Category: My Indoor and Outdoor Photography

Beautiful Flowers of Taiwan

By livelifeandlove on March 5, 2019

Foggy and windy it may be during winter but the charm and scenic beauty draw thousands of visitors yearly. Aside from the beautiful Sun Moon Lake, Sunrise Alishan, Taroko National Park, one attraction to behold when you are in Taiwan are the winter bloomers, any paths where plants are in full bloom, you’ll see surprising variety of lovely blossoms and colorful blooms.

My Taiwan journey from one destination to the next, gives me the opportunity to capture beautiful photos of all kinds from food to fashion, Michelin star restaurants, sunrise, stunning pagodas, mountain scenic areas, Shilin night market and now, these beautiful flowers.

Taiwan’s climate allowed spontaneous growth of beautiful flowers during each season that blends with assorted group of Tung flowers, Red Maples, Lavender, Plum flowers, Cypresses and Cherry Blossom like those at Nantou on the side of Sun Moon Lake and Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village.

Most flowers have their own limited season to bloom but when it’s winter, you can’t expect each of them to flower. A stroll within Alishan National Forest Recreation Area just beside Ho Fong Villa Hotel, you’ll find delightful blooms around.

Lisianthus flowers, a rare beauty with stunning elegance.

Misty Pink Lisianthus, an elegant rose-like flower.

Not so far away, the most preserved botanical garden trees and flowers.

Cool season trees loved for their winter colors, all flowers that comes in nearly every color and range.

Impressive Scarlet Fire Thorn which is well known for its bright red berries that last through much of winter and fall.

Scarlet Fire Thorn white flowers are small and extremely numerous often covering much of the plant. Full sun leads to more flowers. The orange-red fruits ripen in September and last through the winter.

As well as mountain slopes, the wild mountain Sakura.

Cherry Blossom trees in bloom is a wow factor in the city

Cherry Blossoms on mountain ridge looks like an isolated wilderness…

White orchids

Orchid flowers in all colors are available in Taiwan

Deep Purple orchids

Purple spotted orchids

Widely grown cool season petunias.

Petunias striking colors and unusual forms.

Two color combination Petunias

Deep Purple Petunias

Soft Purple Petunias

Glorious pink flowering plants

Other popular varieties on mountain slopes.

A delightful welcome to greet you in front of Ful Won Hotel

Stunning orchids around Taichung

Phalaenopsis Jane Almquist

Deep yellow rose

Colorful display greatly appreciated, other winter flowers are beginning to burst into bloom. A few, they bloom every month.

Orange winter foliage

Delightful and most reliably colorful brilliant red in color.

Charming blooms

Stunning double color combinations

Beautiful violet orchids

Beautiful landscape in Taichung as a part of Taichung World Flora Exposition

Taichung World Flora Exposition next post…

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My Indoor and Outdoor Photography | Travel and Adventure

Majestic Sunlit Mountain Peak of Alishan

By livelifeandlove on March 4, 2019

The majestic beauty of sunlit mountain peak will reveal the extraordinary winter coloring they take on at sunset. The challenging peak is a part of mountaineering, the panoramic views surrounding the mountains and cliffs leading from Yunlin down to Alishan, it’s totally enchanting and almost mystical in beauty.

We made a quick stop along the mountain ridge of Yunlin country ( Western Taiwan) on our way to Alishan from Nantou. It was about sunset time, I just can’t resist the dazzling charm of the mountain.

Stunning Winter Colors of Mountain Peak

If you love sunset landscape and mountain peaks, this is the place to head for, Alishan National Scenic Area Chiayi County, Alishan Township

Note: For this month, you’ll see more spectacular panoramas of the entire Taiwan, See you next post…

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My Indoor and Outdoor Photography | Travel and Adventure

Sunrise Alishan

By livelifeandlove on March 1, 2019

Together with my family in Chiayi, we had a delightful stay in Ho Fong Villa Hotel. The hotel is ideally located within Alishan Forest Recreation Area, a very convenient access to all tourist spots and nearest to the foot of Alishan Forest Railway Station. (From our hotel to the train station is just a 15-minute walk and 8-minute drive)

Alishan National Scenic Area is in Central Taiwan, best known for its fascinating sunrises, high peak mountains, tea production and home to Tsou aboriginal villages. Keeping a lot of things in mind and running on a tight vacation schedule, we still have 4 days left after Alishan and set-off to Taichung the next day. Day-wise activities carried in conformity that was already arranged ahead of time.

Ho Fong Villa Hotel

Alishan Sunrise

An hour train journey to reach Alishan (Ali mountain), we must be there ahead of time before the sun rises in the east. We woke up 3 am to catch the early train, I’m an early riser, the kind who wake up instantly as other family members are difficult to wake up in the morning. On our way to Alishan Forest Railway station, it was still dark, cold and getting short of breath to climb the highest stairway, it was a bit strenuous but a good workout. Alishan’s winter record drops 6°C, I was wearing all 3 layers top fit to protect me from winter freeze.

Around 4 am, railway station was crowded, hundreds of people lining up for trains. Way up, train running by forested ridge of mountains and unspoiled forest for an hour. Upon arriving to the final station and again, we need to climb another stairway.

My Alishan Forest Train Ticket

We arrived at the summit around 5 am, we need to wait for an hour for the sunrise. What a sight! By any standard, one of the most spectacular mountain range I’ve ever seen. Visiting Alishan is really a mystery and surprise!

From my experience, sunrise takes about 5 minutes that’s why, you need to be there beforehand.

My effort paid-off! I was rewarded by the awe-inspiring scenery and the most beautiful sunrise above clouds in winter.

Sun rising above horizon is totally different from sunset that appears below horizon. The banyan tree standing before the sunrise.

Sunrise above clouds. The green, blue and foggy mountains with sea of clouds above.

My viewing point, I’m uncomfortable to capture with the presence of too many people beside me.

You can see on this photo the geographical features of Alishan.

First silhouette clouds

The silhouette of mountains against dawn looks like a watercolor painting.

To experience the beautiful sunrise, don’t miss to visit Alishan, it was the most magical place I’ve ever visited. Taiwan has a diverse landscape and lots to offer for travelers. Capture your sunrise moments. Book to the nearest recreation area.

Alishan National Forest Recreation Area

Taiwan, Chiayi County, Alishan Township, 59號

My Taiwan adventure will not end up here, more beautiful attractions next post..

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My Indoor and Outdoor Photography | Travel and Adventure | Wildlife/Animals/Pets

Qingjing Farm Green Green Grassland

By livelifeandlove on February 22, 2019

It’s a dreamy land where hills are alive! Qingling farm best known as the”Paradise above the Mist” the sublime view of the natural landscape under the blazing sun formed by a vast open pasture. The beautiful mountains and foothills around with a cotton-like clouds above blue skies and the background scene of adorable sheep leisurely grazing on the green green grassland is simply breathtaking.

However, others often referred to as a ”Little Switzerland” is perched in the Central mountains of Taiwan. Qingjing farm is situated at altitude 1,750 above sea level with unpredictable temperature between day and night and scenery changes with the season. The farm produces alpine vegetables, fruits, teas and flowers. It also offers leisurely outdoor activities; Spring flower viewing, maple leaf watching in the autumn, snow flakes watching during winter, wide tea plantation, it has so much to offer.

Before entering the farm, you must purchase your tickets at the entrance counter ( Just a reasonable admission fees) that includes 4 areas; Green Green Grassland, Guanshan Pastoral Area, South Business Circle, Shoushan Park ( Nature theatre) It is strictly forbidden to feed the animals ( sheep, horses) with left-overs. You can only feed the animals using animal feed provided by the park. Be sure to read all the guidelines regarding on-farm visitors.

Shearing show is also a special attraction. Sheep ranching nowadays can lure tourists, it’s a special attraction unlike before it’s just a livestock, raising some is much rewarding. I remember the stories of my grandma back to primitive. According to my grandma, ” wealth before is being judged by a number of cattle a person owned. Lol ! Nowadays is totally different….

Green Green Grassland stretches far and wide, it is an undeniable peaceful pasture and the sweetest I’ve ever experienced to bond with the flocks.

Splendid scenery fascinate all those who have experienced them.

The uphill climb stretches into a distance..

Beautiful lamb house and wall design. I love it!

The Sheep Shearing Machine Station , a place to shear-off the sheep coat. Without this machine, the sheep can cause to become overheated and die. It is also for their health and hygiene.

Equally fun and enjoyable to bond with my new friends down there…

Human-Animal Bond

Up- close and personal social relationship with the sheep. It was my first time to touch these animals perhaps, this would be my most unforgettable memories to bring home…

What you can see here is something I don’t usually get to do back home, feeding a sheep is fun.

At first, I was having a hard time to get their attention, they can’t keep still.

With too many sheep around, I’m uncertain if I can domesticate one in just a minute. What I need is a friendly one.

Wooo! to my surprise! It works! He’s so sweet and gentle but I can’t take the smell. The woolen fleece so thick and fluffy but it was too dry, rough and brittle.

This one I think, has a long overdue haircut !

How beautiful! It’s really a peaceful pasture.

How do you lure a sheep? Perhaps, Graham knows more than me…

Holding an animal feed to attract them.That’s it!

Using preferred food. He’s enjoying …

Being called-off bringing in one group . I was waiting for the guard dog to drive the sheep.

Green Green Grassland beautiful sunset

Looking for the shepherd boy to watch the flock of sheep and his master…. It’s a goodnight time for the herd.

Fruit section at the entrance available here. A great place to buy fresh fruits and quality is good.

Fresh local fruits of Taiwan

Luscious fruits, I did purchase some for only 100 NT any 3 kinds of your choice.

Qingjing farm Green Green Grassland is a must visit attraction. As in Taiwan, people are looking forward to continued growth and progress.

Visit Taiwan’s Qingjing Farm

Address: Renhe Road, Ren’ai Township, Nantou County, Taiwan

More Taiwan attractions coming up next post….

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Gardening/Greenery/Garden Insects | My Indoor and Outdoor Photography | Travel and Adventure

Cherry Blossoms Taiwan

By livelifeandlove on February 20, 2019

On our journey to Wuling farm, we came across cherry blossom trees blooming beautifully along the mountainside. We decided to make a quick stop to snap some photos. While it might not be the perfect spot, the stunning display of pink hues is bound to thrill any cherry blossom enthusiast.

Cherry blossom usually begins to bloom early spring, this may happen mid-February to mid-April definitely,Spring is usually the prime time to enjoy the beauty of these flowers, but during our trip to Taiwan, we found ourselves in winter. December isn’t the ideal month for flower spotting. Fortunately, I managed to see some early blooms, which appeared sooner than anticipated, adding a lovely touch to the winter landscape.

Winter chills, the rain was falling, and the temperature had fallen below 7 °C. It was quite chilly, and I found myself shivering, having neglected to wear my winter gloves. Other areas of my body were losing heat rapidly, but I needed to persevere. The fierce winds howled through the fog-laden Wuling mountains, making it increasingly difficult to walk. Wuling Mountain, standing at an elevation of 3,275 meters, is the highest point along the Taiwanese highway.

There’s something enchanting about being up here on a chilly morning, taking a stroll to soak in the stunning views of the cherry blossoms and the mountains.

Seasonal Celebrations

To commence the year with vibrant festivities, the Cherry Blossom Festival at Sun Moon Lake takes place every February, featuring a variety of events that emphasize themes of nature, culture, and environmental conservation. The pathways around Sun Moon Lake and the Formosan Aboriginal Culture are alive with enjoyable celebrations. Throughout February, the stunning hues of the cherry blossoms can be admired, particularly in the enchanting nighttime displays.

Here’s the path that takes you to the mountain peak, and the breathtaking view at the summit is a fantastic reward for everyone who makes the climb.

Looking down from the viewpoint
Photography location: Wuling mountain

A handful of flowers drooping from a sudden winter breeze, while the stunning mountain scenery steals the spotlight, was captured in an instant.

Cherry Blossoms Taiwan
Photography location: Qingjing Farm

A cherry blossom tree stands solitary amidst the lush Green Green Grassland of Qingjing Farm.

Cherry Blossoms Taiwan
Photography location: Wuling mountain

Cherry Blossom photos taken in different parts of Taiwan

The delightful nectar of cherry blossoms draws in a variety of birds. This particularly attractive species is a winter visitor frequently observed in this area. I find it challenging to identify it, as I have encountered a similar bird during our visit to Alishan Township.

Photography location: Alishan mountain

Birds gliding above the treetops have minimal opportunity to catch sight of a small creature that retreats further into the underbrush. Their brief flights, characterized by sharp turns and the rustling of leaves, shift my perspective upward. I find myself in an unsuitable position for photography beneath the tree, and the nearby woodlands of Alishan provide the birds with an easy escape, complicating my efforts to capture the moment.

The most visible kind of birds during winter, they prefer open habitat with shrubs and trees for nesting and cover.

I’ve planned a half-day birdwatching adventure in the Wuling mountains and then I’m heading to Alishan. I’m keeping track of all the species I spot and snap photos of, but I haven’t seen many so far. I’m still trying to figure out how winter birds manage their schedules!

Best places to see Cherry Blossoms or Sakura filled places

Alishan National Scenic Area
Wuling Farm
Sun Moon Lake
Formosan Aboriginal Culture- regarded as the best cherry blossom spot

Don’t miss it! Taiwan sights and more. Taipeh 101, Sun Moon Lake, Wuling Mountain, Sunrise Alishan, Qingjing green green grassland, Golden Waterfall, Night life, Night market and Dining. See you next posts…

Note: Lovely note down there will brighten my day!

Thanks for reading my blog!

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My Indoor and Outdoor Photography | Travel and Adventure

Sun Moon Lake Sunrise

By livelifeandlove on February 15, 2019

Serenity and tranquility winter here in Taiwan, I was enjoying a hot cup of coffee when the first light of the day appeared. It was a peaceful morning mood, my choice of viewpoint at the right side of the balcony, it’s the best view spot, seems inviting to capture with the blue and yellow reflections of the sun on water. The horizon ringed with hills, quiet winter landscape seems to fill the picture with calmness, the natural beauty of Sun Moon Lake and striking scene of sunrise come together in perfect union.
Sun Moon Lake Sunrise, taken on the misty morning of December 26, 2018 from the balcony of our hotel room. Location: Miracolo View Hotel Yuchi , Nantou Country Taiwan.

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My Indoor and Outdoor Photography | Travel and Adventure

Panoramic View of Sun Moon Lake

By livelifeandlove on February 14, 2019

The beautiful view of Sun Moon Lake from the balcony of our hotel room, the lake appears remarkably close when viewed from the top of Miracolo View Hotel. Sun Moon Lake is one of the finest and most frequently visited tourist attraction in Taiwan.

The semi-circular landscape of Sun Moon Lake looks like a brilliant blue crescent in the morning, the ferry boats, nearby green mountains and lakeside trees reflected on a still morning and that makes the most beautiful attractions here in Nantou.

Miracolo View Hotel

Miracolo View Hotel, this lakefront hotel is 2 km from Shuishe Lakeside Trail and 6 km from Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village. In here, you’ll enjoy the fantastic view of the sunrise over the lake of mist, blue clouds and surrounding mountains. It was already late afternoon when we arrived here, we got a welcome Christmas treat, a handful of sweet goodies and chocolates from the hotel management. What a beautiful tradition ! Thank you so much!

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Events/ Holidays/ Special Occasions | My Indoor and Outdoor Photography | Travel and Adventure

Bamboo Pavilion of Fengyuan Huludun Park Expo Site

By livelifeandlove on February 1, 2019

Heralding the arrival of bamboo modernity, among the best loved architecture I’ve seen during my recent visit toTaichung. The magnificent Bamboo Pavilion of Fengyuan Huludun Park Expo Site considered as an absolute masterpiece illustrating Taiwanese interest in bamboo architecture.

The architectural trends using bamboo as the main material, the strength to weight ratio succeeds that of bricks and steel remarkably sustainable alternative for such projects. Bamboo Pavilion’s creative and structural element, refined and unique interior and exterior effect represents another turning point of a tropical country, the artistic talent accomplished by Taiwanese artists and bamboo architects.

**Bamboo Pavilion**
**Fengyuan Huludun Park Expo Site**
**Taichung, Taiwan**

Viewing directly from the front, the best way to fully appreciate the beautiful landscape is during sunset, warm lights you’ll enjoy the yellow-orange dramatic sky that gives substance offering a delightful welcome to those arriving tourists visiting Expo site.

Some photos taken during my Fengyuan Huludun visit

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Events/ Holidays/ Special Occasions | My Indoor and Outdoor Photography | Travel and Adventure

Balai ta Koman Caronan Farm Resort

By livelifeandlove on January 24, 2019

A visit to Peñablanca leads you to a discovery of a hidden paradise, it’s a perfect hideaway for a relaxing holiday. Cagayanos often talks about the beauty of this resort, a beautiful resort you shouldn’t miss when you are in Tuguegarao, the Balai ta Koman Caronan Farm Resort, a family run resort, it’s here where you can enjoy the exceptional comfort, beauty, affordability and convenience.

My friend Mimi from Tuguegarao invited me to have a brief visit to her aunt’s resort. All three of us; Mimi, Me and Miyam went over to the said place. For overall town view heading to the resort, you’ll pass through the scenic route overlooking the beautiful Pinacanauan river. Upon approaching the entrance, you’ll know immediately why it is called, ‘’ Balai ta Koman Caronan Farm Resort’’ When we were there, we were given a glimpse by Mimi’s aunt into some of their suites, we walked around admiring its vast space, we stopped often to take pictures. It’s just a short tour to show amenities the resort offers, it’s pretty-much everywhere.

What People love about Balai ta Koman Caronan Farm Resort

Note: Rooms and Rates below

Balai ta Koman Caronan Farm Resort located in Barangay Cabbo Peñablanca Cagayan, the resort situated amidst huge hectares of land with a beautifully manicured lawn and a lush tropical garden. Just 20-minutes drive away from Tuguegarao and 35-minutes from Tuguegarao Airport.

It’s your best advantage to book here. It is convenient for long staying travelers. From here, you can easily reach other popular tourist attractions nearby such as; Iguig Calvary Hills, Callao Cave, Sierra Cave to mention a few..

**Balai ta Koman Caronan Farm Resort Front Desk**

It offers many options for relaxation. From its dramatic edge farm view, the standard features enveloped by trees, mountains, a beautiful sunrise and sunset view, it really has the soothing energy of nature.

Tourists and vacationers from elsewhere in Cagayan tend to visit this resort, it’s been a favorite venue for many events, private functions, hosting conferences, corporate events, family reunions, birthdays, Bridal shower, baptismal, graduation ball, anniversary celebrations and wedding receptions.

Many people dream of getting away from a busy life by escaping to a paradise hideaway just like Balai ta Koman, it offers safe spaces for the kids, it’s also a family-friendly resort for summer outings and evening parties too.

The resort features a clean and modern guest room in a 3-storey building, cabana, pavilion, reception lounge, conference room, function room to accommodate your guests, stunning poolside with the magnificent background view of hills and mountains, tree-shaded parking space, sound entertainment system and a sparkling outdoor swimming pool which are primarily designed for daytime and overnight use.

Balai ta Koman divided into different phrases that provides comfortability and top presentation, each has its own unique characteristics.

**Balai ta Koman Caronan Farm Resort is naturally beautiful and clean, it’s quiet different from many other resorts.**

Balai ta Koman has undergone new developments and renovations, it allows you to feel the best that you are longing for. All suites with balconies that offers a wide view of the serene surroundings.

Outdoor Swimming Pool is wide enough to accommodate big families and group of friends.

Balai ta Caronan Farm Resort Wedding Reception and Venues

Note: Rooms and Rates Attached at the end of the article

Dream wedding usually comes true and this is also ideal for you if you have plans in the near future. Attractive lighting accent plays brilliant into the poolside.

**Romantic evening glow of a Poolside Wedding Reception**

**The eye catching wedding venue and poolside wedding ideas is truly sophisticated, charming and casually elegant.**

**Balai ta Koman Farm Resort, notable for their striking presentation.**

Balai ta Koman Caronan Farm Resort ~ Table Setting, Ideas and Decorations

One of the most important aspect of planning a wedding is deciding on what to eat and drink.

The ideal venue

For the gourmet, luscious concoctions of fruits and other delicate aspic creations.

Clarity is good , clear and clean table arrangement.

Romantic table setting

Festive evening atmosphere celebrating with family and friends.

This resort offers never ending series of courses to choose from.

Menus are native, western and other local favorites.

Focal glow when food commands attention as the background lights commands interest.

Truly authentic Filipino cuisine that we always crave for which can only be found in Balai ta Koman.

With a unique and sophisticated wedding platters, best of salads and buffet cookery on the table.

Elegant fruit dessert

Mama Meding’s 89th birthday celebration. A Boodle Fight style, big pile of native favorites are served in the middle of long table.

The authentic Filipino cuisine deliciously fresh with the best ingredient that people come to expect.

Experience the distinguishing features of a good resort for your next holiday vacation, Balai ta Koman Caronan Farm Resort is a perfect destination and a great host to everything you need, pampering awaits you here…

Thank you so much Grace Audrey Caronan

For Special Functions and Social events, reservations and Inquiries

Balai ta koman Caronan Farm and Hotel Resort

Address: Cabbo, Peñablanca Cagayan

Phone: For Booking Discounts Call – 0927 715 5851

ROOMS AND RATES

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Events/ Holidays/ Special Occasions | My Indoor and Outdoor Photography

Paskotitap Lights and Sound Float Parade 2018

By livelifeandlove on December 13, 2018

The evening parade last Sunday December 9, 2018 was truly spectacular! It’s already my 8th year of featuring the biggest and most awaited Christmas Electronic Float Parade. Paskotitap Christmas Lights and Sound Parade is an annual holiday event and a combination of float parade and dance competition. This year’s Paskotitap Christmas Lights and Sound Parade features 14 animated movie-themed floats; Lego Ninjago, Aquaman, Teen Titans, Justice League, Ant-Man, Venom to mention a few. ..

As like the previous years, each float has a new theme and new dimensions accompanied by the dance performers from participating schools:

Kapitolyo High School
Rizal High School
Dela Paz High School
Pinagbuhatan High School
Immaculada High School
Sta. Lucia High School
Nagpayong High School
Buting Senior High School
Pasig City Science High School
Sagad High School
Santolan High School
Eusebio High School
San Joaquin Kalawaan High School
Manggahan High School

The parade route starts at Tiendesitas Pasig and moves down to Dr. Sixto Antonio Avenue all the way to Pasig City Hall for the dance competition. Paskotitap performers (High school dance troupe) wearing their lavish costume perfectly designed and tailored to incorporate float animated theme. All floats illustrate their own theme together with musical sounds, costumed characters and light flashing effects. Truly fantastic!

Paskotitap Lights and Sound Float Parade Schedule
December 9, 2018
6:00 pm
Tiendesitas Pasig City

This holiday event is a big treat to everyone, thousands of people lined up to watch the parade, it is really a big draw of all ages. All animated floats perfectly designed and built by famous artists and other props by the students.

My particular thanks to all Paskotitap organizers, artists, float designers, participating schools, All sponsors, Rotary Club of Pasig, Lion’s club and to our beloved Mayor Maribel Eusebio.

Paskotitap Lights and Sound Float Parade 2018

I would like to congratulate all Paskotitap Dance Competition Winners

1st Runner Up – Nagpayong High School
2nd Runner Up – Kapitolyo High School

Congratulations also to all dancers, choreographers and teachers. The Salayaw Dance Company is the official Dance Group of Nagpayong High School, Congratulations !

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