Living and Working in Taiwan
Monday, January 29, 2007
Howdy all,
Just thought I'd drop a few lines to let people know why I have chosen to stay in Taiwan. I've only been in Taipei for about a year and a half, but I knew well before this time that I'd be here for a while.
I've been working at David's English Center the entire time teaching adults and couldn't be happier. I have many friends teaching children here, but they're doing it illegally, have to leave the country every two months to get a new visa, and live in constant fear of being deported and getting screwed out of their pay by shifty owners. I, however, teach classes that I love (more than just "A, A, A. Apple, apple, apple.") in an extremely friendly environment and am reassured by teaching at one of the best esablished and most respected centers on the island.
But, Taiwan is a great place for many more reasons than the great work environment I've found. To begin with, the people really are quite friendy. Yes, the culture is different, but I've lived in Mainland China as well and truly prefer Taiwan. It's cleaner, the people are more polite, and Taiwan has EVERY convenience that you're accustomed to. Except for a few minor food products, like maybe Cheeto's, they've got every brand and store we foreigners are used to. On top of it all, so many people speak English. I was dumbfounded the first day I was here when I walked into a 7-11 to buy some water and I said "one bottle of water" in Chinese and the clerk repeats my order to me, in English!
Secondly, I love the food. If you like Chinese/Taiwanese food than wait till you get here because it's a step above what we get in N. America. I refuse to eat Asian food of any type when I return home to Washington State because it's just not the same. I've been spoiled by the real thing. Next, this island is beautiful! The beach is a short trip, Taipei is in a valley so the mountains and hiking are right here, and there are hot springs everywhere. I love living in a city where I can get out of it in minutes when I want to. Not to mention the small, cultural towns and villages that dot the island. I can't begin to describe what a cultural journey it's been since arriving.
Wow, OK, this is supposed to be a blog and I've already written a lot, but there's so much more I'd like to relate. Anyway, if you're thinking about Taiwan, then your making a great decision. I've got nothing but good things to say about my life here and anything to do with Taiwan. So what are you waiting for? Trust me, when you get here you'll be kicking yourself for not getting here sooner.
-Michael deGroof
