On the day I visited Taipei 101 the weather was pouring hard. According to my guide, there was a long line of visitors before our group all waiting to head up to the tower observatory but to no avail — no one was allowed up due to poor visibility. The weather had pretty much locked us indoor and since we’re already here at the world’s 2nd tallest building, explored the Taipei 101 Mall. These pictures were taken during Chinese New Year of 2010 just in case you wonder why the teddy bear in the photo below is dressed in a familiar auspicious red outfit and generally red overtones.
The Taipei 101 Mall is located inside the Taipei 101 and it's one of the poshest shopping malls in not just Taipei but all of Taiwan. The floors are occupied by major luxury brands I wouldn't bother to step inside especially after I've retired from wearing them. Without a doubt, this is where the wealthy are seen shopping while the rest of us finds comfort and normality on Level 4 City Square.
Sales staff at Taipei 101 Mall snapping a photo of their Chinese New Year teddy bear mascot much to the delight of little kids.
As with any tourist attraction, there's no shortage of souvenirs and Taipei 101 memorabilia.
City Square Level 4: This is Taipei’s most striking space for music, art, fashion, and entertainment. Page One, the international bookseller, makes its debut in Taiwan, carrying an abundance of titles in Chinese and English.
The adjoining skylit café, offering French pastries in an elegant atmosphere, likewise makes its mark on the urban landscape. European, Japanese, Thai, and Chinese restaurants offer guests a refined, expansive dining environment
My wife fills out a card with our names written in Chinese for health and prosperity on the wheel of fortune.
The large wheel is filled to the brim with dedications and well wishes from just about all walks of life, tourists and locals alike.
My wife giving the huge wheel a spin for good luck.
"To mary a rich man and lovely" — I hope this woman has found her dream man. It's been 2 years.
