Reflection: Taiwan

This was my 4^th time on Taiwanese soil, but in reality it was only my second time getting to explore Taiwan.  Although I was only there in December of 2011 (not even 3 years ago), I found this trip to be completely different from that one.

This time around, I noticed that Taiwan wasn’t quite as developed as I had remembered it to be.  I’m wondering if it has anything to do with the fact that the last time I was there, I went from Guangzhou and this time, I went from Canada.  Perhaps, now that I’ve re-adjusted to a Western lifestyle, Taiwan seems a great deal more undeveloped to me?  I’m not sure.

Just like Japan, I really don’t understand the garbage can situation in Taiwan.  Is it something that the government just doesn’t want to spend money on?  Or is it really not necessary?  My sister had mentioned before that in Japan, people just carry their garbage around until they get home and have a chance to throw it out.  I don’t think Taiwan is as extreme, but even in many places, such as night markets and the streets of Jiufen where there are 10 food vendors within 20 steps, they don’t have garbage cans.  I heard that people just give the garbage right back to the vendors after they’re done, but isn’t part of the charm of street food being able to enjoy it while walking around on the streets?

One thing that has not changed, is the mannerisms of the people.  It’s still as wonderful as before.  People are so kind and polite and go out of their way to help you.  We were wondering about their school system and how they immerse this culture into everyone on the island there.  It really is incredible to see how kind and polite everyone is.   My dad mentioned that it’s easier for countries to educate their citizens when they’re not quite as poor.  Well, yes, but this kind of goes back to my point earlier about thinking that Taiwan isn’t quite as developed as it could be.  Surely, if that was the case, Western countries would be the most polite places in the world, but we all know that’s far from the truth!

Another friend of mine had mentioned once that back in the 40s when the Communists gained control of China and the KMT were required to escape to Taiwan, most of these people who retreated to Taiwan were highly educated political figures.  They brought with them civilized mannerisms that were lacking in much of China.  Because of this, Taiwan was able to develop into a very well-mannered and courteous society.  I’m not sure how much truth there is in this, but it does kind of make sense.

All I know is that Taiwan is still one of my favourite countries in the world and I know I’ll be back again.