Christmas in Taipei

Like Japan, Korea and China alike, Taiwanese Christmas is more about celebrating life than celebrating Jesus' birth.  Known here more as an occasion to party with friends or to have a romantic getaway, Christmas away from family wasn't as hard as it would have been otherwise.  It was great to see some familiar faces from U of T days, as well as having the chance to meet some new ones as well!  The "weekend" started on Thursday night at a local watering hole, Friday going to 3 live music shows, and Saturday getting away to Jiufen for a nice trek in a scenic mountain village. Following a long movie night w/ Toronto alum, the highlight of Sunday was quite possibly one of the best hot pots I've ever had (around Minquan W. Road). Still smiling!