

I asked Daddy casually if the windows inside the train can be opened and shut easily, just like those you see in those movies. Guess what he said. He doesnt remember seeing this in Jay Chou's MVs. -______- He must have thought i was kidding when i asked that. I've never taken a train in my life, except for the MRT of cos. The train was delayed for closed to 45 minutes. Sickening. This ride was 3 hours long, and from what i gathered, it was travelling along the East Coast Highway. It was indeed a scenic ride coupled with warm country inns, plantations, beautiful mountains and lakes.

Although Hualien is less developed compared to Taipei, the hotel room arent in the least shabby.

Tau Huay. Notice that it's clear soup instead of syrup here. It's really yummy. Who says yummy food are sinful huh. Heheh.