places | talesofathirdworldnurse

Nope, I’m not the travel blogger you think I am. I don’t even want to identify myself as one as I have just recently forced myself to go around and explore. I’m also not one to splurge on my trips unless it has something to do with clean water, lots of coffee and good food. By good food, I meant, pleasant and familiar tasting and nowhere near assaulting.

My recent trip to Taiwan has been one for the books, not just because it’s cheap but it has been very educational in a sense. I am a sucker for knowledge, particularly of the past, from hundreds if not thousands of years ago. I lap at every bit of opportunity I could get myself into. It is very unfortunate, however, that my appreciation for modern and contemporary art has not brought out the same kind of enthusiasm I have towards the historic past. But let me tell you, I enjoyed taking lots and lots of photos (without me in the frame). 🤣

It is amazing how Taiwan has a distinctive past and present. There is definitely something in store for everyone that will definitely would make them want to return. So, are you planning on a trip to Taiwan?

These are whaTAIWANtyoutoknow:

Explore the old and the new. Taiwan has so much to offer. You have options of exploring historical sights as well as modern installations.
Travel from September to March when the weather is more comfortable. The summer months can be very hot and very humid. In short, UNFORGIVING. (I seriously got a few shades darker after my trip.) Choose wisely!
Public transportation is very convenient. It’s your best option to go around the city/municipality/province. Google Maps was our trusty guide. It was shockingly and exceptionally detailed! Just don’t forget to bring an extra battery or better yet a power bank.
Travel with someone-a friend or a family member. Why? First and foremost, food servings in Taiwan night markets and local family-owned businesses are quite big. It is always nice to have someone to share your food with but most importantly, you’ll be able to purchase and try more dishes! Second, (let’s be honest here) life’s easier when you have another person taking your photo. Third, you can get a good deal for your accommodation. In this day and age, SPLITTING THE BILL IS THE NAME OF THE GAME!
Night Markets are fun! You can score a good milk tea, choose from a variety of authentic Taiwanese snacks or even try their infamous stinky tofu with pickled cabbage.
Get an EasyCard. You can purchase this from all convenient stores from Taiwan. Your EasyCard can be used to pay for rides, food and other services. What’s great about this card is that you can use it again on your next trip to Taiwan.
Not all Taiwanese people can speak and understand basic English. Take some time to learn simple Mandarin that you can use when ordering food, going places, and shopping.
Claw Crane Arcades are everywhere in Taiwan. If you’re bored after a day of touring, go check out the Claw Crane Arcades. You might find yourself bringing home toys, milk tea holders, food, etc.
Eat at local places. Affordable prices are guaranteed. Also, try rated restaurants and add a few NT$ to your regular budget for a good and satisfying meal.
You’ll do A LOT of walking. Sport comfortable clothes and walking shoes. Yes, you’re welcome. ✌️😂

Manila is big, let alone the entire country (Philippines) with more than 7,100 islands. Living in the metro has its merits. With larger labor markets, the percentage of landing a job suited to one’s skills is higher. People can pursue careers that are not offered in small towns or small cities.

As a small town girl, I needed change a few years ago. My daily routine, the people I socialize with and the place I was in became a little too comfortable. I was becoming mediocre. I feared that the fire I have in me will eventually extinguish if I continuously let myself drown to the comforts of my hometown. One day, I packed my bags and decided to move to the big city. I took the plunge. Knowing myself, I knew I could easily adapt to the pace of life in the metro. I embraced the change and immersed myself to my new home.

I have been residing in the metro for a few years now and while I took advantage of the opportunities it offered, it had not been the kind of home I prayed it would be, so time and time again, I go back to the place where I almost entirely lost myself-Ilocos Norte; where I was to drown but remained afloat because of the impassioned nurturing from family and friends over the years.

Whenever I’m in Ilocos Norte, a sense of peace and contentment awash my being. It is home and it will always be. So here’s a short clip of the wind turbines (mulino) and some words I’ve put together in Filipino from my previous trip to my hometown.