thepinaytraveler

Jeremiah 29:11

Pages

  • Home
  • About
  • Contact

Pages

  • Read
  • Watch
  • My Books

🚌 Travel Blog Ep. 5: From Tamsui to Yehliu: A Scenic Bus Journey Along Taiwan’s North Coast (Day 2 - Part 1)

Sunday, August 17, 2025

 


🌅 Introduction


There’s something magical about letting the road guide you along Taiwan’s rugged north coast. The bus ride from Tamsui to Yehliu Geopark isn’t just a transfer — it’s a moving postcard, with every curve revealing another slice of coastal beauty. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this route offers a perfect blend of nature, culture, and seaside charm.



🗺️ The Route at a Glance


The 716 Crown Northern Coast Shuttle links MRT Tamsui Station to Yehliu Geopark, tracing Provincial Highway 2. Along the way, you’ll pass:

  • Qianshui Bay – A tranquil beach perfect for a morning stroll.

  • Baisha Bay – Known for its soft white sand and calm waters.

  • Fugui Cape Lighthouse – Taiwan’s northernmost point, with panoramic ocean views.

  • Shimen Arch – A striking natural rock formation shaped by the sea.

  • Juming Museum – An open-air art space showcasing the works of sculptor Ju Ming.

  • Jinshan Old Street – A foodie’s haven with traditional snacks and hot spring culture.


📸 Why This Ride is Special


  • Ever-changing scenery — From fishing villages to dramatic cliffs, the view never gets old.

  • Cultural gems — The route blends natural wonders with art, history, and local life.

  • Budget-friendly adventure — A one-way trip costs around NT$90, or grab a Taipei Fun Pass for unlimited rides.


🏞️ Yehliu Geopark: The Grand Finale

Your journey ends at Yehliu Geopark, famous for its otherworldly rock formations like the Queen’s Head, Fairy Shoe, and Sea Candles. The contrast of golden rock against the deep blue sea is a photographer’s dream.


💡 Travel Tips

  • Best time to go: Clear days between October and April for crisp views.

  • Seating hack: Sit on the right side of the bus for the best coastal panoramas.

  • Pack light: Bring water, sunscreen, and a camera — you’ll be hopping off often.


✨ Final Thoughts

This isn’t just a bus ride — it’s a curated journey through Taiwan’s north coast, where every stop tells a story. If you’re looking to slow down, soak in the scenery, and discover hidden treasures, the Tamsui-to-Yehliu route is your ticket.

read more

Tuesdays with Morrie: Life Lessons on Gratitude, Death, and Eternal Hope

Saturday, August 16, 2025


Tuesdays With Morrie is a book that I got to know through a friend. I saw one of his online posts, and didn’t waste my time having a second look. It was just one of the many passing updates on my news feed from my online friends which I rarely put too much attention to.

It started with curiosity and a book that was on sale at Goodwill. It was cheap and I could afford it hehe

The book left me with the impression that nothing is forever. Nothing lasts for eternity. Well, except for the One who is Eternity.

People come and go. They stay for a season and a reason. Some choose to stay, some choose to leave, and some just have no choice but to submit to the natural way of life, which one of them is death.

Humans die. Human death is a dead end, everyone must face it. To leave the physical world is something that no one could ever run away from.

But the memories we create with our loved ones, with the people who stay for a season and a reason worth all the struggle and pain we face in life. The experience of being alive and living and loving the moment is a gift from the One who lasts for eternity.

The present is a gift I am in the process of consistently trying to be grateful for. I can be an overthinker sometimes and that ruins the gift of the present. I am always praying to have a grateful heart, a heart that is overflowing with gratitude. In good times and bad times, I desire to be grateful to the LORD.

The attitude of gratitude is a good way of living a good life, of no regrets, of contentment, and of joy.

I hope and pray we also find peace as we journey to a life that is filled with gratitude to the One who stays and lasts forever.
‭1 Thessalonians 5:18 NIV‬
[18] give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.

read more

🐼 Taiwan Blog Ep. 4: A Wild First Day in Taipei

Friday, August 15, 2025


If you're dreaming of a vibrant mix of nature, culture, and cityscapes, Taiwan delivers—and this vlog proves it. In Taiwan Vlog Ep. 4: Day 1 in Taiwan | Taipei Zoo, Maokong Gondola, Taipei 101, the creator kicks off their Taiwan adventure with a jam-packed itinerary that blends wildlife encounters, scenic gondola rides, and towering urban marvels.



🦁 Stop 1: Taipei Zoo – Where the Wild Things Are


The day begins at the Taipei Zoo, one of Asia’s largest and most diverse zoos. From giant pandas to exotic birds, the vlog showcases the zoo’s lush environment and well-designed habitats. It’s not just a place for kids—animal lovers of all ages will appreciate the thoughtful layout and the chance to see rare species up close.


🚡 Stop 2: Maokong Gondola – Floating Above the Tea Fields


Next up is the Maokong Gondola, a scenic cable car ride that offers sweeping views of Taipei’s green hills and tea plantations. The vlog captures the peaceful ascent into the mountains, where the air is cooler and the pace slower. It’s the perfect contrast to the buzz of the city, and a great spot to sip some locally grown oolong tea.


🏙️ Stop 3: Taipei 101 – Touching the Sky


No trip to Taipei is complete without a visit to Taipei 101, once the tallest building in the world. The vlog wraps up with a glimpse of this architectural marvel, highlighting its sleek design and the panoramic views from the observation deck. Whether you're into engineering, photography, or just love a good skyline, Taipei 101 is a must-see.



✈️ Final Thoughts

This vlog is a fantastic primer for anyone planning a trip to Taiwan. It balances nature and city life, offering a taste of what makes Taipei so special. From cuddly pandas to sky-high towers, Day 1 sets the tone for an unforgettable journey.

Ready to plan your own adventure? Let this vlog be your guide—and don’t forget to pack your sense of wonder.


read more

🌏 Taiwan Blog Episode 3: Day 0 — From Manila to Taipei

Wednesday, August 13, 2025

 


The thrill of travel begins long before you reach your destination. In Episode 3 of this Taiwan Vlog series, we dive into “Day 0” — the official start of the journey from NAIA (Ninoy Aquino International Airport) in Manila to the vibrant streets of Taipei. It’s a day filled with excitement, anticipation, and the subtle chaos that only travel days can bring.

✈ Departure Vibes at NAIA


The vlog opens with scenes from NAIA, capturing the familiar hustle of airport life:

  • Last-minute packing and check-in lines

  • The bittersweet feeling of leaving home

  • Boarding the flight with a mix of nerves and excitement

It’s a relatable moment for any traveler — that liminal space between the comfort of home and the unknown of adventure.


🇹🇼 First Glimpse of Taiwan


Upon arrival in Taipei, the energy shifts. The vlog gives us a peek at:

  • The clean, efficient airport experience

  • First impressions of the city’s skyline

  • A sense of calm mixed with curiosity as the journey truly begins

Even though it’s just Day 0, the video sets the tone for what’s to come: food, culture, and exploration.


🎥 Why This Episode Stands Out


  • Authenticity: It’s not overly polished — it feels real, like you’re traveling with a friend.

  • Pacing: The vlog doesn’t rush. It lets the moments breathe, which makes it easy to connect with.

  • Visual storytelling: From airport signage to street scenes, every frame adds to the narrative.


🧳 Final Thoughts


Day 0 is more than a travel day — it’s the emotional launchpad of the entire trip. This episode captures that beautifully, making it a perfect entry point for viewers who want to follow the Taiwan adventure from the very beginning.

read more
new old
Subscribe to: Posts (Atom)

Order Now The Restless Mind Print Copy

The Restless Mind
Manocot, Arlene
Buy Now

Hello

Hello
living a purposeful life grace after grace

Featured

Book Review & Full Book Cover Reveal: The Restless Mind
Good day y’all!  Good news, I just released a book for my birthday. I’ve been self-publishing for almost ten years. I am happy doing that, a...

Archive

  • August 2025
  • July 2025
  • May 2025
  • April 2025
  • March 2025
  • February 2025
  • January 2025
  • December 2024
  • August 2024
  • July 2024
  • June 2024
  • May 2024
  • April 2024
  • February 2024
  • January 2024
  • November 2023
  • October 2023
  • September 2023
  • August 2023
  • July 2023
  • May 2023
  • March 2023
  • February 2023
  • January 2023
  • December 2022
  • October 2022
  • September 2022
  • July 2022
  • June 2022
  • May 2022
  • February 2022
  • January 2022
  • December 2021
  • November 2021
  • October 2021
  • September 2021
  • August 2021
  • July 2021
  • June 2021
  • May 2021
  • April 2021
  • March 2021
  • February 2021
  • January 2021
  • December 2020
  • November 2020
  • August 2020
  • July 2020
  • June 2020
  • May 2020
  • April 2020
  • November 2019
  • September 2019
  • July 2019
  • June 2019
  • May 2017
  • April 2017
  • January 2017
  • December 2016
  • November 2016
  • October 2016
  • September 2016
  • August 2016
  • July 2016
  • June 2016
  • May 2016
  • April 2016
  • March 2016
  • February 2016
  • January 2016
  • December 2015
  • November 2015
  • October 2015
  • September 2015

Donation Cube

Donation Cube
Donations are very much appreciated to keep this website running. I hope and pray my stories inspire you.

Goodreads

Arlene Manocot's books on Goodreads
Once Summer Days Once Summer Days (Fangirling Series, Book 3)
ratings: 4 (avg rating 4.25)

My Hopeless Case My Hopeless Case (Fangirling Series, Book 1)
ratings: 3 (avg rating 5.00)

Chasing an Elusive Dream Chasing an Elusive Dream (Fangirling Series, Book 2)
ratings: 3 (avg rating 5.00)

Yearning for the One Yearning for the One
reviews: 1
ratings: 2 (avg rating 3.00)

The Gung Ho Lady The Gung Ho Lady (Gung Ho Series, #1)
reviews: 1
ratings: 1 (avg rating 5.00)

Popular Posts

  • Self-publishing 101: How to register as an Author/Writer with Philippine NBDB?
    As a self-published author, I had a little desire of registering with NBDB. I thought the process was tedious so I decided to forego the ide...
  • Taiwan Blog (Episode 1): Flights, Hotel, and Tour
    Taiwan is one of my dream destinations. My desire to got to this country is rooted from the Taiwanese drama I used to watch with my cousin w...
  • Taiwan Blog (Episode 2): Pack with Me on a Hot and Humid Day
    I started packing for my Taiwan Trip with all my toiletries, first aid kit, shoes, and clothes my suitcase was pretty much packed and ready,...
  • Self-publishing 101: How to apply ISBN for your self-published books from NLP online?
    Do you want to sell your books through a physical bookstore just like me? As a self-published author, one of my dreams is to see my books in...
Copyright 2012-2022.. Powered by Blogger.
© thepinaytraveler.
Made by SoulMuse.