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2025/01/19~2025/01/21 Author: Prakash Sasikumar
After a long and busy semester, our lab planned a short trip before the Chinese New Year. From January 19 to 21, we took a break to relax, explore new places, and bond with each other. Unlike my previous trip to southern Taiwan with only my lab mates, this time we traveled with another lab. Meeting new people made the experience even more fun and exciting. We shared stories, laughed together, and learned a lot about each other. It was not just a trip—it was an experience that brought us closer.
Day 1: Beautiful Sun Moon Lake and Tasty Street Food
Our first stop was Sun Moon Lake, one of the most famous scenic spots in Taiwan. At first, it was drizzling, but soon the sun came out, making the weather perfect for outdoor activities. I love cycling, and riding along the lake with fresh air and stunning views was amazing. Cherry blossoms were blooming, and the lake’s blue waters reflected the mountains beautifully. My lab mates and I stopped often to take pictures and enjoy the peaceful scenery.
We then took a boat ride to Ita Thao, where we learned about the indigenous Thao people from our professor. He explained their traditions and how they have preserved their culture for generations. After that, we took a cable car ride, giving us an incredible view of the entire lake and surrounding forests. It felt magical to see Taiwan’s natural beauty from above.
At Ita Thao Old Street, I got to try Taiwanese street food. I tasted grilled squid and mochi, which had a unique texture compared to Indian sweets. Some of my lab mates struggled to eat with chopsticks, which made us all laugh. We talked about our favorite foods from our home countries, making me realize how food connects people despite cultural differences. The day ended with a big dinner, where we shared our thoughts about the trip so far and bonded over delicious Taiwanese cuisine.
Day 2: Qingjing Farm – A Day with Nature and Friends
The next morning, we had a simple but tasty breakfast before heading to Qingjing Farm, a place known for its beautiful mountains and fresh air. The drive itself was breathtaking, with mist-covered hills surrounding us. We first visited The Old England Manor, a European style building in the middle of Taiwan. It was interesting to see how different cultures influence architecture here.
At Qingjing Farm, we walked through green fields with free-roaming sheep. I had never touched a sheep before, so feeling their soft wool was a new experience for me. My lab mates and I laughed as we tried to take selfies with the sheep, but they kept moving away! The highlight of the day was the horse-riding show, where skilled riders performed amazing stunts. It was thrilling to watch, and even our professor seemed excited. In the evening, the fog rolled in, creating a dreamy atmosphere. We had a barbecue night at our guesthouse, where we cooked together, played games, and shared jokes. Even the guesthouse owner's cats joined us, making the night even more special.
Day 3: Tea, Chocolate, and Taiwanese Traditions
On our last day, we focused on Taiwanese culture and traditions. We visited an old tea factory from the Japanese colonial period. One of my lab mates explained how different teas require different brewing methods, which was fascinating.
Next, we went to the Nina Chocolate Factory, where we made our own chocolate lollipops. I had never done this before, and even though my design didn’t turn out perfect, it was a lot of fun! The factory had a beautiful garden with deer and ducks, and I spent some time feeding the deer, which was surprisingly relaxing.
One of the most meaningful visits was to the Paper Church, a memorial for the 921 Earthquake. Standing there, I thought about how strong the Taiwanese people are, rebuilding their communities after disasters. This made me admire Taiwan even more. Later, at Guangxing Paper Factory, I tried traditional papermaking. It was harder than I expected, but I loved learning how this ancient craft is still alive today. I made my own paper by myself and printed a Buddha meditation design on it. With my creativity, I designed and crafted a table night lamp using my handmade paper. My design was the most colorful, and everyone in the group admired it. Seeing my work being appreciated made me feel really proud, and it was one of the most rewarding experiences of the trip.
This trip was not just about sightseeing; it was about learning, sharing, and building friendships. I got to know my lab mates better and met new people from another lab. Whether it was cycling at Sun Moon Lake, playing with sheep in Qingjing, or making tea and paper by hand, every experience taught me something new about Taiwan’s culture.
What I loved most was how Taiwan preserves its traditions while embracing modern life. Seeing this made me reflect on my own culture and how important it is to keep traditions alive. This trip also reminded me why I love being in an international lab—it’s not just about research, but also about sharing experiences and growing together. I feel lucky to be part of such a wonderful team, and I’m already looking forward to our next adventure!
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