December of 95

I just realize that today is December ... and yet it feels like early fall or late spring. Every time I look up into the sky, it looks different ... everything is slightly different here. It’s usually hazy around here (same in HK) ... you don’t get the sun glare during sunrise/sunset ... at that time, you can actually look directly into the sun ... a little orange circle in the big hazy sky. No wonder that their national symbol is a “sun” ... because if you live here, you will see that all the time.

Here are some other interesting facts. The year is 95 for Taiwan ... not 2006. Driving on the wrong side of the road and running red lights are accepted here in small towns (to them, it is similar to running a yellow light/stop sign back on LI).

Very similar to HK ... men’s urinal automatically flushes twice ... before and after. What is strange (to me) is that they have squat toilet bowls ... no sitting ... similar to a hole in the ground, but a little bit nicer looking ... better not slip =P.

I was told that traditional wedding banquets are held on the street next to the wedding party’s home ... so, how many guests are going to fit into your home =P.

Many eateries/shops have patios ... many extend their sitting area to the outside. Tea shops are everywhere ... bubble tea anyone? =P

My hotel has everything ... basement level 3, there is a large grocery store with local and imported goods ... and a food court (with picture menu). From there up to the 7th floor is a mall ... very expensive. Lol ... LV is right there on the ground floor ... I know someone is going to shop there all the time =P Afterward, there are restaurants, gym and guest rooms above that ... and if you want to get to the very top, you will need a very expensive VIP card to access room with it’s own maids ... wow =O

I have been trying to read and speak mandarin, but I’m far from kindergarten level ... to be precise, far below =P I think I may have better luck learning sign language.

It is about 3 weeks since I’ve seen anyone from home ... this is the longest that I have been away ... one more to go. Lol ... I wonder if anyone else misses me? =P