Family vacations were not common in Taiwan in the 1960s. Although the economy had been strengthening throughout the decade, taking a vacation was still considered a luxury. Under martial law, international traveling was tightly controlled. When traveling within the island, one needed to carry proper identification and register when staying at hotels.
Like most educators, dad had long summer breaks. They offered him some free time for his translation works. On the other hand, they also meant the absences of regular paychecks. Dad used to get depressed, worrying about finances and his teaching loads in the upcoming academic year. Family vacations became mom’s way to distract him from these troublesome thoughts.
When we were too young for long trips, we would go to scenic spots near Taipei. Our first overnight experience was at Wulai, well known for its waterfalls and hot springs. It is home to the Atayal indigenous people. Today, it is a southern segment of New Taipei (Taipei county) and a short drive from the city proper. In the old days, it was only reachable by limited bus services. And, there were no fancy touristic developments. Still, being able to enjoy the hot spring and to sleep in a “hotel” was a real treat for me and Little Cop.
One summer, we went to Baishawan (白沙灣, White Sand Bay) Beach, north of Taipei. We were not quite ready to swim in the ocean but had great time playing with sand, chasing crabs, collecting seashells and splashing water at each other. Our simple hotel room was right by the ocean. At night everything turned dark, very ominous to a child’s eyes. The waves breathed heavily and relentlessly, like a wounded monster right near our door.
The next day, we traveled along the coast to Yehliu (野柳) cape, an area known for picturesque rock formations. I had seen photos of the most famous rocks. It was the experience skipping around the rocks and finding various small sea creatures between rocks that really excited me. And, there fishermen hauling their recent catches in the nets. Cacophony of a moment of life verses silence in eternity!
When Little Cop was strong enough to take care his own luggage, we began taking longer trips: each a lifetime memory.
More about Yehliu:
Yehliu – Wikipedia
Yehliu_Geopark_Google_Images