Sept 18cover.indd 1
A publication of the Community Services Center Centered 2018 FALL &WINTER AC TIV A TREASUREDISLAND ITIES C ATAL on TAIPEI OG INSIDE TAIWAN – Vol. 19|01 SEPT 2018 2018/8/26 下午5:00 Newcomer Orientation THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 27 Join us for a fast-paced and fun introduction to living in Taiwan. This half-day workshop is full of helpful hints, stories and useful information. Topics covered include: practical daily life tips; typhoon, earthquake and disaster awareness; health and medical information; and understanding the local culture. If you would like to stay afterwards to chat with Center staff, lunch will be available at an additional cost of NT$400.
9:00am - 12:30pm
NT$800 - workshop only NT$1200 - workshop + lunch
Registration required
Community Services Center No. 25, Lane 290, Zhong Shan N. Rd, Sec 6 台北市中山北路六段290巷25號一樓 www.communitycenter.org.tw (02) 2836-8134
Sept 18 cover.indd 2 2018/8/26 下午5:01 CONTENTS September 2018 volume 19 issue 1
CSC KIDDIES KORNER From the Editors 5 25 Places to Visit with Kids in Taipei (Part 2) 9 Center Gallery 6 Book Club: September 6 Activity Highlights 7 CULTURE Events About Town 8 The Magic of a Silk Thread 12 CSC Business Classified 30
SUPPLEMENT Publisher Community Services Center, Taipei Editor Suzan Babcock 2017 Fall & Winter Activities Catalog Co-editor Richard Saunders Advertising Manager Naomi Kaly Magazine Email [email protected] Tel 02-2836-8134 Fax 02-2835-2530 COMMUNITY Community Services Photowalkers Taipei creates a mini-RED Exhibition Center Editorial Panel Siew Kang, Fred Voigtmann @ Red Room 14 Printed by Farn Mei Printing Co., Ltd. FoToon 19 1F, No. 102, Hou Kang Street, Shilin District, Taipei Tel: 02-2882-6748 Fax: 02-2882-6749 FOOD & DRINK E-mail: [email protected] Plan an Ideal Afternoon Tea Party at Home 22 Centered on Taipei is a publication of the Community Services Center, 25, Lane 290, Zhongshan N. Rd., Sec. 6, Tianmu, Taipei, Taiwan Tel: 02-2836-8134 fax: 02-2835-2530 OUTLOOK e-mail: [email protected] Changes and Changing 24 Correspondence may be sent to the editor at coteditor@ A Change is as Good as a Holiday...Sometimes 26 communitycenter.org.tw. Freelance writers, photographers and Currents Flowing in the Bark 28 illustrators are welcome to contact the editor to discuss editorial and graphic assignments. Your talent will find a home with us!
Copyright 2018. All rights reserved. Material in this publication may not TRAVEL be reproduced without the written consent of the copyright owner. Aohua Waterfall 29 COT is printed on FSC certified 100% post-consumer recycled fiber. The paper is certified in accordance with the rules of the Forest Stewardship Council which promotes environmentally responsible, socially beneficial and economically viable management of the world's forests. https://ic.fsc.org/
www.communitycenter.org.tw SEPTEMBER 2018 3
Sept 2018_p3-end.indd 3 2018/8/27 下午3:32 TIGER TOTS PRESCHOOL A LOVING PLACE FOR LEARNING
Crown’s service offerings include: Everyone needs • International & Domestic Shipments • Transit Protection to know why... • Pet & Car Transfers • Immigration & Legalization We’ll help your whole family • Home Search • School Search prepare for the big adventure. • Settling-in Services
PRE-K AND KINDERGARTEN (LOCATED INSIDE TAS) Tel: +886 2 2719 2618 [email protected] TIGGER'S(PRE-2S), 2S AND 3S PLAYGROUPS (TIAN YU CAMPUS) North American Curriculum Gardening Qualified Instructors Fun and Educational Daily Activities Low Student/Teacher Ratios Field Trips Gymnastics and Music Class Fun After School Enrichment Classes Go knowing Engaging Outdoor Playgrounds Mandarin Playgroups www.crownrelo.com/taiwan
We’d love to introduce you to our diverse and incredibly special community of learners! Please call to arrange a visitation. CR ad Euroview AprMay.indd 1 22/3/2016 3:40:25 PM
TYPA MAIN OFFICE: (02)2873-1815 www.typa.org.tw
4 SEPTEMBER 2018 www.communitycenter.org.tw
Sept 2018_p3-end.indd 4 2018/8/26 下午4:54 COVER IMAGE: Aohua Waterfall FROM Please send email submissions, comments, and feedback to [email protected]. By Richard Saunders THE
For more information, please go to our EDITORS website at www.communitycenter.org.tw
COT TEAM September has finally arrived, and with it a promise of much cooler weather. Without question, this past summer has been one of extreme temperatures, high humidity and no typhoons, which is most unusual. The Center is in full swing and ready for the fall season.
Suzan Babcock Richard Saunders Naomi Kaly KC Come join us for our September Coffee Morning Newcomer Editor Co-editor Advertising Manager Graphic Designer Welcome and Open House, on Thursday, September 6th, coteditor@ [email protected] naomi@communitycenter. graphicdesigntaipei. communitycenter.org.tw org.tw weebly.com from 10:30 am to 12:30 pm. Meet new friends and have fun catching up with old friends over coffee, as you learn about our Center family and the resources that we can offer to you and to the community. Also, please take time to look through the Center’s 2018-19 Fall & Winter Activities catalogue. It offers a wide Zee Dlamini Nomita Kavra Gupta Sydney Ko variety of classes, activities and tours, which are perfect for Editorial intern Editorial intern Editorial intern newcomers, visitors, and long-timers that want to enrich their Taiwan experience. Nick Kembel, a well-known author and proud parent of WRITING AND PHOTOGRAPHY CONTRIBUTORS two delightful youngsters, has spent a considerable amount Andre Alayon Piotr Puchalski Sue Babcock Joseph Reilly of time researching places in Taipei that are fun for children. Enrique Chong Richard Saunders In this issue, we have Nick’s second installment, which Andrew Conley Angie Shih offers everything from great play centers to kid-friendly Kenneth Dickson Rosemary Susa Karen Farley Grace Ting restaurants. Alicia Haddad Elene van Sandwyk One of the things that Asia has taught many of us is that Nick Kembel Joyce Wolf Jay Mac change is always dependable and will never change. This Michael Mullahy month, we have included several pieces on the theme, which reflect personal, spiritual and healing thoughts about the journeys that change offers. There is a lot going on at the Center, so please stop by and Pick COT up at: have a delicious cup of Grace’s freshly brewed coffee or tea Uptown: Community Services Center, No. 25, Lane 290, Sec. 6, with us. We look forward to seeing you. Zhongshan North Rd. Sprout – No. 33, Sec. 7, Zhongshan North Rd. George Pai’s Beauty – No. 14, Tienmu East Rd.
Downtown: Ooh Cha Cha – 207, Sec.2, Nanchang Rd. Sue and Richard
Accountant Monica Cheng COMMUNITY SERVICES CENTER Programs Manager Rosemary Susa Coffee Mornings Coordinator John Imbrogulio Cross-cultural Trainer Anne Jacquet The Community Services Center (CSC) is a non-profit foundation. CSC provides Communications Morgan Loosli outreach and early intervention through counseling, cross-cultural education and Events Coordinator Shan Lee life skills programs to meet the needs of the international community in Taipei. Mandarin Chinese Teacher Gloria Gwo CSC offers the opportunity to learn, volunteer, teach and meet others. Check out Samson Debele our website www.communitycenter.org.tw and drop by The Center to chat with us Systems Manager about our programs. You can also email us at [email protected].
Volunteers Miyuki Boice, John Imbrogulio, Becca Kintzley, Director Adam McMillan Leslie McFarlane, John McQuade, Gloria Peng, Emmy Shih, Hellen Soderberg Office Manager Grace Ting Benefactors Bai Win Antiques Counselors I-wen Chan, Katherine Chang, Hui-shiang Chao, European Chamber of Commerce Jung Chin, Chiao-Feng Chung, Cerita Hsu, Carol Lee, Grand Hyatt Taipei Miranda Lin, Emilie Ma, Kuang-Shan Wan Premier Sponsors Concordia Consulting Consultants Wendy Evans and Michael Mullahy ICRT San Fu Global Counseling Admin. Joanne Chua
www.communitycenter.org.tw SEPTEMBER 2018 5
Sept 2018_p3-end.indd 5 2018/8/26 下午4:54 CSC
A percentage of all proceeds of items sold at the Gallery will go SEPTEMBER 2018 to the Center. Please remember that by displaying your items or shopping at the Gallery, you will be helping the Center to continue GALLERY to provide valuable services to the international community.
A JOINT EXHIBITION OF YOUNG TAIWAN ARTISTS SPONSORED BY BAI WIN ANTIQUES The Community Services Center is pleased to have on loan from Bai Win Antiques a unique joint exhibition of young Taiwan artists. YURIE’S ASSORTMENT OF SILK Please stop by the Center to view FLOWERS AND ACCESSORIES the paintings of Chen Ah-Kim, Yurie Asada meticulously selects all her Chen Shu-Hwa, Lee Fin-Lan, Tang silk flowers for her exquisite silk flower Shu-Hui and Wang Cheng-Chi. arrangements. She focuses on the concepts of “harmony” and seasonal flowers, which will complement any home or office interior. Accessory items include earrings, bracelets and necklaces for those seeking gifts for someone special.
Taipei International Women's Choir
COFFEE GRINDERS AND POTS MADE FROM STAINLESS STEEL AND September - May WOOD Wednesdays, 10 - 11:30 am Enjoy your coffee the old fashioned way. Come to the Center and check American Club Taipei out these lovely items for coffee brewing throughout September. The Taipei International Women's Choir looks forward to welcoming new singers at rehearsals beginning in September. Formerly known as the International Community Choir, the group will be preparing holiday selections from multiple genres and languages for a fun, festive concert at the end of the year. Singers of all nationalities and experience levels are invited to join the Wednesday morning rehearsals. For more information, contact Sarah Zimmerman at [email protected].
Morning Book Club Selection
Nothing to Envy: Ordinary Lives in North Korea by Barbara Demick. For meeting dates, times & location, contact Julie Hu at: [email protected]
6 SEPTEMBER 2018 www.communitycenter.org.tw
Sept 2018_p3-end.indd 6 2018/8/26 下午4:54 COMMUNITY SEPT ACTIVITY HIGHLIGHTS With the new school year started it’s time to come to the Center to join in our activities. Please take a look at our Fall/Winter catalog which is enclosed in this month’s magazine.
Survival Chinese I, II, II Shopping in Taipei: Antoine Farès private collection of teapots and tea ware Mondays and Wednesdays; Carrefour Tour The exhibition will run until September 15th. The exhibition September 10 - October 31 Tuesday, September 25; can been seen between 10:30 am and 6 pm, Tuesday to 9 am - 11 am Saturday at the Beitou Museum. Beginning and Intermediate Guide: Karine Lima Conversation $500 Tuesdays and Fridays; If you are new to Taiwan September 11 - December 14 and would like some Please see our catalog information about shopping or website (www. for groceries, or if you have comunitycenter.org.tw) for been here awhile and are still times and details. struggling to find the right ingredients for a favorite Depending on your level family meal, then this of knowledge, you can join informative tour is for you. one of our Survival Chinese The Center has partnered classes from Beginner to with Carrefour to offer you Intermediate levels. It’s also a chance to meet with the a great way to meet and store’s import team and visit connect with new friends! their Tianmu store. Here’s what you will learn: which Battleship Rock Trail Hike imported items are available Wednesday, September 19; in Taiwan; what local 9 am - 1:30 pm items can be substituted Guide: Dory Chung for ingredients that are $700 not available; information Join Dory for a moderately about organic and free- strenuous hike in the rocky, range products; Taiwan food wooded hills above Beitou safety regulations; why the and Wellington Heights, availability of some items which connect the well- can be so unpredictable; known landmarks of and, how you can go about Battleship Rock (or “Dog's proposing items that the Head Rock”) and the unique store should stock. Lovers' Temple, following a network of trails with Fitness at the Center commanding views over We have three yoga classes the city below. The highest and one Tai Qi class running point is only 164 meters, but this fall. All are conducted from a large rocky area you in English and all begin in can sit and enjoy views of September: Guanyinshan and the Tamsui Tai Qi Zen, Open Level Yoga, River. The route finishes at Yoga for Wellness, and Grow the Xinbeitou MRT with a Your Flow Yoga. Please refer short visit to the amazing to our Activities Catalog for Thermal Valley, a large class times, dates and other natural pool of near-boiling details. hot spring water, and one of Taipei's most unusual tourist Do you have a skill or talent that you would like to share? attractions. We recommend Or have you found some great places around Taipei a reasonable level of fitness that you would like to take others to see? Then why for this hike. Please wear THE not consider teaching a course or leading a tour for the proper footwear—shoes CENTER Center in Spring/Summer 2019? If you are interested, or with a good grip are best. would like more information, please contact Rosemary at Bring water, lunch and sun/ NEEDS YOU! [email protected]. rain protection as needed.
www.communitycenter.org.tw SEPTEMBER 2018 7
Sept 2018_p3-end.indd 7 2018/8/26 下午4:54 CSC EVENTS ABOUT TOWN OUTDOOR ADVENTURES AND A Juggling Competition – The Ting- www.yangsanlang.com ATTRACTIONS Koo-Ki Battle Phone: (02) 2920-8880 The TAO (Taiwan Adventure Outings) Fan Date: September 2nd & Jinyue River Trace Weekend/Campout Time: 7:30 to 9:10 pm – 100 minutes Garden 91 and Garden 91 Cafe Date: September 8th (without intermission) Address: 91 Yangde Boulevard, Section 2, TAO is offering a two-day river tracing Venue: The Taipei Guangfu Auditorium, Shilin District, Taipei and camping experience to see the Jinyue Taipei Zhongshan Hall, 98 Yanping South Times: Tuesday to Sunday (closed and Fan Waterfalls. Road, Taipei Monday) 10 am to 7:30 pm Cost: NT$ 4,900 includes transportation, For ages: 6 and up Tel: (02) 2834-2637 river tracing equipment (helmet & shoes), Tickets: www.artsticket.com.tw Reservations required for the Garden camping equipment (tent, sleeping bag, Cafe 91 pad) meals, 1 breakfast, 2 lunches, 1 The International Taiwan Cycling Festival For those wishing to escape for a few dinner, insurance and guides. Date: Until December 31st hours from busy Taipei, a visit to Garden To register: https://goo.gl/forms/ Sponsor: Tourism Bureau, MOTC 91 is a must. Stroll quietly among the cSgMKNDzeni7form1 For information: https://eng.taiwan.net. stone statues strategically placed within tw/m1.aspx?sNo=0002019&lid=020174 the museum and its adjacent Japanese The 2018 Keelung Mid-summer Ghost This festival is a series of one- to garden. Experience serene dining at the Festival three-day cycling events and activities Garden Café 91. Date: until September 10th highlighting popular spots throughout Venue: Keelung City, in the downtown Taiwan. Enjoy one-day tours of Wulai (an LIVE AND IN-CONCERT Zhongzheng District aboriginal village), Tamsui/Bali, Ershui/Jiji/ Ellie Goulding, the chart-topping, award Information: Keelung City Government, 1, Shueili, and Hualien Hongye Hot Springs. winning British female artist known for Yi First Road, Keelung City For a complete listing of all events, visit her high, piercing vibrato, breathy tone Telephone: (02) 420-1122 the English-language website. and emotive delivery will be performing The Keelung Mid-summer Ghost Festival at the Taipei International Convention is regarded as one of the most important ART AND MUSEUMS Center (TICC) on September 4th at 8 pm. events of this port city. Experience The Yang San Lang Art Museum is the Her music is best described as a mix of diverse rituals and ceremonies, including first privately owned museum in Taiwan, electropop, synth pop, indie pop and a parade for the releasing of the water and the largest privately-owned museum folktronica. lanterns, or the Kain-man closing in East Asia. Plan to spend a leisurely Ticket information: [email protected] ceremony to the gate to the underworld morning or afternoon of relaxing viewing. Tel: (02) 8772-9835 for another year. Hours: 11 am to 5 pm
TAIPEI AMERICAN SCHOOL www.tas.edu.tw
8 SEPTEMBER 2018 www.communitycenter.org.tw
Sept 2018_p3-end.indd 8 2018/8/26 下午4:54 KIDDIES KORNER Places to Visit 25 with Kids in Taipei
Part II TEXT & IMAGES: NICK KEMBEL
In the last of a two-part series, Nick Kembel introduces eleven attractions in Taipei city guaranteed to keep the kids amused.
mango shaved ice, an absolute must in summer. [ Practicalities: Da-An Park MRT or Dongmen MRT for Yongkang Street.
17. SUSHI PICNIC AND SEEING GIANT SPIDER CRABS AT ADDICTION AQUATIC The old Taipei fish market has been converted into an upscale seafood grocery store and restaurant, and my kids love going there to see the aquariums filled with giant spider crabs, lobsters, and more. After that, head into the gourmet grocery store to buy insanely delicious and fresh take-away sushi; there are also kid-friendly foods. Then head to nearby Rongxing Park for a picnic. The park also has a small indoor swimming pool, playground and giant squirrels. Addiction Aquatic also has a standing-only sushi bar, alcoholic drinks and fresh juices, and there’s a mist-cooled outdoor patio restaurant. It’s a bit of a walk from the MRT to Rongxing Park and 15. CHIANG KAI-SHEK MEMORIAL HALL Addiction Aquatic, but you do pass interesting (and incense- Taipei’s #2 (in my opinion) landmark after Taipei 101, CKS free) Xingtian Temple. Don’t forget to cross Minquan East is a collection of three large, striking buildings: the blue-and- Road just before the reaching the temple via the under- white memorial hall, and the classical Chinese-style National Theater and Concert Hall. It’s a good place for family pictures or letting the kids run around, and there are some more ponds with fish. [Practicalities: MRT CKS Memorial Hall, 5 am to midnight, small museum on site: 9 am to 5 pm, free.
16. DA AN PARK Taipei’s answer to New York’s Central Park is a great spot for a picnic, with huge squirrels, and there’s a large playground near the MRT entrance for younger children. Nearby Yongkang Street is a popular restaurant street with many eating options, and is also the supposed birthplace of
www.communitycenter.org.tw SEPTEMBER 2018 9
Sept 2018_p3-end.indd 9 2018/8/26 下午4:54 KIDDIES KORNER
are hard to find, and lines can be long for many stalls. Therefore, the perfect time to go with kids is right when the stalls are opening up, around 5-6 pm. All of Taipei’s night markets are interesting, so take your pick, but we personally love Raohe Night Market. It’s just one long street, so you can’t get lost, there’s a gorgeous Matsu Temple at the eastern entrance, and one block away you can go over the river flood wall to admire pretty, pedestrian-only Rainbow Bridge. Another decent central choice with kids is Ningxia, which is also just one street, and more manageable than the most popular night market in Taipei: Shilin Night Market. Most ground street of fortune-tellers! night markets have a section of kids games like throwing [ Practicalities: MRT Xingtian balls, darts, or catching little fish for prizes. Temple, Addiction Aquatic hours: 6 am to midnight, come earlier for NORTHERN TAIPEI fresher/more sushi choices. Can be quite busy on weekends. 20. GUANDU TEMPLE Guandu Temple is one of the coolest (and oldest) temples 18. MAJI SQUARE, YUANSHAN in the greater Taipei region, and features an eighty-meter- Yuanshan Stadium is another one long tunnel full of gods piercing through the mountain, of our favorite places to spend an leading to a view of the river. The hill behind the temple is afternoon with kids in Taipei. The also fun to explore. surroundings were the location of the Hongshulin, a large riverside mangrove, is two stops north 2010 Floral Expo. on the MRT. Now people come here for Maji Square, a huge, mostly [ Practicalities: Guandu MRT, then a 10 minute walk, covered food court that features a combination of local Hongshulin MRT for Hongshulin. and international foods, including Indian, Mexican, British, Colombian, Thai, and more, as well as restaurants with 21. BEITOU THERMAL AREA patios, including Argentinian, Spanish, and Mediterranean Going to Beitou hot springs is probably my favorite food. There’s also a free merry-go-round (limited hours), and activity to do with my kids on this entire list. Even before children’s games and motorized cars that can be rented. arriving, they are thrilled to take the single stop pink MRT On weekends, there’s a farmer’s market outside, and usually line that goes slowly uphill from Beitou station on the some giant blow-up kids’ bouncing tents. Some cool buildings Tamsui line to Xinbeitou station for the hot springs. The MRT remain from the Flower Expo, such as the “Pavilion of New is painted with cartoons and smells of sulfur from all the Fashion,” made mostly of recycled bottles. passengers who’ve just gone for a soak. Across zhongShan North Road, Sec. 3, you can also visit Arriving in Xinbeitou, the hot spring park is right in front an aboriginal museum, the Taipei Fine Arts Museum, or go of the station. My kids love running along the paths beside through a floral tunnel that connects to Xinsheng Park, which the steaming hot spring creek. The cheapest (but most also hosted the Floral Expo and still has many flowers. North of crowded) soak can be had at the outdoor public hot spring the park, you can also visit Lin An Tai Ancestral Home. (“Millennium Hot Spring”) just past the eco-friendly Beitou [ Practicalities: Yuanshan MRT. Maji Square hours: shops Public Library and Beitou Hot Spring Museum. vary, approx. 11 am or noon to 9 pm. If you don’t mind spending more for a private soak,
19. NIGHT MARKETS You simply cannot visit Taipei without going to a night market, but I would never take my kids at peak times (7-11 pm). Most night markets get so crowded that you literally have to squeeze your way through, there’s nowhere to sit, bathrooms
10 SEPTEMBER 2018 www.communitycenter.org.tw
Sept 2018_p3-end.indd 10 2018/8/26 下午4:54 KIDDIES KORNER
almost all of the tall buildings along the park are hotels that offer private rooms for 90 minutes, but they are a little expensive compared to elsewhere in Taiwan (NT$1,200 and up); some include food afterwards. We’ve found a great little hot spring called Kyoto Hotel. You need to walk to the end of the park, then follow the little road uphill and left, past the entrance to Puji Temple, a Japanese-era relic up a path from the road, on the right. The rooms at Kyoto Hotel are basic, but tubs are clean special). Sunsets here are reputedly gorgeous. and modern, and there are large windows. Prices are very [ Practicalities: Ferry or bus from Tamsui MRT. Ferry to reasonable at about NT$700; I haven’t been able to find any Fisherman’s Wharf hours: 11 am to 8 pm (weekdays) to 9 other rooms this cheap in Beitou, except for dingy ones that pm (weekends), NT$60/31 (adult/child, one way), EasyCard, have no window. 15-minute ride. Ferry to Bali starts at 7 am. It’s also possible You also can’t take kids to Beitou without visiting Hell Valley, to take a ferry to Dadaocheng in Central Taipei. the giant steaming hot spring that is the source of the park’s hot creek. 24. TAIPEI CHILDREN’S AMUSEMENT PARK There are a few “hot spring” ramen shops in Beitou that are Shilin district features three major attractions in Taipei for always busy, so we usually end up at Sushi Express next to the children, all close together. 7-Eleven by Xinbeitou MRT for conveyor belt sushi, which the The first is the large, government-run Taipei Children’s kids always enjoy. Amusement Park, featuring indoor and outdoor areas, with [ Practicalities: Xinbeitou MRT, Millennium Hot Spring: rides and facilities for younger and older kids, including a NT$40 (adults); note the entrance hours are weird, due to Ferris wheel, roller coaster, spinning tea cups, and more. regular closure for cleaning. It’s open 5:30 am-7:30 am, 8 am- It can be very crowded on weekends when the weather is 10 am, 10:30 am-1 pm, 1:30 pm-4 pm, 4:30 pm-7 pm, 7:30 pm decent. - 10 pm. Hell Valley: free, 9 am to 5pm, closed Mondays. [Practicalities: Shilin MRT, then a five-minute taxi ride, or free shuttle bus. Open 9 am to 5 pm, to 8 pm on Saturdays 22. TAMSUI RIVERSIDE PROMENADE and summer/winter vacation, closed Mondays. Admission One alternative to crowded night markets in Taipei is the NT$30 (adults), NT$15 (students), free (under 2s or under daytime market along the river in Tamsui, where the Tamsui 85 cm). Ride tickets NT$30 (five tickets, for bigger rides) or River approaches the sea. Apart from all the food stalls, with NT$20 (8 tickets, for smaller rides), some rides free for under seafood being a popular choice (also watch for the Turkish ice 2s; using EasyCard for rides is easier. cream!), there are tons of children’s games that your kids will beg to play here, and some interesting shops. 25. NATIONAL TAIWAN SCIENCE EDUCATION CENTER A lot of people like to hire bikes here and cycle back towards AND TAIPEI ASTRONOMICAL MUSEUM Taipei. Tandem bikes and bikes with kids seats are usually Both near the Children’s Amusement Park, these have available. to be mentioned as well. The exhibits rotate, but there’s A ways down you can catch a boat to a similar promenade always at least one child-focused one. We recently went for on the other side of the river at Bali, or to Fisherman’s Wharf an “upside-down-world” exhibit at the Science Education (see #23). Center; it was fun, but really packed on the weekend. Check [Practicalities: Tamsui MRT their websites to see what exhibits are on before you go.
23. FERRY TO FISHERMAN’S WHARF, TAMSUI Right at the point where the Tamsui River meets the sea There are certainly more things to do with kids in sits this pretty harbor with the picturesque pedestrian Lovers’ Taipei, and I didn’t even touch on the city’s many play Bridge. There isn’t much to do besides strolling the docks centers or kid-friendly restaurants (check out the great or eating at one of the restaurants (the food here is nothing website “A Toddler in Taipei” for more info on those!) For links to many of the places I mentioned, and to some discount entrance ticket deals, please see the version of this article originally posted on my website at https://www.nickkembel.com/destinations/taipei-with- kids.html
Nick Kembel is the author of Taiwan in the Eyes of a Foreigner and has contrib- uted to numerous publications and magazines. He runs the site Spiritual Travels (www.nickkembel.com).
www.communitycenter.org.tw SEPTEMBER 2018 11
Sept 2018_p3-end.indd 11 2018/8/26 下午4:54 CULTURE The Magic of a Silk Thread
TEXT: SUE BABCOCK IMAGES: WEB
legend about the humble silk worm and the origin of silk has been passed down throughout the centuries. AThe story takes place during the reign of the Yellow Emperor, Xuanyuan Huangdi. According to Confucius, around the year 2,700 B.C., Lady Hsi-Ling Shih, the wife of the Yellow Emperor, was having tea under a mulberry tree when a silk worm cocoon fell into her tea cup. Curious, she watched it for a few moments, and then tried to remove it with her fingers. As she did, she accidentally pulled loose a silk thread from the cocoon, which had begun to unravel. She realized that this soft, shiny yet strong silk thread could be made into fabric. This strange and unexpected learning embroidery was a necessary necessities were needles, knives, fire incident marked the birth of the silk part of their education. Their training stones, flint and tinder sets, money industry, the raising of silk worms and began from a very early age, as soon purses, mirror bags and letter cases. the invention of the loom in China. as they were able to hold a needle. Women usually carried in their belt The art of embroidery was also a skill purses, needles, pins, scissors, pin that young boys who showed promise cushions, mirrors, scented pieces of learned as well. cotton and other necessities for the Craftsmen from different regions smooth running of their lives and within China began to develop their households. own unique embroidery styles. Suzhou, Guangdong, Sichuan and Hunan ANCIENT EMBROIDERED PURSE provinces all became famous for the DESIGNS OF THE IMPERIAL COURT quality of their silk thread, embroidery 1). The heart gourd purse THREADS OF SILK – A TREASURED methods, distinctive art and artifacts. One of the most common shapes SECRET of embroidered Chinese purses or Since the manufacturing of silk was EARLY EMBROIDERED PURSE BELTS bags was the heart gourd. These bags seen as a major trading item for China, OF THE IMPERIAL COURT frequently contained sweet-smelling it was a closely guarded secret. In fact, During the Yuan and Ming dynasties, herbs, and were worn by both men and if anyone was caught transporting men of the imperial court wore a dei- women, especially during the summer mulberry seeds, silk worm eggs or hsieh belt, which was designed to hold months. Young boys and girls were cocoons, the punishment was death. the “seven necessities” for life, as part also required to wear them, in order to Consequently, for thousands of years, of their daily court dress. The seven show respect for the sensitive noses of silk production was one of China’s most their elders. protected and revered cultural and Heart-shaped gourd purses, economic treasures. sometimes called incense purses, were hung in pairs from the wearer’s belt SILK EMBROIDERY AS ART by a silk cord. These purses were often In ancient China, the art of lined with paper and gathered around embroidery was an important part of the opening with a silk drawstring. the imperial court’s rites and rituals. Colorful semi-precious stones or beads For cultured women of the court, dangled from tasseled strings, making
12 SEPTEMBER 2018 www.communitycenter.org.tw
Sept 2018_p3-end.indd 12 2018/8/26 下午4:54 CULTURE
THE GIVING OF ROMANCE PURSES Countless stories of court intrigue and romance have been kindled from the intimate custom of purse giving by young Chinese maidens to their lovers. For many Chinese, the significance behind purse giving was that it was a reflection of the giver’s sentiment and each purse a colorful accessory for any honorable intentions. man or woman’s court costume. Young girls from traditional respectable dowry consisting of their 2). The medicine gourd purse Chinese families were always skilled handiwork. One of the more popular habits of in embroidery, since this played Dozens of exquisitely embroidered the Qing dynasty was using tobacco. It an important role in their dowries. purses varying in size and shape were was thought that tobacco was a healing Embroidered purses in particular were included in their dowry treasure drug. Naturally, a pouch or purse had regarded as significant expressions of chests. Designs were diverse, and to be devised to contain this popular sentiment. followed a wide range of themes such form of entertainment, and what as landscapes, scenes from nature, better shape to use than that of the auspicious symbols, geometric designs gourd, which was a Chinese symbol for and inspirational characters from medicine. These purses had a narrow Chinese folklore. opening at the top and were just wide The best of these items were enough to fit one or two fingers in. selected by the young girl and humbly 3). The oval purse presented to her future in-laws and A direct descendent from the times relatives as gifts. This gesture further of the nomadic tribes of ancient China cemented the alliance between was the oval or egg-shaped purse. Oval families, and added proof of the bride’s purses were meant to be practical as talent and resourcefulness. well as decorative. The front of the purse was reinforced with heavy paper POPULAR GIFTS on the inside, and fashioned so that the Embroidered purses became so top of the purse was slightly wider than Strict rules were carefully followed popular that small purse specialty the bottom. Embroidered designs were regarding the stitching methods used shops could be found in any major only found on the front, and the purse on purses. Natural dyes were used. Chinese city. They were the perfect gift was fastened to the wearer’s belt by a Threads had to be of either the finest to present to visiting officials, friends, colorful silk cord. silk, or a single strand of hair from an close relations and even servants 4). The square purse infant. One account states that when on special occasions. Not only were The square purse was an ideal handling a silk thread, it had to pass these handmade silk purses elegantly substitution for a pocket. Split into through a honey locust which had been embroidered, but they often contained three inside compartments with heavy steeped in water before the silk thread small treasures. These treasures paper supports on both sides, these could be inserted through a needle. symbolized the goodwill, gratitude and beguiling purses were able to carry Even during the twentieth century, affection of the giver. even the tiniest piece of imperial jade young girls in northern China were Even today, collectors and museum treasure. The upper half of the pocket required to learn the art of needlework visitors are still charmed by the intricate was folded over to guarantee the safety and embroidery as part of their basic designs and craftsmanship of these of the purse’s contents, and a cord was childhood training. Usually by the time small silk purses. They are gentle passed through this fold before being of their marriage, they had prepared a reminders of a time gone by, a time secured to the wearer’s waist belt. when the thread from a simple silk Mythical beasts, phoenixes, roosters, worm was considered a valuable gift to crickets and flowers were common receive…even for an emperor. scenes found on the front of these square purses. 5). The oblong purse The dalien is an oblong purse which folded over the wearer’s belt. However, this popular purse design was soon Suzan Babcock is a long- transformed into the more stylish time resident of Taiwan. shapes of butterflies, melons, or oval During her stay here, she has managed four flower vases with embroidered flowers successful careers in education, cross-cultural on them. relations and counseling, although being a mother has been her favorite.
www.communitycenter.org.tw SEPTEMBER 2018 13
Sept 2018_p3-end.indd 13 2018/8/26 下午4:54 COMMUNITY Photowalkers Taipei creates 2018/8/26 下午4:23 a mini-RED Exhibition @ Red Room
Photowalkers Taipei has been organizing photowalks for several years already. We welcome anyone with an interest in photography, regardless of their level of ability. We aim to draw in all members of the local community to share our common love for photographs and photography.
TEXT: KENNETH DICKSON IMAGE: ALICIA HADDAD
RED ROOM'S NEW VISUAL PHOTOWALKERS TAIPEI EXHIBITION group for Photowalkers Taiwan to find DIALOGUES GALLERY @ RED ROOM out more details. RedRoom Taipei is a community- Photowalkers will showcase the driven arts venue in Taipei. As part photography of members as part of PHOTOWALKERS LIVE of the celebration of their new Visual the Visual Dialogues Gallery event, Welcome to the Photowalkers Event Dialogues Gallery, they will launch their from September 2nd to October 6th at for Sunday, which will be a special first show in their new space, with the Red Room in Taipei. After the exhibit, walk starting at the main entrance theme RED. Red Room encourages visitors will hopefully feel encouraged outside RED ROOM at 3:30 pm on artists to explore RED in their work with to get out a camera or mobile phone. September 9th. This is in support of the
these bold words. See if you can find your RED in your life, Photowalkers Exhibition @ Red Room. Activities RED means so many things. It's color, whatever that may represent. Unlike other walks that are held by the it's light. It's fire, it's blood, it's danger, So don't focus too much on the color group, Photowalkers must find their it's love. It's freedom, it's poison, it's red but on the symbolism that it can own routes from the start point to the violence. It's prosperity. It's Earth, represent. Whichever culture you hail destination. It's People. Share with us your RED. from, we find numerous examples of Selected photos taken from the The work can be any media: painting, red that we can draw on for inspiration group may be shared at the end of the drawing, sculpture, verse, prose, in our photography; be it a car tail walk or uploaded to the group website performance, music, video, etc. light exposed in a slow-shutter speed, as part of the Photowalkers LIVE event. ritualistic dancing over an open fire More details and destinations will be amid flying sparks, blurred imagery in a announced in the Facebook group, PHOTOWALKERS street event, or sunset over the ocean. where those interested can sign up for photowalkerstaiwan Facebook: To generate additional interest in any of the upcoming events. Instagram: photowalkers both Taipei Photowalkers and the Red Whatever events you wish to Joining the group on Facebook Room Visual Galleries event, we're participate in, feel free to check out or Instagram will introduce you also organizing several other events to our Facebook group, make contact with to over 750 members, many encourage members old and new to get the members, and come check out our of whom share their work on out and find their RED with whatever events. You're always welcome!
either forum. Check out the 2018 camera they have. Visit the Facebook Fall & Winter upcoming Photowalks and events, too. Kenneth Dickson bought a camera many years ago to take photographs THE NEW RED ROOM VISUAL of his travels around Taiwan. 20,000 photographs later, he finally DIALOGUES GALLERY joined Photowalkers in Taipei, a group that encourages everyone to get Exhibition Opening on Sunday out and take photographs wherever they are. You can visit his website at September 2nd from 4 pm to 6 http://www.lookthroughthelens.com pm. RED ROOM Location Alicia Haddad began taking pictures as a child in the US, and has 177, Jiangguo South Road, continued that passion for night & street photography during her Section 1, Da’an District https://redroomtaipei.com travels in South America, Africa, and Asia. Visit her Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/amhaddad/
14 SEPTEMBER 2018 www.communitycenter.org.tw CE_Fall_2018.indd 1
Sept 2018_p3-end.indd 14 2018/8/26 下午4:54
2018/8/26 下午4:23 Activities 2018 Fall & Winter
www.communitycenter.org.tw SEPTEMBER 2018 15 CE_Fall_2018.indd 1
Sept 2018_p3-end.indd 15 2018/8/26 下午4:54 2018/8/26 下午4:23 2018 Fall & Winter Activities [xv]
[email protected] Description Last semester's healthy steamer class was so popular that Ivy returns Last semester's healthy steamer class was so popular that Ivy returns selection of easy dishes that you can this semester with another great will enjoy Steamed We at home using your bamboo steamer. prepare Stuffed Shiitake Mushrooms Eggplant with Soy Sauce Dressing, with Shrimp, and Thinly Sliced Pork Rolls Stuffed Seasonal Vegetables. Join Khanh for another delicious class featuring two special dishes Hanoi. Our main course, all in one tasty bowl, is Bún Thang from onion and made with rice noodles, chicken, pork, fried eggs, green Then, for something sweet, we will in a delicious broth. mushrooms dessert. and coconut cream learn how to make a traditional taro The Community Services Center | Tel: 02-2836-8134, e-mail: e-mail: 02-2836-8134, Tel: The Community Services Center | Instructor for the most recent updates. for the most recent Please check www.communitycenter.org.tw $1200 The Center Ivy Chen $1200 The Center Khanh Phan Time $$$ Meet@ 10:00am - 12noon 10:00am - 12noon 1 1 # of Sessions Dates Fri Dec 07 1 Fri Nov 09 1 Snacks, lunch or meal included What's Cooking Activity Day(s) Healthy and Delicious: Cooking with a Bamboo Steamer Very Vietnamese: Vietnamese: Very Hanoi Flavors from Transportation included Transportation # 45 44
16 SEPTEMBER 2018 www.communitycenter.org.tw CE_Fall_2018.indd 15
Sept 2018_p3-end.indd 16 2018/8/26 下午4:54 Welcome To The Center
August 1, 2018 Registration Information Dear Friends, Advance registration is required for all Center activities. Registration may be The Center is a non-profit organization that offers professional counseling, classes and tours, done by phone, email, online or in person. For online registration please go cross-cultural training, and information services to meet the needs of the international community to the Center’s website: http://www.communitycenter.org.tw living in Taiwan. Payment is due at least one week prior to the start of any activity. Some Through our activities program, we offer you the opportunity to explore the local culture, learn new activities may require earlier payment. Should an activity become fully skills and meet others with similar interests. subscribed and a wait list created; payment will be due upon request. We cannot guarantee your place until full payment is received. If you are new to Taiwan please consider attending our Kick-Start Your Stay in Taiwan program, scheduled for September 27th. This half-day workshop is a fast-paced and fun introduction to life Cancellations in Taiwan, providing information about the local culture, Taiwan’s health care system, practical daily The Center reserves the right to cancel any activity due to insufficient life tips, and typhoon and earthquake preparedness. enrollment or other unforeseen events. We make every effort to promptly notify all registered participants. If you have been in Taiwan for a while, please remember that the Center’s activities are not just for newcomers. Every semester we try to offer something different and new to appeal to even a long- Refund and Credit Policy Activities cancelled by the Center: term resident. ull re und will e issued Re unds can e collected until the last day o Regardless of how long you have been here, the Center is a great place to find information about the semester. living in Taiwan, a place to get and stay connected, participate in activities conducted in English, ancellations due to Taipei city go ernment closures, i e typhoon days, are exempt from this policy. No refunds or make-up classes will be and find support and professional counseling help for yourself or a family member should you ever offered. need it. Activities cancelled by the participant: o re und will e issued lass credit is a aila le on the ollowing Come see us at the Center! terms: o A full credit will be issued as long as the registration is cancelled at least one week prior to the first class meeting or actual date of the activity. After that time, we are unable to give credits. o Class credits may be applied to other Center activities within the current term or to the term that immediately follows. Rosemary Susa Grace Ting Programs Manager Office Manager Center office hours are Monday – Friday, 9:00am – 5:00pm http://www.communitycenter.org.tw P.S. On Thursday, September 6th we will host our annual Welcome Coffee and Open House where you can meet Center staff and instructors as well as fellow expats. Come and learn all No. 25, Lane 290, Zhongshan N. Rd., Sec. 6, Shilin District, Taipei 11161 about the Center’s programs. No registration required. Tel. 02-2836-8134 Email: [email protected]
CE_Fall_2018.indd 3 2018/7/26 下午8:49 Fall/Winter Activities at a Glance...
Dates Activity Course # $$$ Dates Activity Course # $$$
SEPTEMBER NOVEMBER Sep 10 to Oct 31 Survival Chinese I Session 1 29 $5900 Nov 01 Jiufen Old Street and Taiwan's Beautiful North Coast 8 $1500 Sep 10 to Oct 31 Survival Chinese II Session 1 30 $5900 Nov 02 A Feast from Pakistan 43 $1200 Sep 10 to Oct 31 Survival Chinese III Session 1 31 $5900 Nov 02 to Nov 09 Beginning Knitting Workshop 26 $1800 Sep 10 to Oct 31 Evening Survival Chinese I 32 $5900 Nov 05 to Dec 12 Survival Chinese I Session 2 36 $5400 Beginner Chinese Study Group: Reading and Writing 33 $9500 Nov 05 to Dec 12 Survival Chinese II Session 2 37 $5400 Sep 11 to Dec 14 Characters Japanese Furoshiki Workshop: An Elegant and Sep 11 to Dec 14 Beginning Chinese Conversation 34 $9500 Nov 05 to Nov 12 27 $2200 Ecological Way to Wrap and Carry Anything! Sep 11 to Dec 14 Intermediate Chinese Conversation 35 $9500 Nov 05 to Dec 12 Survival Chinese III Session 2 38 $5400 Shi Dong Market Tour or "What is That Vegetable Sep 13 1 $ 500 Nov 05 to Dec 12 Evening Survival Chinese II 39 $5400 and How Do I Cook It?" Exploring Tamsui's Waterfront, Old Street and Sep 13 to Sep 20 Beginning Crochet Workshop 22 $1400 Nov 06 9 $ 700 Historical Sites Sep 17 to Dec 03 Tai Qi Zen 15 $5500 Sep 19 Battleship Rock Trail Hike 3 $ 700 Nov 09 Very Vietnamese: Flavors from Hanoi 44 $1200 Sep 25 Shopping in Taipei: Carrefour Tour 2 $ 500 Re-Group and Rejuvenate: A Yoga Retreat by the Nov 13 20 $3400 Sep 21 Taiwanese Please: Stir Fry Specialties 40 $1200 Sea Sep 25 to Dec 11 Open Level Yoga 16 $5500 Nov 14 Eating Breakfast Like a Local 10 $ 600 Sep 25 to Oct 16 Chinese Knotting 23 $2200 Nov 19 Hiking the Jinmianshan Trail 11 $ 700 Sep 26 to Dec 12 Grow Your Flow Yoga 17 $5000 Nov 27 Exploring Maokong's Zhangshu and Zhanghu Trails 12 $ 700 Sep 26 to Dec 12 Yoga for Wellness 18 $5500 Nov 29 to Dec 06 Chinese Medicine and Women's Health 21 $1200 Kick-Start Your Stay in Taiwan: Newcomer $ 800 or Nov 29 to Dec 13 Chinese Brush Painting 28 $3000 Sep 27 4 Orientation Workshop $1200 Nov 30 Evening and Night Market Tour: Taipei's Street Food 13 $ 800 or Sep 28 Soups from Around the World 41 $1200 $1200 OCTOBER DECEMBER Bishan Temple, Baishihu Suspension Bridge and Oct 03 Xingtian Temple and Fortune Teller Street 5 $ 800 Dec 04 14 $ 700 Yuanjue Waterfall Hike Oct 18 Exploring A Local Tea Farm 6 $2000 Healthy and Delicious: Cooking with a Bamboo Dec 07 45 $1200 Oct 19 Chinese Vegetarian: Healthy and Gluten-Free 42 $1200 Steamer Oct 23 Tiger Mountain to Nangang Hike 7 $ 700 Oct 23 to Nov 27 Just Sing It! 24 $3600 Oct 24 to Nov 28 Just Sing It! 25 $3600 Oct 27 First Aid, CPR- AED Course 19 $2800
CE_Fall_2018.indd 4 2018/7/26 下午8:49 Arts, Culture & Tours in Taiwan The Community Services Center | Tel: 02-2836-8134, e-mail: [email protected] # Activity Day(s) Dates # of Sessions Time $$$ Meet@ Instructor Description Arts, Culture and Tours in Taiwan
Bright, colorful and noisy, the Shi Dong Market is the place for all NOVEMBER Shi Dong Market your produce needs. Join Ivy and learn some helpful hints and tips Shi Dong Nov 01 Jiufen Old Street and Taiwan's Beautiful North Coast 8 $1500 Tour or "What is That 9:00am - on what to buy, where to buy it, and how to be sure it's fresh. Ivy will 1 Thu Sep 13 1 $ 500 Market Ivy Chen Vegetable and How Do 1 11:30am also show you how to select resh sh, sea ood and other items o Nov 02 A Feast from Pakistan 43 $1200 Entrance 2 I Cook It?" interest. Time permitting, this informative tour may include stops at Nov 02 to Nov 09 Beginning Knitting Workshop 26 $1800 various smaller area markets. Nov 05 to Dec 12 Survival Chinese I Session 2 36 $5400 Join Dory for a moderately strenuous hike in the rocky, wooded hills Nov 05 to Dec 12 Survival Chinese II Session 2 37 $5400 above Beitou and Wellington Heights, which connect the well-known landmarks of Battleship Rock (or 'Dog's Head Rock') and the unique Japanese Furoshiki Workshop: An Elegant and Nov 05 to Nov 12 27 $2200 Ecological Way to Wrap and Carry Anything! Lovers' Temple, following a network of trails with commanding views over the city below. The highest point is only 164 meters, but from a Nov 05 to Dec 12 Survival Chinese III Session 2 38 $5400 Battleship Rock Trail 9:00am - Qilian MRT large rocky area you can sit and enjoy views of Guanyinshan and the 2 Wed Sep 191 $ 700 Dory Chung Nov 05 to Dec 12 Evening Survival Chinese II 39 $5400 Hike 1:30pm Sta. Exit 1 Tamsui Ri er The route nishes at the in eitou MRT with a short visit to the amazing Thermal Valley, a large natural pool of near-boiling Exploring Tamsui's Waterfront, Old Street and hot spring water, and one of Taipei's most unusual tourist attractions. Nov 06 9 $ 700 Historical Sites e recommend a reasona le le el o tness or this hike Please wear proper footwear—shoes with a good grip are best. Bring water, lunch Nov 09 Very Vietnamese: Flavors from Hanoi 44 $1200 and sun rain protection as needed Re-Group and Rejuvenate: A Yoga Retreat by the If you are new to Taiwan and would like some information about Nov 13 20 $3400 Sea shopping for groceries, or if you have been here awhile and are still struggling to nd the right ingredients or a a orite amily meal, Carrefour Nov 14 Eating Breakfast Like a Local 10 $ 600 then this informative tour is for you. The Center has partnered with Tianmu arre our to offer you a chance to meet with the store s import Nov 19 Hiking the Jinmianshan Trail 11 $ 700 Shopping in Taipei: 9:00am - Store 3 Tue Sep 251 $ 500 Karine Lima team and visit their Tianmu store. Here’s what you will learn: which Carrefour Tour 11:00am Main Floor Nov 27 Exploring Maokong's Zhangshu and Zhanghu Trails 12 $ 700 imported items are available in Taiwan; what local items can be Customer Nov 29 to Dec 06 Chinese Medicine and Women's Health 21 $1200 substituted for ingredients that are not available; information about Service Area Nov 29 to Dec 13 Chinese Brush Painting 28 $3000 organic and free-range products; Taiwan food safety regulations; why the availability of some items can be so unpredictable; and, how you $ 800 or can go about proposing items that the store should stock. Nov 30 Evening and Night Market Tour: Taipei's Street Food 13 $1200 You've found a place to live; work and school have started. What DECEMBER next? Join the Center's Newcomer Orientation Workshop for a fast- Bishan Temple, Baishihu Suspension Bridge and Dec 04 14 $ 700 paced and fun introduction to living in Taiwan and learn what you Yuanjue Waterfall Hike need to know to help smooth the way as you settle into your new Kick-Start Your Stay Healthy and Delicious: Cooking with a Bamboo Anne Jacquet life. This half-day workshop is full of helpful hints, stories and useful Dec 07 45 $1200 in Taiwan: Newcomer 9:00am - $800 or Steamer 4 Thu Sep 27 1 The Center and Center information. Topics covered will include: practical daily life tips; Orientation 1 12:30pm $1200 Staff typhoon, earthquake and disaster awareness; health and medical Workshop information; and, understanding the local culture. For those who would like to stay a terwards and chat with enter staff, a local lunch will be available for purchase at an additional cost of NT$400. Please choose this option when registering.
Transportation included Snacks, lunch or meal included Please check www.communitycenter.org.tw for the most recent updates. 2018 Fall & Winter Activities [v]
CE_Fall_2018.indd 5 2018/7/26 下午8:49 Arts, Culture & Tours in Taiwan The Community Services Center | Tel: 02-2836-8134, e-mail: [email protected] # Activity Day(s) Dates # of Sessions Time $$$ Meet@ Instructor Description
oin enni er or a tour o ingtian ong, one o the usiest temples in Taipei. The temple is dedicated to Guan Yu, a general who was known for valuing loyalty and righteousness. Also known for his tactical skills and nancial management, uan u is the patron deity ingtian of businessmen, but worshippers also come to this temple to pray ingtian Temple and 10:00am - 5 Wed Oct 031 $ 800 Temple Sta. Jennifer Tong for health, peace and safety; happiness in family life; and, academic, Fortune Teller Street 12noon Exit 3 business and career success. Just outside the temple there is an underground passageway known as Fortune Teller Street, which we will also visit to learn about some of the methods of divination. As a group, we will visit with one of the fortune tellers for a brief session. Individual sessions are an additional cost.
Join Yasuko for a lovely day trip out of the city to meet a local tea farmer and learn all about the growing, production and roasting of Taiwan tea rom the indian MRT Station we will dri e through the beautiful countryside to reach the farm. Once there, we will have time to explore the farm and hand-pick some tea leaves. We will also Exploring A Local 9:15am - indian MRT 6 Thu Oct 181 $2000 Yasuko Hondo be introduced to the various methods of processing tea. Of course, Tea Farm 3:00pm Station any activity about tea wouldn't be complete without tea brewing and tasting. With our appetites whetted from breathing so much fresh country air we will be ready for a delicious tea-infused feast prepared especially for us. After lunch we will begin our drive back to the city, ending at the indian MRT Station
Join Jennifer for a hike up Tiger Mountain to enjoy some amazing views of Taipei. From the MRT, we will walk about 1K to reach the trailhead where this moderately strenuous hike begins. We will climb up a set o stairs to reach a lookout or our rst iew o the city elow rom there we will ollow a at stone pathway across the mountain and then go up some stone steps. Halfway up this trail, there is a Houshanpi small wooden village with lots of trinkets. After a brief stop for a look Tiger Mountain to 9:00am - 7 Tue Oct 231 $ 700 MRT Sta. Jennifer Turek around and some photo taking, we will climb more stairs (about 5-10 Nangang Hike 12noon Exit 2 minutes) where we will be on the very well used Sishoushan path. We will follow the trail and make our way over to Nangang, enjoying some wonderful views of the city along the way. At the trail’s end, we will catch a bus for the short ride back to the MRT. This hike requires a reasona le le el o tness ear shoes with a good grip ring your Easy ard or the us and water, snacks and sun rain protection as needed.
Transportation included Snacks, lunch or meal included Teas included Please check www.communitycenter.org.tw for the most recent updates. 2018 Fall & Winter Activities [vi]
CE_Fall_2018.indd 6 2018/7/26 下午8:49 Arts, Culture & Tours in Taiwan The Community Services Center | Tel: 02-2836-8134, e-mail: [email protected] # Activity Day(s) Dates # of Sessions Time $$$ Meet@ Instructor Description
Jump on the bus and join Jennifer for a trip out to Taiwan’s beautiful North Coast and the lovely hillside town of Jiufen. We will begin our tour at ong Dong Dragon a e liff or a walk along the eauti ul pathway for some breathtaking ocean views. We will then make a Corner of photo stop at the famous Golden Waterfall on our way to the Jiufen Jiufen Old Street and Zhongshan 8:30am - Old Street. In Jiufen, we will have some free time to stroll through the 8 Taiwan's Beautiful Thu Nov 01 11 $1500 N. Rd., Sec. Jennifer Tong 3:00pm alleyways and visit the many souvenir stalls, eateries and tea houses. North Coast 6 & Lane For those interested in a bit of tea tasting, Jennifer will take you to 290 one of her favorite tea houses. Lunch will be on your own—you may choose to sit down for your meal and relax or possibly wander about while enjoying all the delicious snacks available there. Before you know it, it will be time for the bus ride back to Taipei.
Join Eddie for a visit out to Tamsui to explore this lovely waterfront destination, popular with both locals and expats alike. Starting from the Tamsui MRT Station we will travel by public bus to the Exploring Tamsui's Fisherman’s Wharf and then work our way back to the Tamsui Old 9:30am - Tamsui MRT 9 Waterfront, Old Street Tue Nov 06 11 $ 700 Eddie Lai Street and Waterfront Boardwalk with stops at a variety of historical 1:30pm Sta. Exit 1 and Historical Sites sites, including Huwei Fort, Fort San Domingo and the Tamsui Customs House. Once back in Tamsui proper we will have some time to enjoy the area's many shops, eateries and cafés. Bring your Easy Card for the bus ride.
No meal is more connected to one’s country of origin, ethnic heritage or personal family traditions than breakfast. It is also a meal that many o us nd di cult to change or adapt to in a oreign country round Taipei at many small eateries and stalls you can nd a mi o oth Eating Breakfast 8:30am - In front of old-style Taiwanese breakfast foods and some newer, possibly more 10 Wed Nov 14 11 $ 600 Ivy Chen Like a Local 10:00am TAS familiar “Western” items to eat. If you haven’t tried local breakfast at least once, why not join Ivy for a nostalgic visit to an old Tianmu breakfast shop to taste some of Taiwan’s traditional breakfast eats? Love it or not, you shouldn’t miss the chance to experience this local foodie encounter.
Transportation included Snacks, lunch or meal included Teas included Please check www.communitycenter.org.tw for the most recent updates. 2018 Fall & Winter Activities [vii]
CE_Fall_2018.indd 7 2018/7/26 下午8:49 Arts, Culture & Tours in Taiwan The Community Services Center | Tel: 02-2836-8134, e-mail: [email protected] # Activity Day(s) Dates # of Sessions Time $$$ Meet@ Instructor Description
Jinmian (Golden Face) Mountain, also known as Jiandao (Scissor) Mountain, is located in Taipei's Neihu District. The peak, resembling a pair o scissors, is meters high and offers an ama ing degree iew o Taipei ity elow The trail is not di cult, ut includes some stairs and dirt paths. The area is famous for British sandstone, used to build Taipei’s city wall in the late 19th century. In the sun, the Hiking the Jinmianshan 9:00am - ihu MRT stones shine like gold and it is these stones that give the mountain 11 Mon Nov 19 1 $ 700 Dory Chung Trail 1:00pm Sta. Exit 1 its name. The stones were also used to make the stairs of the trail, making the path look like a long dragon. Along the way we will stop at some pavilions to rest and enjoy some lovely views. We will come down the mountain through Bihu Park and end the hike at the Wende MRT Station e recommend a reasona le le el o tness or this hike ear shoes with a good grip ring water, snacks and sun rain protection.
Join Eddie for a lovely morning's walk in the tea growing area of Maokong. After meeting at the Taipei Zoo MRT Station, we will take the Maokong Gondola and ride up to the top of the mountain where we will enjoy an easy two-hour walk along the Zhangshu and Exploring Maokong's Taipei Zoo Zhanghu Trails, enjoying beautiful mountain scenery and tea farms. 9:30am - 12 Zhangshu and Tue Nov 27 1 $ 700 MRT Sta. Eddie Lai This is a great day out of the hustle and bustle of the city. Eddie will 12:30pm Zhanghu Trails Exit 2 point out some tea houses and restaurants that you can visit near the Upper Maokong Gondola Station where the trip will conclude. For anyone who would like to stay on for lunch after the walk, you can join Eddie for a tasty tea-infused lunch (not included). Bring your Easy Card for the Gondola ride.
This foodie extravaganza begins at the Hulin Evening Market to see where many locals stop after work to buy food to take home for their dinner; and then, carries on to the Songshan District’s bustling Raohe ight Market where you will nd opportunities to sample a ariety o tasty treats, snacks and drinks (included). If you’ve always wanted to Evening and Night Yongchun 5:30pm - $ 800 or try some of Taipei’s night market delicacies, but didn’t know where to 13 Market Tour: Taipei's Fri Nov 30 1 MRT Sta., Ivy Chen 8:30pm $1200 start, here’s your chance with Ivy as your guide. For those who would Street Food Exit 4 like to continue exploring Taipei's local cuisine, Ivy will take you to a post-tour dinner at a nearby hot stir-fry restaurant (Rè chǎo 熱炒) for an additional charge of NT$400 per person. To join this dinner, please choose this option when registering. This tour ends near the Songshan MRT Station.
Transportation included Snacks, lunch or meal included Please check www.communitycenter.org.tw for the most recent updates. 2018 Fall & Winter Activities [viii]
CE_Fall_2018.indd 8 2018/7/26 下午8:49 Arts, Culture & Tours in Taiwan The Community Services Center | Tel: 02-2836-8134, e-mail: [email protected] # Activity Day(s) Dates # of Sessions Time $$$ Meet@ Instructor Description
If you aren’t afraid of stairs then join Jennifer on this moderately strenuous hike for some great city views. From the trailhead, we will make our way up 1200 stairs, with breaks along the way, to the top of the mountain. At the top, we will be rewarded with a stunning view of the city below. We will then continue over to the beautiful Bishan Temple, Bishan temple for a short visit. The next stop will be the 116-meter Baishihu Suspension 9:30am - Neihu MRT 14 Tue Dec 04 1 $ 700 Jennifer Turek Baishihu Suspension Bridge. After crossing the bridge, we will make Bridge and Yuanjue 1:00pm Sta. Exit 1 our way over to the Yuanjue Temple and then down to the scenic Waterfall Hike Yuanjue Waterfall. Passing through the Dagouxi Riverside Park we will end our morning’s hike at the Dahu Park MRT Station. This hike re uires a reasona le le el o tness ear shoes with a good grip ring your Easy ard or the us and water, snacks and sun rain protection as needed. Family, Fitness & Health
Mindfulness Tai Qi Zen, also called Mindfulness Tai Qi or Tai Qi Zen, is an effecti e techni ue that lends Tai i and en meditation Practitioners combine the spiral turning body movements of the Tai Qi forms with the mindfulness, awareness and protective ability of Farès Liang, Chung- Zen Meditation, enabling their mind to maintain concentration on Sep 17 to 9:30am - 15 Tai Qi Zen Mon 10 $5500 Academy Neng and their bodily movements, and in this way they achieve a balanced Dec 03 10 11:00am Dojo Anita Tsui state of body and mind, and also develop mindfulness, authenticity, and wisdom. This course will cover Standing meditation; Twining silk meditation: Basic turns; Moving meditation: Twenty-four forms; and Sitting meditation This course is suita le or all tness le els Please wear loose clothing and bring a soft cushion to sit on.
This open level class weaves a variety of yoga types in a non- competitive environment. Whether you're looking for improved e i ility, strength, and alance clarity o mind or a deeper spiritual Farès practice, this yoga practice may help you facilitate better overall Sep 25 to 9:30am - Ivonne Vidal 16 Open Level Yoga Tue 10 $5500 Academy wellness. Students can expect to learn how to coordinate movement Dec 11 11:00am Pizarro Dojo and reath and to o ser e alignment cues The instructor will offer modi cations to assist you in nding effort and ease in the poses Please bring a water bottle, mat, blocks, straps, and any other yoga accessory with you to class.
Transportation included Snacks, lunch or meal included Please check www.communitycenter.org.tw for the most recent updates. 2018 Fall & Winter Activities [ix]
CE_Fall_2018.indd 9 2018/7/26 下午8:49 Hobbies & Skills Family, Fitness & Health The Community Services Center | Tel: 02-2836-8134, e-mail: [email protected] # Activity Day(s) Dates # of Sessions Time $$$ Meet@ Instructor Description
This yoga course introduces and integrates general aspects of yoga to uild a asic inyasa ow series Pranayama reathing techni ues or stress reduction and deto i cation , asana physical postures such as downward dog, cobra, plank, mountain pose, forward fold, and lunge) Farès and basic philosophical concepts will be incorporated. This course is Sep 26 to 10:30am - 17 Grow Your Flow Yoga Wed 10 $5000 Academy Malabika Das suitable for anyone with a genuine curiosity and openness to yoga, Dec 12 10 11:30am Dojo especially those beginning their yoga journeys or exploring this wellness lifestyle. Those rehabilitating from injury or experiencing physical and mental disharmony should contact the instructor prior to registration to discuss compatibility. Please bring two yoga blocks, a yoga strap, one large and one small towel, a water bottle and an open heart. This yoga course focuses on the Body-Mind-Spirit connection. Each session targets a speci c area legs, pel is, hips, ack, core, shoulders, and neck), corresponding bandhas and chakras (energetic centers) and the connection to emotional and mental wellbeing. Discussion will be followed by pranayama (breathing techniques Farès for stress reduction and overall balance) and yin and yang asana Sep 26 to 11:45am - 18 Yoga for Wellness Wed 10 $5500 Academy Malabika Das practice ow o postures uilding strength and mo ility This Dec 12 10 1:15pm Dojo course is suitable for regular practitioners and anyone with general yoga experience who would like to deepen their knowledge. Those rehabilitating from injury or experiencing physical and mental disharmony should contact the instructor prior to registration to discuss compatibility. Please bring two yoga blocks, a yoga strap, one large and one small towel, water bottle and an open heart.
n this intensi e, one session class, Stephen uhlke, a uali ed PR instructor, will teach you how to recognize and respond appropriately Saturday Class!! Taipei 8:00am - to cardiac, reathing and rst aid emergencies in adults, in ants and 19 First Aid, CPR- AED Sat Oct 27 11 $2800 American Stephen Kuhlke 12noon children until medical personnel arri e Red ross irst id PR ED Course School certi cation and downloada le manual included ight re reshments will be provided. Get away from the hustle and bustle of Taipei city to Origin Yoga & Wellness, a beautiful retreat center boasting a panoramic view of Baishawan beach. The morning begins with a welcome tea tasting to inspire mindfulness and positive intentions for the day, followed by a therapeutic Hatha Yoga class suitable for all levels. Participants Re-Group and 9:30am - Tamsui MRT can expect gentle movements, stretches, breathing exercises and 20 Rejuvenate: A Yoga Tue Nov 13 1 $3400 Lydia Chang 2:30pm Sta. Exit 1 meditation. We will indulge you with a gourmet vegetarian lunch and Retreat by the Sea raw vegan dessert made with fresh, seasonal and locally-sourced ingredients. After lunch we will walk along the beach to get closer to nature and breathe the fresh air. Here you will have a choice to support the retreat s on going each restoration cleaning initiati es or simply spend some quiet time by the ocean.
Transportation included Snacks, lunch or meal included Teas included Please check www.communitycenter.org.tw for the most recent updates. 2018 Fall & Winter Activities [x]
CE_Fall_2018.indd 10 2018/7/26 下午8:49 Family, Fitness & Health The Community Services Center | Tel: 02-2836-8134, e-mail: [email protected] # Activity Day(s) Dates # of Sessions Time $$$ Meet@ Instructor Description
Traditional Chinese medicine has a wealth of information that women can use to stay healthy. In this two-session class, David Edsall will Chinese Medicine and Nov 29 to 9:30am - speak on the Chinese medical view on health, and, in particular, the 21 Thu 2 $1200 The Center David Edsall Women's Health Dec 06 11:30am health of women. The series will involve both the theories of Chinese medicine as well as practical ways to apply it to your life, including nutritional advice, self-applied acupressure and mindful practices. Hobbies & Skills
Have you ever wanted to learn how to crochet? Well, then join Maria for this introductory workshop where she will teach you the basics of crocheting. In this beginner class you will learn how to make "granny Beginning Crochet Sep 13 to 12:15pm - squares," which can be stitched together to create any number of 22 Thu 2 $1400 The Center Maria Correia Workshop Sep 20 2 2:15pm items from simple scarves to small blankets and afghans. Take this class and you will be on your way to creating a lovely item made by your own hands. Cost of materials to make approximately six granny squares included.
The art of Chinese knotting is thousands of years old and was passed down from generation to generation of Chinese women. It is highly decorative and used to adorn the clothes, jewelry, furniture and musical instruments of all classes of people from rich to poor. Beautiful knot work could be seen everywhere, especially at festivals and weddings. The designs of the knots were fashioned after Sep 25 to 12noon - 23 Chinese Knotting Tue 3 $2200 The Center Nancy Liu symbols of happiness, longevity, prosperity and Buddhist treasures Oct 16 2:00pm to name just a few. The knots, when combined with beautiful beads, create jewelry and home decorations that are surprisingly up-to- date for such an ancient craft. Join Nancy in this three-session class to learn three different types o knots and make your own eauti ul pieces of jewelry: double coin, double connection, and good luck knot. Materials included.
earn to sing or e pand your singing technical a ility with uali ed vocal instructor (Sing With Power Studios) Colleen Peterson. This six-session workshop will cover techniques such as vocal stamina, Instructor's Oct 23 to 10:30am - Colleen breathing, pronunciation and vibrato. Students will learn the skills of 24 Just Sing It! Tue 6 $3600 Dazhi Area Nov 27 11:30am Peterson effecti e ocal warm ups and how to reak down a song y the end Studio of the program students will have learned two songs. All levels are welcome. Students will have the chance to sing, enjoy and make new friends!
Oct 24 to 1:00pm - KidChen Colleen 25 Just Sing It! Wed 6 $3600 Please refer to Activity #24 for course description. Nov 28 2:00pm Club Tianmu Peterson
Transportation included Snacks, lunch or meal included Please check www.communitycenter.org.tw for the most recent updates. 2018 Fall & Winter Activities [xi]
CE_Fall_2018.indd 11 2018/7/26 下午8:49 Learn Chinese/What's Cooking
Hobbies & Skills The Community Services Center | Tel: 02-2836-8134, e-mail: [email protected] # Activity Day(s) Dates # of Sessions Time $$$ Meet@ Instructor Description
Have you ever wanted to learn how to knit? If yes, then don't miss this un hands on knitting workshop where the nal product will e a Beginning Knitting Nov 02 to 12:15pm- 26 Fri 2 $1800 The Center Maria Correia lovely scarf to wear or give as a gift. Maria will teach you how to cast Workshop Nov 09 2:15pm on, make a slip knot, the knit stich, and how to asten off This two session class is designed for beginners. All materials included.
Furoshiki is a traditional Japanese wrapping cloth originally used in ancient times. By employing techniques similar to origami, the art of furoshiki is an elegant and eco-friendly way to wrap gifts, carry Japanese Furoshiki groceries or almost anything—from books and boxes to bottles Workshop: An Elegant and plants. In this two-session class, Miyuki will teach you how to Nov 05 to 12noon - 27 and Ecological Way Mon 2 $2200 The Center Miyuki Boice determine the correct fabric size for an item you wish to wrap; proper Nov 12 2:00pm to Wrap and Carry folding and knot tying techniques; what types of items work well with Anything! furoshiki; how to make a simple furoshiki carry bag; and how you can use furoshiki for traveling. A short list of items to bring from home will be provided. Cost of fabric and a genuine Japanese furoshiki included.
Bring out your creative talents in this beginning brush painting class where the emphasis will be on holding the brush correctly, producing proper brush strokes, and applying the proper amount of ink to the Nov 29 to 12:15pm - 28 Chinese Brush Painting Thu 3 $3000 The Center Jennifer Tong paper. Even if you are not artistic, you will be surprised at the end Dec 13 2:15pm results. By the end of this class you will have produced two beautifully painted pieces: a decorative panel to display and a paper fan. Cost of all materials (brushes, ink, paper, fan and panel) included. Learn Chinese With Gloria Gwo
Would you like to be able to communicate with shopkeepers, taxi drivers and co-workers? Whether you've just arrived in Taiwan Survival Chinese I Mon & Sep 10 to 9:10am - 29 1313 $5900 The Center Gloria Gwo or have been here awhile, this is the class for you. Learn spoken Session 1 Wed Oct 31 10:30am Mandarin in a relaxed and informal environment right here at The Center. Course materials included.
This course builds upon the skills learned in Survival Chinese I and offers appro imately hours o language instruction or people who Survival Chinese II Mon & Sep 10 to 10:40am - would like to upgrade their basic skills and go one step further with 30 1313 $5900 The Center Gloria Gwo Session 1 Wed Oct 31 12noon Mandarin. This class is also suitable for anyone who has taken some basic Chinese lessons and would like to continue with his or her studies. Course materials included.
Transportation included Snacks, lunch or meal included Please check www.communitycenter.org.tw for the most recent updates. 2018 Fall & Winter Activities [xii]
CE_Fall_2018.indd 12 2018/7/26 下午8:49 Hobbies & Skills/Learn Chinese The Community Services Center | Tel: 02-2836-8134, e-mail: [email protected] # Activity Day(s) Dates # of Sessions Time $$$ Meet@ Instructor Description
This course completes our Survival Chinese series and covers Survival Chinese III Mon & Sep 10 to 12:10pm - advanced vocabulary and sentence patterns as well as conversational 31 13 $5900 The Center Gloria Gwo Session 1 Wed Oct 31 1:30pm practice. Prerequisites: Survival Chinese I and II or completed approximately 40 hours of language instruction.
Evening Survival Mon & Sep 10 to 6:30pm - 32 13 $5900 The Center Gloria Gwo Please refer to Activity #29 for course description. Chinese I Wed Oct 31 7:50pm
Most people think that learning to read and write Chinese is either not necessary or their short time in Taiwan or ust too di cult to attempt However, in this course, Gloria proves both of these misconceptions wrong. By teaching you about the root of each character and how Beginner Chinese Tue & Sep 11 to 9:10am - the characters are built, you will discover that learning Chinese 33 Study Group: Reading 21 $9500 The Center Gloria Gwo Fri Dec 14 10:30am characters actually helps you to improve your understanding of and Writing Characters the spoken language. So, don’t be afraid, sign up for this full- semester reading and writing class. Prerequisites: completion of our Survival Chinese series or at least 40-60 hours of Chinese language instruction. Course books to be purchased at an additional cost.
This full-semester class will focus on using and practicing what you have already learned in Survival I, II and III to help you advance in your study of spoken Chinese. The class will also improve your Beginning Chinese Tue & Sep 11 to 10:40am - listening skills through the use of recorded materials. New topics 34 21 $9500 The Center Gloria Gwo Conversation Fri Dec 14 12noon such as ordering food in restaurants, going to the doctor or dentist, and many other daily life activities will be introduced. Prerequisites: Survival Chinese I, II and III or completed approximately 40-60 hours of language instruction. Course materials included.
This full-semester class is for those students who wish to continue building upon their Chinese conversation skills and learn new Intermediate Chinese Tue & Sep 11 to 12:10pm - 35 21 $9500 The Center Gloria Gwo vocabulary to enhance their ability to communicate. Like the beginner Conversation Fri Dec 14 1:30pm class, this class will use recorded materials and focus on a variety of topics and social situations. Course materials included.
Survival Chinese I Mon & Nov 05 to 9:10am - 36 12 $5400 The Center Gloria Gwo Please refer to Activity #29 for course description. Session 2 Wed Dec 12 10:30am
Transportation included Snacks, lunch or meal included Please check www.communitycenter.org.tw for the most recent updates. 2018 Fall & Winter Activities [xiii]
CE_Fall_2018.indd 13 2018/7/26 下午8:49 Learn Chinese The Community Services Center | Tel: 02-2836-8134, e-mail: [email protected] # Activity Day(s) Dates # of Sessions Time $$$ Meet@ Instructor Description
Survival Chinese II Mon & Nov 05 to 10:40am - 37 1212 $5400 The Center Gloria Gwo Please refer to Activity #30 for course description. Session 2 Wed Dec 12 12noon
Survival Chinese III Mon & Nov 05 to 12:10pm - 38 1212 $5400 The Center Gloria Gwo Please refer to Activity #31 for course description. Session 2 Wed Dec 12 1:30pm
Evening Survival Mon & Nov 05 to 6:30pm - 39 1212 $5400 The Center Gloria Gwo Please refer to Activity #30 for course description. Chinese II Wed Dec 12 7:50pm What's Cooking
Join Ivy for her fabulous Taiwanese Please class, featuring some Taiwanese Please: 10:00am - popular stir fried dishes. On the menu is Diced Shrimp in Lettuce 40 Fri Sep 21 1 $1200 The Center Ivy Chen Stir Fry Specialties 12noon Leaves, Stir Fried Beef with Cilantro, Stir Fried Pork and Tofu, and of course, a tasty Seasonal Vegetable.
Whether in winter or summer, hot or cold, soups are always a great choice for practical, light and healthy meals. In this class we will enjoy Soups from Around 10:00am - Camilla Thai Chicken Soup with Galangal and Coconut Cream; Caribbean- 41 Fri Sep 28 1 $1200 The Center the World 12noon Cademartori style Pumpkin Soup; and Brazilian Chicken Soup. Join Camilla, a trained chef from Brazil and the Center’s newest cooking instructor, and discover the tastes of soups from around the world.
Vegetarian cooking is always a favorite at the Center, and by popular request, Ivy will prepare the dishes in this class gluten-free as well. Chinese Vegetarian: 10:00am - Ivy will share her favorite sauces that you can substitute for ones 42 Healthy and Gluten- Fri Oct 19 1 $1200 The Center Ivy Chen 12noon containing wheat in all of your Chinese cooking. On the menu will be Free Fried Rice Noodles with Vegetables, Gongbao Mushrooms, Tofu Skin Rolls with Vegetables, and of course, a tasty Seasonal Vegetable.
Although similar to Indian cuisine, Pakistani dishes have their own special seasonings and distincti e a or or a tasty and delicious cooking experience join Asma, who will prepare Chicken Karahi, a 10:00am - dish traditionally cooked in a wok or wok-like pan called a karahi. This 43 A Feast from Pakistan Fri Nov 02 1 $1200 The Center Asma Ahmed 12noon dish will be prepared with tomatoes, onion, green chilies and spice. To round out this meal, she will also demonstrate Channa Pilau (chickpeas cooked with rice); Minced Beef Kebabs; Roasted Cumin with Yogurt; and Kachumber Salad (cucumber, tomatoes, onions, and green chilies).
Transportation included Snacks, lunch or meal included Please check www.communitycenter.org.tw for the most recent updates. 2018 Fall & Winter Activities [xiv]
CE_Fall_2018.indd 14 2018/7/26 下午8:50 Sept 2018_p3-end.indd 17
What's Cooking The Community Services Center | Tel: 02-2836-8134, e-mail: [email protected] # Activity Day(s) Dates # of Sessions Time $$$ Meet@ Instructor Description
Join Khanh for another delicious class featuring two special dishes from Hanoi. Our main course, all in one tasty bowl, is Bún Thang Very Vietnamese: 10:00am - 44 Fri Nov 09 1 $1200 The Center Khanh Phan made with rice noodles, chicken, pork, fried eggs, green onion and Flavors from Hanoi 12noon mushrooms in a delicious broth. Then, for something sweet, we will learn how to make a traditional taro and coconut cream dessert.
Last semester's healthy steamer class was so popular that Ivy returns this semester with another great selection of easy dishes that you can Healthy and Delicious: 10:00am - prepare at home using your bamboo steamer. We will enjoy Steamed 45 Cooking with a Fri Dec 07 1 $1200 The Center Ivy Chen 12noon Eggplant with Soy Sauce Dressing, Shiitake Mushrooms Stuffed Bamboo Steamer with Shrimp, and Thinly Sliced Pork Rolls Stuffed with Seasonal Vegetables. 2018/8/26 下午4:54
Transportation included Snacks, lunch or meal included Please check www.communitycenter.org.tw for the most recent updates. 2018 Fall & Winter Activities [xv]
CE_Fall_2018.indd 15 2018/8/26 下午4:23 — A-Rod, NY Yankees — Kobe Bryant, LA Lakers — Fred Couples, 2012 Senior Open Champion
18 SEPTEMBER 2018 www.communitycenter.org.tw
Sept 2018_p3-end.indd 18 2018/8/26 下午4:54 COMMUNITY FoToon Follow Your Heart
TEXT: ENRIQUE CHONG
oToon is a series of work where I bring together my illustrations and the work of amateur or professional photographers (including contributors that shot their photosF with their iPhone!). These people are from all over the world. FoToon is a combination of photo (Fo) and cartoon (Toon). I began this personal project back in high school, because I was looking for Illustration & Text: Erique Chong opportunities to collaborate with others creatively. Photographer: Andre Alayon At the same time, I had hopes that I could use it as No one can tell you what to do, or what is the right thing to do. an opportunity to share and spread messages that If your heart is going this way, follow it. If your heart is going that could help others. Each FoToon isn’t just a work, it way, follow it. Each path has its own difficulties, so it is impossible is also a message, a story. So far, I have created a for us to flee from our paths, because this is the way we are going. hundred pieces of FoToon, comprising hundreds of Our paths appear out of nowhere. Believe in yourself and follow — A-Rod, NY Yankees stories and messages. The text behind each work your heart.
— Kobe Bryant, LA Lakers of collaboration is mostly based on my daily life experiences, and from what I observe or imagine. I am grateful that I started this personal project without expecting any positive feedback. Distance I continue to be surprised whenever someone comes to me and tells me to continue to create — Fred Couples, 2012 Senior Open Champion FoToon pieces, because it helps them. I create FoToon pieces because they also help me. I use FoToon as an opportunity to tell my story in the hope of inspiring others like me, feeling lost while living abroad or when bad things happen often; feeling depressed and really upset when things do not go your way. I would like to share with others messages that come from personal experience, along with hope.
Illustration, Text & Photographer: Siesta Erique Chong Distance is only distance when you want it to be. A meter can be a long distance, but six miles can be a short distance. State-to-state proximity can be far or close. Country-to-country can be the same. The struggle with distance is real, but it’s not a problem if you are motivated. Everything can be a problem if we are not motivated. Distance is not the problem. It is our mind and attitude that matters.
Illustration, Text and Photographer: Erique Chong Sometimes all we need is to just unplug ourselves from urban life and relax in nature. Taking a rest or even a nap is important. Hard work is good, but so is a healthy mind and body.
www.communitycenter.org.tw SEPTEMBER 2018 19
Sept 2018_p3-end.indd 19 2018/8/26 下午4:54 COMMUNITY Two Years Astronaut
Illustration & Text: Erique Chong Illustration, Text and Photographer: Erique Chong Photographer: Andre Alayon I have been living in Taiwan for two years. I can We are all like teenagers building our own rocket honestly say that I appreciate all that I have experienced, ship and getting ready to fly someday. Keep on the good and the bad. I appreciate everyone that I have stacking up your dreams. Build something that met, those that have left and those that have stayed. you want and place things from your mind inside You have helped to turn me from a socially awkward boy it. Create good luck and we’ll see each other up into a man. Thank you for filling the empty jar. there, someday.
Lost and Found The Faithful One
Illustration & Text: Erique Chong Photographer: Piotr Puchalski All the while, I thought that I was doing the right thing by looking for you. Then, I realized that I was doing the right thing, but in the wrong way. I lost you once, and now I have found you again. I sensed your Illustration & Text: Erique Chong presence but I didn’t know that you were Photographer: Jay Mac always around me, protecting me secretly. I used to feel frustrated when I wasn’t receiving feedback for That’s why I am still breathing. Thank you my work. I tried to change my style just to attract more people for giving me a blooming flower when mine with the hope of becoming famous. I tried and I failed. In was wilted; for being there when I didn’t thinking about this, I realized that I have support from people turn my head and realize your existence, for that have followed my work for a long time. This realization not giving up on me, when I almost gave up made me appreciate them even more. They like my work, even on myself. though it is not mainstream. I appreciate you, each and every person, for you have helped to motivate me to not give up on my dream. Even a little support makes a big difference.
20 SEPTEMBER 2018 www.communitycenter.org.tw
Sept 2018_p3-end.indd 20 2018/8/26 下午4:54 COMMUNITY
Triangle Infant
Illustration & Text: Erique Chong Illustration, Text and Photographer: Photographer: Angie Shih Erique Chong Each infant is a miracle, and each tiny spirit that comes Have you ever wondered why the into the world is beautiful. It is like watching a sprout trying triangle is such a well-balanced geometrical to grow realizing that it is a tough process. In the end, when shape? It is because there are three vertices the bloom comes it is beautiful. It is also the end of a birth in each triangle. Three spots that become miracle, but at the same time it is the beginning of another one; body, mind and spirit. These are miracle that is just as beautiful. elements that comprise humans. Each spot gets to be connected with the other two spots. No one is left behind or ignored. Every vertex, element and spot within this Be Patient shape are important to each other.
Friends Come Along With Time
Illustration, Text and Photographer: Erique Chong If the hurt comes, so will the happiness. All you need to do is to be patient. Things will come when it is the right time. We just have to keep moving forward while waiting for happiness to reappear. Such a simple saying, but one that has a strong message behind it, especially for me.
Illustration & Text: Erique Chong Photographer: Joyce Wolf Things come and go. Friends come and go, too. However, good friends always remain with time. They are like pearls inside an hourglass. They come out when the sand is gone. You will know who your friends are after time leaves. Comfort comes from Erique who was born in Malaysia good friends. It is all about the quality not the quantity. also was born to inspire the audience through his artworks and stories. "Hold my hand, because we're leaving this place and heading to a wonderland".
www.communitycenter.org.tw SEPTEMBER 2018 21
Sept 2018_p3-end.indd 21 2018/8/26 下午4:55 FOOD & DRINK Plan an Ideal Afternoon Tea Party at Home
TEXT: KAREN FARLEY IMAGES: KAREN FARLEY & WEB
n afternoon tea party is often 1. PLAN YOUR MENU associated with going to a An afternoon tea spread, large or fancy hotel or restaurant. small, calls for a selection of scones, The Duchess of Bedford finger sandwiches and other sweet Awas credited with creating the idea treats. As a guide, choose one of each of having a meal in the middle of food type for a gathering of 2-3 people; the afternoon. While she may have scones, two different sandwich fillings had very firm ideas of what a British and two sweet choices for 4-6 guests; “high tea” should be, the rules of the and scones, three sandwich selections afternoon tea game have changed. with two or three sweet options for a You don’t have to wait for an exclusive group of seven or more. cheese, luxurious smoked salmon, occasion for afternoon tea in a high-end The key in choosing your menu and creamy egg salad. For a modern hotel or fancy restaurant. Entertaining options is to offer both sweet and twist, you can choose different forms friends at home can be fun too. Loosely savory foods as well as balance the of bread such as focaccia, or make described as a small meal between flavors and textures across your mini-wraps with tortillas or pita lunch and dinner, today afternoon tea afternoon tea menu. bread. Your imagination is the limit can range from a lavish sit-down meal • Scones for what to put between the layers: for a crowd, to a down-to-earth mid- British currant scones are the for instance roasted vegetables, afternoon break with your best friend. cornerstone of a traditional afternoon smoky lunch meats, or even simple Celebrating the birthday of the Duchess tea party. The most controversial avocado. of Bedford on September 3rd is as good question at your afternoon tea Whatever combination of bread and an excuse as any to set the table, make party will likely be whether you filling you choose, the key here is to a pot of tea and indulge in an afternoon and your guests follow the Cornish make the sandwiches small, no more tea spread together. way of putting jam first and then than a mouthful or two, and portable, Going traditional or modern, fancy cream, or the Devon method of jam so they are easy to serve from a or simple is up to you; use these tips to on top of cream. Either way will be central tray. plan your ideal afternoon tea party: scrumptious! • Sweet treats Otherwise you could break with When it comes back to the sweet tradition with a batch of American- options, the possibilities are truly style wedge scones. Flavor endless. On the traditional side: combinations also vary widely, from cakes, biscuits or cookies, tarts, sweeter choices covered with an icing pastries and more. Or for a more glaze, including lemon and rosemary modern twist: macarons, mini- scones, or more savory options, like cheesecakes and bite-sized brownies. cheddar and apple scones, which are These are the offerings that will served with butter or cream cheese allow you to balance the flavors and rather than frosting. textures of your overall tea party • Finger sandwiches menu. Combine a rich chocolate Sandwiches are customarily served cake with fruity mixed berry tart; or on white sandwich bread without contrast crunchy oatmeal cookies crusts, with traditional filling options with creamy mango cheesecake. including classic cucumber and cream Plan your afternoon tea menu with a
22 SEPTEMBER 2018 www.communitycenter.org.tw
Sept 2018_p3-end.indd 22 2018/8/26 下午4:55 FOOD & DRINK
good variety of food choices served in small portions.
2. PREPARE THE TEA Making a pot of tea is a ritual across cultures that goes way beyond turning on the kettle. For a strong British cuppa, it’s custom to first warm the teapot with hot water. Then use one teaspoon of loose-leaf tea per person, plus one for the pot. The same rule of thumb applies to teabags. Beyond a traditional black tea, South African rooibos, Taiwanese oolong, or herbal Start with a fabric tablecloth and These tips were taken from KP Kitchen teas are also great choices for your tea matching napkins, and offer a small Taiwan’s blog. For more toaster oven- party. Even if you prefer your tea black, plate for each guest. Food can be friendly recipes and tips in English and setting out milk, sugar, lemon, or honey served on a tiered serving platter or Chinese, check out: blog.kpkitchen.tw. (depending on your choice of tea) are individual serving plates. Remember to the touches that will take your tea tray put out serving utensils for each food from ordinary to extraordinary. choice, including condiments like butter Set up the tea offerings to make it and jam. Put the finishing touches on feel special. your table with decorations such as Karen Farley is a flowers or edible décor, including whole lifetime baker and 3. SET THE TABLE nuts and fruit. cook who founded KP Turn your afternoon tea into a special Add those extra finishing touches to Kitchen Taiwan two occasion by setting the table with a your afternoon tea table setting. years ago to share her experiences of little flair. Even for a small-scale tea for Happy Afternoon Tea Day on cooking and baking in small Asian two, a nicely laid-out tray will make September 3rd! Who will you be kitchens. Karen can be contacted at your afternoon tea feel like a treat. treating to an afternoon tea party? [email protected].
www.communitycenter.org.tw SEPTEMBER 2018 23
Sept 2018_p3-end.indd 23 2018/8/26 下午4:55 OUTLOOK
Changes and Changing
TEXT: MICHAEL MULLAHY IMAGE: WEB
while back, I watched an episode of the TV show “authentic” being. When we are able to do this, the theory Queer Eye. The premise of this show is quite simple: claims, our natural “organismic” processes of growth and in each episode, at the request of a relative or adaptation will finally be free to work towards resolving the friend, the eponymous team of experts in fashion, problem. Adesign, and all-around fabulousness pays a visit to someone This is an interesting concept, and sometimes change does whose life is in desperate need of an overhaul. By the end of indeed have this paradoxical quality (for instance, with people the episode, small changes have added up to a radical change tormented by a demanding super-ego). But in attempting to in the person. Someone with little confidence or hope has explain all important forms of personal change work through now become self-assured and proud of who they are. the concept of “becoming what we are,” this theory is deeply This fun and silly show points to a profound truth: real misguided. Our ability to be patient and accept things as possibilities for change exist in every person’s life. Even when they are undoubtedly does us a lot of good. We can’t have someone is stuck deep in a rut and the last bit of hope has everything we want right away, and sometimes time is the already packed up and left, change is still possible under the best medicine, as the saying has it. But we also have other right conditions. equally important abilities which the Gestalt theory discounts Of the many paradoxes related to the topic of change, one or ignores. The first of these is creativity, the power to I think is particularly important to discuss. On the one hand, establish new habits, learn new skills, and make new things. there is nothing in the universe that does not change. As the The second is our ability to know and to understand, to Buddha clearly perceived, the only permanent phenomenon accurately perceive the potentials and limitations of any given is the phenomenon of impermanence. Every single thing that situation. has come to be will eventually pass away. But on the other The importance of all three of these powers is nicely hand, despite the incessant changes occurring within and illustrated in the Serenity Prayer, originally written by the around us, we are often powerless to bring about the changes American theologian Reinhold Neibuhr and later popularized we most wish to see: to get unstuck in life, to improve our by Alcoholics Anonymous. It goes: relationships, or to live in a world without war and poverty. “God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot Just because everything changes does not mean that changes change, happen when and how we desire. Courage to change the things I can, There is an influential concept in the Gestalt tradition in And wisdom to know the difference.” psychology known as the paradoxical theory of change. This This prayer makes the powerful point that having the ability theory attempts to explain why so many of our efforts to live to be serene at some times and courageous at other times is better lives result in failure. “Change occurs,” it claims, “when not itself sufficient for dealing well with the difficulties of life. one becomes what one is, not when one tries to become Wisdom - the ability to distinguish what is and is not within what one is not.” In other words, our efforts to transform our powers to alter - is key, because much of the time it is not ourselves into something we want to be or think we should at all self-evident which situations call for courage and which become will always be counterproductive, because like a call for serenity. The blind spot of the Gestalt theory should car spinning its wheels in mud, the harder we try to change now be clearer. Its emphasis on acceptance and authenticity things that can’t be changed, the deeper we sink into the very leaves little room for creativity and wisdom, the powers that situation we are trying to escape. The paradoxical solution to fuel our dynamic responses to difficulties. this pattern is to abandon our desire for change, to settle into If you attend enough corporate training sessions or what is happening at the present, to more fully realize our motivational seminars, you’re bound to hear a cliché along
24 SEPTEMBER 2018 www.communitycenter.org.tw
Sept 2018_p3-end.indd 24 2018/8/26 下午4:55 OUTLOOK
the lines of “the Chinese word for crisis consists of the characters for ‘danger’ and ‘opportunity.’” Although this isn’t actually correct, the spirit of the saying is perceptive. We rarely change much without a push from the outside. The daily grind rarely asks us to re-consider deeply held beliefs or challenge our perceived limits. Setbacks and RED ROOM challenges push us out of our comfort zones, and by using and developing our essential human powers in the process SEPTEMBER EVENTS of responding to these challenges, the most important kinds of growth occur. Sep 2 - Oct 6, Opening September 2 at 4:00 PM RED, VISUAL DIALOGUES Ernst Bloch wrote that one of the great tragedies of human existence is none of us will ever come close to developing the full range of our potentials. Every human life is a small island of what-is surrounded by a vast ocean of what-could-have-been. In a way, though, this is exactly what makes life worth living each day. No matter how much we grow and develop, or how deeply we get stuck, there will always be another step we can take. Saturday, September 8th, 1:00pm - 8:00pm RISE FOR CLIMATE - TAIWAN Red Room and 350+ FREE ENTRY
Michael Mullahy is a licensed counseling psychologist in Taiwan. He enjoys hiking, reading and traveling in his free time.
Sunday, September 9, 1:00pm - 8:00pm WORLD SUICIDE PREVENTION DAY 2018 Hosted by WARM & Red Room You are invited to a new exhibition at Bai-Win Collection FREE ENTRY L’AT TI T U DES Opening on Saturday, September 15, 2018 from 5-8 PM
Join us for a special event at Bai-Win Collection. L’Attitudes is a nod to the lateral lines on the globe that tie us together and a celebration of the unique attitudes individual cultures express at home.
Saturday, September 15, 2:30 PM - 4:30 PM STJ XXX: PLAYING FOR CHANGE FUNDRAISER
Room settings comprised of fine antiques and objets d’art from Japan, Taiwan, China, Indochina and Early America will be assembled for your enjoyment.
Refreshments and edibles will be provided. Interesting people will assemble and spiraling conversations will ensue.
But it won’t be the same without you.
百韻古今傢俱文物飾品 Bai Win Collection Antiques & Objets d’Art Saturday, September 15, 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM 台北市中山北路六段405巷2號 Tel: (02) 2874 5525 STAGE TIME & WINE CII : PLAYS FOR CHANGE #2 Lane 405, Chung Shan N. Road Sec. 6, Taipei (across from the Pencil Shr Dung Elementary School)
www.communitycenter.org.tw SEPTEMBER 2018 25
Sept 2018_p3-end.indd 25 2018/8/26 下午4:55 OUTLOOK A change is as good as a holiday… sometimes
TEXT: ELENE VAN SANDWYK IMAGE: WEB
hat is when it’s your choice, like starting a new job, smelled as I fell asleep under it when I was six. Even now, finding a new apartment or when you are leaving years after coming here, I enjoy the smell of cigarettes; not behind something negative in your life. But what if a pleasant odor. But when I got here, it was the only thing “change” happens unexpectedly, without you even that smelled the same as back home. I was so desperate for Trealizing it…until it is too late? something familiar that cigarette smoke became a welcoming Sometimes, all the platitudes and superficial remarks that scent. are meant to make us feel better only make us more unhappy Of course, the smell of smoke would not have gotten me or frustrated. How is any of this supposed to help you get through all that, and that brings me to my point — or my through what might be one of the worst times of your life? advice if you will. Stop focusing on the world around you: Why won’t anyone tell you what to do, when it will be over, that will always change! Focus on yourself. Pick your favourite when life will feel normal again, or how to get through this? thing about you, not something physical, not just something You know the answer as well as I do – there’s no “one-way fits others like about you, or something you do or are good at. all,” no one knows when it will end, normal will come when What do you like about your personality? Do you have a you least expect it, and you have to get you through this! Ok wicked sense of humor, or enough ambition and drive to build the last one is a little less common, at least in my experience. Rome in a day? There’s always something, pick it, focus on it, I guess it sounds too tough, and some would prefer to shift hold on for dear life. That quality (or qualities) is what will get blame or responsibility, quickly offering suggestions on who you through. It won’t make it easier, it won’t make it go by you should sue or hire or blame. Do any of us ever really faster, it won’t protect you from the pain or the turmoil, but it admit that you are responsible for getting yourself through will get you through. something? Does anyone ever truly (and I mean truly) get For me it was my empathy and passion that got me through something without helping themselves? through. One of the reasons my marriage ended and I had to leave was because my environment was no longer conducive NEW COUNTRY, NEW CULTURE to my empathy or passion. Both qualities were slowly being When I walked out of my marriage and into Taiwan I went smothered due to others’ lack of empathy, by the very real through a hard time. I had a lot to work on, and I decided to dangers around me, by others’ negativity and lack of passion come here to give myself time and space to do it. I had to or drive. When I decided to start focusing on me again, adapt to a whole new country and culture, without knowing on some of the qualities that I missed most about myself, anyone or speaking the language. Nothing here was familiar, everything changed. not the sights or sounds or smells. And smells are very Allowing myself to be me gave new strength to my important to me. I can still remember how my dad’s jacket empathy. I was able to forgive my ex-husband for the years of
26 SEPTEMBER 2018 www.communitycenter.org.tw
Sept 2018_p3-end.indd 26 2018/8/26 下午4:55 emotional abuse when I finally realized where it was all coming from. Stoking the embers of my passion gave me the drive to get here. At first both qualities needed a break, but I knew they were within me and I would be able to do so much more if I strengthened them – look what I had already done. My vulnerable, empathic side had taken such a beating that I had to hide her and become hard and tough. This is the bad side of change, when we develop habits or characteristics just to survive. But survive we must, and for a while I had to be cold and tough, a little lifeless and only thinking of what to do to get through the next day. I kept going, I kept focusing on and reminding myself of my passion and my empathy. In a couple of months my passion drove me to a job that’s more in line with what I studied – one of my many passions. Eventually it lead me to another and another job where I’m excited to get up every morning. My empathy took a little longer, but it always spurred me on to help those around me, even if just by giving advice on living in Taiwan. And that helped me get involved in arranging the first Walk in Hope. From there we built Live in Hope, an organization that aims to help others create a positive life and remove the stigma around mental health problems. I’m still working hard on this organization, I’m proud of what we’ve done and it’s only just the beginning. I also joined the SaffaFest group to bring my passion for South African culture to Taiwan. Life has changed many times since and will change many more, but I’ll always have my passion and empathy. Find your qualities and remind yourself of them. There’s no need to tell anyone else, there’s no need to prove it — don’t even bother, what a waste of energy! Life will give you ample opportunity to strengthen and use these qualities, you don’t have to go looking for it. If you need a break, give it to yourself. As the quote from Bansky goes, learn to rest, not to quit. Don’t hurt yourself or others as far as possible. If you need help, ask for it. If you need to talk, find people you can trust. Not everyone deserves to hear your story, and you don’t have to convince them of your truth. If they don’t get it, then they’re simply not meant to be part of it. Accept this and move on; don’t waste your energy trying to fit others into your story. Find ways to bring a little good to the world whenever you can and eventually — I promise — this too shall pass.
Elene is a Saffa enjoying life in Taiwan where she works as a Project Manager for a technology start-up. A lover of books and nature, she’s always looking for ways to find and appreciate the beauty in life, while learning and growing from the pain of it.
www.communitycenter.org.tw SEPTEMBER 2018 27
Sept 2018_p3-end.indd 27 2018/8/26 下午4:55 OUTLOOK
Currents Flowing In the Bark
TEXT: ANDREW CONLEY IMAGE: WEB
Looking into an unknown, what one expects to see will change what they see. We walked deep into the valley and sat still we watched the years pass we saw worlds grow and decay we learned from what we saw which changed how we saw it - currents flowing in the bark summer days so bright flowers leaping from the ground daisies and violets growing without a sound leaping to the light. Now it is dark and we are still as we sit looking for bends in eternal law slowly the world turns to green from grey, morning with the grass, as we search for an inhuman will that thrives and subtly alters the context.
Andrew Conley is a writer from the United States inspired by engaged Buddhism. He writes in a mirror form with the thesis that eternal knowledge and a way to peace are written as a holy text in nature.
28 SEPTEMBER 2018 www.communitycenter.org.tw
Sept 2018_p3-end.indd 28 2018/8/27 下午3:34 TRAVEL
RICHARD SAUNDERS EXPLORES TAIWAN'S LESS-TRODDEN PATHS
Aohua Waterfall TEXT & IMAGES: RICHARD SAUNDERS
he 118 kilometer-long Suhua one of the most exhilarating drives in all Highway, although wider and Taiwan. Things are getting better. The safer than a couple of decades highway is currently being upgraded ago, is still probably the with a series of long tunnels that will Triskiest major highway to drive along bypass the most dangerous sections of in Taiwan. It remains fairly narrow in the road. The first recently opened to many places, often with a sheer drop traffic, and the trip will be a lot quicker into the ocean, and, to make matters and easier still when construction of worse, heavy lorries and other big the others is completed in another year vehicles continue to zoom along it at or two. often unreasonable speeds, so driving it Apart from spectacular views of is a nerve-wracking experience at times. cloud-kissing cliffs and an azure Pacific, If you get good weather, though, it’s a big attraction of the highway is
the five waterfalls that lie close to it. Several of them can only be reached by a tricky river trace, but as it happens, the most spectacular of all, Aohua Waterfall, is an easy and short walk that’s suitable for everyone. Start the trip at the Atayal aboriginal village of Aohua (奧花), just off the highway right on the border between Yilan and Hualien counties. Pass through the village, and soon a large boulder inscribed with red-painted Chinese characters points the way towards the waterfall, up the big valley ahead. The road is unsurfaced, but in good condition, and two-wheel drive cars will have no problem negotiating the two kilometers up to the trailhead unless it’s very wet. At the end of the road, cross the stream by a bridge and follow a concrete-stepped path over a gentle rise and then down the other side to the huge, deep plunge pool at foot of spectacular Aohua Waterfall (澳 花瀑布). This fifty meter-high plunge is a very impressive sight. Even more tempting at this time of year, it falls into a huge, cold plunge pool perfect for swimming!
Richard Saunders is a trained classical musician and writer who has lived in Taipei since 1993. He has written several books (available at the Center and in bookshops around Taipei), including Yangmingshan: the Guide (a complete guide to the National Park on Taipei’s doorstep), Taipei Escapes I and 2, which together detail sixty day trips and hikes within easy reach of Taipei city, and The Islands of Taiwan, a guide to Taiwan’s offshore islands. His latest book, Taiwan 101: Essential Hikes, Sights and Experiences around Ilha Formosa, is out now.
www.communitycenter.org.tw SEPTEMBER 2018 29
Sept 2018_p3-end.indd 29 2018/8/26 下午4:55 CSC BUSINESS CLASSIFIED
#14 Tienmu E. Road | Telephone 2871-1515 | [email protected]
Taiwan 101: Essential Sights, Hikes and Experiences on Ilha Formosa
by Richard Saunders
Taiwan 101 presents Taiwan’s finest attractions to anyone who wishes to get to know this island of kaleidoscopic charms, complete with transport information and GPS coordinates of nearly 800 fascinating places.
30 SEPTEMBER 2018 www.communitycenter.org.tw
Sept 2018_p3-end.indd 30 2018/8/26 下午4:55 Newcomer Orientation THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 27 Join us for a fast-paced and fun introduction to living in Taiwan. This half-day workshop is full of helpful hints, stories and useful information. Topics covered include: practical daily life tips; typhoon, earthquake and disaster awareness; health and medical information; and understanding the local culture. If you would like to stay afterwards to chat with Center staff, lunch will be available at an additional cost of NT$400.
9:00am - 12:30pm
NT$800 - workshop only NT$1200 - workshop + lunch
Registration required
Community Services Center No. 25, Lane 290, Zhong Shan N. Rd, Sec 6 台北市中山北路六段290巷25號一樓 www.communitycenter.org.tw (02) 2836-8134
Sept 18 cover.indd 3 2018/8/26 下午5:01 Sept 18 cover.indd 4 2018/8/26 下午5:01