Trip to Ilan

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No sooner than dropping my suitcases, the family planned a weekend getaway to Ilan County on the east coast. I like it better since it is less crowded and more open than Taipei. Traveled through a 15km(9+miles) tunnel to get there. First time for me and it is amazing how long were are actually inside a mountain. Since I don't know the name of it, I can't do any research. I heard it is the longest tunnel in the world? Can any locals verify this? Once in Ilan, we drove a treacherous mountain route to Taiping mountain(?). The locals drive like maniacs, but i can understand because of the traffic and small roads. Once we arrived, it was nice to go from the stifling humidity to a cool, misty environment. i was surprised to find a conifer forest here, too. Being in a tropical environment, i was not expecting pine trees. the cooler weather made for a nice trail walk.

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Photos

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stifling humidity at sea level.

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but a few hours up the mountain, look how the kids are dressed.

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view from the retreat. early morning was the only time we had a clear view. the fog rolls in quickly.

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when in rome...

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english translations from names/phrases can be humorous.

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the retreat in a distance. quite isolated up here.

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much cooler and enjoyable up here.