Burning hot, humid, are words that can be used to describe a little island country off the coast of China, the country of Taiwan. This little island is full of beautiful mountain ranges, winding rivers, indigenous cultures, and also modern civilization.

This past summer of 2009, I went on a group educational trip to the tropical island of Taiwan hosted by the United Horizon Foundation. On this trip I met many new friends and together we traveled through Taiwan and learned about its cultures, ideologies, and traditions. This camp I attended lasted 28 days or approximately 4 weeks. On this trip there were 36 teens ranging from ages 12 to 21.

During the first 2 weeks we stayed at the Taiwanese Tourism and Hospitality College and lived on their campus in Hua Lien. Our curriculum was well planned out, with us having class and the morning starting at nine and ending at twelve, with activities planned for the rest of the day. During class times, we learned how to read and write Chinese characters and practiced among ourselves. Not only did we learn how to write but also learned the history behind the creation of the characters. Outside of the classroom we engaged in a multitude of activities. Such activities included: paintball, cooking lessons, playing basketball, mini golf, and we also had a chance to go white water rafting. Furthermore, we would also go off campus to go to Taiwan’s famed night markets and see much of the countries attractions. As we went around the country, our main type of transportation was a tour bus.

After two weeks we left Hua Lien and began our escapade through Taiwan, traveling to see native aboriginal tribes such as the Amei Zhu to traveling off the coast of Taiwan to Green Island, where many tourists enjoy tropical weather and natural hot springs. We also traveled through major metropolitan cities such as Tai Chong and even met with the mayor himself.

I would say that one of my favorite aspects about Taiwan would be the food. The Taiwanese food is amazing with a multitude of tastes that vary from those in America. For example, their Asian version of Kentucky Fried Chicken was succulent and tasty. What is also a sight to see are the profuse amounts of Seven Elevens located all over the country. At almost every block a Seven Eleven can be found, so I was never short of a midnight snack if I wanted one. Yum!

All in all I believe that this trip to Taiwan was a trip of a lifetime, something that I will cherish in my memory forever. On this trip, American cultures and Taiwanese culture were stirred and my own Taiwanese roots were touched. I highly recommend anyone who wants an adventure, which likes to try new things, and wants to have fun to attend the United Horizon Foundation’s voyage to the exotic and bustling country of Taiwan.

-Jeff Tsai