Getting “cultured” in Taipei

I spent the past two weekends going to Taipei trying to be a more well-rounded person, or as some would say “getting cultured.” The first weekend we spent roaming the streets around Taipei 101, before rather quickly deciding to see the city from above.

I have to admit, the view from atop one of the world’s tallest skyscrapers was a lot more impressive than I had previously imagined. Taiwan has such majestic mountains, which cover the landscape surrounding the crowded cities, that it’s hard not to gaze in awe.  The individual audio tour within the building was informative, and it covered key historical points and geography visible from the designated spots around the floor.

Chungli in the distance

Perfect Day for the trip up to the top of 101

Ah the mountains! Welcome to Taiwan.

The mountains surround Taipei except to the (south)west

Downtown Taipei from above

A fun fact about Taipei 101: It has (at one point, not sure if someone else has taken over) the world’s fastest elevator. The cars are pressurized to help with elevation change, while your ears are trying to adjust as they travel 1,010M per minute into the sky.

The other weekend, Jesse and I went to the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall to see the Salvador Dali exhibit. First, I’ll say that he was quite talented and it was really cool to see a lot of the artwork. If you’re waiting for a huge “but” then you’re correct. I don’t understand it. I mean some of it makes sense, but for most part I’m completely lost, and in all honesty the only thing that truly set in was a bad case of what I like to call “museum legs,” i.e. drowsiness.

Dali and his melting clocks

The rest of my time has been spent cycling and planning my upcoming trip. I can’t wait for my camera to get here and finally show a few of the places that I have been cycling lately. Until next time….