The first stop on our taxi tour was Jiufen Old Street. We were given an hour and a half to tour and shop through it, as we liked; this was not enough time to see everything. We had decided that we would come back here, again, before our trip was over.
Recommendations for this portion: eat as much as you can! Make sure that you are starving when you get here and don’t miss out on all of the culinary delights. I absolutely recommend the wild boar sausage and the peanut shavings ice cream wraps (make sure you get the one that they sprinkle cilantro in).
If you are a tourist looking for souvenirs, this is an excellent place to look. They have cute candies, beautiful teas, lovely wooden postcards, traditional masks and more.
Personally, I’m not into souvenirs. Knowing that my current residence is not a permanent residence has given me a slight aversion to such things. I’m actually happier just taking pictures of that stuff.
What I can get into is the food:
Fish balls on a stick (I liked the kimchi ones best)
Living in Korea has given me cravings for freshly grilled squid. It takes a few minutes but it is worth it. Don’t fear their ‘spicy salt’ topping, it’s tangy at best.
The ice cream peanut wrap, don’t miss out. The wrap is like a really thin version of a Malaysian style roti. They take a wood planer to a giant block of candied peanuts that they sprinkle on the wrap and top with ice cream and a pinch of fresh cilantro. It’s sweet and fresh and crunchy and satisfying.
Finally, stock up on some dried squid to keep you munching the rest of your tour.
