ADVENTURE | FOOD | CULTURE

SOAK & SIGHTSEE

GREEN ISLANDGetaway & so much more

TAIWAN NIGHTLIFE

ASP QUALIFYING SERIESSURFINGHOT SPRINGS OF TAIPEI

CONTENTS

09INDIGENOUS WARRIOR

SOAK AND SIGHTSEEWith a hotpsring tour of Taipei03INTO THE HORNETS NESTTaipei city lights05THROW ANOTHER SHRIMPOn the barby in Taiwan07GEAR UP AND GET READYTo be an Indigenous Warrior09CLIFF DIVING AND RIVER CHASINGWhat a rush11YOUR HAPPY PLACETaroko National Park13WHO WILL BE CROWNEDKing of the Mountain15SURFS UPTaiwan Open of surfing17A GREEN ISLAND GETAWAY19A SPRITUAL JOURNEYTo Lisong Hotspring21CHARIOTS AND COCKTAILSIn Kenting23THE SERENITY OFSun Moon Lake23

FROM THE EDITORScott Bidmead

Before the trip, all I knew about this country was its ‘Made in Taiwan’ tag. I could never have imagined the incredible, awe-inspiring adventure I was about to undertake. Circumnavigating Taiwan really was something I will never forget. This natural gem of a country is full of adventure experiences, great food and amazing people. In this edition, I want to take you with us on the journey, sharing the stories behind every moment of Into Water and Beyond.

INTO WATER AND BEYOND

INDIGENOUS WARRIOR 19GREEN ISLAND GETAWAY

SOAK AND SIGHTSEEwith a hotspring tour of Taipei

Steam wafts skyward creating a misty haze that blankets the mountainous backdrop. Geothermal water seeps out of the Earths crust and the smell of sulfur hits you. You are minutes outside Taipei at one of Taiwan’s famous hot springs and the sight is breathtaking.

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city for the perfect day of various hot spring experiences. The first stop on your trip is one of pure relaxation, as you visit Spring City Resort in the mountains of Beitou. The natural water is fed into various spas and pools in the resorts complex. The mineral enriched water is famous for its calming and healing benefits – so sit back and let your ailments soak away.

If you would prefer a more traditional experience, then head to the Beitou public baths and rub shoulders with the locals. Just keep in mind; it is so popular that you may feel like a canned sardine.

In the same complex you can visit the Hot Spring Museum, which was an officers club in the time of Japanese occupation. It is now home to some interesting displays and intriguing history. One such interesting fact, is that this is where the kamikaze pilots spent their fateful last night before going to war.

The next stop on your hot spring tour is the appropriately named thermal valley. As you walk down the path and turn the first bend, it is like stepping into another world. A stretching pool of water sits before your eyes, tinged green and covered in billowing mist. It is ominous and beautiful at the same time.

After taking a few pictures, head up the winding roads to check out the dormant volcano on Yangminshan Mountain. The landscape looks like something out of a fantasy. With stretching mountain valleys blanketed by thick steam and littered with cracks that splutter bubbling water. 

Only in Taipei could you find this minutes from high-rises and it is a truly unique and awe-inspiring experience.

By Scott Bidmead

TAIWAN 4

TAIPEI CITY LIGHTS

Follow the neon signs to the main shopping district, Xinyi Commercial Area. It is a hive of activity where you will find hours of free entertainment. An eclectic mix of locals, vendors, performers and travelers flock here each night of the week. Everything from bubble blowers, dancers and puppy salesmen - you will struggle to take it all in.

Walking down the rows of shops, you will also see why the country is so well known for its “Made in Taiwan” tag. The prices are reasonable and the quality is better than most East Asian countries. So you will probably want some baggage allowance for the flight home.

After wandering for a while, your appetite is sure to point you to the next destination – one of Taiwan’s famous night markets.

Every major town has its own night market, where you can find exotic and flavorful local cuisine. Your senses will be assaulted by the powerful smells of the various stalls and you will struggle to decide what food to settle on.

The best tip is to sample as much as you can and leave your inhibitions at home.

First off you have to test yourself with the locals favorite, stinky tofu. It really has earned the name; it smells so bad the council is gradually forcing all stalls out of the city. This fermented then deep fried delicacy will test even the strongest palate. It is almost unbearable for the uninitiated and as you put it in your mouth, the smell and taste combine to overcome your taste buds. Wash it down with some Taiwan beer then if you are game, get stuck into a plate of stir-fried spinal chord. This long thin chord is almost flavorless until you bite down, where it bursts in your mouth like a squashed tube of toothpaste.

Not to fear though, you can push those nightmares to the back of your mind as you sample the smorgasbord of great food offer. But if copious amounts of ice-cream burritos and sweet dumplings don’t work, then you are on your own.

By Scott Bidmead

TAIWAN 5

Taipei is bursting at the seams with energy, and when the lights go down you can get a real taste of the vibrant heart of Asia.

TAIPEI

Drinking beer, fishing and having a BBQ all at the same time, minutes from home. This really is every mans hidden fantasy and it seems too good to be true. But, this is exactly what’s in store at an urban shrimp fishing restaurant - a must do experience found only in Taiwan.

Take up your seat around a large indoor swimming pool with a rod and beer in hand. Sit back and catch as many shrimp (prawns) you like then you can BBQ them meters away.

But to locals, this is much more than just dinner, as it is a popular place to gather with friends and family or unwind after a big days work.

One of these friendly locals will get you started by teaching you the best technique. Then all there is to do is drop the line, sink a few beers and wait for a bite.

Try not to spill your drink as your first shrimp takes the bait and you snap into action. Let the line go and slowly tease it while reeling before pulling it from the water. Out comes your first catch and with a cheer from the locals you can bring it in and add it to your dinner box.

After you have caught enough shrimp, its time to hit the BBQ. A bit of salt, a skewer and they are good to go. You can also order sides from the restaurant then simply cheers to the catch and dig in.

It really doesn’t get any fresher than this and you are sure to feel accomplished - catching and cooking your own dinner that very night.

By Scott Bidmead

THROW ANOTHER SHRIMP ON THE BARBY…

TAIWAN 7

IN TAIWAN!

They begin to wrap the traditional garb around your head, fasten your leggings and place a straw basket on your back. A bow and arrow is then slung over your shoulder and a hand carved blade tied around your waist. The same ritual that has happened for thousands of years – you are getting ready to enter the jungle like an Indigenous Taiwanese Warrior.

This is the Miling’an Hunter Challenge, a unique cultural opportunity found the mountains of Wulai. Only around two percent of Taiwan’s population is indigenous, but the culture is very much alive and truly cherished. And this is your chance to immerse in the culture and customs of these beautiful people.

After dressing in the traditional warrior garb, you venture into the jungle and learn how to hunt and cook the tribal way.

A short hike will take you to the edge of the jungle. Before entering, you are handed a bamboo cup filled with traditional millet wine. Following the lead of the guide, raise it to your lips and drink in an offering to the rainforest.

INDIGENOUS WARRIOR

GEAR UP AND GET READY, IT’S TIME TO BE AN

After a short climb you will find the clearing where your first test with the Bow and arrow awaits. After a quick lesson, you are given the task to hit a thin tree on the edge of the clearing. Draw the bow back, relax and focus on the spot. After a few attempts, your arrow finally hits home to the adulation of your watching tribe members. You will then continue on the trek, learning hunting and trapping techniques along the way.

Finally arriving at their hidden lookout, it feels as if you stepped back in time. Smoke billows up from a premade fire and encircles a large wooden structure. This is the lookout tower and a sacred place where you will make camp.

After getting settled and climbing the tower it is time to start cooking. You are taught traditional techniques, cooking with bamboo and wild rice. Next you can fashion a spear from bamboo and skewer a piece of ready prepared pork. It doesn’t get much more natural and wholesome, as you sit around a fire barbequing the chunk of meat.

Once it has crackled enough, a feast is prepared and shared with you and your new tribe.

The indigenous leaders might then burst into a song and traditional dance. Jump up and join in the vibrant performance. As you sing and move in the middle of the jungle, with a full belly and smile on your face - it isn’t hard to forget your modern worries and feel at one with nature.

By Scott Bidmead

TAIWAN 10

INDIGENOUS WARRIOR

Half way down a waterfall you suspended by a single rope, as the water cascades down from the sheer limestone. You are in the middle of an ancient rainforest, rappelling a waterfall and your heart is pumping.

This is just one of the exhilarating experiences that are involved in river tracing - a must do in your travels. The name sums up the experience, as you literally trace the line of a river in search of the main waterfall. Along the way, you have to follow the path of the water – regardless of whatever stands in your way. You will have to be sure footed for this experience, as you hop and weave up riverbeds and over boulders and cliffs.

After climbing up the first waterfall, you will arrive at a truly picturesque scene. Nestled in the middle of the jungle is a sparkling blue lagoon. Hedged by sheer limestone cliffs and a cascading waterfall. You wont be able to resist the urge to run and dive into the clear, fresh water. It is refreshing and serene and you can lay back and drink in the natural beauty.

Just as you begin to relax and soak up the serene environment, your guide will grab your attention and flash a sly grin. He then points to the sheer cliff above – you can guess what’s about to happen next.

You are about to jump off the cliff and have to start by scaling the side, with ropes and a thin stepladder. Once you make it up, the view is even more beautiful – a Birdseye view over a rainforest paradise. As your guide ushers you to the edge of the cliff, roughly fifteen meters up, you quickly forget the scenery and prepare for the plunge.

And you know you are high if the guide turns to you and says that he is scared. But the only advice is to not overthink it, just count – One, Two, Three and JUMP!

The water rushes up to meet you, deep and clear. Your heart is in your throat and adrenaline will be surging through your body.

C L I F F D I V I N GA N D

R I V E R T R A C I N G

What A Rush

Once you have caught your breath, continue up the river to your final destination. A mammoth waterfall that flows over smooth rock and a cave mouth into another clear pool. Again climbing to the top, you end up sitting atop the waterfall looking down. You can then push yourself forward and slide the whole way down the waterfall. This is a natural water slide and the type of fun you can’t even get at a theme park. River tracing really is the experience of a lifetime and the perfect combination of unspoilt natural beauty and adrenaline pumping adventure travel.

There are options all over Taiwan to embrace nature and experience river tracing. A more extreme option for the cliff divers can be found near Taroko National Park. For the more tranquil experience, find a local guide in Yilan and let them take you around their homeland.

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To TaipeiFrom Perth

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From Sydney

From349From Melbourne(Kaohsiung not avail.)

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Sale period - 15 October 2015 to 31 December 2015. Travel period Perth / GC / Syd: 15 Oct 2015 – 30 Nov 2015; 15 Jan 2016 – 26 Mar 2016. Melb: 1 Nov 2015 – 30 Nov 2015; 15 Jan 2016 – 26 Mar 2016. Blackout periods apply. Fares indicated are one-way for travel originating out of Gold Coast, Perth, Sydney, Melbourne and include taxes & surcharges which are subject to change due to currency fluctuations. Fares based on payment via POLIpay and payment processing fees per guest segment are not included if an alternate payment method is chosen. Seats are limited and may not be available on all flights or all dates. Bookings are not refundable except as provided in the Conditions of Carriage. All terms & cond. are available at flyscoot.com.

From279From329From349

To TaipeiFrom Perth

From Gold Coast

From Sydney

From349From Melbourne(Kaohsiung not avail.)

*

*

*

From249From299From319

To Kaohsiung*

*

*

*

Sale period - 15 October 2015 to 31 December 2015. Travel period Perth / GC / Syd: 15 Oct 2015 – 30 Nov 2015; 15 Jan 2016 – 26 Mar 2016. Melb: 1 Nov 2015 – 30 Nov 2015; 15 Jan 2016 – 26 Mar 2016. Blackout periods apply. Fares indicated are one-way for travel originating out of Gold Coast, Perth, Sydney, Melbourne and include taxes & surcharges which are subject to change due to currency fluctuations. Fares based on payment via POLIpay and payment processing fees per guest segment are not included if an alternate payment method is chosen. Seats are limited and may not be available on all flights or all dates. Bookings are not refundable except as provided in the Conditions of Carriage. All terms & cond. are available at flyscoot.com.

Combine the landscapes of Lord or The Rings, Jurassic Park and King Kong – and you might come close to capturing the beauty of Taroko National Park.

It really feels as if you have stepped onto a Hollywood film set; as you take in the stretching waterfalls, marble canyons and breathtaking temples that are littered throughout the park.

This place is mainly unknown to the Western World, but it is a true hidden gem of South East Asia. Everywhere you look are postcard images and it is the perfect showcases of Taiwan’s natural beauty. As you begin the winding ascent into the mountains, your first spectacle comes from the rolling green hills disappearing into a sea of clouds.

Further on, stop and stretch your legs at the spectacular plateau across the Liwu River. You will be blown away, as you witness Xiangde Temple perched halfway up a cliff. A cascading stream of water flows through the building and clouds wisp around the roof. Take a moment to commit this peaceful and spectacular scene to memory.

Head further up the mountain to find Shio Lin Village. It feels like you have stumbled across Shangri La, as the valley first unveils itself. The small village is nestled between mountain peaks, a flowing river and a Buddhist temple. It is also home to the spectacular five stars, Silks Place Hotel.

Standing across the river you can see the temples bright red roof peeking through the clouds, perched atop the cliff. You can cross a scenic bridge and explore the spiritual sanctuary.

When you arrive at the shrine, enter and wind your way up the spiraling stairs. Climb to the top and step onto the low balcony. The picture before you is truly phenomenal. A raging river speckled with pearl white boulders, hedged by a great mountainous backdrop, covered in low hanging clouds.

It isn’t hard to understand the peace Buddhists find in calling this place home. The only challenge comes the next morning. As the sun rises and you have to set off again - leaving behind your happy place.

By Scott Bidmead

YOUR HAPPY PLACE

TAROKO NATIONAL PARK

TAIWAN 16

WHO WILL BE CROWNED KING OF THE MOUNTAIN

From seaside to a sea of clouds, the King of the Mountain bike race is a real test of the human spirit and a truly awe-inspiring spectacle. This is the main event in Taiwan’s cycling festival and whether you fancy your chances or just want to watch – this race wont disappoint.

Cyclists travel from all over the world to take out the coveted title and the one million Taiwanese dollars on offer. They ride over a hundred kilometers through prehistoric mountain ranges and breathtaking valleys. In what has been called the ‘worlds toughest climb’, the brave riders ascend to over 3 thousand meters above sea level.

They set off from the coastal town of Qixingtan before riding into the clouds of Wuling. But it is as the challengers take the last turn that the mountain really begins to fight back with gradients of 27 per cent.

Pumping his legs, with sweat pouring and a look of determination plastered on his face - this years King of the Mountain thundered home.

Denmark’s John Epson won the race on his birthday saying it was a challenging and rewarding event.

“Strategy and staying warm played a big part in the race. The last ten kilometers were absolutely brutal,” John said.

“But you have to just go do it, it is the experience of a lifetime and you can’t get any more beautiful scenery”.

Canadian born Dylan Cunningham also competed in the race, traveling to Taiwan for the first time with his dad.

“I was happy with my performance and really think I could do it again,” Dylan said.

“This country is awesome because it is totally alien. I have been to Europe and Africa but this is totally different place.”

Female champion Marg Fedina agreed the country is a hidden gem and home to some phenomenal nature and food.

Looking around after the race, one thing was apparent amongst the sea of drained faces – a look of accomplishment and awe. Taiwan’s King of the Mountain is a true test, but those who pass are rewarded with the experience of a lifetime in a location dreams are made of.

WHO WILL BE CROWNED KING OF THE MOUNTAIN

SURFS UPTAIWAN OPEN OF SURFING

On an unassuming beach in Taitung County, nestled at the foothills of the famous mountain ranges, the surfers battle it out.

This is the Taiwan Open of Surfing – a world-class surf comp held in a truly picturesque location.

It is a leg in the ASP sanctioned men and women’s Longboard Qualifying Series and the men’s Qualifying Series.

The event saw solid swells and some tough competition rom locals and international surfers alike. Torrential rain also made an appearance, but the competitors never failed to put on a great show.

The final day was blessed with perfect, offshore 4-6ft conditions, which led to some nail-biting title fights.

Jordan Lawler (AUS) was crowned champion in the men’s ASP 1-star Qualifying Series (QS) division, Taylor Jensen (USA) champion in the men’s ASP Longboard Qualifying Series (LQS) division and Chelsea Williams (AUS) champion in the women’s ASP LQS division.

The event closed in fitting fashion, as Taitung County hosted a culturally rich after party and award ceremony. Local indigenous groups organized market stalls that complimented the native band and cuisine perfectly. The surfers then took to drinking local beers from the winner’s trophy to celebrate the successful and unique event.

Barreling waves, blue skies and rolling mountains make the perfect destination for an exciting leg in the ASP qualifying series.

SURFS UP

A Green Island

GETAWAY

Your ferry pulls closer and the picture perfect island comes into view. The rugged mountains reach into the clouds and are surrounded by golden sand and blue water. This is Green Island - a traveller’s paradise just off the coast of Taitung.

This hidden gem has only recently come onto the tourism radar, due to the perfect reefs, pristine beaches, and rich history. After a bumpy hour on the ferry, you will arrive and can start exploring straight away.

The island has a load of natural and man-made landmarks that make for a great tour. Jump in a car or rent a scooter and start off with the “little Great Wall of China”.

This is an appropriately named reminder of the Great Wall of China, perched atop a sea cliff on the coast. A quick walk to the top will give you an eagle eye view of the island. The wind will pull at your clothes and try to steal your camera, but it is invigorating and makes for some great photos. 

Next off, you can check out the abandoned villages that dot the coastline. These shantytowns were built around two hundred years ago. Their shells still sit by the sea as relics of a bygone era, where the locals built with coral from the reef.

Delving further into the history, you will be shocked to realize that the islands main purpose has been to host prisoners. The main jail is now an attraction, but the second is still in operation to this day. But in terms of prisons, this is pretty much as good as it gets. The abandoned jail is called the oasis villa, as it is located meters from the shore and surrounded by monolithic limestone pillars.

The island is also a major attraction for international divers, as it has some of the best dive spots in the world. With crystal clear water, high visibility, rich marine life and vibrant coral - it definitely won’t disappoint.

Finally, after a long day exploring and diving, head to Zao-ri Hot Springs to soak your tired legs. 

These springs are on the shore and fed by seawater heated by the volcanic lava of the island. This is one of only three saltwater hot springs in the world and a great experience.

You can lie back, listening to the sound of the surf and watch as the sunsets over the ocean – the perfect ending to a truly magical island experience. By Scott Bidmead

TAIWAN 22

A SPIRITUAL JOURNEY TO LISONG HOTSPRING

A trip to Lisong Hotspring is a truly spiritual experience that will linger with you for years to come. The journey is also a great life lesson, as the arduous trek will reward you with a truly natural wonder.

You begin on an unsuspecting road, standing at the mouth of a thin mud trail winding into the jungle. Twisting and turning, it traces the mountain to the bottom and is marked out by stakes and a line of rope.

Put on a pair of gloves and prepare for the decent, as you make your way down the vertical path holding onto the rope. It is not for the unfit as you have to keep a solid pace while watching your every step. The guide’s dogs will follow you down, providing moral support and making it look way too easy.

But the true test comes in the final chapter, as you reach a near verti-cal rock face. The only way down is backwards, holding onto various lengths of rope for support. Touching down on the ground, take a quick break in a clearing nestled among the mountains before heading on.

After wading through water and climbing rocks, you finally arrive and the sheer beauty of Lisong Hotspring is sure to stop you in your tracks.

It is a natural phenomenon and easily the most beautiful natural hot spring in Taiwan. Thousands of years of mineral deposits have turned the rock into a tapestry of colors and varied formations. From deep green hues to whites and reds, all swirled together and painted across the surrounding walls.

Watch as steam rises and hot-spring water bubbles and spits from the canyon walls. You can also lie in the shallow pool or stand under the rock for a hot spring shower. There is even a shovel left for you to dig out your own deeper spring or trench.

Now, all there is to do it lay back in the rich hot spring look up at the sky and breath. It feels as if nothing else in the world matters and you can really shut off - listening to the sound of the dripping water and watching leaves spiral down from the canopy.

You are sure to reconnect with nature and feel touched by the natural wonder. You might even come away with some life lessons. Lisong is so much more than just another hot spring.

TAIWAN 24

CHARIOTS AND COCKTAILS IN KENTING

Kenting is Taiwan’s tourism hotspot - home to action, adrenaline and a whole lot of alcohol. But despite the hustle and bustle, this island town still holds its traditional charm and is well worth a visit.

Waking up to bright sun and blue skies, head down to one of the pristine beaches to sample the extreme watersports.

If you are ready for a whole lot of fun and a few spills, you have to try the water chariot. Climb aboard and hold on tight as a jet ski propels this giant inflatable through the water.

Looking back, your driver flashes a cheeky grin before taking a sharp turn. Your ride spins wide, and floats up before flipping you into the ocean.

After enough adrenaline, you can take it down a notch with a relaxing snorkel on the offshore reef. This small coral stretch is home to some colorful marine life and is a great beginners dive.

As the sun sets, Kenting really comes to life and a walk down the main strip is an experience in itself. Carnival games pop out of the woodworks and mini vans convert into quirky cocktail bars.

Start with a fireball whisky mix to really set the tone then get exploring. Along the way, try your hand at amusement games like the BB gun shootout. Then for dinner, you can sample the smorgasbord of diverse and delicious food – from whole octopus to banana pancakes. Afterwards, head into a side alley and find a local bar to sink a few Taiwan beers.

By now you should have a bit of a buzz and can head into one the eccentric nightclubs. Sit back and watch bizarre strip shows or the live band. But if you want to keep your dignity, try to not get picked for one of the stage shows.

Stumbling home at a ridiculous hour, you can rest assured this is one place you will never forget.

The serenity of sun moon lakeThe natural beauty of Taiwan has the power to surprise you around every turn and never fails to take your breath away. This is exactly what you can expect as you jump on a cable car headed for the famous Sun Moon Lake in Nantou County.

Your cart climbs high over the mountain ranges, ambling towards the largest body of water in Taiwan. Peaking over the ridge, Sun Moon Lake appears as an expanse of sparkling blue water set against a picturesque mountain backdrop.

As you arrive, you can take the lakes boardwalk while basking in its beauty and exploring the surrounding

village. Next up, hire a boat with a personal driver and set out to explore the picturesque lake.

Along the trip you will spot a magnificent Buddhist Temple perched in the surrounding mountains. This is Xuanzang Temple, which was built around 1955 and is definitely worth a stop. The relics of the Buddhist monk Xuanzang are enshrined here. He was a famous Tang Dynasty Buddhist monk who helped the spread of Buddhism in China.

Back on the water, you can also check out the interesting Lalu Island and learn more about the areas rich culture. This small island sits in the middle of the

The serenity of sun moon lakelake, dividing it into what looks like a crescent moon and a round sun – giving it the name Sun Moon Lake. Before nature eroded the island, it was also a sacred place for the Shao tribe. Witch candidates of the tribe would come to the island to seek approval of the ancestors’ spirits.

After a day on the water, your choice accommodation has to be the Lalu Hotel - which sit on the waters edge. Designed by Aussie architect Kerry Hill, this hotel is in a league of its own. The contemporary class and stunning views make for a perfect end to the perfect day.

The region is also home to the Thao tribe, and it has been a center of aboriginal life for thousands of years. The cable ropeway links the lake with the Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village, which is also worth a visit. The Park celebrates culture and history through a mixture of amusement rides and interactive experiences that the kids will love.

TAIWAN 28