jiveturtle

Colleagues directed me to this location of Taipei city for some healthy exercise and great views. This is Shi-Shou Mountain, or Four Beasts (or Animals) mountain. It was a very sunny day and quite a trek. Must admit, I'm in bad shape, as I saw the older mountain walker taking it easy without breaking a sweat. I must get fitter and healthier I think! But the sweat and tired legs was worth it for this great view of Taipei City and Taipei 101. In addition to the great view and the hard work, some of us was taking a nice afternoon Summer nap. I wish I was this dog!

Another wet day, but still decided to go out and wander to stretch the legs and take some wet pictures. This one of Taipei 101 (in purple today) on this wet and windy day. Humid heat and getting soaked was not a good combination, but hey, its Taiwan.

No words needed! You can't go wrong with a good barbecue, especially when its "all you can eat"!! Taipei has many of these eateries and prices ranges from NT$399 to more the upmarket (including all you can drink beer) at NT$799. (Must think of my health first though!)

Bored out of my tree again, so went out walking again, around the Xin-yi shopping district, near Shin-Kong Mitsukoshi. Nearby there is a shopping mall selling all the expensive branded things which, frankly, I have no interest in. However, is does have air-conditioning and its too hot outside to endure. It was surprisingly quiet inside, with not many people walking around. However, I did notice this huge sky window letting a lot of light into the place and thought it was quite nice, and took a snap. It is quite similar to the one I saw in new Manchester Arndale Centre, but this was one was a lot bigger!

Had purchased a "Gorilla" pod for my Panasonic compact camera with Dipesh from Guang-Hua Electronics Precint over the weekend. Its handy little tripod for compact cameras with the added function of the tripod legs being able to bend and grab on secure fences, poles or whatever that is near you to help you take a nice steady night shot. Here's one of "New York New York" department store near Taipei 101. Not bad I thought, and rather handy to have around in your bag when you're out and about in the city taking night shots!

Another wet and rainy stay, so headed to the new Sogo again to the upper floors. Here, there is an quaint indoor Japanese style Zen garden. Probably to dowith feng-shui for the department store. Entry to the garden is forbidden but it looks rather nice from a distance.

The world is so big and wide, Where is the best place for me to live and hide? France? For its art and fresh bread? Or Italy? For its coffee and Rose red? Japan? For its technology and gadgets? Or India? For its religion and long sunsets? Egypt? For its history and colors so bold? Or the Arctic? For its ice and the cold? Taiwan? For its good people and kind heart? Or America? For its TV shows and super-marts? It doesn't really matter where I live or hide, As long as my loved ones are here by my side.