“Thousands of tired, nerve-shaken, over-civilized people are beginning to find out that going to the mountains is going home; that wildness is a necessity.” ― John Muir, Our National Parks On New Year’s Day, I headed to Xiangshan — Elephant Mountain — in southeastern Taipei. I’ve hiked this “mountain” before in much warmer weather. This
A Crowded View in Taipei Read More »
“I’m not a teacher: only a fellow traveler of whom you asked the way. I pointed ahead–ahead of myself as well as you.” ― George Bernard Shaw As I’ve re-entered the job market in Asia, I’ve looked at returning to teaching English as a foreign language (EFL); it’s a job I’ve enjoyed at times in
EFL Jobs Abroad: The Interview Read More »
It’s easy to travel with Airbnb accommodation, as I have for 10 out of 14 months in East Asia and Italy. It has mostly been a positive experience.
Airbnb and Long-term Travel Read More »
“For last year’s words belong to last year’s language And next year’s words await another voice. And to make an end is to make a beginning.” ― T.S. Eliot, Little Gidding I can’t say I’m sad to see 2014 go. I can’t say I’m happy about it either. 2014 started out with me on a boat
Comparing the prices of traveling and living in two of the world’s most expensive cities, Venice and Tokyo.
Comparing Prices: Venice and Tokyo Read More »
East Asia loves Christmas–I witnessed this while living in China. My Christmas tradition didn’t change much when I moved to southern China years ago; the movies were on pirated DVDs and the Chinese food was better, but it was still more or less the same tradition. While walking around Taipei with my friends the other
Christmas Greetings from Taipei Read More »
In the run up to Christmas, I noticed the prevalence of Christmas lights all over Tokyo. Every shopping area was decorated to attract more customers and all the people were busy taking photos in front of the displays. Last year my landlord took me on an after-work excursion to see the light display at Yomiuri
Holiday Lights of Tokyo Read More »
A personal experience of studying abroad in London and reasons more students should take a semester or year abroad to do more than just travel.
On Studying Abroad Read More »
Visiting the colorful Cao Đài Temple outside Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, on a day tour that included the Cu Chi Tunnels.
Cao Dai: A Different Kind of Temple in Vietnam Read More »
“There is something so different in Venice from any other place in the world, that you leave at once all accustomed habits and everyday sights to enter an enchanted garden.” – Mary Shelley I wasn’t certain I wanted to pay to get in. Sure, the view should be pleasant, but is it really worth 8 euros? Everything else in Venice
Overlooking San Marco Square Read More »
Relieving the effects of church fatigue in Florence while admiring the ornate Basilica di Santa Maria del Fiore, also known as Il Duomo di Firenze.
Admiring the Duomo in Florence Read More »
Learning lessons from the chaos of utility wires in Saigon, Vietnam.
Lessons from Utility Workers in Vietnam Read More »
Enjoying classic cocktails at the KFC Route 25 bar in Shimokitazawa, Tokyo. No, really, there’s a KFC in Japan that has a full bar.
Classic Cocktails at KFC in Japan Read More »
“Turkey: A large bird whose flesh, when eaten on certain religious anniversaries has the peculiar property of attesting piety and gratitude.” – Ambrose Bierce, The Devil’s Dictionary I’m fortunate to have a few friends here in Taipei. Some of them were able to join me for my birthday last week. And my two American friends
A Very Taipei Thanksgiving Read More »
“I’ve had enough of reading things By neurotic, psychotic, pig-headed politicians All I want is the truth Just gimme some truth” -John Lennon, Just Gimme Some Truth I arrived in time for the political campaigns in Taiwan. There are campaign offices everywhere around the city and trucks driving around with loudspeakers telling people to vote
Taiwanese Election Tanks Read More »
