A Few First Thoughts on Taipei

As a veteran of over 2,400 minutes in Taipei, I feel that well suited to give an honest account of the metropolis. The city itself is situated in something of a basin ringed about by mountains. These mountains can't quite make up their minds as to what they would like to be. They have the height of the Appalachian foothills, but lack the Appalachian's gentle rolling nature. They have more of a rugged contour like a certain Alp I remember, but they do not come close to achieving Alpine heights. Thus these mountains seem all in a muddle. Of course, it has been quite overcast since I first arrived, and I haven't gotten a great look at them. It may well be that clouds are blocking my view of soaring precipices which can look any Alp square in the eye. It may also be that clouds have chopped these mountains up causing the viewer to be deceived concerning their gentle nature. What I am saying, then, is that when it comes to the mountains, it may be me and not them that is muddled.

What I am not muddled about, though, is the city itself. Yes, I know a thing or two about the place. For example, I know that there are people here. A lot of them. If you can believe it, there are almost as many people as there are scooters. Taiwan is one of the most densely populated countries in the world, and Taipei is its largest city. It is fairly crowded here. Most everyone lives in apartments. I, myself, happened to pick up one of these items this morning. I used the term "pick up" here, because I very well might be able pick the whole thing up. It is quite small. But then when you have so many people around, you can't spacious living quarters. It is cozy, though, and I think I will be comfortable in it. I will post some pictures of it whenever I can get some.

The favorite activity in the city seems to be sweating. This pastime is almost universally engaged in all throughout the day. Everyone you meet has a glistening brow. I am pleased to announce that I have been able to pick up this part of the culture with ease. I have evidenced the ability to sweat quite proficiently in my brief time here. This may or may not have something to do with high levels of humidity.

I am also fairly proficient in getting myself around. I can, for example, go outside the front door, turn left, and arrive that the fruit market. At this locale, if I so chose, I could purchase oranges, mangoes, bananas, and sundry fruits. Across the way, there is a dumpling stand where I could purchase big balls of dough with meat or vegetables inside them. I can also work my way down the street a little further and reach the park. This is a large area where, I imagine, I will spend a fair amount of time during my stay here. I think it might be a good place to walk. You can see, then, that I have already acquired a mastery of the various points of interest in Taipei.

After reading this vivid and accurate description, you probably feel that you have already been here and will not need to visit the city in the future. Don't give into such feelings. You should still come and see the place for yourself. Just work on being a good sweater before you come.

Interview in the morning. I will let you know how that goes.