Campus & Travel Stories 

Sometimes, I secretly wish I wouldn't get so jealous of how people live in Taiwan. Seriously, with such a peaceful and orderly environment, Taiwanese people really know how to enjoy the good life. Just look at their public facilities—at least here in Douliu, Yunlin, a suburban county, there's a huge park right in the middle of the city with incredibly complete facilities. There's a lush green space—we call it Squirrel Park—complete with a massive, super aesthetic, cinematic outdoor gazebo, colorful park lights, and even a skateboard park. It's got it all. And the best part? It's open to everyone: 100% free!

Don't even get me started on comfort and safety. When it comes to this, the locals are absolute champions. As far as the eye can see, everything is perfectly maintained. If anything is broken, it's just out of old age, never intentional damage. Forget about vandalism or graffiti; finding even a tiny piece of plastic trash is next to impossible—unless it's in a trash can, of course.

Maybe they bring their own water bottles? Some do, but definitely not everyone! Taiwanese locals absolutely love their tea. And obviously, Boba Tea—that legendary iced milk tea with boba toppings—is quintessentially Taiwan. Especially with summer just around the corner. But still, you'll never find a single piece of trash tossed around carelessly here, including in this Squirrel Park.

Parking attendants? Try asking a local, and I'm 100% absolutely sure that profession doesn't even exist in their vocabulary. Same goes for beggars, street musicians, cigarette stall keepers, and a whole bunch of other activities that people back home often count as jobs. It's like God completely kept the imagination of these professions away from the minds of Taiwanese people.

Everything is kept so safe and neat, I have no idea how they pull it off. It’s still a total mystery to me.

Even this late, families are flocking here. Kids are dragging their own cases—probably roller skates, since they just came off the skateboard track in Squirrel Park. Young people are enjoying themselves too, looks like they're making TikToks or something; I saw two young girlfriends laughing out loud in front of their smartphone, looking so incredibly happy.

And let's not forget the seniors! They're actively power-walking, doing their late-night exercises, and then catching up with friends under this giant gazebo. Don't ask me what they're talking about so enthusiastically; I really tried to understand. But for some reason, my ears just can't process it.

Oh right, I've only been in Mandarin class for a week, and even this week is off because of midterms. No wonder! 😁

Next time, if I get the chance, I'll continue this piece. Feel free to drop your questions about Taiwan and all its quirks in the comments below, and I'll try my best to answer. No promises, but I'll definitely give it a shot. Insha Allah.

Cheers,

Warm regards from Douliu Squirrel Park