It took us at least 3 - 4 hours to travel from one city to another. Taiwan isn't like Singapore where you can just take a train from Jurong to Pasir Ris and the travelling time only takes 40 - 50 minutes. We spent /4 of our money on transportations.
We had to say goodbye to Mingao Spring Resort and a big hello to TAIPEI! YES!
First thing we reached Taipei, we checked into our hotel rooms and immediately proceeded to Danshui.
Danshui is a smaller city to the north of Taipei that was the center of shipping and commerce in northern Taiwan in the 19th century. The city is still popular with visitors from Taipei and boasts many historical attractions, and is a popular location for viewing the sunset.
The town calls itself by the English name "Tamsui" but the Taipei MRT system calls it by its Mandarin Chinese name, transliterated as "Danshui". "Tamsui" probably comes from the town's name in the Taiwanese language.
We met up with William and a few of our Taiwanese friends. One of them would be Danny, second person from the left.
Tamsui is located near the outlet of the Tamsui (Danshui) River into the Taiwan Strait. Originally home to Formosan indigenous peoples, Tamsui was next settled by the Spanish in 1629 as the town and mission of San Domingo. Due to its close proximity to Taipei City, Tamsui has become a favorite destination for city dwellers to take a stroll and enjoy a coffee along the riverside.
Hongmao Castle (Fort San Domingo) (紅毛城, lit: Red Hair Castle) was constructed by the Dutch as 'Fort Anthonio' in 1641, and gained its present name in reference to the red-haired Dutch. The compound also served as the British Consulate in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It enjoys commanding views over the mouth of the Tamsui (Danshui) River.
The Tamsui Ferry Pier are located near the north end of the waterfront area and offer ferries across the river to Bali Township, as well as Tamsui Fisherman's Wharf further north.
It was a pleasure meeting one of the finest and youngest Taiwanese singers. His vocal technique is so good!
Calvin Lin, an upcoming Taiwanese Singer.
We call this bridge, the lovers' bridge!
After that, we headed to Shilin but we didn't really shop when we reached there. All of us were too exhausted to shop. In the end, we just enjoyed our coffee at Starbucks before proceeding back to our hotel!
