Hualien was the first place that I was on my own in Taiwan and I was terrified. I was on what I was hoping the right train. Then I got off in what I hoped was Hualien. Then I walked what I hoped was the right direction to get to my hostel. Then I stood outside my hostel and hoped someone would let me in. Then I checked in and hoped I would meet people. That was the only thing that didn’t happen.
I spent my time there wandering around aimlessly and drinking coffee. I was avoiding eating because I couldn’t read anything and couldn’t tell what restaurants were even open. I was too cold and too unprepared. I was actually by myself the whole time and the only one in a six person dorm. But I still really liked Hualien.
The streets felt festive for the New Year. The little pink cookie things I found were delicious. The girls that worked at my hostel were super friendly and helpful. I walked twenty minutes the wrong direction, but ended up at a little pavilion by a river instead.
Things might not always seem that good at first, but they get better. Everyone I met there, which really wasn’t all that many people, was really nice and was willing to help if I needed it. I probably would have packed up and gone home if Hualien didn’t go well. Maybe not home, but I would have gone anywhere else. I’m glad it went well.
Helpful things:
- It’s super easy to get here by train from Taipei and Kenting.
- Spend an afternoon just wandering around the market. There is so much to see.
- If you’re there on a weekend, go to the Cultural and Creative Industrial park. It’s a great place to get local souvenirs.
- Don’t be afraid to just wander around. I felt totally safe here on my own and I even got myself fairly lost, but I found a great park by the river, so it was alright.
- It’s a great base for visiting Taroko Gorge.
Have you been to Hualien? What did you do there? What did you think of it? Do you want to go?
Hualien was great. We only spent 2 days there but we loved it! Do you have internet while you’re wandering around? Google Translate app can be your new best friend!
I did have Internet while I was there and it helped immensely! I don’t know what I would have done without it.