Update #: 2
Currently:In a slightly less smoke filled, but still just as loud Internet cafe, trying to mask all the noise by listening to WMSE 91.7
Previously: Kaoshiung.
Looking for Taiwanese gansters? Just head to the Clud. A few blocks away from the Su residence is a bar with Benzes and Beamers parked out front and the word "Clud" in blue neon lights on the main entrance. I like to think of it as a secret code word instead of a poor translation - same goes for the Caf'ee and the Ca'fe.
Turns out though that most Taiwanese people don't hit the cluds regularly - mostly because they're too busy...get this...working. Also, there's somewhat of a negative stigma attached to bars, drinking, etc...because the first people to bring the club scene to the city did it for all their shady customers. I don't mind though, I'd much rather check out the night markets or hang out with a cup of tea (unfortunately haven't been able to do much hanging out with tea due to the rain). Both Taipei and Kaoshiung have a bunch of stores/shops that stay open late - although the hours are subject to a bit of randomness since most businesses are just one or two person shops, sometimes the owners close up early if business is slow - but the opposite is also true.
Early on in the trip we went to a Jazz bar in Taipei and had a great time. Nice small place that just happened to have some famous celebs in the crowd. About half-way through the main band's set, some singers of F.I.R. came on stage and covered some songs - including a Norah Jones track and 'Somewhere over the Rainbow'. A nice touch to end the night.
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