Part 1: Taiwan
Spirited Away
There’s something magical about starting a trip surrounded by the people who mean the most to you.
As my partner and I embark on this trip, we couldn’t think of a better way to start our vacation than by spending time with our closest friends before setting off as two lovers. Reflecting on last year, I realize I didn’t get to experience Taiwan—our trip was so brief that we missed the chance to embrace the beauty this country holds.
This time, I’m deeply grateful to the couple whose special day brought us here. They’ve gathered all my favorite people in one place, creating unforgettable memories. Sharing this trip with my partner makes it even more meaningful, and it will forever hold a special place in my heart.
Once we settled in, my first mission was to find a nail salon. I Googled one that was a 15-minute walk from where we are staying at which was the Grand Hyatt Hotel. I’m always curious to see how salons operate in Asia, and in Taiwan, it was fascinating to experience a completely different approach compared to getting my nails done in Orange County.
Congratulations sweet friends❤️
Since I had Gel X on, I paid close attention as the technician used her drill to remove the hard gel. Despite our language barrier, we were able to communicate brokenly to make the shape and nail art happen.
Narrow Alley in Jiǔfèn
Shrimping!
What stood out the most was the technician’s incredible attention to detail and the kindness of the women in the salon. She spent three hours perfecting my nails, slaying some of the most tedious work I’ve ever seen. She ensured no polish touched my skin, and her confidence with her tools made me feel completely at ease.
As a spa owner, I know how much the little details matter—they’re what clients notice and remember. Watching her passion for her craft was both inspiring and a reminder of the value of meticulous care in creating exceptional experiences.
Moving on to our first group adventure in Taiwan was Shrimping!—a two-hour fishing experience that, for me, resulted in catching just one shrimp..boohooo!! Last year I was a pro at it! Despite the slim catch, it was pure joy to watch everyone immerse themselves in something so unique and far removed from anything we’d experience back home. The jet lag eventually caught up with my partner and me, and we called it an early night.
The next morning, we hopped on an hour-long bus ride to Jiǔfèn, a really charming village! Growing up, I was captivated by Hayao Miyazaki’s Studio Ghibli films, and Spirited Away has always been one of my favorites. Jiǔfèn’s narrow alleys, steep stairways, and densely packed buildings perfectly capture the spirit of Miyazaki’s world, and it’s no wonder the village became a tourism hotspot after the film’s release in 2001. We had the most incredible group lunch at the restaurant nestled within the iconic scene that over looked the whole city.
Afterward, we made our way to Shifen Village for the lantern experience. This experience was giving me Repunzel vibes. It was one of the most magical sights I’ve ever seen! Standing at the heart of the village, where the train once passed through, we were surrounded by happy faces as everyone released their wishes into the sky. Each color of the paper lantern held a unique meaning, making the act of writing our intentions on each hue feel deeply powerful and filled with hope.
Being in Taiwan stirred up so many childhood memories. It felt as though I was meant to be here, reconnecting with my inner child and reigniting the creativity that’s always been a part of me. If you’ve ever watched a Studio Ghibli movie, you’ll understand the deep sense of connection and love they inspire—reminding us to be brave and trust that family will always be there to support us, no matter where life takes us 💖
Iconic Spirited Away scene located in Taiwan
