#2 Patience

 “Do unto others, as you would have them do unto you.”

The Taiwanese seem to have a set expectation, an unspoken agreement, of how you treat others – not that there aren’t the exceptions- We are all humans. ^^ Still, their vast amount of patience seems to be a key factor in this. Having patience requires self- control. It helps us overcome daily life frustrations, helps us hold off judgments, and in turn we make more mindful and informed decisions in all aspects of life. Patience helps us to achieve our goals, to see things more clearly, to be a good friend, and have compassion for others. 

After sharing a meal and planting a tree with an aboriginal tribe CNY 2014. ^^

The Taiwanese have patience unlike I’ve ever experienced. Growing up on an island of 23 million people must help with accepting that things take time. I should mention that as I have traveled to other places, and met people from all over the world, Americans do have the stereotype of always being in a hurry.  I can admit, this need to fit as much as I can into a single day and hustle from task to task is still very much in me, but my how far I've come. 

When I return to visit the USA, I am one of the most patience people in any given vicinity, but here in Taiwan, I often find myself being the impatient one. I will curse the ill-parked scooters and their drivers, too often I've grown impatient waiting for the elevator, and oh my golly, the lines. Yet they never seem to fret, nor grow restless, or become ill-tempered because only one register at IKEA is running as a line of 15 people continues to grow. There's rarely an aggravation at the 99 second red lights you hit five times after work, the tea stand lines that wrap around the building, or the elevator stopping on every level before picking you up on the first floor, to only then continue downwards to the basement when you mean to go up!

Another day, another line. 

*Taken from The Odyssey Online*

"So why are Americans always in a hurry? The answer lies in our culture and our history. Perhaps it is even within our capitalist economy; in connection, the idea that if you work harder, longer hours than the next guy, you'll come out on top. But what does this do to our bodies, minds, and spirits? All work and no time for recreation, meditation, and personal reflection causes more of a detriment to our well being than success ever can compensate. So the next time you're ready to blow up at the waitress taking too long, or schedule your day with so many things that the only down time you get is your limited sleep, remember that there is always space for those things that matter most. Physical, mental, and spiritual well being enables higher success and productivity, greater satisfaction, and increased longevity."

Great Things Take Time 

Cousin Jessica and I in Kaohsiung, enjoying Taiwan at our own pace. May 2018 

The Taiwanese are in no rush to start their days. Many places open at 10 am, and schools often beginning at 9 am.  The most scurrying I've witnessed is at the breakfast shops between 8-8:30 am. In the evening, meals are often an hour or more as to enjoy the food and let the conversation flow. This is also true in European countries. As well as the common use of public transportation, walking and biking versus every individual over 16 having their own means of transportation to get where they're going. 

I have learned a great deal of history while living in Taiwan. Because of this, I have also learned great lessons in patience. Gaining this knowledge has taught me a lot about the world, my country, and has led me to discover, follow, and thrive in deeper passions within.  

I've learned a lot about America’s history while in SE Asia for five years abroad. Including the importance of USA's relationship with Taiwan, keeping it free from China.

Taoism and Buddhism

In the first month of arriving in Taiwan, I was given the chance to receive Tao. Since then I've invested the time to learn more and more about Taoism and Buddhism in Taiwan and surrounding countries.  Many consider Tao and Buddhism a religion, or faith, but it seems more of a way of living than anything else. Neither of these 'faiths' try to convert nonbelievers by force. Instead, brings one to 'acceptance of their life,' opens possibilities, peace, and patience.  
In Taiwan, the religious environment is characterized by "tremendous diversity and tolerance." The majority practice a mix of Taoism and Buddhism, while Christians and Muslims are a small minority." Some say there’s no such thing as folk religion (in Taiwan), rather a motley collection of beliefs and superstitions which adherents hope will bring them health, longevity and prosperity." After speaking on the subject with Taiwanese friends and high school students, as well as my own experience, I would agree. There seems to be more rituals to bring protection from illness or to bring success in school or work, than prayers for refining behavior or uplifting thoughts. 

@ Shwedagon Pagoda in Yangon, Myanmar- May 2014

Both Buddhism and Taoism do not require a belief in any God or Gods. They are gentle, nonviolent, and anti-war. Believing in the equality and dignity of all living things. It encourages people to think independently, to transform themselves and to seek and find their own way to true happiness. In recent years, many Buddhist groups have emphasized environmental protection and minimizing. As Taoists teaches a person to live in their heart. 

I mention these two belief systems, because I believe they play an important role in how the Taiwanese are raised and, subsequently, a strong reason as to why they grow to live by the golden rule. 

I am approaching my final week of working with Cornel English School in Taichung. When I signed my name to this journey 5.5 years ago, I didn't quite expect that it would turn into such a major chapter in my life. I have embarked along a path that has forever changed who I am. I have reached more personal and professional goals than I even set out to achieve. I have gained confidence and insight that will honestly make returning (or at least attempting) to the USA an even bigger challenge than it ever was to leave. "Reverse culture shock "is what they call it, and I can't say I'm looking forward to it. 

I am, however, looking forward to being with family and friends again soon. As well as what I have planned for the next three months before my return home. ^^ 

Thanks for the support! -K

#3 Low Cost of Living & Adventures of a Lifetime

Have Big Dreams! (You can afford them.)

Top of Taipei 101 Jan. 2014. 101 still held the Guinness World Record for World's fastest elevator at this time. 

Enjoying the benefits of low cost living and having 'adventures of a lifetime' are seemingly two different aspects of life in Taiwan to miss. However, it's largely because of the low cost of living in Taiwan, that I, we (foreigners) are able to rapidly cross off bucket list items, fulfill dreams we may have not really thought possible, and why we're able to partake in adventures we often had never even thought of. 

Paragliding in Puli - Jan. 2014

As a foreign English teacher in Taiwan, we are spoiled with making a fair amount of money while still paying Taiwan prices. (You will occasionally come across those who raise the price just because you are a foreigner, but not nearly as much as in other Asian countries who get far more tourists.) The wages we are making wouldn't count for much in nearly all other first world countries, yet here in Taiwan, a single income can take on a three bedroom apartment plus utilities, transportation needs, frequent dining and shopping, and a good amount of vacation/travel time each year. 

Jackie Chan's handprints @ Avenue of Stars
25th Birthday- Hong Kong Feb. 2014

Personally, what I will really struggle with on my return to the West is accepting and justifying the prices of daily living expenses. In Taiwan, EVERYTHING seems incredibly LOW in cost. Food, travel, leisure activities, school and home supplies, shopping (although there is plenty of high-end shops for those in need), insurances, etc. Most of which I've discussed in previous posts. 

This mega smile was permanent after my first weekend trip to Sun Moon Lake. Summer 2013. 

For years now I have paid bills such as water, gas and electric every two months at prices that would seem unbelievable stateside. Water bills hardly breaks $20USD every two months, gas and electric, depending on the use of aircon will be from 25-75USD, again every two months! Internet and cable in your home is around 30USD per month, and as far as having Wi-fi on your cell phone, I currently pay $6USD for 1.2GB, which lasts me nearly a month since I connect to Wi-fi at home and work. How do I go back to paying $75 for shitty service with a monopoly company like Verizon? 

Burma / Myanmar May 2014

Along with that, a majority of us drive scooters which take $3-5USD to fill. That full tank of gas can last 1-3+ weeks depending on how much driving is done. On average, apartments are around $500USD per month, some more, some less. Outside of school housing, I had a three bedroom, two bathroom for $400 USD (in 2017) right in the heart of the city. 

The girls and I bungee jumping near Jiji, Taiwan- Nov. 2013
(She handled the experience much better than me. I was terrified at this point.)

January '14- Ran a half marathon (21K) in 2hr:15m and placed 15th out of 70+ females.
(Never having played sports growing up, I was surprised and proud at this accomplishment. ^^)

Before arriving in Taiwan I was very curious to find out as much as I could, since when I took the job I knew very little about Taiwan itself. While doing some research I read that Taiwan was one of four "Tiger Economies" of Asia, along with Hong Kong, Singapore, and South Korea. 

Dangling from Seoul Tower @ the Alive Museum, S. Korea - October 2014

As you may have guessed, receiving a nickname such as 'Tiger Economy' meant that these four 'countries' had rapid economic growth and still do have a 'booming' economy, much of it high-tech. All four locations rate high in quality of infrastructure, business opportunities, and safety. However, residents of Hong Kong and Singapore experience a much higher cost of living. 

Singapore - September 2016

To tie in with the low cost of living and lifetime adventures, I had no idea coming to Taiwan also meant living amongst so many entrepreneurs. I was once told it takes as little as 45,000NT (1,500USD) and a tie in with the Taiwanese, to get your own business up and running. Other than the endless amounts of foreign teachers you'll meet, Taiwan is full of self-made DJs, some who even reach events outside of Taiwan, a large array of restaurant and bar owners, plenty of those with adorable bakeries and boutiques with even more adorable shop names. Although small businesses can sometimes seem to open and close with the change of seasons, it's impressive to see so many dreams become realitites. If I stayed any longer in Taiwan, the question might become, "What will I name my first business?"

Always a friend

Taiwan is full of good financial opportunities for expats, including a healthy work-life balance. (I know I sure am going to miss having two hour lunches and mid-afternoon naps!) It is also easy to interact with the Taiwanese because of their friendly demeanor. This observation is often the first thing foreigners notice about living here. I also believe it helps that Taiwan in not high on the list of tourist and/or vacation destinations. In this regard, Taiwan has been well hidden from the masses. It's what keeps her so special. ^^

Scuba Diving with the locals (again, LOW cost!!)
When scuba diving with a foreign dive instructor in Taiwan I paid nearly the same amount for 4 dives as I did for my entire two weekend training and certification. THEN I decided to go diving with my Taiwanese Scuba Buddies. Not only were the dives incredible, we did 6 of them for 1/3 the cost of what the the foreign instructor charged. There is something so absurd about that!   

Another wildly less expensive cost in Taiwan is that of a wedding dress. As many and more people go through the expense of one day needing to pay for the cost of a wedding dress, here they are rented. Not only this, but because they are rented, the bride-to-be gets to have several! I myself have never needed this, but would 100% get on board with it, along with I'm sure many other woman (for the dresses) and men (for the cost).  

J A P A N  
February 2016

"Travel is the only thing you buy that makes you richer.”

M A L A Y S I A 
March 2015

For many people living abroad is a grand adventure, and for me, living in Taiwan meant living one big grand adventure while taking unimaginable adventures in between. 

Meeting my first Cornel Family Flying from Chicago to Tokyo  6/20/13 

T H A I L A N D
March 2014

Eternally grateful, I have traveled out of Taiwan four times a year, excluding the one month home as part of my school contract. This has led me to visit and learn from over a dozen Southeast Asian countries, as well as spending two weeks in Australia and visiting two European countries. I have never taken any of these adventures for granted, and only further admrie the beauty of the world, as well as having experienced the discovery of oneself and life, that traveling can offer. 

B U R M A  

"The best view comes after the hardest climb." 

Chilling with the snow monkeys in Nagano, Japan February 2015

L A O S 
February 2017

Walking Tour crew in Brussels, Belgium April 2017

C A M B O D I A 
December 2014

Making the decision to live and work in Taiwan for the majority of my 20s has made it possible for me to financially accomplish things I didn't think would happen in my 20s. Such as, paying off student loans, getting Lasik, and having my own three bedroom apartment in the city. It has made it possible for me to experience life in ways I'll never forget. Whether it be scuba diving with sea turtles, through caves and wonders, and even the Great Barrier Reef, to staying up all night on a rooftop or on a beach to dance under the stars or swap stories with incredible, courageous people from all over the world. To learn about myself by learning of others, their cultures and their history. All this and more is why I'm thankful and undeniably in love with this beautiful island I think I will always call a home.  

P H I L I P P I N E S February 2016

P H I L I P P I N E S November 2017

V I E T N A M November 2015

I N D O N E S I A  
May 2018

"The biggest adventure you can ever take
is to live the life of your dreams!" -O

You can always go meet the wonderful place that could just ignite your dreams! 

Thanks for reading! - K 

#4 Safety

The Physical (and Economic) Safety of Taiwan

Forbes Article: Taiwan Tops Global Expat Ranking August 2016

You can't put a price on safety, (esp. as a woman / person with child) nor the importance of freedom from worrying about potential harm, burglary, theft, or harassment from others.  Safety, along with respect for basic human rights, is essential to what brings people to live, work, or just to travel, in a foreign country. In Taiwan, not only are their morals in the right place, day to day interactions among people are unlike anywhere else I've traveled to. I should mention that in Taiwan, living as a foreigner has even more perks than as a native born citizen. 

Preparation for a protest in Taipei, Dec. 2017

In 2016, Taiwan ranked #2, (#4 in 2017) as safest country in the world according to InterNations: Expat Insider. (Yes, I realize China does not allow the rest of the world to recognize Taiwan as its own country.)  Yet "while expats seem happy in Taiwan, the same can't be said for neighboring China, which dropped 10 places to 48 out of 67 countries."

Taiwan's ability to provide expats with economic safety and a healthy 'work-life balance' has also been noted. The article stating: "Taiwan's nature, friendliness, and advanced economy have helped it....(to be) our big winner. It's the best place for quality of life as well as for personal finances. They are doing something very right there." 

The one downfall to Taiwan's integrity is that you may find yourself beginning to let your guard down, maybe even forgetting things, leaving out your personal items, etc. Things that would not serve you well in a new country or the inevitable bad neighborhood. 

A Few Differences of TAIWAN + CHINA:

Although "China sees Taiwan as part of its territory, not as a country, and vows to eventually bring the self-ruled island under its flag. Taiwan HAS BEEN self-ruled since the 1940s and DEMOCRATIC for the past 30 years." 

Source

Taiwan also foster's "the world's most open government" serving the public's needs and allowing access to meaningful data. Compared to China (18% of its data open to public), Taiwan's (78%) "mass media faces few legal restrictions so the pressure from (its) fervently democratic society" is there.  Meaning, public majority requests are quite often met, hence why Taiwan's safety and security are topping the charts! 

^^

Taiwan is also the first country in Asia to legalize equal rights for same sex couples, another huge win for public safety. Again in the news, China put pressure on the Paris Gay Games to change Taiwan's name to Taipei, not allowing any international recognition of Taiwan as an independent country. 

As China (the world's second biggest economy and growing) continues to demand that other countries stop calling Taiwan a country, it's of course easy to see companies bend the knee. Mostly airlines, hotels, and private companies. There seems to be no real winning against China in this department. Taiwan's best hope, is that the USA remains their ally. However, here is an opinion piece from someone who thinks the USA shouldn't risks its indispensable relationship with China for Taiwan's independence. 

Police and Crime 

Police set aside areas for demonstrators in Taipei Dec. 2017.

The United States Department of State Bureau of Diplomatic Security: 

Taiwan's Crime and Safety Report: 

-Minimal street crime in Taiwan, violent crime is rare.

-Extensive surveillance camera coverage ensures most activity in public spaces can be monitored and recorded, serving as significant deterrent to crime.

-Pickpocketing and petty theft can occur. 

-Violent crime against foreigners is generally uncommon, but isolated incidents may occur.  

-Fraud is a reoccurring concern perpetrated by criminals from mainland China and other SE Asian countries.  

Terrorism Threat: LOW THREAT

Political, Economic, Religious, and Ethnic Violence: LOW THREAT

Civil Unrest: Demonstrations occur. "Protests and demonstrations occur on a regular basis in major cities, particularly during elections. Protests are an accepted part of political life. Demonstrators rarely turn violent, although they may become confrontational." 

 Police presence is clearly visible in preparation for protesters and demonstrators.
(Unsure what was the reasoning, nor if they were eventually ever needed.)

Guns

Assault rifles are illegal in Taiwan. However with a license and a background check, citizens can own a shotgun, handgun, or a regular rifle. It's also worth mentioning, I've seen plenty of police officers not carrying guns. 

"Much of Taiwan's gun culture is geared towards hunting wild game and target shooting, as well as self- protection, though most gun owners don't normally emphasize on self-protection due to Taiwan's low crime rate.""Out of a population of about 25,000,000 there are approximately 1,080,200 gun owners in Taiwan and about 3,332,235 legally owned guns."  Source

Part of Asian Culture

Source

A Burmese friend of mine once told me how Asian cultures seem to "breed" people with intrinsic values and goals vs. extrinsic ones. At first I was unsure how that could be true since it seems every household is unique. Now I've come to realize, that that choice to teach, encourage, and support intrinsic or extrinsic motivation, is the culture and consensus of the West. Whether you, and those around you, are motivated by intrinsic goals or extrinsic goals has a lot to do with how one behaves and conduvts themselves in society. 

He went on to say that they, Asians, are less aggressive in aspects of social and educational daily life norms. Having traveled to over a dozen Asian countries, I have clearly seen this as well.  Maybe this is why, in Taiwan, a 14 year old woman, or a 40 year old woman can wear a mini skirt through the city streets at midnight and not fear for her safety. Why a teenage boy can ride his bike to and from elementary school without being jumped, why subways are kept pristine and interactions even among upper and lower class are kept polite. 

Another great blog (with stats) on Safety in Taiwan: The Heat is More Dangerous than the Crime.

No Place is Perfect: Traffic and Environmental Hazards 

Construction in Progress

Taiwan seems to escape the violent madness unraveling in other parts of the world, however, the same cannot be said for the madness on the roads. On the streets of Taiwan, big overrules the small. Traveling around the city as a pedestrian, cyclist, or on a motor scooter can be quite hazardous! "Scooter and bicycle accidents are the largest source of accidental American citizens deaths in Taiwan, as scooters often fail to obey traffic laws or follow generally accepted driving practices." *OSAC

Earthquake in Hualien February 4, 2018

Taiwan experiences several earthquakes each year, with few major ones causing considerable damage and loss of life. In my first years in Taiwan, I felt the small swirl of an earthquake once or twice a year. Over this past year, the amount has increased uncomfortably so. Typhoons are the other natural disaster to watch out for. Typhoon season runs from June to October. Taiwan averages six typhoon warnings per year. The strongest one I have been here for was Typhoon Meranti in September 2016, however, Taichung is protected from mountains so, luckily, I haven't experienced more than howling winds and drastic rainfall. 

Source

Reports now say that one in six global deaths are linked to air pollution. In Taiwan, air pollution has gotten significantly worse since I arrived in 2013. Schools now require air filters in classrooms, and it's also the reason many of us wear the notable face masks. While Taiwan has met incredible and inspiring goals when it comes to its recycling regulations, and 'action plans' to shift to electric vehicles have been made. I think we're all still wondering, is it enough? Air quality index in real time!

Mental Health in Taiwan 

In my last post, I raved about the National Health Insurance. While it is exquisite, there is a different light shed on people who suffer from mental illnesses in Taiwan. These people are much more vulnerable than in the West. Mental illness is still misunderstood and not often discussed in Taiwan, there is not much available mental health services, including elderly homes. I have seen the occasional spook hanging around a convenient store doorway or on the city buses shouting irrationally. Few times I've seen elderly handicapped persons in the night markets, or marks of homelessness near city main stations as well. Here is an article of the most violent act that has happened while I've lived in Taiwan. This man was executed as he was ruled not mentally ill. 

I have included the few minor incidents that happen in Taiwan (maybe to convince myself this place isn't perfect^^) which are rare, but do happen. Overall, in over five years as a foreigner living and working in Taiwan, with countless experiences and shared stories, Taiwan really does outshine and surpass the majority of nations in safety and security. 
Still not convinced that Taiwan in the bees knees? "Forget About The Forbes' Lists; Here are 9 Great Things About Taiwan." 

Don't be afraid to shine. Thanks for all the support! ^^ - K