I arrived in Taipei after what seemed like a never ending flight (although that may be because the flight crew insisted all the blinds were closed throughout the entire flight when I was trying to stay awake to avoid jetlag. Was then promptly met by the lovely Michelle who gave me a bubble tea and walked me from my gate in the direction of the immigration desks😘❤️

View of Taiwan from the plane

Had a nice chat with the security lady at immigration (the chap in front of me wasn’t allowed through and was escorted off to a room, so I thought there was no harm in being extra nice!) and my bag awaited me at baggage reclaim, so I went off to catch a bus into the city. Taipei hasn’t yet got round to extending their MRT (metro) to Taoyuan airport so bus was the easiest way for me. Certainly one of the cheapest at only 125$ – about £3. Very retro bus, and completely full with people, but it took me directly to Taipei Main Station which has an MRT stop.

Might not be the most awe-inspiring view in the world but it was my first view of Taiwan from the ground.

Got a couple of MRT trains after flailing around trying to decipher the difference between all the English train related acronyms, or even just decipher all the traditional Chinese characters. It might be beautiful but it’s hard to read 😦

Arrived at the youth hostel and managed to communicate with the staff member on duty in an amalgam of languages – I blame lack of sleep? Then went to locate something to eat at Shida Night Market.

As for what I ate, not quite sure what all of it was but it was crunchy, spicy, and about £2.50 so I’m fine with that!

Now off for some well-earned sleep before I keel over… Taiwan, 到了!