The Tiin Tinn Inn

The Tiin Tinn Inn (remember Rin Tin Tin?) is in the heart of Taitung, the little city people come to because of the slow pace. It has that feel. Kind of like Des Moines in the 60’s, though Des Moines never had as many scooters or street vendors.

It’s early,

barely a soul on Xinsheng Road,

and no one at the front desk.

Heading back to our room after a walk to the 7-11 and a milk tea, there’s a rabbit at the top of the stairs,

(I like it that it’s wearing a backpack)

and a child’s box on our door.

At 9:30 a farmer will drop off a warm bottle of goat milk,

courtesy the establishment.

When we arrived Monday evening,

we were greeted with the essentials,

shower slippers and room slippers included.

After settling in, we dined at the place next door,

Pork Noodle Soup and a Cucumber Salad, the house speciality.

Yesterday morning, Mickey at the front desk gave us a walking map to aid in exploration.

“If you can, stop by the Blue dragonfly. You won’t regret it.” Though it sounded a bit racy, we promised we’d try.

You never tire of the streets in Asia,

its markets,

and speciality shops.

Mid-morning, we stopped at the Princeken, treating ourselves to a Firenze Daxi Matcha Green Tea (翡冷翠大溪抹茶綠茶)

and a German Pudding Tart (德國布丁努510).

On the street again, we paused to smell the (?)

and appreciate the art in the park.

Lunch time came just as we happened upon the Blue dragonfly.

Come to find out, it’s not racy at all.

Pa reminded me of what Anthony Bourdain once told him:

“You should try everything once.”

So we ordered the house special.

Words can’t describe how good it was.

Back at Tiin Tinn Inn, we took advantage of the rooftop laundry.

The wash is free and dryer just a $1.

Last night we went to a movie, wanting to experience a Taiwan cinema.

Turns out it was in French with Chinese subtitles. No matter the language, it‘s terrible, and left after 20 minutes.

But we slept well, and will bike Taitung today.

courtesy the establishment.