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Glazed Sweet Potatoes: Taiwanese Favorite

May 28, 2015 by Exploretraveler.com 1 Comment

Those Humble Sweet Potatoes

Glazed sweet potatoes are a favorite on the island! Fresh sweet potatoes have long been a Taiwanese favorite. Perhaps it started during the Japanese Occupation or even before. For centuries these humble potatoes have graced the homes in Japan, Korea, and elsewhere in Asia. Sweet potatoes grow well in Taiwan. The nutrition behind them is amazing! So what makes Glazed sweet potatoes nutritious?

Sweet potatoes are not just something to sweeten your taste buds! Yes, they are good! They are delicious! These little gems are also good for your cardiovascular health! They are a key to good nutrition. This underground tuber was initially cultivated in Central American. Now it is cultivated the world over. Would you like some sweet potatoes?

Sweet potato are a starchy sweet flesh. Depending on the pigment concentration, they range from white to yellow,and from orange to purple. Sweet potatoes of all colors are used to make Glazed Sweet Potatoes. There are actually many different recipes for sweet potatoes. The tuber contains no saturated fats or cholesterol. It is a rich source of dietary fiber, anti-oxidants, vitamins, and minerals.

Glazed Sweet Potatoes

TOTAL TIME: Prep: 30 min. Bake: 30 min.

MAKES: 8 servings

Ingredients

Two pounds sweet potatoes or two large cans sweet potatoes drained

1/4 cup butter, cubed

1/4 cup Maple Syrup

1/4 cup packed brown sugar

1/4 tsp ground cinnamon

Directions

If using fresh sweet potatoes, place in a large saucepan or Dutch oven; cover with water. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and cook 25-40 minutes or until tender. Drain; cool slightly and peel. Cut into chunks.
Preheat oven to 350°. Place sweet potatoes in a 2-qt. baking dish. In a small saucepan, combine butter, syrup, brown sugar and cinnamon; bring to a boil, stirring constantly. Pour over potatoes.
Bake, uncovered, 30-40 minutes or until heated through. Yield: 8 servings.Recipe for Glazed sweet potatoes taken from: http://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/glazed-sweet-potatoes

Cooking With Sweet Potato Greens

Sweet potato leaves are also edible. Dig the potatoes and cut the stems and leaves. All parts of this plant are eaten. While Glazed Sweet Potatoes are awesome, so are the cooked leaves. Not only are they good, but they are good for you. Sweet potato greens are fabulous. They are tasty and nutritious. In fact, the greens contain more nutrients and dietary fiber than most of the popular green. Braised greens (leaves and stems) with some onion and garlic are fantastic. They are good served with a dash of vinegar. Like spinach, sweet potato greens cook down a lot. You can actually use them in any recipe that uses spinach. Here is a recipe that pairs the greens with Coconut Cream. When doing a holiday dinner, they are a good side dish. They compliment Glazed Sweet Potatoes on the holiday table. They add color to the table! They are nutritious! They are delicious!

Sweet Potato Greens in Coconut Cream

Yield: 4 side servings

Total Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients:

1 large bunch sweet potato greens
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
2 shallots, minced
1 clove garlic, minced
1 teaspoon minced fresh ginger root (from a 1/2-inch piece)
2 teaspoons grated fresh turmeric root, or 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
1 red thai chili, finely sliced
2-inch lemon grass stalk, trimmed and finely sliced
1 to 2 teaspoons soy sauce, or to taste
1 cup coconut cream plus 1 cup water (or substitute 2 cups light or regular coconut milk)
2 to 3 teaspoons raw or brown sugar, or to taste
Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions:

Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Trim off any thick stems from greens. Add to boiling water and blanch for 60 seconds, then immediately transfer greens to a bowl filled with ice water to stop the cooking. Drain.

Heat oil in a large pan or wok over medium heat. Add shallots, garlic, ginger, turmeric, chili, and lemongrass and stir until fragrant, 1 to 2 minutes. Stir in soy sauce.

Add coconut cream and water (or coconut milk) and bring to a simmer. Add blanched greens and return to a boil; reduce heat to low and simmer for 2 minutes. Add sugar and season with salt and pepper to taste. Spoon into bowls and serve with rice.

The Sweet Potato culture

Sweet potatoes are widely eaten in Japan, Korea, and Taiwan. Though eaten in many countries, they are a household favorite in Asia. In Japan, Korea, and Taiwan, they have many different ways to cook the potatoes and the greens. Glazed Sweet Potatoes are only one of the favorite recipes. Wherever you live, sweet potatoes belong on every table.

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Published on steemit.com@exploretraveler on May 28, 2017 at:

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Fo Guang Shan Monastery

May 28, 2015 by Exploretraveler.com 3 Comments

Fo Guang Shan Monastery

Fo Guang Shan Monastery is one of the monasteries in the International Chinese Buddhist Religious Movement. The monastery is located on the North-East of Dashu Township on the bank of the Gaoping River.

Address: No.153, Xingtian Road, Xingtian Village, Dashu District, Kaohsiung City

Phone: 886-7-656-1921

Monastery Life

Fo Guang Shan Monastery runs like a well oiled machine. As the day progresses everyone participates in the next activity. The day begins at the break of dawn to the sound of a wooden board. Once the call is made, all must wake up quickly. Everyone must move quickly so as not to be late for the morning formation. Hurry! Hurry! No one can be late! Fo Guang Shan Monastery has begun the day!

After the morning formation the monks form a line in front of the Buddha. With palms together they stand perfectly still for two hours chanting before the Buddha. Time is forgotten! This is thought to clear the mind. It is to sow the seeds of wisdom deep in the mind. It also is believed to aid in having an attitude of repentance and thankfulness. One is thankful for life! Thankful, for the new day!

The morning porridge is then drank. It is good to learn acceptance of the offered food as sustenance to the cultivation of the mind and spirit. The monks also invite the Buddha to join them in the morning meal. Silence is practiced. Peace is in the room.

The next activity is to meticulously clean the monastery and temple. One is taught to perform each task with a peaceful mind. After the temple is cleaned, then the mornings work is preformed. Everyone has a work to do in this peaceful place. A break is given in the afternoon. Most of the monks use this time to take a nap. After the nap, the work of the day is finished. If one does not work, one does not eat!

After the evening meal there is time for lessons and self-study. At the sounding of the board the lights go out and the monastery is quiet for the night. The day usually ends around 10 pm. All is quiet! Fo Guang Shan Monastery has gone to sleep.

Monastery Programs

Programs of the Fo Guang Shan Monastery include a free medical clinic with mobile units that serve remote villages. This is often all the medical care that the villagers receive. There is an annual winter relief program organized to distribute warm clothing and food supplies to the needy. On the Fo Guang Shan Monastery grounds is a children’s orphanage and seniors’ home . A wildlife conservation area to protect all living creatures is on the grounds. There is a beautiful and peaceful cemetery for the care of the deceased whose families have no money for burial.

A Place To Visit

Fo Guang Shan Monastery is one of the most impressive of Buddhist Monasteries. It is complete with a Buddhist Temple, museum, bookstore, gift shop, pilgrimage site, and a Starbucks. It is a perfect place to spend a peaceful day. ‘Fo Guang Shan literally meansBuddha’s Light Mountain. It is an international Chinese Buddhist new religious movement based in Taiwan, It was founded in 1967, and promotes humanistic Buddhism .The grounds are extremely pleasant. They are beautiful.The view overlooking the river is out of this world. At the close of the New Year Celebrations, a fireworks display is done nightly. Children love this nightly display of light on the mountain.The Monks are extremely friendly. They are very accepting of visitors. There are guest accommodations at the monastery. This is perhaps one of the top ten places to see in Taiwan.

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Mysterious Taiwanese Jungle

May 25, 2015 by Exploretraveler.com 1 Comment

Mysterious Taiwanese Jungle

Mysterious Taiwanese Jungle, a unique land, that is found deep in the Aboriginal Mountains. Sprinkled throughout the mountains are small Aboriginal Villages, waiting to share the many secrets of the Taiwanese jungle. Secrets of good health and nutrition flourish in the mysterious Taiwanese Jungle. Here you find herbal cures for many of the diseases the world over. Eating your greens takes on a new meaning, as the Taiwanese jungle has over 850 varieties of edible ferns alone. These ferns make excellent greens for many native dishes and salads. The mysterious Taiwanese Jungle comes alive on the dinner plate. What can we learn?

The Wilds Of The Mountains

It is a narrow strip between the mountains and the sea. Here we find the jungles with villages sprinkled throughout. This has become the haven of of the Eco Tourist. Would you fly half way around the world for peace? Here you will find charming villages and leisure farms. All willing to immerse your being in their world. Relax, shut off the phone and just be. You will find truly authentic indigenous villages ready to share their life. These leisure farms are deep in the mysterious Taiwanese Jungle. Prepare for cultural shock. ….prepare to become a part of what was and yet what is.

Rural Getaways For City Guests

Many of these villages take you away from the Pacific and up narrow roads into the mountains. Here you find groups of cabins with manicured lawns in front. Civilization is still in sight! Beautiful artwork grace the lawn. That is until you look out the back door. There you are in the midst of the deep jungle! See the many animals that live in this forest. Listen to the singing of the birds. The vegetation is amazing! So many plants! Some are used for medicine. Most are used for food. It is like a kitchen garden out the back door. Welcome to the mysterious Taiwanese Jungle.

The Sun Has Set

The sun has gone behind the hills. It is night time in the jungle. The sun has left the scene, but there is no escaping the real Taiwan. Can you imagine getting this close to the jungle in relative safety? That does not mean you will not wake up in the night and see a small lizard! A grasshopper may be sharing the room with you. They are everywhere in this tropical climate. They are not visitors. They share the cabins in peace. They are harmless. They are beautiful. They are yet another piece to the puzzle of the mysterious Taiwanese Jungle.

Accommodations In The Jungle

For an unparalleled Taiwan experience explore the Leader Hotel Taroko. Stay in the luxury rooms of the hotel or the cabins on the edge of the rain-forest. This is the real Taiwan! The jungle is alive with life! It never sleeps! It provides both food and medicine. The jungle plants are beautiful. No need for technology, the birds provide the music. Discover Taiwan as few tourists have. Spend a few days immersed in the mysterious Taiwanese Jungle.

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Published on steemit.com@exploretraveler May 25, 2017 at:

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Yehliu Park: Northern Coast of Taiwan

May 19, 2015 by Exploretraveler.com 1 Comment

Yehliu Park And The Northern Coast of Taiwan

Yehliu Park lies in the Northern Coastal Region of Taiwan. Northern Taiwan has many magnificent scenic areas. It is beautiful! The land looks like it was just painted by a great artist. The sandy beaches have the most unusual rocks. They are so unique! This beach is like no other beach! The rocky shoreline extends far below the surface. There are cliffs hanging on the side. Drop-offs and shelves are a for delight divers. It has some of the most spectacular coral beds in the country. Taiwan is amazing! It is beautiful! It is exclusive and rare!

Taipei is an island metropolis located in Northern Taiwan. It is cosmopolitan and amazingly idiosyncratic. It is a fascinating city! It is a city of contrasts! With-in Taipei you will see both the old and the new. Everything modern is blended with a culture that is older than the country. You will see architecture that dates back to the time of the dynasties. You will also see one of the world’s tallest and most modern buildings. Like the Ying and the Yang, is Taipei.

The Northern Coast

You only have to travel a few hours to arrive at the Northern Coast. It is a place of unbelievable contrasts. The geological wonders in this area are amazing. The shores are rocky and unforgiving in several places, The many types of geological rocks were formed in unique shapes. Some have been given names, like “Queens Head.” Others are waiting for your imagination to fill in the blank. Only a few hours from Taipei, the Northern Coast is an experience in country living. It is a perfect place to experience Aborigine Taiwan. Here you will taste many of the island’s local delicacies. Some are eccentric in nature, and others are just a Taiwan take on an old favorite.

Keelung City

This is the rainy side of the island. It is raining in Keelung,as usual. The port is the second largest in Taiwan and is often called The Rainy Port. Keelung City is mysterious and modern. It has the best of the old mingled with the finest of the new. Keelung City is a hub for modern technology. It has the finest architecture from the dynasties. It is truly a city of mixed vision. The old is kept current and the news continues to be built. Keelung is amazing, mysterious, and high-tech. Here you will see the vision for tomorrow mingled with the reality of yesterday. Keelung City is a thriving and magnificent metropolis.

Yehliu Park

Yehliu Park is a premier destination in the North of Taiwan. It is the rarest of the rare! It is the home to many exclusive and iconic geological creations. It stretches forth around the bay from the village of Wanli. You will find many remarkable geological rock formations. Some have unusual shapes and have been given names. Here you will find Elephant Rock, Ice Cream Rock, and Ginger Rock. While there are many that have been named, there are just as many waiting for you to name. Look, there is a mushroom. What kind is it? What shall we call it? What is that? Does it look like a cat? What shall we name it? There is no limit to where your imagination can take you. Welcome to Yehliu Park.

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Sanxiantai Dragon Bridge Taitung, Taiwan

Yehliu Geological Park In Northern Taiwan

Queens Head Rock at Yehliu Taiwan

Keelung Taiwan…. The Rainy Port

Xizhi Station 汐止車站 Taiwan

Yehliu Geological Park In Northern Taiwan

May 9, 2015 by Exploretraveler.com 1 Comment

Weathered Sandstone In Yehliu Geological Park

Yehliu Geological Park is a geological wonderland. Weathered sandstone is so artistic, that you can ponder who was the great artist. At the stroke of the brush, nature created this amazing area. You will find it near the seashore of Northern Taiwan. Wind, water, waves, and the shifting of the geological plates under the earth, designed a masterpiece in time. What a geological landscape! It is amazing! Nothing in the world is like Yehliu Geological Park. Here you will see Ginger Rocks and Mushroom Rocks. The amazing Queens Head has become a symbol of Taiwan. It is the unofficial emblem of Wanli. Other curious and rare formations are Fairy Shoe, the Beehive, and the Sea Candles. Yehliu Geological Park is rare and priceless. It is stunning! The only limit to adventure is your own imagination.

Influences On Yehliu Geological Park

Among the famous rocks found in the Yehliu Geological Park, are the “Ginger Rocks. ” Laced among the weathered sandstone, are these rare and exquisite Rocks. Yehliu Geological Park has millions of these extraordinary formations. “Ginger Rock” is nothing more than rocks which appear to be pieces of ginger. How amazing it is to see these extremely rare geological shapes. They are influenced by the waves of the ocean and the natural weathering of the rock. Each movement of the earth is precise. It brings forth treasure. Formations such as the “Sea Candles” are formed as the plates of the earth move and cause friction. How rare Yehliu Geological Park is! The weathered sandstone is remarkable. The rock formations are phenomenal. What a unique geological landscape. Adventure is at every corner of the park. Excitement is in the air. Take a picture! Go for a hike! Name the nameless! Weave a story!

Three Distinct Areas In The Park

The first area of the park is packed with rare and amazing Mushroom and Ginger Rock. The extraordinary Ice Cream Rock and Candle Rocks are also present among the weathered sandstone. Yehliu Geological Park is full of staggering discoveries in this first area. Gaze at the shapes! Begin to discover! Name the un-renowned. The fun begins with the imagination.

The second area of the park is also centered around Ginger and Mushroom Rocks. Though they are not as prevalent. Here you will discover Queen’s Head, Dragon’s Head, and many others waiting for names. Take a picture! Choose a name! Weave a story! Also in this area, you will find Fairy’s Shoe and Elephant Rocks. Earth Rock and Peanut Rock round out the area. What fun! Take a hike! Enjoy the results of many years of corrosion.

The third area is the wave-cut platform. It is on the other side of Yehliu Geological Park. It is nestled in among the steep and treacherous cliffs. This area is at the seashore, where the waves can be wicked. The Torrential waves have formed amazing shapes. Some are grotesque and others magical. When entering this area, read the guide-book and follow the guidelines for a safe and pleasant visit. Discover such shapes as Pearl Rock, Marine Bird Rock, and Piety Hill. Yehliu Geological Park is exciting!

Yehliu Geological Park

No.167-1, Kantung Rd., Yehliu Village, Wanli District, New Taipei City 20744, Taiwan, R.O.C.

Open daily from 07:30 to 17:00 all year round.

Phone：886-2-24922016

info@ylgeopark.org.tw

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Xizhi Station 汐止車站 Taiwan

May 7, 2015 by Exploretraveler.com 1 Comment

Waiting for a Train at the Xizhi railway station in Taiwan

Xizhi Station In Xizhi District New Taipei

Xizhi Station is a railway station in the North of New Taipei, Taiwan. It is the only way to get to Keelung by train. The Taiwan Railway Administration or TRA administrates this Western line in Northern Taiwan. Xizhi Station 汐止車站 is the rail gateway to Keelung. History abounds at the Xizhi Station. This is living history! See how it progressed. Immerse yourself in Xizhi Station Life!

Xizhi Station dates back to the 1800s. Xizhi Station opened on October 20, 1891. Its original name was Shuifanjiao Pier 水返腳碼頭. In 1920 the name of the station was changed to Xizhi Station. In 2006 the construction of a new elevated station was completed and new track laid. April 9, 2006, saw the new station and tracks come into service. The TRA is the backbone of the railway service, connecting many villages with the new modern High-Speed Rail that runs from Taipei to Zuoying. This small commuter train serves over 15,000 people a day. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of the High-Speed Trains, it is a dependable commuter service for thousands. Like all of Taiwan’s trains and buses, it is clean and free of the litter of any kind. The Taiwan Railway Administration allows no eating or drinking in the station. Xizhi Station is modern! It is kept up and you can now use the Easy Card for payment.

Taipei–Keelung Metropolitan Area

Taipei, New Taipei, and Keelung together form the Taipei–Keelung Metropolitan Area. This metropolitan area has a population of 6,900,273 people. This is the 40th most populated urban area in the entire world. Taipei City is the capital city of Taiwan, a sovereign state in East Asia. Officially it is known as the Republic of China. It is located in an ancient lake-bed. On either side are the narrow river valleys of Keelung and Xindian Rivers. What geological history!

An exciting Museum in Taipei is the National Museum of Marine Science and Technology. This is a fun and hands-on Museum. It is complete with a children’s area. Discover the amazing history and culture of the area.

Marine Science & Technology

No.367, Beining Rd., Zhongzheng Dist., Keelung City 202, Taiwan (R.O.C.)

Tel:+886-2-2469-0731

http://tour.klcg.gov.tw/ScenicSpots/Detail.aspx?Guid=E1_376570000A_000062 (Chinese)

Keelung, Taiwan

Keelung City 基隆市 is a major seaport city in the Northeastern part of Taiwan. The Northern part of the city faces the ocean. It borders New Taipei. Together with Taipei and New Taipei, Keelung makes up the Taipei-Keelung Metropolitan Area. It is often referred to as the Rainy Port. The area has frequent and heavy rains and plays a big maritime role in Taiwan. Since early times, there is large deep water harbor. It is the second largest seaport on the island. Kaohsiung, Taiwan is the largest seaport. Keelung is an exciting and ancient area. Walk the streets, explore history, and meet the people in this exciting area.

Keelung’s original inhabits were the Ketagalan. The Ketagalan is a tribe of the Taiwanese Aborigine. The Ketagalan Tribe is now extinct. When in Taipei, there is a cultural center that gives the history and culture of the Pingpu Indigenous Tribes. The Ketagalan Culture Center is a major center and includes an art gallery. You will find exciting and living history at the Culture Center.

Ketagalan Culture Center

Tues~Sun 09:00-17:00; Closed on Mondays and national holidays

No. 3-1, Zhongshan Rd., Beitou Dist., Taipei City 112 (886-2-2898-6500)

Take the MRT to Xinbeitou Station.

Walk straight along Zhongshan Road. It is about a 3-5 minute walk from the station.

http://www.ketagalan.gov.taipei/

Heading Back To Xizhi Station

When leaving Keelung, we arrive back at the Xizhi Station. It is a good time to explore other parts of Taipei City. There are many high-quality hotels in Taipei and every type of restaurant you might desire. Enjoy your stay! Taipei City is a modern city! It is full of adventure! It is exciting.

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Keelung Taiwan…. The Rainy Port

May 5, 2015 by Exploretraveler.com 1 Comment

Keelung…..It is raining

Keelung, also known as “The Rainy Port” is the second largest port city in Taiwan. When the cruise ships come in, most people grab their umbrella. Indeed, it is a city of frequent and heavy rain. But like all tropical locations, it is a warm rain and people do not get too worried. Grab your umbrella and let’s go sightseeing is the motto. In May the rain may fall, but it is in June that the official rainy season begins. It is in June that the real rain will return to Taiwan. The rainfall and the typhoons that will follow keep the island wet. In the Northern part of the island, there is a lot of added precipitation. Keelung is raining again! They have no water issues in Keelung. There is no drought! The reservoirs are full! The gardens are happy. The rains have returned.

Out And About In Keelung

Sansia Old Street usually refers to a small area at the Southern end of Minquan Street. Many of the buildings in this area date back to the earliest time of the Republic of China. You will see some of the most fascinating verandas. They are magnificent and well cared for. The decorated archways are rich and beautiful. This area is well preserved. History and culture are everywhere. Whether you spend a few hours or a day, Keelung’s Old Street area will not be a disappointment.

Miaokou Night Market, Keelung Cities famous Food Market, is known island-wide. Here you will find a diversity of tasty snacks. Located in the downtown area, Keelung’s Miaokou Night Market meanders through the streets and alleyways. This market is unique, as it winds through the downtown area. Miaokou Night Market, being close to the sea, is an excellent source of seafood. Fresh seafood abounds! Its ideal location is a source of pride. The market is easy to find for domestic and overseas travelers. Since many cruise ships visit this port, this is a major calling card. Here at the Miaokou Night Market, you may experience large crowds. This is a popular market for visitors and locals alike. The market is small compared to other night markets in Taiwan, but it has everything. There are many signs at the market which assist international travelers. These signs are in Chinese, Japanese, and English. This market is a must-see for all international Tourists.

Tzushr Temple is the center of religious life in Sansia Keelung. Tzushr Temple gives special honor to Qingshui Tsu-Sze. Qingshui Tsu-Sze was a Song-Dynasty General. He is worshiped by the people of Anxi, Fujian to this day. They believe He has the power to protect their tea industry. The Temple has 126 hand-carved stone pillars and astonishingly beautiful decorative ceilings. There are traditional motifs everywhere. There are many illustrated historical stories. Also, you will find the largest collection of mythology on the island. Shan-hsia Tsu-Sze Temple Tour Guide is available in Chinese only for 200 NT.

Accommodations in Taipei, Taiwan

Keelung is small enough to see the sights on foot in just a day. If you want more, Taipei is just a short train trip away. In Taipei, you will find all the major hotels and restaurants that you would expect from Taiwan’s largest city. It is a city bustling with energy and is the center of all major activity in Taiwan. Whether you come for a few days or a couple weeks, there is much to see and do. Accommodations are first class and there are many major restaurants and buffets.

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Published on Steemit.com@exploretraveler May5,2017 at:

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Rice Farms OF Southern Leyte Philippines

May 4, 2015 by Exploretraveler.com 1 Comment

Rice Farms In The Silago Evergreen Lowland

Rice farms traditionally are found in the Evergreen Lowlands of Leyte, Philippines. The lowland farmers plant rice at the beginning of the rainy season. It is then allowed to grow with minimum assistance for subsistence farming. The Silago Evergreen Lowland is renowned as one of rice bowls of the world. Temperatures during the rainy season are conducive to growing a productive crop. This beautiful evergreen lowland is not, however, a major tourist area. Though in many ways, it is one of the most authentic regions in the Leyte, Philippines. In the lowlands the rhythm of daily life is driven by the sowing and harvesting of grain. It sways to the tune of the rainy and dry seasons. Traditional Filipino life is the hallmark of the Silago Evergreen Lowlands. Ponder the myths and legends of the people. Discover the under-currents of village life. Explore the native rain-forests.

Rice In The World

Rice is one of the most widely grown and eaten cereals in the world. It is considered a staple food for much of the human population. In most of Asia it is eaten daily. It is the third largest agricultural commodity in the world. Only sugar cane and maize outrank rice in world production. Here in the Silago Evergreen lowlands, rice farming contributes to the daily beat of life. It is the key to the harmony and tranquility of Silago. Within Silago you will discover paddies that stretch as far as the eye can see. With-in the lowlands you will discover the roots of what you eat. Visit the paddies for a glimpse into the world of rice.

Rice Preparation Is Precise Throughout The World

No matter where this grain is prepared, it is generally soaked. It is the soaking that decreases cooking time. A well soaked grain conserves fuel. Grains that have been soaked have less stickiness. This grain is generally soaked for 30 minutes to several hours. A well soaked grain allows minimum exposure to higher temperatures. Soaking greatly improves the texture of the cooked rice. Soaking and rinsing until the water is clear reduces the natural starch found in the grain. Brown rice is often soaked for up to 20 hours to stimulate the germination of the grain. Germination improves the nutritional value of brown rice.

Tourism In The Silago Evergreen Lowlands

Nature Conservation is beginning to spring up. Traditional indigenous villages are beginning to captivate the interest of Eco-tourists. Divers, by far, make up the largest group of tourists in the area. Many divers are beginning to add on a side trip into this tranquil and harmonious region. Walk the beautiful white sand beaches. Explore the forests. Discover a traditional way of life. Watch as it keeps tune to the land. It is this natural rhythm that captivates tourists seeking to see a more traditional Philippines. It is the drum beat of the farmer. The rhythm of the rain. The song of the wind. All this and more, draws you to the beautiful Silago Evergreen Lowlands.

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Amandiwin Mountains Leyte, Philippines

May 3, 2015 by Exploretraveler.com 2 Comments

Amandiwin Mountains: A Fertile And Rich Land

Amandiwin Mountains, a rich and fertile land in the heart of the Leyte, surrounds Lake Danao. This cloud-capped mountain range is rich in natural resources. It is a display of unsurpassed beauty. One of the favorite trails goes to Alto Point. For those desiring to hike to Alto Peak, your climb will begin at the world renowned Lake Danao. Lake Danao is the official starting point for all hiking destinations into the mysterious Amandiwin Mountains. Here in the mountains, you will find vegetable plantations and rice paddies that stand alone, like a desert island in the sea. You will see houses on stilts. You will find a people untouched by the technology that is less than a half-day’s journey away. Deep in the Amandiwin Mountains life has not changed.

Enchanting Lake Hanagdan

As you leave the beautiful Lake Danao behind, you continue to climb for another 3 or 4 hours. This is a relatively easy climb in the beginning, however, it gets progressively steep. This is not a climb for beginners. Eventually you arrive at a very secluded Lake Hanagdan. The alluring rain-forest of flora and fauna is captivating. What a fabulous display !The Amandiwin Mountains has a dense secondary rain forest with a moss running across the top-level. The jungle is captivating! The different levels of forest canopy around Lake Hanagdan create a sense of mystery and pageantry. This is natures drama! This remote and almost sequestered lake is home to over half of the world’s flora , fauna, and wildlife. This is nature at it’s finest. It is an impressive array of natural resources. Comparatively few tourists travel this far into the Amandiwin Mountains. The few that make it are immersed in the frontiers of Philippine mountaineering. This mountainous thick rain-forest provides alluring adventure. It is an array of natural beauty.

Alto Peak Exploration

Leaving Lake Hanagdan behind you continue trekking for another 4-5 hours. The trail is well-kept but can be steep in places. One of the highlights of this segment of the journey are the wild strawberries. These wild strawberries are called ‘bingit’ by the locals. They are a common sight, especial in Summer. These are a welcome treat to trekkers hiking into the Amandiwin Mountain Range. They are a mountain delicacy. The geothermal potential of these mountains are evidenced by the sulfur vents , and the rich volcanic soils. The entire trek beyond Lake Hanagdan takes around 4-5 hours – and brings you in full view of the magnificent Alto Peak. While some experienced climbers ascend the peak proper, most hikers end their exploration at this point. The ascent up the side of Alto Peak is precarious and often dangerous without proper experience and equipment.

Accommodations In The Amandiwin Mountain Range

As you arrive at the various lakes and view points, you will find primitive camping facilities in place. As with all remote camping, you will need to pack in all your food and drinking water and pack out the trash. Your trek through the Amandiwin Mountains provides lush tropical vegetation and fantastic underbrush. The view of Alto Peak is majestic. The lakes are surreal. The days are comfortable and the nights can be quite cool. Be sure to take the temperature changes in mind as you prepare for your Amandiwin Mountain Vacation.

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Bicycle Trekking in Taipei…What a fun day

April 30, 2015 by Exploretraveler.com 1 Comment

Bicycle Treking in Taipei…What a fun day

Bicycle Trekking in Taipei…What a fun day

Bicycle trekking anywhere can make for a fun day. Taipei is no exception. There is so much to do and see. On a bike you are out in nature and not closed up in a car. It is easy to see everything! You can quickly move to the side. It is easy to stop and take pictures. Just make sure you get completely off the road. There are beach paths for cyclists as you go around different areas of the island. There are mountains to pedal and villages to visit. You do not need to venture far from the city, to see a new world. There are monkeys and parrots to see. Bicycle trekking is the way to see Taiwan for those with the energy.

In Taiwan there are many museums and national monuments. Bicycle trekking makes them easy to get to. Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall in Taipei Taiwan is a must see. The grounds are beautiful, the view excellent, and if you are there at the right time…..watch the changing of the guard. What a fun experience. Lock your bike and climb the stairs…….it is an experience of a life time.

Continue your bicycle trekking to Taipei 101. Take the elevator up to the top for the most amazing view. I do know what you can not see! It was the most fascinating view. It seemed almost like you saw half of the island. The city of Taipei from that many stories in the air is beyond fantastic. Stop by for desert in the restaurant. The food was amazing! The service excellent. The atmosphere was out of this world.

The next stop in your bicycle trekking experience is really close by. Xiang Shan or Elephant Mountain has hiking and bike trails that will not disappoint. The trail is well-marked in Chinese and English. It is always busy. It is easy to follow others. It will take 15-20 minutes to climb the stairs that lead to the first viewing platform. They can be moderately steep. If you happen to arrive in the evening, you are in for a surprise. What an amazing night view of Taipei city.

Maokong Gondola is another amazing spot over Taipei. You will want to continue your bicycle trekking and maybe make a brief stop at the Taipei Zoo. The zoo has some of the best aviaries around. From there it is about a 30 minute ride to the Gondola terminal. The ride can be exciting and scary at times. You go so high and then descends so sharply. The view is absolutely astonishing. While on the mountain why not have tea and read a good book?

While in Taipei be sure to visit the National Palace Museum. It is a perfect next stop on your bicycle trekking tour. Be warned, it is a busy Museum. The whole city seems to be there most days. These treasures were brought out of China before the cultural revolution. What an amazing variety of artifacts. No pictures are allowed and cameras must remain in their bag. This is one of the best museums in Asia. There are huge Chinese collections and Taiwanese artifacts.

Be sure to begin each day at a morning market and end it at a night market. There you will experience the culture of the island. The food is amazing! The people some of the friendliest. So what are you waiting for? Pack up your bike or rent one there. The choice is yours. Taiwan adventure is waiting in Taipei. What an excellent place to begin your bicycling trekking experience.

http://www.virtualtourist.com/travel/Asia/Taiwan/Taipei_Shih/Taipei-1074413/Things_To_Do-Taipei-TG-C-1.html

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Published on steemit.com@exploretraveler April 30, 2017 at:

https://steemit.com/travel/@exploretraveler/bicycle-trekking-in-taipei-what-a-fun-day