Studying abroad in Tainan, Taiwan, is one of the most transformative experiences of my life. I wasn’t quite sure what to expect when I first arrived, but now that I’ve been here a short while, I have fallen in love with the 文化 and the 地方. Along the way, I discovered things about myself that I would never have otherwise.
One of the most memorable moments of my time abroad was when I participated in a community service event where I helped make tangyuan with a group of local elderly and high schoolers. It was a fun bonding experience with my new friends and made me realize how much I enjoyed learning about different cultures and ways of life.
I also found myself going shopping more often than I ever had before. Not just for material goods but for the culture and the social experience. I would often go to night markets and stroll around the streets, experiencing the city’s vibrant energy and the people. I especially love HARD OFF, a second-hand shop full to the brim with various products, from clothes to instruments, bags to videogame sets; Hardoff really 什麽東西都有！ This newfound sense of adventure helped me realize how much I love to explore and discover new places and things.
A visit to the Chimei Museum was also a highlight of my time in Tainan. I had never been to a museum like it before, and I was fascinated by the diverse collection of art and artefacts on display. We saw Auguste Rodin’s famous first draft sculptures of ‘The Thinker,’ Opera Garnier’s original study for ‘The Dance,’ and many other artefacts. The museum sparked my curiosity and made me realize how much I enjoy learning about history and art.
Finally, going to the lights festival was a wonderful way to experience Tainan’s beautiful culture. It was a magical experience that showed me how much I love to experience and appreciate the beauty in the world. Many installations used UV light and recycled plastic to bring the 1-2 hour adventure in the mountains to life. This was a new experience and made me realize how much I love to explore the wilderness and find new things to appreciate.
Overall, going on little adventures while studying in Tainan was a wonderful opportunity to discover new things about myself. I realised how I enjoy learning about different cultures, exploring new places, and discovering the beauty in the world. It was a truly transformative experience that has helped me understand more about myself and what I want to do in the future.