Tamsui is located north of the city near the river mouth into the East Sea. This area has a colourful colonial history. The Spanish were the first Europeans to arrive, followed by the Dutch, then Chinese immigrants. The British came after the port opened to foreign trade in 1860 and tea was exported out of here. Some of the architecture remains today.
Oxford College was the first Western university on the island. The building was used from 1882 to 1901 as a boys' school thanks to funding from George Mackay's hometown friends. Mackay was a Canadian missionary who married a local and lived in the area until his death in 1901.
Neighbouring streets also have more historical buildings that are now part of Aletheia University.
Taiwan has no shortage of good street food. Having been to many night markets in the city already, I ventured further afield to Luodong, about an hour away by bus, to see what the locals like.
A cold lemon drink only sets you back 40 Taiwan Dollars. With an exchange rate of 30 to 1 USD, it is a bargain by international standards. How much do you pay for a bubble tea back home?
Taiwan produces lots of guavas and they are delicious!