Taiwan was not a battlefield of the Opium Wars, yet the conflicts set it on a new course. Once a frontier of the Qing Empire, it caught the attention of British, American, and French powers. From coal and camphor to naval blockades, the island’s story shifted as the ripple of war drew it into global contests.
Taiwan’s Quiet Role in the Shadow of the Opium Wars Read More »
As autumn arrives in Taiwan, the Moon Festival brings families together for one of the most cherished celebrations of the year. This ancient tradition combines moonlit gatherings, delicious mooncakes, and barbecues that fill neighborhoods with warmth, creating memories that connect past and present in Taiwan’s vibrant cultural landscape.
Under the Full Moon, Taiwan Grills and Glows Read More »
As summer’s sweaty grip loosens and the air starts to hum with a crisp, golden vibe, Asia—oh, glorious Asia—gears up for its fall fiesta. Autumn in this part of the world is like nature’s grand encore, a dazzling show of colors, flavors, and festivals that make you want to twirl through the streets with a
A Whimsical Whirl Through Asia’s Autumnal Charm: Taiwan and Beyond Read More »
The Legend and History of the Dragon Boat Festival The Dragon Boat Festival, known as Duanwu Jie (端午節) in Mandarin, is one of the most significant traditional holidays in Chinese culture. Celebrated on the fifth day of the fifth lunar month, this festival has a rich history dating back over 2,000 years. The most well-known
The 2025 Dragon Boat Festival in Taiwan: A Celebration of Tradition and Culture Read More »
Our bus dropped us off at the bottom of the hill, accompanied by a cheerful “Goodbye” and “Enjoy your visit” from the bus driver. The dense morning fog was beginning to lift, and as it did, we were able to see the famous stone lions that have steadfastly guarded the entrance to the National Palace
Stone Lions, Morning Fog, and a Museum Full of Wonders Read More »
“Beneath the sky’s soft glow Cherry Blossoms, like snow Tell a tale in silence true Of nature’s gift ever new.” (Author unknown) The arrival of spring in Japan is heralded by the exquisite bloom of the ‘sakura,’ or cherry blossom. These delicate flowers paint the landscape in shades of pink and white, transforming
Savoring the Joy of Sakura : Welcoming New Beginnings in 2025 Read More »
This year, Taiwan’s public Lunar New Year holiday lasts from January 26th to February 3rd. It will also be the ”Year of the Snake”, which is the 6th animal from the Chinese Zodiac. It represents wisdom, dexterity and charm, and symbolizes the improvement of luck and the arrival of success.
Snake Charmer’s Delight: Happy Lunar New Year! Read More »
Pallavi Saxena’s “Bloom Beyond Borders” exhibition at the Red Room highlights cross-cultural sharing through floral designs and limited floral editions. The art, representing a journey from India to Taiwan, incorporates recycled cardboard and local fabrics. A standout piece features a heart-shaped cardboard figure among flowers, symbolizing Pallavi’s creative process and her two-year artistic experiment.
“Bloom Beyond Borders” Exhibition Read More »
I am honored to share that I’ve recently been nominated to the board of Indigenous Bridges, an association that holds a special place in my heart. Indigenous Bridges is deeply committed to building connections between Indigenous communities and the wider world, creating spaces where voices can be heard, cultures can be celebrated, and rights can
My Journey with Indigenous Bridges Read More »
The warmth of springtime offers a perfect excuse to be outdoors. In fact, sometimes the pull of wanting to be outdoors is just too much. It was for the three of us. Texting and calling in ‘well’ to our various workplaces, we met up bright and early the next morning, so as to get a
