Recording summary · February 2017
The real reason why I went to Taiwan last year
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Overview
Daniel reconnected with a Taiwanese woman met years earlier on Japanese dating platforms and traveled to Taiwan for a week to meet her, but she turned down his romantic proposal due to his past departures to Japan.
At the departure gate, Daniel chose not to board his flight after receiving an invitation to stay with her, retrieved his luggage, and returned to stay at her family's house.
During an extended three-week stay at her family's home, Daniel became frustrated by the host's long work hours, limited interaction, and behavioral restrictions linked to Ghost Month, ultimately confronting her, deciding to leave, and reflecting on his own clinginess and unrealistic expectations.
Themes
Online communication history, unusual messages, and distorted photographs prior to arriving in Taiwan.
Initial arrival in Taiwan, language barriers, hotel navigation, and video documentation from the trip.
A farewell lunch and karaoke outing with the host and her sisters before heading to the airport.
Airport logistics and the retrieval of offloaded luggage after canceling a scheduled departure.
Awkward interactions with the host's family, staying in the brother's room, and reliance on translation software.
Unmet expectations regarding daily activities and social engagement during the three-week stay.
Superstitions, rules, and disruptions associated with Ghost Month in Taiwan.
Interactions and outings with the host's brother, including a meal of noodles.
Personal reflections concerning insecurity, clinginess, and romantic expectations.
Developments
Daniel flew from Japan to Taiwan for his initial visit.
Daniel met the Taiwanese friend outside his hotel and visited McDonald's.
Daniel asked the woman to enter a relationship, but she declined.
Daniel attended a farewell lunch and karaoke session with the woman and her sisters.
Daniel requested the retrieval of his luggage and exited airport security instead of departing.
The host's brother met Daniel at Taichung Station and drove him to the residence.
Daniel resided at the friend's house in Taiwan for approximately three weeks.
The host's brother took Daniel out for noodles, which Daniel could not finish.
Daniel told the host that he felt unfairly treated and chose to travel home.
Uncertainties & gaps
Exact details of the visa stamp received upon re-entering Taiwan after leaving the airport.
The host's assertion that she possessed a special ability to see ghosts.