We took a taxi from Ester's residence and headed for the train station.
We had our breakfast at Taipei train station's McDonald.
As usual, the train was on time. We boarded the train at 8:30 am.
We arrived at Fong Yuan station in Taichung, then transferred to another place called Tan Zi. It is south of Fong Yuan.
On our way to the bike store, we stopped by 7-11.
We also had lunch at a Vietnamese owned restaurant. It was hot and we were hungry. Lunch was delicious!
The bikes were waiting for us at the store. After the usual picture taking, we embarked our 5 day biking adventure in central Taiwan.
As we were heading out the parking lot of the bike store, I saw this sign across the street. I took it as a blessing.
The initial challenge was how to navigate through an unknown city.
I had no choice but to stop at a convenience store and bought a map. It was worth every penny!
Since we were able to speak Mandarin, it was a big asset. We were able to ask the locals for directions.
Finally, we found the bike trail. It was an abandon railroad track.
It is called the Tong Fong Bike Trail, connecting Fong Yuan and Tong Shi.
Like any other bike trail, we were protected from the traffic. The ride was smooth.
We posed for many pictures. As you can see, it was our first day and we had a lot of energy!
I was appointed again as the official photographer. I either stayed behind or ahead of the group.
From time to time, I got a solo shot too.
My little tripod came handy when we had no one to help us take a group picture.
I encountered another challenge, mosquito bites. My first in many years.
As dusk set in, we arrived at Tong Shi. We were tired and hungry.
We found our hotel with the help from the lady at the local fruit stand. It was not the best. We were tired and it was dark, we took it.
Dinner was at a newly opened Japanese style restaurant. The rice was good.
Then, we headed for dessert. By the time I remembered to take a picture, the dessert was gone!
Distance covered: 23 km/ 14 miles
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