February 2023


and the meal of noodle dishes and hotpots, Fo Guang Shan style, was quite unique and in some cases delicious. Just before dawn however as the chants of the monks and nuns drifted from temples and dormitories it is the time for silence and serious prayer.


Along with a handful of other guests I made my way to the main shrine dominated by three magnificent 20 foot high bronze Buddha on the altar with an incredible 14,000 more little Buddha each illuminated in the high walls.


In this candle lit and incense smoked atmospheric setting it was quite moving to listen to


the devout prayers and chants punctuated at times by the deep boom from a huge ceremonial drum.


No one could question the devotion of the monks and nuns to their god, etched as it was on all their faces during the ceremony, and shortly afterwards as they sat in long rows in total silence at the breakfast of steamed bread, spinach like leaves, and watered down soya milk.


A new day had dawned and I had experienced something I stall never forget! The Fo Guang Shan Monastery is situated in the far south of Taiwan near the second city of Kaohsiung. Most guests make a donation towards their stay (www.fgs.org. tw).


Situated in the next to Fo Guang Shan is


the new Buddha Memorial Centre, finely built of stone, it is a massive theme-park style celebration of the fascinating life of Buddha, where a sacred relic, a tooth of the Buddha, is housed.


TAINAN AND TAIPEI - CAPITALS OLD AND NEW


On the south west coast lies Tainan,


an old city and the first capital when the government of the Republic of China moved to the island of Taiwan in 1949.


Here the Dutch hoping to secure their colonial possession of Formosa built Fort


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TRAVELLING THROUGH TAIWAN | 19


Zeelandia in 1624, however within 40 years they were driven out by a powerful Chinese pirate, Koxinga, who transformed the Fort into his home naming it King Castle. Later Japanese invaders rebuilt it as Anping


Old Fort, and today the layers of history on display are a major tourist attraction along with the nearby Confucian Temple dating from 1665. One feature of old Tainan are the narrow back alleys full of fascinating little craftsmen’s shops, temples, cafes, and bars like the recommended Joe Bar in Shennong St, with live music, Taiwanese beers, and choice of cocktails.


On the outskirts of Tainan is a most unusual theme park dedicated to the drum. See drums being made from bison skins, learn to play drums and listen to top professionals, even eat in a drum themed restaurant at the Ten Drum Culture Village (www.ten-hsieh. com.tw) .


TAIPEI


One feature of Taiwanese cities are clean safe streets, and genuinely friendly people who are usually happy to talk to you and help without any thought of reward. This also applies to Taipei, the modern capital. Here broad shopping boulevards featuring most of the world’s top brand names are to be found, however two attractions unique to the city stand out. The National Palace Museum houses a very large part of China’s entire artistic heritage brought to Taiwan from the Chinese mainland by the troops of the Republic of China in 1949.


Guaranteed appeal to the erudite the exceptional collection of ancient paintings, scrolls, porcelain, and statues here, give a fascinating insight into just how advanced Chinese culture was – even thousands of years ago.www.npm.gov.tw By contrast the other Taipei attraction is definitely of the modern age, and until 2010 it was the world’s tallest building. The Taipei 101 Tower is still in a very respectable second place with 101 stories and reaching an overall height of 509.2 metres or 1,671 feet. Its elevator is capable of ascending an incredible 1010 metres in just one minute. There are shops on the first floors and right at the top. Needless to say the views from there on a clear day are truly spectacular! www.taipei-101.com


EVA AIR


Taiwan’s own airline EVA Air is recommended, with some of the best and freshest in-flight meals I have experienced in recent years, and a genuine friendly service. A good choice of entertainment on individual screens is available throughout.


BANGKOK - the bustling capital of Thailand, is renowned for its vast history, culture, and gastronomic scene. In recent years, Thailand has become one of the most popular destinations amongst solo travellers and those seeking to tick a destination off their bucket-list...


BANGKOK is a jam-packed city with a deep culture ready for you to dive in and explore. Bangkok, the vibrant heart of Thailand, is a spotlight travel destination emerging amongst the younger generations for a myriad of reasons.


Combining an idyllic


blend of cultural heritage intermingled with a technicolour modern vibrancy, Bangkok is a travel destination which captures the spirits and hearts of those who visit each year.


Bangkok is a cultural whirlwind, home to many to breath-taking cultural


landmarks,


including the iconic Grand Palace, Wat Pho, and Wat Arun. These historical monuments show off Bangkok’s detailed and intricate architecture, traditional


artistry,


and capture the spiritual essence of Thailand. The largest city in Thailand, is


home to


something to suit everyone! Slip into a world of wellness and relaxation, Thailand is a hub for spa treatments, specialising in traditional Thai massages, of course! After long hours of exploration be sure to allocate time for some therapeutic treatments, soothe away the bittersweet aches and pains of a jam- packed travel itinerary.


Bangkok is a hub for spa treatments and traditional Thai massages. Travellers can indulge in therapeutic and rejuvenating experiences, enhancing their overall well- being.


A major attribute of travel is the warm allure of the people, their culture and the warm sense of hospitality.


Those


Bangkok, many


beautiful temples. These temples are world renowned for their


architecture


breathtaking and


intricate details. The city’s is renowned for


its legendary street food


scene. An array of delectable dishes create a whirlwind that will encapsulate the senses. From the world-famous Pad Thai to Tom Yum soup and mouthwatering mango sticky rice. The street food scene in Bangkok is spectacular for those wanting to dive into the vast culture of the area. While shopping isn’t the first thing that springs to mind when thinking of Bangkok, the heart of Thailand is well known for bustling street markets, but there are also a range of upscale shopping plazas. There is


and


who travel to Thailand all highlight the warm nature and hospitable nature of the local people. To experience the diverse culture, and historical influence of Thailand, surrounding


yourself


with the inviting atmosphere of the locals


is always an


important attribute. At the heart of it all, Bangkok


captivates


range of cultural decadence, cuisine,


spectacular


travellers with vast sensory


landmarks.


Bangkok seamlessly blends tradition with modernity, a magnificent blend that makes it an irresistible destination for those seeking an unforgettable travel experience.


Did You Know? Regarded as the ‘The Land of The Temples,’ there are known to be over 40,000 temples throughout the country.


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