My two cents on day five, by Ingo Wey, Thursday 23rd July 2009

Having spent the previous night staring at the mesmerizing night time constellations, we saw a different side to nature on the next day with river tracing. In full body suits, rubber boots and life vests, we trekked down to the river bank. This was an extremely exhausting walk by virtue of the extreme heat and we were all wondering when we could finally cool ourselves down in the river water. The relief from the heat was astounding, and the water was surprisingly clean and refreshing. We received enthusiastic and clear instructions from the experts regarding how we should river trace. It was no surprise to us that going against the current was a challenge at least initially, but we were treated with the breathtaking scenery of the Taroko valleys under the clear blues skies. This was truly an experience which surpassed any water park. Indeed, it was as if we were in a water park, considering the tomfoolery and shenanigans instructors and group members alike were involved in. Of special note is that Wei-Fu was dunked in the water at least 16 times – every occasion as spectacular as the next. In fact, it was a surprise that the decibels generated from the screaming did not create a rockfall. The climax of the expedition was arguably climbing the rocks and freefalling from them – a release like no other I have ever experienced before. Our journey back was much easier than in the other direction as we floated like dead bodies back down to the starting line.

The second activity of the day saw the group seeing how organic tofu was made. We were glad the traditional methods matched the taste of care and nature that offers of second helpings were accepted enthusiastically.


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