Asia

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 worlds 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 new 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? It looks 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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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

[email protected]

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Xizhi Station 汐止車站 Taiwan

May 7, 2015 by Exploretraveler.com 1 Comment

Taipei Rapid Transit — 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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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 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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Lipa of Batangas Philippines

April 28, 2015 by Exploretraveler.com Leave a Comment

Lipa of Batangas Philippines

Lipa of Batangas is a mid-size city in the Philippines. It is colorful and unique among cities. It’s culture and daily life is rare and priceless. Life is changing fast! It is the new hub of Technology. Where farms were yesterday, today there are business complexes. Suburbs now exist to house this new class of Filipinos. These are the technology experts! These are the leaders of tomorrow. Their numbers are quickly growing. This is the new Lipa.

New to the scene are the Call Centers. Western Corporations have been moving call centers from countries where English skills are limited. Tagalog is generally spoken in the home. Spanish has faded into history. English is the language of business and instruction. Most have an excellent command of the English language. As these call centers become a success story, more are being built. This has become a major factor in the growing middle class. Life is exciting in Lipa. Standards of living are raising.

Religion is the major uniting factor between all Filipinos. Most are Roman Catholic, though many other faiths are also present. The influence of the Roman Catholic Church was seen in the last visit of Pope Francis. The government declared a major holiday during his visit. The streets of Manila were filled with men, women, and children paying homage to this religious leader. Lipa is the center of religious activity in the area. Festivals and religious holidays reign in the streets of Lipa. The cities of Lipa come alive. There is joy in the air. Whole families take to the streets. Parades are abundant. Lipa celebrates with gusto each and every holiday. It is religion that unites the people.

Education is a major tool in the Philippines. There are several national high schools and universities. There are also 23 existing Catholic schools and two high school seminaries. There are three college seminaries, and two pastoral centers. Technological colleges are also springing up. The demand for educated and skilled workers is immense. The youth are quickly filling the needed jobs. Technology and Call Centers are major success stories in Lipa. Hope and excitement is in the air. Life is good in Lipa!

Lipa is one of the most fascinating cities on the island. The old mingles with the new. Color is everywhere! Sma

ll family farms still dot the landscape. Fisherman still put their boats out each night. The Wet Markets thrive with fresh fish and vegetables. Merchants are anxious to share their goods. Newer homes are built next to humble dwellings. Religion is the glue that keeps them all together.

Lipa is the jumping off point to adventure. Taal Lake, Volcano Island, Taal Volcano, and Crater Lake are major tourists attractions in the area. Quality hotels, restaurants, fishing lodges, and diving resorts dot the landscape. Many tour companies have their headquarters here. This is a busy city. It is fast becoming a tourist hub. It is a colorful cultural experience. It is living history being made. It is yesterday and today blended. The cities of Lipa of Batangas Philippines invite you to come. What are you waiting for? Make this the day you make your reservation. There is adventuring waiting! There is excitement in the air. See you in the Philippines!

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Wet Market In Batangas Philippines

April 26, 2015 by Exploretraveler.com Leave a Comment

Wet Market In Batangas Philippines

Wet Market in Batangas is a thriving rural market. Here the local villagers buy all their groceries. This is a traditional market in The Philippines, including fresh vegetables. They sort through tables of fresh fish of every kind. There are all the staples of the kitchen and meat hanging ….waiting to be cut the way you want. There are tables and tables of fresh vegetables of every kind imaginable. This bounty was harvested this morning and brought fresh to the Wet Market. Farmers bring crates of fresh eggs and women pound spices. You can even see clothes hanging at the Wet Market. Here is everything needed for the home.

The Wet Market is all about generating income for the local farmers, merchants, and fisherman. Many find employment as market helpers for the day. It is all about the people and reducing poverty in this island nation. Some parts of The Philippines has been the target of several typhoons in recent years, including the most devastating of all…..Typhoon Yolanda. Many areas have seen floods, Tsunamis and high devastating winds that tore down coconut plantations and destroyed a life’s work. Destruction was everywhere! Many were homeless. Many of these move to areas like Manila hoping things will be better. But others were determined to replant where they were and move forward. Now you see these determined farmers at the Wet Market. At the Wet Market you see the self-determination of a proud and industrious people. Here are people who are busy doing what it takes to move forward. They have replanted! They have harvested! Now they come to sell! Hope is in the air. People are moving forward. The fruit of the labor of their hands is at the Wet Market.

The Wet Market has all the different kinds of fish of the sea. The fisherman fished all through the night. They have brought the nights catch. A beautiful bounty of fish. Tables are full of beautiful Parrot Fish, so colorful among their cousins. They look like a rainbow among the more muted fish of the sea. I do believe the Parrot Fish got most of the beauty when created. They are as remarkable as the fisherman who caught them. Many of these fisherman started from scratch after Typhoon Yolanda. Most stayed in the area, and but some moved to other regions including Batangas and Manila. They had lost their boats. They had lost their gear. They lost their livelihood. New boats were built. They worked to replace the needed gear. And now they bring you….the work of their hands. The catch of the day is at the Wet Market.

Many of the merchants lost their inventories, but slowly over time, they also have the product to sell. The Wet Market is a tribute to the hardworking Filipino men and women who were willing to …..begin again. If you have never been to a Wet Market, you can hardly conceive what it contains. But it is at the Wet Market that lives are mended. Here hope is re-kindled. Dreams are once again being fulfilled. The Wet Market is the fruit of all the hard work of the last 18 months. For it was out of the rubble that life began again.

As you plan your next Philippine vacation, set aside time to visit the Wet Market. Meet the farmers, merchants, and fisherman who make it possible. The Wet Market is a market of thanksgiving. It is a tribute to the other areas of the island that absorbed those who left the devastation and chose to rebuild in a new area. It is a tribute to the Business men and women around the world who helped in the re-building. These gave the most important gift anyone can receive…..the tools to move forward. They invested in a people who have not let the world down. The Wet Market is just one of the fruits of their labors. There are many Wet Markets throughout the island. All of them have a story to be told. Come, taste and see……

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Onions: Are They Really Good For You?

April 26, 2015 by Exploretraveler.com Leave a Comment

Onions: Are They Really Good For You?

Onions, a rather humble vegetable, are known worldwide. Taiwanese cooking uses a lot of vegetables and the onion is used in large amounts. Why do Asians like onions? What makes onions so special? Raw onions can be hot! Who needs them, anyway? The answer is, you do! Onions can significantly lower your risk of certain types of cancer. Some cancers seem to require more than others. A good rule is to eat an onion a day. The Asians have this habit down pat. In Taiwan, almost every dish had an onion in it. It is not hard to eat an onion a day if you put it in everything.

Many cultures know the value of onion, but in Taiwanese cuisine, it is such a natural part of everything. Onions are very high in flavonoids. They are in the top ten common vegetables for quercetin content. A one-half onion will give you half of the daily amount of quercetin eaten by moderate vegetable eaters from all sources.

Onions are a vegetable that contains the same amount of quercetin whether you eat it raw or cooked. That is why when you make soup, it is so loaded with quercetin. The only thing is, it is now in the juice. Quercetin does not degrade when cooking with a low heat method. Crockpots cook soup at low heat and thus the Quercetin is preserved. The key is to remember that the juice is important. If you have liquid when you drain the vegetables, just save the liquid for soup broth. It will keep in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. It keeps in the freezer for the long term. Onions, like garlic, are members of the Allium family! Both onions and garlic are rich in sulfur-containing compounds. It is these compounds that are responsible for their pungent odors! It is also these compounds that are responsible for many of their health-promoting effects. Onions can be sauteed, grilled, roasted, braised, pickled, stuffed, deep-fried and cooked into a savory jam. This amazing vegetable is the workhorse of the garden! There is hardly a dish that doesn’t begin with this humble vegetable.

The idea of using onions to ward off diseases goes way back thousands of years. It was believed that sliced raw onions, when placed in their homes or rooms, would help absorb bacteria or germs in the air. Many practitioners in Alternative Medicine believe this is valued today. Many cultures, the world over, treat insect bites, bee stings, and boils with onion compresses. They believe it will ease the pain because of anti-inflammatory properties in the onion’s enzymes. Onions are amazing! In Taiwan, they seem to know how to use the best and healthiest vegetables. What a treat that is! Health and flavor in the same meal!

When planning your next Taiwanese vacation, be sure to check out the morning markets. Try many soups. It seems that they have a soup for every occasion. Every soup seems to start with garlic and onion. Now that is a double dose of these amazing vegetables. So enjoy the best nutritional foods on your next visit to Taiwan. They are a suburb! They are delicious! They are healing! They are a Taiwanese blessing!

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