NSLI-Y Taiwan 2023 – Week 4
Escape the mundane chores of everyday life and join the 2023 Summer ACES NSLI-Y Taiwan scholars for a week in paradise! Welcome to Kaylee and Liz’s week 4 recap:
We began the week by introducing our hometowns to our language partners, who, in return, told us about where they grew up. We all shared pictures, famous places to visit, and foods to taste! Meanwhile, Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defense launched their annual Air Defense Exercise outside.
The next day, a group took on the treacherous hike of 象山 (Elephant Mountain). The trail led to a dazzling view of the entire city while allowing them to bond over the challenge.
Anthony, Matthew, Sybellah, Liz, Steaven, Harry, Ronan, Avery, and William all smiling after a triumphant hike.
When asked to comment on his exhilarating journey, Harry replied:
“Elephant Mountain is a steep and treacherous climb which requires an intense state of focus from climbers which serves to bring them closer to the beautiful nature surrounding them, and to reflect on the area’s rich history and culture. The view from the top is the pinnacle of Taiwanese beauty, allowing travelers a view of the city’s man-made structures as well as nature’s own skyscrapers in the surrounding mountains.”
He later added that he “drew from the spiritual energy from the mountain” to formulate this passage.
Thursday was full of song as we all sang “小手拉大手,” the Mandarin song we have been practicing to perform at our closing ceremony. 王老師 (teacher Wang), our favorite singer, has been teaching us the song. That day, Matthew accompanied us with his incredible viola skills.
王老師 and Matthew feeling musically inclined.
Working out at the local gym has been a favorite activity for many. This week we learned that our favorite gym employee, Leo, is getting a new job and moving away. As a final goodbye, we gave him a framed photo and shark keychain. “You’re my favorite Americans. Friendly.” said Leo before leaving us forever.
Harry, Ronan, Leo, Liz, Kaylee taking a goodbye picture together.
Saturday at 8:45 am, the group took a bus to Yehliu Geopark, a cape along the northern coast. Encompassed by the ocean, this landscape is 1,700 meters long. Its world-renowned unique geological features are formed from sea erosion and earth movement. Some popular formations are titled, “Fairy Shoe, Cute Princess, and Candle Rocks.” The most famous, however, is “the Queen’s Head,” named after its shape. Liz and Kaylee especially were in awe of its beauty.
Magnificent view of the Geopark!!!
王老師 and Harry “slaying” in the Geopark.
Katie, Ann, Virginia, Steaven, and Ivana looking 可愛(cute).
Ann, Virginia, Steaven, Nolan, 老師, and Katie having fun in the sun.
Ronan, Matthew, and Harry rocking blue coordinated outfits.
The group delighted by the beauty of the park.
In the afternoon, we took a bumpy bus all the way up to Jiufen, the city that inspired the popular film Spirited Away. Hundreds of lanterns hung from shop ceilings as we made our way up the mountain. Studio Ghibli merchandise was also everywhere! The street food was mouthwatering, especially the taro balls.
Evan and Sybellah posing like tigers in Jiufen.
Matthew, Tess, Liz, and Kaylee enjoying the view.
One of the many alleyways in Jiufen!
珍珠奶茶 (bubble tea) and 御飯糰 (onigiri) are our favorites for when we need a snack. Since they can be bought all over, you can always find some in the hands of a hungry student. There’s been some controversy within the cohort about which bubble tea shop and onigiri flavor are superior, so we, Liz and Kaylee, decided to end the disagreements once and for all by sending out a poll.
Here are the results:
“It’s obviously Schrödinger’s Cat.” Ronan proclaimed. Unfortunately, he was outvoted.
The onigiri preferences are not very diverse…
Ultimately, we have come to the consensus that Wanpo is the best boba shop, probably because they use more sugar. Ronan will be devastated. Tuna with onions & celery is the best onigiri!
This concludes the fourth week of our program, one that we will forever cherish. Leo will always hold a special place in our hearts as we continue on our journey through life. Taiwan has truly been a riveting experience, with endless things to do and sights to see. We are so glad you joined our week in paradise, and we can’t wait to see you soon!