Author: Judith Villarreal

What’s really important today is what I hate about Taipei – and trust me, there are too many reasons to count. But, for the sake of time and fitting this article together nicely with a 10 Things I Hate About You theme, I chose the only 10 things I hate about Taipei.

Rainy days can be a drag no matter where in the world you are. They put a damper on fun outdoor plans, create havoc on frizz-prone locks (I look like that scary purple minion with frizzy hair during typhoon days in Taiwan). They drench you no matter how big your umbrella is; damn that sideways…
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It’s hard to believe it’s already been a full week since I left Asia for the land of cheeseburgers, bald eagles, and freedom. Transitioning from the crowded, bustling streets of Taiwan to the white paved pedestrian sidewalks in America has been no easy feat.

Here’s a quick little mini-lesson on the gorgeous natural hot springs in Taiwan. Readers beware: if you’ve never visited Taiwan before, this list will make you want to jump on the next plane out. You’ve been warned.

It’s funny thinking back on all the little social faux pas I made on a daily basis during my first few weeks in Taipei, and I certainly wish someone had been able to spot me in a crowd and lend a helping hand, especially when I was lost in the city.

In 16 days, I will join the numbers of brave men and women who plugged their noses and dove face first into a bowl of stinky tofu. Wish me luck, friends.

After an entire year of daily practices, it’s going to be arduous to simply drop the habits I’ve picked up – these 10 listed especially.

Usually run by thin, gorgeous, and impossibly chic young women, the boutiques of Taipei are not to be missed when you’re aching for a little retail therapy. Although the selections are usually great, buyers beware: there are Taiwanese boutique shopping rules to be learned.