Enjoy every day here
For his channel, Engström travels the length and breadth of Taiwan to introduce his audience to fascinating places. His more recent videos provide guidance to foreigners on how to prepare for their visits to Taiwan and on important cultural differences; he has also conducted interviews with foreigners in Taiwan in order to present the island from a greater variety of viewpoints.
In addition, Engström has collaborated with the European Economic and Trade Office in Taiwan, inviting representatives from EU countries to introduce the cultures and customs of their homelands, and their impressions of Taiwan. If you wish to hear Engström speaking Mandarin, check out his series of videos sharing snippets of his life in Taiwan. How long does it take for a learner to attain his level of Chinese? Engström says that if we were to learn the language in Taiwan, it would take just a year or two before we could manage most daily scenarios.
He further points out that the vocabulary and conversations taught in Taiwan’s Huayu language schools can not only be easily applied to everyday circumstances, but also help foreigners experience an authentic version of Taiwan. “Taiwan is so much more than just Taipei or the tourist attractions along the metro lines.” Since he obtained his scooter license, he has been able to visit even more places unknown to most tourists.
However, even with perfect Mandarin pronunciation, foreigners in Taiwan might find themselves misunderstood by locals who assume they can’t speak Chinese. Engström tells us that some convenience store staff here seem to think that all foreigners like Americano coffee, so they automatically make a cup of Americano when they see a Western face—even if you tell them clearly in Mandarin that you want iced latte. Such misunderstandings have happened quite often during his time in Taiwan in the last decade or so. “Taiwanese people are really very friendly and eager to help, but they sometimes jump to conclusions,” says Engström with a smile.
Feeling that he’s a welcome “guest,” Engström refrains from calling Taiwan “home.” “It’s as if I’ve been in a summer camp for 13 years. I feel very relaxed here every day—that’s why I don’t feel like leaving,” he says.
Engström doesn’t know when or if he’s going back to Sweden. “I think of every year I spend in Taiwan as my final year here. I ask myself: ‘If this is indeed my last year in Taiwan, what will I do?’ With this question always in mind, I try to enjoy Taiwan to the fullest.”
Shida Night Market is decked with festive bunting comprising flags of different countries. The decorations resonate with the international faces we often come across here.