THE HAIRY GIRAFFE… IN Taiwan
After two weeks in Taiwan, it’s time to reflect. How did we experience this journey? What were our joys, disappointments, questions, doubts, and discoveries? This is not merely an assessment of a country but rather of a trip—how we perceived it individually and subjectively.
 We are François and Benjamin, Canadian and French giraffe hairstylists and travel enthusiasts. On this blog, discover our travels, tips, moods, and everything you need to become a giraffe hairstylist and embark on travelling the world. An honest blog with photos guaranteed 100% unfiltered and untouched. |
François’ Travel Reflections
Taiwan was the fourth destination of our world tour. The constant geopolitical tensions between China and Taiwan, as well as the recent elections on the island, made us fear having to cancel our trip. Fortunately for us (and for the Taiwanese), China remained quiet.
It’s difficult for me to assess Taiwan. Firstly, I think the fact that I’ve never been to China has deprived me of elements to appreciate this destination. I’m not saying that Taiwan and China are identical or that the former is part of the latter. I’m far too detached from all of this to take a position on the Sino-Taiwanese conflict. I simply say that the two inevitably share cultural similarities. I don’t understand a word of the language. I know nothing about Taoism and other beliefs. The food is often a huge mystery, and choosing a dish at a restaurant is like playing the lottery.
I think it would have been more relevant to see China before Taiwan. Just to have some reference points or, failing that, points of comparison. It might have also allowed me to appear less strange with my Western ways. I already attract attention with my height, facial features, and hairiness. I don’t go unnoticed in a crowd of Taiwanese people who are all at least a head shorter than me.
I find it difficult to write this assessment, not because I didn’t enjoy the trip (usually I have no problem saying outright that I dislike something), but because nothing in particular stood out to me. So far, in most of the countries we’ve visited, there has been a standout element. Whether it’s the insecurity in Brazil, the dirtiness in Rajasthan, the sublime landscapes of Polynesia, or the tranquility of Greenland, I’ve always known quickly what I wanted to write about. Additionally, the topic of the assessment usually strikes me quickly. From the first few days spent in a country, the ideas that will form the basis of my writing emerge. Of course, they will evolve as the journey progresses. By having a guideline, I am generally more attentive to gathering information that will support my points.
Here, it’s different. No favorite moments, no moments of frustration; everything is more moderate.
Indeed, Taipei is a modern, dynamic city with genuine points of interest. However, it remains quite small and modest compared to Seoul. Let’s not be mistaken, I liked Taipei. I enjoyed walking the streets of Ximending and Dadaocheng neighborhoods.
I enjoyed admiring the city from Elephant Mountain. I loved getting lost in the underground passages of Taipei City Mall and moving from one manga shop to another. However, I couldn’t quite find the bustling vibe of a big city that I loved so much in Seoul, even at the foot of Taipei 101, one of the tallest towers in the world. The more I travel, the more I realize that I love huge cities with skyscrapers, people everywhere, and tons of things to do. My unfamiliarity with Taiwan is probably the cause of this disappointment. If I had researched before departure, the disappointment would likely have been lessened.
However, what I will certainly remember from my time in Taiwan is the incredible kindness of the Taiwanese people. Everywhere we went, we were welcomed with open arms. Despite a significant language barrier, we felt at ease. While some greeted us in English right away, others didn’t hesitate to use their phones to exchange a few words with us. They were friendly, approachable, and pleasant. Never did anyone act violently or try to sell us something unnecessary or scam us.
I especially think of the employee at the car rental in Hualien who kindly translated a billboard and a Facebook page in Chinese for us regarding the New Year festivities. She wasn’t obligated to act as a tour guide at all. She simply agreed to do so with a smile.
I also think of the employee at the souvenir shop in a temple in Tainan who explained in detail the Taoist ritual of prayers, talismans, and offerings that we had seen many times during our various visits to temples. She was obviously delighted to do so and to share her culture with us (and upon knowing we were from France: she was a big wine enthusiast).
I also remember the hotel employee in Kaohsiung who wanted to give us his plush dragon (which he had bought in China the previous week) after we simply told him that we found it cute and asked where we could find one. For him, this gesture was completely normal.
I also remember the nun who took us under her wing at the Buddhist complex in Kaohsiung. She explained in detail the procession unfolding before our eyes. She identified the best vantage points for taking photos, took pictures of us, and gave both of us candies and blessed water. Like others, she was delighted to share her culture with strangers, freely and without any ulterior motive.
Finally, I think of the kindness and exemplary patience of the employees at the Taipei post office who helped us send a package to France.
I remember that we had already felt this Asian kindness in Korea. It was also present, but in a different way, in Cambodia and during our layover in Bangkok.
Apparently, there’s something about Asian culture that makes us feel good in contact with people.
Is Taiwan Worth Visiting?
Yes… if you’re in the area. I don’t think the island has enough to offer to warrant a trip just for it from Paris (even less so from Montreal). Unless you have particular affinities with Taiwan, there aren’t enough things to do for such a long journey. However, if you’re passing through Taipei for a layover or if your travels take you to this part of the world, plan a few days on the island. Taipei is enjoyable to visit. Some landscapes are truly beautiful, and you’ll have the opportunity to meet incredible people.
Check out Benjamin’s Travel Reflections:
Find all our other articles on Taiwan:
