Traffic in Taipei

I found a book written by a Japanese girl who lives in Taipei. She had many amazing discoveries by seeing life through a pair of Foreigner's eyes. She's found lots of things I have never noticed before. For example, she heard people farting when exercising in the park in the morning (she described it as the human trumpet). The sound is so interesting to a girl who came from a place no one dare to make such sound in public. She observed that people don't really need to pay any respect to the person who is singing in Karaoki, which is unforgivable in Japan. Etc., etc..

Some Taiwanese find it very insulting but I think it is terrific. She is very observant and sharp in asking questions. Taiwanese are extremely care-free and liberal, quick to react without thinking much about the consequence. I have to blame my quick temper on this. Japanese culture is very anal and being discreet has come to some sort of art. The contrast is huge and interesting.

She's mentioned that Taiwanese are not afraid of danger or losing our lifes, yeah, she was talking about the traffic in Taipei. There is such a strange and subtle balance on the streets. It look chaotic, messy as if all drivers on the road are just out of mad house. Nevertheless, accidents don't occur as frequent as you would imagine.

The car in front of you might change lane without signaling, the one driving on the inside lane wants to get off the motor way all of sudden, granny riding a motorcycle was going in the speed of a snail but didn't notice she's block your way? And many many many... I would never think those crazy dirvers assholes because they are bred by the culture I deeply recognise. Of course I would hope things can get more organised in the near future.