March 11 Tianan Slept poorly my last night in Hong Kong as the weather turned cold and the blanket was thin. There was a space heater but I didn’t want to leave it on all night. I got to airport in plenty of time only to find out there was engine trouble. China airlines gave is a food voucher, a flight to Taipei and money for a ticket to the high-speed train to Tainan. Arriving in the midst of a rainstorm, I was so glad to take that train to Tainan.  The train sped down at 260kph arriving In Tainan in less than 90 minutes. Unaware that the high speed station was far from city I jumped in cab. Driving on and on I was fearing some $40 bill but no! It was only $15, an introduction to the low prices of Taiwan. I was immediately happy to check into Fuward Hotel, a real four-star hotel with toiletries, snacks and a large, well-appointed room. I set out to explore the neighborhood and found myself in a curious reconstruction of a traditional Japanese residence. At least that’s what I think it was as this tranquil oasis had no English explanations but … Continue reading →