Travel

I’ve officially entered the last month of my pregnancy and we’ve set up home in Taipei for the remainder.  Our little haven of peace is wedged right between plenty of family, local eats, engaging streets, and sweet cafes.  My Dad has set up his chic home for us to settle in and I’ve loved making such a stunning place all our own.  Between feeling rambunctious baby kicks and long afternoons in quaint cafes, I’ve been soaking up as much Ever as possible.  It’s been awhile since we’ve had so much time with her sans nanny, and she’s been the angelic and devilish toddler I had expected and hoped she would become.  Her curiosity and animated behaviour amuses me each day and I cherish each day and evening when she softly falls into slumber upon my chest.  Her cheeky smile and enchanting eyes tell me stories all day long, as does her non-stop words which are tumbling out without abandon.  I know I haven’t disciplined or enforced rules as much as many parents believe necessary, but I love encouraging her wild and inquisitive nature, and despite the lack of definite structure her personality has developed into sweet, delicate, and determined. These weeks I cherish the most, the last moments I’ll have with our family when we are just the three of us.  The boy relaxed a bit on the work front and we’ve been taking long walks, early chilled nights in bed, afternoons exploring, and just general quiet moments.  As I write this the three of us are snuggled up for an afternoon nap and I wouldn’t have it any other way.  Only a few more weeks until a newborn in my arms and I just can’t wait.

Wearing C. by Christing C., Stuart Weitzman boots

Last week we slowed down and took a little break in Taipei.  I’m not sure what it is about this quirky and sweet city that always keeps smiles on all three of our faces.  We usually stay at my Grandmother’s lively home where I spent much of my childhood and not much has changed. I’m still giggling and catching up with all my favourite cousins, the only difference is we’ve added other halves and children to the mix.  Ever’s eyes lit up at all the playmates and toys on offer and was ecstatic for the opportunity to spend some time with cats instead of our sometimes grumpy dog.  I’m pretty sure we base our entire day around eating, or shall I say feasting, when in Taiwan and I’m so in love with the distinct and quaint eateries and street stalls. Unlike HK, you can clearly see how each spot is privately owned, without pretensions, and oozing with familial hospitality.  Ever is truly an Asian foodie always gobbling up rice and noodle dishes, and she crying out for the fragrant smells emanating from the corner onion pancake stall.  The fresh air, open spaces, and general friendliness will definitely have us going back for more. Hopefully on a more regular basis.

Xx

Taipei always holds a special place in my heart.  The bustling, unique city with the friendliest of personalities and abundance of culture holds many of my closest family and slices of childhood memories. Being born and raised in the USA, married to a Brit, and hopping from city to city across the world makes it easy to forget your humble beginnings.  As a child all I wanted was to be just American, and as normal or acceptable as possible.  Blending in seemed to be the only way I could survive.  Now I’m so proud of my Taiwanese heritage, and the multicultural family in which I belong.  I have too many cousins, aunts, uncles, and family members to count, and we’ve all made homes in far flung countries, but when we come together it’s as if we’ve never spent a day apart.  I’m so proud to teach my daughter the importance of being bilingual and speaking her grandparent’s mother tongue.  To traipse around all the local night markets with my husband, whose British/French good looks stick out like a sore thumb, but doesn’t flinch at the thought of consuming every single local delicacy.  I love the little quiet corners Taipei has to offer, whether it’s perched in a beautiful hotel suite, tucked away in the cutest of cafes, or just relaxing on a park bench. The air, the noise, and  distinctive scent always feels familiar in it’s own unique way.  I couldn’t recommend it more as a must stop city and the friendly, amazingly helpful people will always make you feel welcome.

xx

Where to Stay:

Regent Taipei: Decadent surrounding, luxury shopping, plenty of mouthwatering sophisticated restaurants, beautiful rooms with spectacular views, and helpful inviting service throughout.

Muzik Hotel:  Located in the busy and exciting Ximending area.  Great if you are looking for local food, fun affordable market stalls, and a true bustling Taipei atmosphere.  Affordable rates, modern and comfortable rooms and very helpful staff.