il Giardino Romantico

這是我第二次來傳藝。第一次來的時候記得也是下雨。當天因為是跟志工團來的，所以報名了騎單車遊冬山河的行程。一邊要顧相機（當時還在用別人的單眼），一邊要騎車還真的是有給他困難！這次我們抵達的時候天氣不算差，但心裡想：這裡是宜蘭！所以傘當然是隨身帶著。這天沒有什麼特別的目的，就是想要隨興的晃。隨便用個午餐（真的很隨便所以連食記都懶得寫），然後就看能在這裡晃到多久囉！
This is my second visit to National Center for Traditional Arts. It rained during my first visit. I came with a group of volunteers, and I signed up for a bike ride along the river. It was quite a day, as I had to watch out for the camera (borrowed from a friend), and ride the bike at the same time. The weather wasn't that bad when we arrived this time, but knowing that this is Yilan, we had our umbrellas with us anyway. There was no special agenda for the day. We simply wanted to keep it simple. We had a casual lunch (so casual that I'm not going to bother posting an article about it), and then just hang out here until we get bored! 
其實這些小物當然是很可愛啦，只是想到買了回去又不知道能撐多久，就又把錢省下來了。
There were many of these small items sold here. They were all very cute, but I wouldn't know what to do with them once I took them home! 
不過到處看真的是不用錢！
But it didn't cost a thing to just take a look around. 
雖然對統Ｘ企業很有意見，不過我覺得這裡辦的還有點樣子。第一次來是周末，這次剛好有機會在周間來，感覺很不一樣！不用人擠人，相機拿起來想拍什麼角度就拍什麼角度！沒人擋！
We're not that big a fan of the corporation that established this center, but it can't be denied that they did quite a good job with the place. It was a weekend last time I was here. This time, there were less people, as we were here during a weekday. It was easier to take shots of whatever you wanted, with no one getting in your way. 
順便看看傳統藝術。走累了就坐下來歇息一下。
It was a nice way of getting to know some of the traditional arts.
上次錯過了傳藝下午的表演，這次特地跟老公說想要看！
I had missed out on their daily show last time, so I wanted to see it. 
看完演員們賣力的表演後，繼續小逛... 
The actors were all very professional. Great show. Then, we took another walk around.
我跟老公說想做個手工皂... 上次來看別組的人有做（自己跑去騎單車去了）所以一直很想做。
I saw a place with homemade soap and wanted to try it out. 
原來只是把一大塊肥皂做成其他不同造型然後串起來... 
I thought it was "make your own soap". It turned out, it was just making shapes out of a big chunk of soap, then put them together on a string. 
孩子玩得很開心，但是他的媽媽卻好緊張～
我們看了挺不解的... 但想想，媽媽只是不希望浪費肥皂吧！
這肥皂其實還滿好用的。可以拿來洗碗洗衣服。店員說因為清潔能力強不適合拿來洗身體。我們拿回去之後覺得洗碗的效果還不錯。
There were kids there, too. They seemed pretty excited, but the mother seemed a bit anxious. 
I suppose she just didn't want the kid to waste too much of the soap. 
The soap was actually quite nice. You can use the soap for dishes and handwash laundry. It wasn't recommended for showers, as the clerk pointed out that it might be too strong for the skin. 
再走幾步後，我們就決定先去看看我們的客房了！
After another walk around, we decided it was time to see our room for the night! (See previous post for the lodge)
延伸閱讀：
【住宿】宜蘭 - 傳藝度假中心 
【住宿】宜蘭 - 傳藝度假中心早餐篇
檢視較大的地圖 

一晚好眠後，我們一大早就起床了。我坐在院子裡讀著書給北鼻聽，然後孩子的爸去晨跑。雖然天氣陰陰的不算挺好，但至少不熱。其實算是在戶外閒晃的好天氣呢。孩子的爸回來後，我們就準備去用早點了！
After a good night rest, we were up really early. I sat outside in the garden reading a book to my little baby while the dad went out for a morning jog. The weather was not perfect, but it was not scorching hot. Perfect to hang out in the early morning before breakfast. When the dad got back, we were ready for breakfast. 
我們是來報到的第一組客人。其實對於用餐區我是覺得有點窄小。不過民宿主人一看我們到了就開始放輕音樂，滿有誠意的。其實如果天氣好的話，在院子裡用餐的感覺應該會更棒耶！
We were the first set of guests to arrive. The dining hall seemed a bit crowded. They started playing soft music as we sat ourselves down. I'm thinking, when it's nice out, it'd be quite pleasant to have breakfast out in the open air, don't you think?
有果汁，當然也有水果！當然也還有我喝不到的茶跟咖啡！
Juice and fresh fruit! Of course, there's also tea and coffee, which I won't be drinking!
再來就是重頭戲：早餐！
And then comes breakfast!
看起來真豐盛！
It looked like a scrumtious meal to me! What a feast!
鮮蝦沙拉
Salad
肉丸子跟香菇
Meatball and mushroom
還有這些都是宜蘭在地的食材所做出來的小菜！
And all of these were made from local ingredients!
我吃得很開心！除了鴨子跟蝦子（大部分都給了孩子的爸），其他我都覺得很好吃。吃到一半有一組有國外來的客人。我看民宿還很貼心的準備了三明治！大概是那位客人吃不慣台灣的味道吧！這也算是滿貼心的服務！
I really enjoyed the meal, although I had my other half eat most of the shrimp and duck. Otherwise, I thought the feast was rather enjoyable. In the midst of our meal, came a set of foreign guests. The B&B had prepared one of them a set of sandwich instead of the usual Chinese style meal. I thought that was quite thoughtful of them. 
吃完早餐後，我們老毛病又犯了：硬是要在院子裡耗到退房時間才肯走！不過這個院子真的是好愜意啊！建議北部的朋友們可以多多抽空來這裡放鬆一下囉！
After our meal, we did our usual thing: lingered there until it was time to check out. The garden was so pleasant we didn't want to leave! I recommend this place to all friends living withing the city for a day or two away from the hustle and bustle!! 

雖然沒有要出國度蜜月，不過天仙懇求老公，放婚假的這幾天，還是要找一天出走！
原本上網看了墾丁、花蓮、台東... 好多地方都想去！但後來還是決定不要去太遠，找個適合窩個一整天的地方好好休息就好。最後才選定宜蘭。其實去年生日的時候，我們就來宜蘭住過一晚。當時住的波卡拉我覺得也不錯！這次很猶豫，因為除了波卡拉還有另外一間我原本想去的。只是電話打去卻聽到因為正在裝修無法接客，因此只好再另外找。我想找的房型很簡單！不用多高級，但是一定要有落地窗，我才會有度假的feel！上網找了好久，終於看到這間有符合我的需求！
Since we weren't going abroad for our honeymoon, I begged my husband to spend one night out of town. 
I looked everywhere! Kenting, Hualien, Taitung... In the end, I figured I shouldn't go too far. It was then that we settled for Ilan. Actually, we were here last year for my birthday. We stayed at Pokrara, a very nice resort. It was a tough decision this time, as there was Pokara and this other place I had wanted to stay in. However, after calling them up, they told me they were under rennovation, and were not open for service. So I searched some more and finally found this place. I didn't ask for much. The place didn't have to be posh, but it did need to have a large window, as that was the only way to make me feel like I'm on holiday! 
大廳 The lobby
我們的客房
The view through the window of our room! 
可愛的鑰匙圈
Cute key ring
浴巾與沐浴用品
Towel and toiletries
殘念的浴缸（孕婦只能泡腳）Orz
The tub 
淋浴設備
The shower
浴室天花板
Ceiling of the bathroom
牙刷牙膏
Toothbrush and toothpaste
舒適的床～
Comfy bed
我很愛這個單人小沙發
I love this seat!
飲品 Kettle, water, and teabags... 
打開門後就有個小陽台。傍晚去完夜市之後就會回到這裡用餐。不過因為燈光實在太暗，所以就沒有記錄了！
Little patio outside our room. This was where we'd be having our dinner later. But it was extremely dim, so I didn't bother taking any photos of our meal. 
環繞著民宿就是一座超大的花園！
The massive garden outside the room, surrounding the buidling! 
這下可真的有度假的feel了！
It really did make me feel like I was on holiday! 
"
雖然晚上下了點小雨，導致孕婦我不想扛著相機又要顧相機又要顧肚子的一邊逛夜市，因此索性就不帶相機去好好撐傘逛夜市。回來之後有個小插曲，另外一組客人把我們那扇門鎖上了！等了好一會兒，才有人來幫我們來開門。所以等我們回房準備吃晚餐，食物也都差不多冷掉了，為了嘗鮮買的包心粉圓也都融的不成樣了。（其實是因為看到包心粉圓整個崩壞了才決定放棄拍晚餐的！）XD
It rained a bit during the night. I didn't want to walk through the night market having to watch out for the camera and the baby in my tummy while holding an umbrella also... So I didn't take the camera to the night market. After we got back, we were locked out for a while... as the other set of guests decided to lock the door.... It took them a while to get back to us and open the door for us. But by then, the hot foods we bought had cooled down, and the icy dessert had melted. That was actually the last straw that made me give up on taking shots of our meal! 
官方網站：http://www.artsvilla.tw/
檢視較大的地圖 

既然是生日之旅，當然還是要來點特別的。聽說噶瑪蘭威士忌酒廠就在這附近。但其實我們都不知道怎麼走。沿途看到有「金車」的標示，但那卻只是蘭花園。後來，決定不看地圖，直接憑直覺走。沒想到還真的被我們找到了。
This is, after all, my birthday trip. So something special had to be arranged. I hear that the famous whiskey distillery is not far from here, but we didn't know how to get there. We've seen 'King Car' signs along the way, but it turned out to be the orchid farm. Then, we decided to go with our instincts, and see where the road would take us. Believe it or not, we eventually found the place!
其實不太難找。
Frankly, it wasn't that hard to find. 
這是第一個目的地。
First stop. 
大廳非常的寬闊。看起來也很華麗。
The lobby was very spacious, and it looked quite grand.
首先，請先看一部非常無聊的影片。這是關於金車企業的影片，也會介紹威士忌的製作過程。
First, they'd show you a very boring clip. It's about their corporation, and they'll also tell you about the process of distillery.
很喜歡獨立站在舞台上的鋼琴，以及那花圃作為布景的整個畫面。
I like how the piano stands on its own on the stage, with the beautiful garden as background.
接下來就要來參觀酒廠了。
And now, let's get to the distillery!
這裡有導覽時間，可以事前安排在恰當的時間抵達開始酒廠之旅。
You can also arrange your trip around the schedule of the guided tours.
這片土地非常的寬闊。走路要走一段。不過開車或騎車來就不用太擔心。
The whole place is quite massive, but you needn't worry if you're here by car or scooter.
才到酒廠前面，就已經聞到一股濃濃的麥香味。
You can already smell the barley even just by the entrance of the distillery!
這棟是酒堡，是本次的終點站。
This is building is the final destination of the trip.
接著，正式進入到蒸餾廠。
Now, let's head inside the distillery.
展示區有很多圖解說明。
At the display area, you can learn all you can about the process.
很多角度也很適合拍照。
You can also take lots of pictures here.
首先要學的是威士忌的主原料：大麥芽。
First, let's learn a bit about the main ingredient: malted barley.
這個部分叫做糖化。
The first process is called mashing.
再來才是發酵。
Then comes fermentation.
要先經過這段看起來很噁心的東西才會變出好喝的威士忌。
It has to go through this seemingly disgusting process, before becoming the fantastic drink that it becomes eventually.
再來就是蒸餾啦。
Next, comes distillation.
 
這酒杯應該是試喝用的吧？
The glass is probably for testing?
這對威士忌愛好者來說應該不陌生。
This must seem familiar to all whiskey lovers.
在倉庫裡堆滿了威士忌！
Barrels after barrels of that delicious fermented drink!
光是望眼放過去，就已經覺得自己很幸福了！如果此時能夠喝一口，那就更棒了！
It was already a treat looking at all those casks! If I could get a sip of that whiskey, it'd be even more wonderful!
這也是另外一角。
Another corner of the distillery.
在此結束蒸餾廠一遊。
This marks the end of the distillery.
緊接著來到酒堡。接下來可是有非常令人興奮的事情要發生了！
Right afterwards, we come to the spirit castle, where something exciting is about to happen!
先找個位子坐好。
Find a place and sit yourself down.
接著，去領一杯試喝的威士忌吧！
Then, go grab yourself a glass of whiskey for tryout! 
雖然在三月還看到聖誕樹實在是很煞風景，不過美酒當前，什麼事也不想去計較了！
Although it was wierd seeing a Christmas tree during March, the whiskey made me let go of these trifling matters!
喝完以後（當然覺得還不夠），可以去門市自己買！
If you haven't had enough, go to the store, and get your own!
大瓶的負擔太重，也可以買小瓶的。
If the large bottles are too expensive, try these tiny bottles.
買個禮盒送人也是挺不錯的。
Or get a gift box for a friend.
  
整趟下來重點當然就是可以試喝。不過試喝的份量實在有點少。這是有點美中不足的。
The key to the entire trip was the free drink. But they were a bit stingy, weren't they? If they had given a bit more, the trip would've been even more perfect!

因為今年生日剛好是在禮拜三。不想用掉太多假（因為才年初啊）就不能去太遠的地方。原本想住的，後來覺得太遠，交通太費力，因此日子接近時又趕緊另外找一間。搜尋搜尋著，就找到這間才剛開幕沒多久的。看起來挺不錯！有我嚮往的度假感覺。因此一個月前就信信滿滿的把房間訂下來。後來直到出發前，看到別的部落客分享的圖文，才證實我的決定沒有錯。其實大家去民宿住久了會發現，官網的圖片有時候騙很大。這也不能怪它們啦，畢竟網站本來就是要吸引大家去住上一兩晚的嘛。不過對這間會這麼有自信，是因為他才剛開幕沒多久，設施一定都是新的。看了格友客觀的分享，就更證實與網站上的照片沒有差太多。
My birthday this year happened to fall on a Wednesday. Without wanting to use up all my days off, I decided to go somewhere not as far. I started looking for a place to spend the night away from Taipei at the beginning of the year. Then I realised that place was a bit too far from anywhere. So I started looking for an alternative, and came across this place. It looked really nice! I booked the room a month in advance, quite confident that my choice was right. Then a week before the actual trip, I saw another blogger's review of the place, and confirmed that I had made a right decision in coming here. You know how pictures on official websites can be deceiving... So it was a lot more practical to see another blogger's review. I had so much confidence with the decision because the place was quite new. At least the facilities would be pretty new! And reading the review basically reassured me. 
夜歸時，波卡拉會館外觀。
The entrance of Pokara at night.
說實在的，他其實不難找。因為附近剛好有個國小。只是這裡的建築物實在太少。多繞了兩圈才找到。
The place isn't that hard to find. There happens to be a school nearby. Except, there weren't many signs around, so we still ended up going round a couple of times before finally arriving...
波卡拉的兩旁都是這樣的稻田。
The place was surrounded by rice paddies.
雖然住在設施完善的度假會館中，但也不失田園的感覺。
Although the resort was quite well equipped, there is still that pastoral feeling.
會館的大廳。很開心生日剛好落在淡季。請個假過來玩，剛好避開周末或是旺季的人潮。
The lobby/lounge. It was low season, so I didn't have to worry about having to avoid crowds (there were no crowds)
黑底大花朵的布料似乎是它們的招牌。
That black flowery cushion seems to be their feature fabric.
擺了一台骨董鋼琴。很想去彈彈看，可是怕我才學沒多久的爛琴聲會吵到大家。
Standing at the corner of the lounge is a piano. I wanted to try and play, but I just started learning, and I didn't feel like embarrassing myself.
感覺很棒的用餐區。一看到這裡我就開始期待隔天的早餐了！
The dining area looked really relaxing. I couldn't wait to have breakfast here the next morning!
如果在房間太無聊，可以坐在這裡聊聊天，看看書。
If you feel bored in your room, you might as well come out here and chat, or read a book.
雖然當天晚上據說是只有我們一組客人，看到小木屋後我開始懷疑為什麼整個會館都沒人我們卻要選住小木屋呢？
Apparently, we were the only ones staying there that night. When I saw the cabin, I thought, I had the choice of the entire resort to choose from, why in the world did I choose the smallest sized room?
但是當我看到小木屋內部後，這個疑慮就整個消失了！今天我們被分配到幸福島。
Bu then, as I saw the inside, I was again reassured that I had made the right choice!
一開門就能聞到淡淡的花香。就是這一瓶的功勞！
As you open the door, you'll catch this slight fragrance of jasmin. 
是不是很有feel啊！
The look outside the window.
窗簾是遮光的，隔天早上陽光根本進不來。
The curtain blocks off the light outside completely. 
開始來研究沐浴間。
And here's the bathroom.
提供的沐浴用品都是高級貨唷！（另一個吸引我訂房的點）
This was another aspect that attracted me: they provided L'Occitane toiletries.
因為小木屋坪數有限，但是想要泡澡還是可以唷！
Though small, they still found a way so you could enjoy a bath if you wanted to.
毛巾當然也有提供。
Of course, towels are also provided.
這是必備的。
And other necessities.
倫敦熊期待晚上來洗香香囉！
London bear can't wait for his shower!
這是真的花兒。
Real orchid plant by the window.
Twinnings茶包還有即溶咖啡。
Twinnings tea bags and all-in-one coffee. 
哇！有紅酒耶！（其實是自己帶的）XD
Wow! How thoughtful! They even provided us with wine! (Just kidding, we brought the wine!)
鑰匙放這裡。Insert the key here.
這是我們的幸福小島！The name of our cabin was called "Content Island"!
在適當的時間，例如下午或是清晨，他們會放輕音樂。
In the afternoon, they'll play soft music to help you relax yourself.
如果天氣不錯，根本就不用去其他景點了！在這裡就可以混上一整個下午了！
What a lovely place to spend the entire afternoon! That is, if the weather is nice!
不過畢竟來都來了。還是出去晃晃吧！剛好工作人員他們正在喝南瓜牛奶。就到了兩杯招待我們喝喝看。對南瓜興趣沒有很大的我，卻是覺得這杯充滿了這間民宿的熱情與親切！非常好喝喔！
We could've just stayed there, but seeing it wasn't raining, we decided to go exploring anyway. The hosts here were having some pumpkin milk. They happily offered us some. I've never been a big fan of pumpkins, but I thought the drink was filled with their hospitality and kindness! 
這間每個角落都很適合拍照啊！
Every corner of the place was suitable for a shot! 
雖然很想直接在這裡混到隔天check-out，不過還是想趁著下午沒下雨趕快出去閒晃一下吧。
But let's go explore the city before it starts pouring... 
夜歸後，看到的又是不一樣的波卡拉了！不過因為它們趁著淡季，還想要做一些裝潢上的加強，所以我就沒有逗留多拍幾張了。
After we returned at night, we saw a completely different Pokara in the dark. But since they were making some reinforcements during this low season, I didn't linger very long for more photos. 
早上起來聽到雨聲，原本想：大事不妙！不過當我卡開門後，看見雨中的波卡拉，我又覺得這裡實在浪漫到一個很變態的地步！為什麼明明下著雨，我還是很陶醉！？
The next morning, I thought the rain was going to completely ruin my day. But then when I opened the door and saw Pokara in the rain, I realised that this place was even more romantic in the rain! 
跟前一天陰天的照片比起來，雨中的波卡拉，似乎色彩更飽和。
Look at how the colors stand out, compared to the ones I took yesterday!
  
Check-in的時候，我本來是跟他們說，如果只有我們一組客人，早餐不用準備太豐盛。但他們說就算只有我們一組，也是要用心做！這就是他們的用心早餐！
When we checked in, I told them they didn't have to prepare an entire breakfast if we were the only ones there. But they insisted that they had to do their best, no matter now many guests were staying. This was their breakfast!
配著的是地瓜稀飯。 Sweet potato porridge to go with the other dishes. Very Taiwanese style.
早餐很重要！一定要吃喔！London bear reminds you: breakfast is very important!
因為遇到下雨，就更捨不得離開了（其實是不想淋雨）。
Because of the rain, we stayed in our room even longer than anticipated. 
不過時間到了還是得退房啦。
But in the end, we still had to check out.
我們把背包寄放在這裡，又閒晃了好一陣子才回來拿行李準備回台北。
We left our backpacks there, and went off exploring some more before coming back to get our stuff to go back home.
離開前，他們準備了伴手禮相送。
Before we left, they gave usu a bag of some local goodies.
  
雖然只住了一個晚上，但確實又是一個令人難忘的生日！
Although I stayed for just one night, it was yet another unforgettable birthday!
官網：http://www.pokara.com.tw/
檢視較大的地圖 

**The following article is in Chinese (Traditional) only.
**本篇文章僅以繁體中文撰寫
這幾天因天秤颱風來襲，新聞上一直報導著花東的狀況，真是令人憂心。但依照以往的經驗，新聞總是會把事情嚴重化。每次都報說颱風有多嚴重，在實地報導的時候也選最嚴的拍攝，讓人很難判斷到底是真的那麼嚴重，還是...！？每次以為很嚴重，打電話或事後關心當地居住的朋友，卻又都跟我說沒事。如果真的都沒事就好。是說講到颱風，就想到去花蓮的這兩天，冒著雨跑去自強夜市的那個晚上。因為第一天晚上已經吃了海景蓋飯，第二天就想來大家都推的自強夜市朝聖一下。據說是有間烤肉必吃。那就來看看自強夜市到底有啥好吃的呢！
有窯烤比薩～
臭豆腐是必有的
也有些異國風味的攤位
沙威瑪似乎也成了夜市必有的攤位～
夜市牛排其實偶爾吃還不錯～
因為大雨剛停，所以人不算多
據說是必喝～
還有棺材板
最後就是這間大家大推的烤肉！
還有對面的東山鴨頭～
回到烤肉攤～ 選擇很多，排隊的人也很有秩序乖乖的排、乖乖地等
號碼牌上表示出店家的無奈。
烤肉畢竟本來就是要"等"的東西。我想大家會來買都已經做好等待的準備了吧。那我還是在這聲明一下，這篇是遊記兼食記，不是廣告文... 而且，應該大家都比天仙早知道這間烤肉吧！？（這樣能算廣告嗎？）
烤雞腿
 
花枝丸、香菇、雞屁股
回到民宿後，大口喝啤酒，又大口吃燒烤。其實這天的行程很充實，然後隔天又得早起搭火車。所以吃完喝足，我也就躺平了。

發文這天剛好是周一，又要開始面對各種壓力了！平日壓力的累積，其實很多人是否到了周末都還覺得很疲憊呢？原以為只有我，但後來發現很多人都認為台北捷運車廂上似乎要看到微笑是一件很困難的事情。你可說都市人煩惱多。也可以說天龍國嘛！就是不懂的微笑。微笑是自己的責任。微笑可以讓心情更輕盈，讓思想更正面。所以為什麼不？
The release of this article happens to be on a Monday - time to face our stress and pressure again! With the accummulation of stress over the week, many people are still unable to relax even after a weekend! I thought it was just me, but apparently a lot of people have noticed how rare it is to find a smile on the MRT in Taipei. I guess you can say it's because city people are grumps, or because Taipei people can't smile. Smiling is your own responsibility. It makes you lighter, and more positive. So I say why not?
我們都有壓力呀！誰沒有呢？工作壓力、帳單繳納壓力、養家壓力... 其實換個心情，換個角度，壓力雖然不會不見，但至少你會比較有勇氣與精神面對！
We all face a fair amount of stress every day. Pressure from work, ability to pay bills, support the family, etc... However, even though the stress won't completely disappear, if you alter your mood and change your perspective, you will definitely have more courage and energy to confront them.
你可以想想在你生命裡曾經看到過的美景或是體驗過的美好事物。即使是多麼微不足道的事情，都可以幫助你嘴角上揚。
You can think about the beautiful places you've been or some great experiences in your life. Even the most tiny things, may help bring out that smile.
要試著阻止自己專注於自己的慾望，因為慾望代表著你現在沒有的東西。更不要去忌妒別人有的。渴望愛情，不要羨慕情侶，而要心存感恩地想著自己身邊的朋友與親人。
Refain from concentrating on your desires, because desiring something means you 'don't have'. And don't become jealous of those who have what you don't. If you want to be in love, don't be jealous of couples. Instead, expand your appreciation of your family and friends. 
了解自己、傾聽自己，是面對壓力必經的路程。心胸放寬，未來才會像大海一樣的寬闊。
The inevitable route to confronting stress is knowing yourself, and listening to your inner voice. Open your heart, and your future will be as wide as the ocean.
李小龍曾說：把自己當作水一樣。讓自己變得無形。倒入杯子中，他就變成杯子的形狀了。這句話的涵義，真的值得大家仔細思考。
Bruce Lee said: Be like water. Water is formless. You pour water into a cup, it becomes a cup. The deeper meaning of this, is worth contemplating upon.
我們有時希望自己是鳥或是飛機，可以在天空飛翔... 
Sometimes we all wish we were either birds or airplanes, so we can soar into the sky... 
但誰說停留在地面上就沒有值得享受的事物呢？
But whoever said there was no fun on ground level?
I watched the old man enjoy his little fishing session. If you don't catch anything, does it make it no fun? No. But if you get something, that makes it 'more' fun.
看著這位老先生享受著他的釣魚時光。如果你什麼都沒釣到，這就不好玩了嗎？不會呀！其實你釣到了，只會讓他更好玩。
臥在地面上拍攝... 用另外一個角度看世界... 
A shot from ground level - a different perspective.
心理的自由比身軀的自由來的要重要多了！
Freedom of the mind is a lot more important than physical freedom.
因為你看不到他的表情，因此你可能猜測他感覺很孤獨。事實上他正在對他一群夥伴們微笑著... 
You can't see his face, so you probably think he's feeling lonely. He was actually smiling... at his lot of companion.
我們常常被自己眼睛所見或所不見而受騙～
We often get tricked because of what we see or can't see... 
人生本來就不像腳踏車步道... 總是會有凹凸不平的時候。只要我們努力地騎過去... 
Well, life is not like a bike trail... It has bumps and holes. But when we do get through... 
我們會將自己從最大的監牢裡解放出來... 那個監牢就是自己... 然後就可以高飛在天空了！
We release ourselves from the biggest prison of all time - our own. Then we soar... 
 
世界也就變得更美好。
And the world becomes a better place!
檢視較大的地圖  
 

雖說路是人走出來的，但走在人家已經開拓好的步道確實是比較舒服呀。
A Chinese saying states that roads are created by the footsteps of men. Well, sometimes it is a lot easier to walk a path someone else had created.
臺灣是我的故鄉，雖是一個不可能改變的事實，但我對他的了解真的很有限。我最愛他的時候，總是在我人不處於這塊土地上的時候。這小島上的許多美景，我也都還沒有機會好好地去探索。
It's incontrovertible that Taiwan is my hometown. But my knowledge of the island is quite limited. I love the island the most when I'm not on the island. And there are so many beautiful places I have not yet had a chance to see with my own eyes.
旅途中無論發生了什麼事，每一個環節都成了屬於自己最獨特的回憶。又因為是第一次，使得每個景色都更美好。其實途中很怕自己迷路。當然也因為單獨旅行，難免也會為自己擔心意外的發生。但人生也是這樣吧。如果東怕怕西怕怕，就只能原地踏步，那兒都到不了，什麼也做不成。
Everything that happens during a trip become a part of your very own unique memory. To compound, first time experience makes everything even better and more beautiful. Yes, I worried about being lost and safety issues. But I guess it's like life in general... Be afraid of everything, then you remain where you will always be and nothing gets done. 
把內心的恐懼收起來，勇敢一點的面對挑戰。人生不是怕失敗，而是怕不try～
Gather your fears, and confront your challenges boldly. It's not fear you should be afraid of, but the lack of willingness to try.
不是我很懂人生的道理。而是我也跟著大家再一起學習。
I don't know much about life. I'm just learning along with the rest of you.
雖然我們需要堅強，但是不能硬撐。該休息的時候就得休息。
We need to be strong, but sometimes 'hang in there' just won't work. Adequate rest will often do the trick.
不是每條道路都會平又直。即使是人造的道路，也會有不好走的時候。那雙好走的鞋子叫做信念。讓自己可以再不平坦的路也可以走得很穩。
Not all roads are straight and smooth. Sometimes even artifical paths can be rough. Get a pair of shoes called 'faith', to ensure the steadiness of each and every step.
曾經讀過一段小故事，敘說著一個人為了幫助蛹，將繭剪了開來。這隻蛹被剝奪了成長過程中必須經歷的困苦，所以永遠都成不了翩翩飛翔的美麗蝴蝶．．．
I read a story once about a man who cut open a cocoon to let out a pupa. The pupa never matured into a butterfly and fly off in grace, because it had been deprived of the inevitable hardship of maturation... 
其實我們很脆弱，也都需要適度的關注與協助。對於朋友來說，如何在關心與過度關心之間抓住平衡，才是最困難的人生課題。
We are all vulnerable, and need attention and assistance sometimes. For 'friends', the hardest lesson in life is learning to balance between caring and over-caring. 
對自我而言，我們則是必須無時無刻提醒自己，當我們不見太陽時，不是太陽不存在，而只是我們看不見它。
For ourselves, when we are alone, we need to remind ourselves that when we don't see the sun, it does not mean the sun has ceased to exist. 
正面思考可以幫助你懂得去賞識身邊原本微不足道的小細節。
Positive attitude allows you to appreicate even the smallest things in life.
When support becomes vulnerable, we must understand that risk doesn't always lead to danger.
當支柱變得脆弱時，我們要了解光是有風險不代表一定會造成危險。
還給生活一個寧靜的自己。
Return a serene self to your life.
讓眼光穿透眼前的障礙物。
Look beyond the obstacles ahead.
唯有平靜的內心，才能夠穩固自己的腳步。
A peaceful mind is the only way to steady your steps.
許多事情是多麼地遙不可及，越想要，卻又越得不到... 想著得不到就產生了負面情緒。緊接著就是身心都不得平靜了。
Many things in life seem so distanced. The more you want them, the more you can't get them. And the more you dwell on the thought of not being able to get them, the more negative thoughts are generated. The next thing you know... you loose balance mentally and physically.
唯有達到內心的平靜，心中所有的恐懼才能夠平息，並且有助於達到向上攀登發掘新事物的目的。
If you want to climb up high and make new discoveries, inner peace is key to pacify all fears.
 
當你回頭看到其他人正走在你走過的路途時，你上揚的嘴角絕對不是在笑他們傻，而是你發自內心幫他們加油打氣的方式。
And when you look back and see people walking down that same path you had just passed, that smile on your face is by no means a laughter at how foolish they are, but a sincere support coming from deep inside you.
人生中充滿了永無止境的障礙。
There will be one obstacle after another in life.
但並不是每個障礙都需要我們去面對的！
We don't have to face each and every one of them!
但當我們選擇面對時，在終點等著我們的確一定是最美麗的結果。
When we do, however, face an obstacle, we all know that at the end, awaits the most beautiful outcome.
不屬於自己的東西，不需要去忌妒或羨慕。但屬於自己的東西，一定要心存感激。
There is absolutely no need for envy or jealousy to play their part when you see something that does not belong to you. But it is necessary to learn to appreciate all the things that you do have.
沒人說這一切都會很容易。
No body ever said it would be simple.
身邊偶爾會出現一些僅會投機取巧、目中無人、破壞規矩的人。下一步該怎麼走？舉發？對質？還是顧好自己要走的路即可？
There will be those who are arrogant and those who ignore the rules or play tricks in order to get what they want. What would your next step be? Tell on them? Confront them? Or just mind your own steps?
我們人腦常常會搞些花招。而且我們又很容易受人影響，尤其是與我們最親近的人。重要的是，我們必須願意傾聽別人的意見，但記得最後的決定還是必須要靠自己。
The mind plays tricks on itself, and can be so easily influenced by others - especially those you care most. The important thing to remember is that you must be willing to take opinions, but make decisions on your own.
以前就很多人說我很有哲理。無論是寫文章或是談心事，總是能掰出一堆道理出來。道理，我們都知道，也都懂。但是遇到應用的時候，總是多了很多關卡，彷彿像反鎖在房間裡一樣，你知道它的存在可是卻沒辦法將它開啟。
A lot of people have said to me, whether verbally or written, that there seem ot be a lot of reason in my philosophy. I wish I could say that I've got it all. But knowing and understanding does not mean that reasoning can be applied easily. It's like it gets locked up in a room, and not having the key, you still don't have access to any of it.
願我們都能夠持續的學習，人生永無止境的課題...
I hope that we can keep learning, the interminable lessons of life.
砂卡礑步道：  
檢視較大的地圖 
燕子口：
檢視較大的地圖  

One of the most famous and popular tourist destinations in Eastern Taiwan, is Taroko Gorge. The scene is spectacular here. The sun was shining, but the weather was perfectly mild. Reaching this destination here, was a significant moment for me. There are beautiful places within my own island that I have yet to explore. People keep telling me how gorgeous these places are, and now for the first time, I was able to see the place with my own eyes. And anyone who has taught English at cram schools here in Taiwan, would have, no doubt, come across Taroko Gorge before in textbooks. I, myself, had uttered the name in classrooms for years... And now, I'm finally here.
東台灣最出名與最受歡迎的景點之一就是太魯閣囉。這邊的風景真的很漂亮。別看那太陽這麼強烈，其實這春天的陽光是很溫和的。抵達這裡對我來說是個很重要的時刻。雖然在這座島上藏著許多我未曾親眼目睹過的美景，也常聽人家說那兒很美那兒很棒，這次卻是我第一次親眼看見太魯閣的美。更尤其是在台灣教過美語的人一錠都常常在補習班課本裡教過太魯閣這個地名。就連我自己都在教室裡不知道教了幾百次這地名。而如今，我終於來到這裡了！
It was low season, so fortunately there weren't many tourists. You must bare in mind that I was alone, and that the trip had a deeper meaning than being just a trip. I wanted to use a different perspective to see the world. Re-discover the beauty of the island, my home country. And at a deeper level, rediscover myself.
因為此時還不是旺季，所以旅客就非常的少。你們要記得，在這趟旅途中，我是一個人。而這趟旅程也有他更深層的意義。我想要用不同的眼光看這世界。我想要重新發覺這美麗小島上的漂亮風景。更深層的意義，就是要重新自我發掘。
When I used a DC, it was a lot easeir to take random shots of yourself. It was also easier to ask someone else to take a picture for you. Of course I had my DC with me, but the scenery was so beautiful more than half the time, it didn't seem necessary to waste space on my memory card for pictures of myself. 
當我使用小DC時，自拍是一件非常容易的事情。要麻煩別人幫自己拍一張也不難。雖然我還是有把小DC帶在身上，不過這邊的美景似乎自己的照片顯得有點浪費了記憶體。
Through the lens of the DSLR, I obtained a completely new vision of the world. It was exactly what I had needed to help me 'change perspective'.
透過單眼的鏡頭，我看見了不一樣的世界。這正是我需要的「視野轉換」。
Traveling alone is an art. It is not something anybody can learn to enjoy. People who equate being alone to being lonely have a reason to fear being alone. Sometimes the most terrifying voice, is the one that is inside your own head. We must learn to listen and confront that voice, until it softens and becomes the pacifying sound of running water.
獨自旅行是一種藝術。並不是所有的人都能夠體會並且享受這種感覺的。許多人將單獨與孤獨畫上等號。其實是有他們的原因的。這世界上最令人恐懼的聲音其實就是來自我們自己的腦袋瓜裡。但我們必須學習傾聽並且面對那個聲音，直到它化為像流水般那能撫平、靜心的聲音為止。
Many of the world's most beautiful places require a long and exhausting process to get to. Other places require only a few steps, and meticulous attention. 
世界上許多美景都必須先經歷一段漫長又煎熬的過程才能抵達。但也有許多美好的事物，只需要幾步路程以及專注力。
With a change of perspective, you can transform the most ordinary scenes, into the most spectacular picture.
光是換個角度，就足以有利將一個普通到不行的場景化身為世界上最壯觀的圖。
We all need and have a place of worship, a holy place. For many people, it is the church, or the temple, or the mosque. However, the most holy place for anyone, should be their heart.
我們都需要，也都有一個敬仰之處，一個神聖的地方。許多人認為這地方就是他的教堂、寺廟或清真寺。但其實最神聖的地方，絕對是自己的心。
We will face turning points and obstacles that we do not expect. If we could all see them as things and events that help make us stronger and better, life would be so much easier.
人生中總是會遇到出乎意料的轉折點或是障礙物。若我們都能夠將他們是為使我們變得更堅強以及更好的事物，人生這條路似乎會好走許多。
The important thing to remember is to make a balance between saving time for yourself, and making time for family and friends. While it is important to have family and friends, you are the only one with whom you will spend the most time.
我們都要試著去平衡獨自相處以及與親友相處的時間。雖然親友很重要，但畢竟一生中會陪你最多時間的，還是你自己。
Take a look around your environment all the time, and try to notice all the things that you could've missed, if you had kept your eye sight toward one single direction. 
努力去觀察身邊的景物。嘗試去發掘新的趣事。這些都將會是你若將視野停留在同一條線上所會錯過的事物！
Take a rest, whenever necessary. Although reaching a target and achieving aims are important, you can't push yourself too hard. 
適時的讓自己休息。雖然達成目標，抵達終點很重要，但也不需要太過強迫自己。
If you feel as heavy as a rock, it's probably time to let some thoughts go drifting away with the water, before you go on.
若你感覺像顆石頭般的沉重，或許你應該停下來，讓一些事情或想法隨著流水漂流離去，再重新出發。
Life isn't that bad... 
人生其實沒有那麼糟糕...
If you don't like what you see...
如果眼前的礙眼...
Then change your focus!
那就換個點對焦吧！
Deities may help...
神明可以保佑...
But it is still YOU, that's got to do the work!
但最後自己還是得面對！
We often fear what we face... 
我們害怕面對...
We fear falling...
害怕墜落...
Especially when our visions are blurred, and our goals are out of sight...
尤其是視線模糊，看不清楚目標時...

原本想先把英國遊記全部寫完之後，再來好好專心寫三月底的花蓮．墾丁遊記。不過由於友人剛好在策畫花蓮行的過程中詢問到我當時選擇的民宿，所以就想說先把這篇寫出來提供他參考。這段旅程的緣由，我將會在日後補上。不過目前我想討論的是單獨旅行的問題。我想如果你迷戀單獨旅行的過程，你就會知道很多時候即使你很愛這種可以一個人自由放空、自由安排行程的感覺，現實層面總是會狠狠地給你來個當頭棒喝：許多旅行社的行程都是兩人成行，網路上寫的價格也是算人頭的（除非你願意出兩倍的錢），更不用說住宿了。這個社會對單身的人就是這麼的不公平啊！所以一氣之下，我還真的上「股溝」查了「花蓮　單人房」。後來找到一篇好心人整理出來的一些有提供單人房的民宿。點了進去，研究了一番，最後選擇了「柚子家」。
I was planning on completing the 2010 England series first before moving on to my Hualien/Kenting articles. But it just happened that my friend is also planning a trip to Hualien and is asking me about the place I stayed at. That's why this article is being posted right now. I'll get into the reason why I decided to take this trip later, but for now, let's discuss an extremely serious issue: why is society so unfriendly to single travellers? For those of us who enjoy the freedom of going where ever we want at any time we want, and glazing into nothingness whenever we feel like it, reality often comes as a serious shock. Most package tours are designed for two people. Accommodations are more affordable when you've got company. It's unfair for singles who wish to travel on their own. So I Googled 'Hualien' and 'Single room', and found a list of accommodations especially designed for single travellers. In the end, I chose this place: Yo-tze's Home (You-tze Jia)
其實不難找，只是我路不熟，所以有稍微迷路了一下。但親切的柚子家主人熱情的在門口向我招手。此時我就知道，我這個選擇，是對的！
It wasn't hard to find actually, but because I was unfamiliar with the city, I still got a bit lost. But when I saw the host standing in front of the door, waving to me, I knew I had made the right choice!
單人房 Single room.
麻雀雖小、五臟俱全 Tiny little space, but it's got everything you need.
沐浴間 - 我很喜歡這個設計！ Shower area - I love this design
倫敦熊休息ing London Paddy taking a rest.
書桌區 Desk area
顏色鉛筆是拿來留言用的～ The coloured pencils are for guests to leave messages in the notebook.
如果你也來住這間，也會看到天仙的留言喔！
You'll see my message if you stay in this same room!
樓梯間 Stairs to the third floor
小角落 Corner
往一樓 To ground floor
偷窺對面的房間 Peeping into the room across.
那瓶不是酒（殘念...咦？）That's water, not wine.
私房地圖 Their very own Hualien map
柚子家主人精心製作的私房地圖，告訴你哪裡好吃哪裡好玩！
Their specially made map tells you where to eat and where to go!
門口的夜燈 Night light. 
晚上的房間 Room at night.
貼心到這種地步啦！有沒有搞錯！！ Just look at how considerate they are!
連這個都幫你準備好！ Sanitary pads for single lady travellers (just in case)
經過一整天滿滿的行程，能夠回到這麼溫馨的地方，知道有熱情的主人管理著，真的不用怕睡不好。
After a fully-packed day, it was so nice to come back to such a lovely place, with such warm people tending it. Really, no need to fear about your sleeping quality. You'll sleep like a log!
瞧！他不是也睡得真熟！ Sleep like this dog, rather! Teehee
住了兩個晚上，其實有附上一天的手工早餐。但因為柚子家提供早餐的那天，我行程安排得太早，所以無緣能夠品嘗。當然我也不好意思請他們太早起來就為了幫我做早餐（我誰啊我）但柚子家還是幫我準備了稀飯，讓我可以吃飽了再上路！
For two nights, they offer one breakfast meal. However, because my plan to leave was way too early, so I did not get to try their lovely breakfast. They prepared me something else simple instead, so I could have something in my tummy while I travel to my next destination.
如果你到花蓮來，想要有「回到家」的感覺，柚子家真的是個不錯的選擇。當然辣，天仙這可是生平頭一次去花蓮，所以沒得比較。但我至少可以說，柚子家讓我的花蓮初體驗更加的難忘！
If you want to 'feel at home', this is the place to be. Of course, since this was my first trip to Hualien, you might say that I have nothing else to compare to. True. But this I can say: they have helped make my frist trip to Hualien even more unforgettable!
檢視較大的地圖 
Blog: 花蓮民宿 柚子家B&B