Camping in Taiwan 台灣露營

These Boots are Made for Walking

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Fri, 30 Dec 2011 02:08:00 PST

How we choose our footwear and lacing for comfort.

Got a pair of shoe or boot, tried in the shoe shop it fits just perfect but when hiking uphill and downhill it was not so perfect after all.

Many failed to realize the comfort of the shoe when walking depends in how we buy the right size shoes / boots and how we lace them.

How we choose our shoe sizes

Take out the inner sole, with the right kind of socks to be used, place the feet on the inner sole and measure from sole top to feet. Have one thumb spacing, this will allow space for the feet to swell when walking too long.

How do we laced them

Recently bought a cheap lightweight Adidas Plein Air AX1. When hiking, my feet was sliding inside the shoe and felt very uncomfortable. To prevent my feet from sliding, I did Surgeon's Knots.

Surgeon's Knot

many sport shoes comes with last lace hole and these is how we used it

read below under Low-Cut Shoe Heel Lock

to prevent the laced knots from loosening, tuck it in

Optional Comfort

My feet takes all the weight of my body and gears carried. To ensure my feet do not wear me down, I have the Superfeet inner sole and it has been serving very well for many years.

Do note that most footwear needs time to break-in so before any hiking, wear them as often around town to get use to it and do necessary lacing for comfort.

Below are info from Montrail back in 2003

The standard lacing technique works well for many people but not everybody. Correct lacing is taut, but not too tight, from the toe up to the top of the boot or shoe. There should be no loose lacing and the lacing should contact the boot evenly and firmly.

Below are a few tried-and-true techniques. Use this as a starting point and experiment with your own.
Loop: If laces are slipping on a hook, lace "down" a hook instead of "up" creating a loop.
D-ring lock: By bringing the lace around through the eyelet from the top, pressure is applied on the lace.
Overhand knot: The most common means of locking off tension below the knot.
Surgeon's knot: this is a very secure means of locking off any chosen tension below the knot.
Marathon loop: Improves heel lock for low-cut shoes.

Common Techniques

Other Lacing Techniques
Low-Cut Shoe Heel Lock
Boot Heel Lock
Low Volume
High Instep
Cuff Pressure

Special Knot Techniques
Granny Knot
Square Knot

Low-Cut Shoe Heel Lock

Make a loop through the double eyelet at the top of the shoe and lace back through the loop. Pull up against the loop to snug your heel into the heel pocket.

Boot Heel Lock

To distribute pressure create a loop between two hooks and pass the lace from above and through, then continue upward.

Low Volume

To improve performance with lower-volume or narrow feet, utilize on or more of the "locking" techniques to hold the foot securely in place without causing excessive pressure or irritation.

High Instep
To reduce pressure over the instep, simply skip crossing the laces over the sensitive area sometimes associated with having a high instep. It's a good idea to use with a locking procedure before and after. As shown here.

Cuff Pressure
To eliminate lower skin irritation, finish the lacing by bringing the laces over the top of the hooks before tying the bow knot.

Granny Knot
This is a very common knot that is less secure than a square knot. If you end up with a knot where the bow loops point up and down, you have a granny knot.

Square Knot
To tie a square knot, begin with an overhand knot, take the two loops and pass "right over left, then left over right" and you have a square knot. The finished product should have bow loops that point to the sides.

Weekend Outdoor Activities

noreply@blogger.com (scx) — Sun, 20 Nov 2011 02:05:00 PST

Sometimes we work hard, we also need to play hard. Most of our city friends get tired during weekend because they have to ran errand for family, taking them out shopping, buying new clothes, have dinner with family, taking kids to ballet or other classes and they are simply worn down... End of the weekend.

Sometimes they just preferred to be at work instead, however life in Taiwan has many options for the weekend and here are the lists of Weekend Outdoor Activities in Taiwan. There are so much to choose.

- Mountain Biking
- Road Biking
- Hiking
- Mountain Climbing
- River Tracing
- 5 star Joyful Camping
- Wild Camping
- Scuba Diving
- Snorkeling
- Night Market
- Aboriginal Festival
- Aboriginal DIY
- Surfing
- Farm Stay
- Rock Climbing
- Beach Bumming
- Outdoor BBQing
- On-Shore Fishing
- Off-Shore Fishing
- Waterfall Exploration
- Squid Fishing
- Whales and Dolphins Sighting
- Island Hopping
- Water World Park
- Amusement Park
- Hot Spring
- Wild Hot Spring Exploration
- Cold Spring
- ATV
- Off-Road 4x4
- Off-Road Biking
- Treasure Hunting
- Kids DIY Activities
- Wild Boar Hunting
- Animal Tracking
- Bird Watching
- Nature Photography
- Airsoft

Hm...the list goes on

The options for being in Taiwan seems endless. A place where working life and fun can be balanced healthily.

even our dog knows how to enjoy mother natures's gift

We are glad to be part of Formosa and we loved it. So far we have not heard a place on Earth that can provide all these activities in one place.

Isn't this FUN TAIWAN!!

Snow Mountain from Wuling Farm 武陵農場雪山登山口

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Sat, 29 Oct 2011 22:29:00 PDT

Trail info (click here for large view)

Chinese Backpacker forum with photos and info

There are at least 4 trail heads going up Snow Mountain in Shei-Pa National Park however one of the most favourite and shortest trail to Snow Mountain is from Wuling Farm, one can reach the campsite and spend a night before setting off early morning to Snow Mountain Eastern Trail, click HERE, otherwise the Wuling Quadruple Trail going up 4 mountains. Both trails will take 3days 2 nights.

Recently we have oversea fans asking about going up Snow Mountain from Wuling Farm information.

Few items to note.

Camping in Wuling Farm rates are between NT400 to NT2200. Tent at location is available otherwise you can bring your own tent. Check rates HERE

If you prefer sleeping in comfort, there are cottages around the Farm. Rates can be found HERE

There are no meals provided at Wuling Farm Campsite except in the Hotel which is around 15 to 20mins hike from campsite. Hotel meal info can be found HERE.

There is no transport from campsite going up to Snow Mountain trail head and the hike from campsite takes around 40mins.

If you are going into the mountain area (Conservation Area) or use the mountain lodges you will need to apply Permit HERE Chinese, English Application Permit info click HERE. During most seasons, mountain lodges are always fully booked so do plan ahead, advise atleast 30days ahead. Be warn any attempt without permit will cost you a Sea Hawk ride during emergency and a Fine.

There are local clubs arranging trip up to Snow Mountain, you will have to find the info Online as CiT is not affiliated with them.

Entrance fee to Wuling Farm is applicable

Adult: NT130 weekday / NT160 weekemd
Vehicle parking: NT80 car

Shei-pai National Park Website info

Transportation

Yilan Kuo-Kuang Bus 宜蘭國光客運

From Yilan to Wuling Farm

Travelling time: 2 hours and 45 minute fare: NT276
Yilan Train Station to Bus Station about 150m (left) Kuo-Kuang Bus Station

Yilan to Wuling Farm 07:00,12:40

Wuling Farm to in Yilan 09:20,14: 05

EZ Travel Network Bus 易遊網彩繪巴士

From Taipei to Wuling via Yilan

Travelling time: 4 hours one-way fare: NT800 weekday / NT1200 weekend or holidays Starting from Taipei Railway Station to Wuling Farm tour buses (34 seaters) Hotline: (02) 23148703
From:
07:20	Taipei Railway Station - 東三門 Donsanmen bus boarding point ( at train station there is a dedicated car service)
07:30	Bus to Yilan
09:00	Yilan Railway Station (if alighting need to advise bus driver to stop)
Destination:
11:30	Wuling Farm

Fengyuan Bus 豐原客運

From Taichung to Wuling Farm

Traveling time 6 hours (only one bus per day)
Fengyuan Bus Tel: (04) 2523-4175 # 228
Arrange Bus at Taichung Train Station - Fengyuan豐原 - Lishan梨山 (change bus) - Wuling Farm

To:

Taichung to Lishan 08:00

Lishan to Wuling 16:00

Back:

Wuling to Lishan to Taichung 6:30-14:30

Wuling Recreation Map

Meals and Accommodation

Wuling Hotel (meals)

Reservation Tel: (04) 25901259 ext 2001 ~ 2002 Fax: (04) 25901355
Description page: www.wuling-farm.com.tw/room_01.html

Wuling Farm Camping Area

Reservation Tel: (04) 25901470 / (04) 25901265 Fax: (04) 25901088
Description page: www.wuling-farm.com.tw/camp_intro.php

Wuling Fushu Resort (meals)

Reservation Tel: (04) 25901399 Fax: (04) 25901118
Description page: www.hoyaresort.com.tw/wuling/mainpage3.php
Reservation System: www.ezhotel.com.tw/hoya/index.php?hotelid=4

Fushu Group Wuling Villa (meals) (Forest Service Eastern Forest management to contract out the situation)

Reservation Tel: (04) 25901020

Mountain Lodging Information

Shei-Pa National Park 七卡及 QiKaJi and 三六九山莊 369 Lodge Bed Application

For Fans climbing the Snow Mountain, advance booking is necessary for 七卡山莊 QiKaJi Lodge and 三六九山莊 369 Lodge. This is to avoid over-crowding and pollution to the area

Online application: apply.spnp.gov.tw
Tel: (037) 996 100 ext 720

Lodge Notes

七卡山莊 QiKa Lodge, 三六九山莊 369 Lodge must make advance booking for weekdays and holidays seasons, application for bed booking for group need to indicate conservation area on the permit application, time and place to stay.
Approve groups application for loges need to produce admission license, total number of people (do not take the other bed)
QiKaji Lodge is open 4 season from afternoon till the next day 8 am, do not camp in other locations.
Maintain cleanliness around Lodge and please bring garbage down.
Maintain clean water sources, do not use detergents
No pets allowed in mountain area as not to frighten wildlife and pollute the environment.
Please use mountaineering cooking stove, open fire are prohibited
Do not damage and graffiti around the Lodge.
Please be quiet and pay attention to lodging etiquette.

七卡 QiKa Camp Management

During holiday season, 369 Lodge Hill and QiKa Lodge can be very crowed thus camping is allowed in Qika camp area

Camping reservations Notes

七卡QiKa camp can accommodate 10 nos of 4 men tent.
Camp permit is required, application done on line.
Groups camping reservations accepted by Shei-Pa National Park need to show receipt of approve application
Reservation will be rejected if booking is full
Booking can be done 2 days in advance.

Information dated Aug 2011

Petzl PIXA 3 Headlamp

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Sun, 02 Oct 2011 06:25:00 PDT

Petzl has always been our choice head lamps, with the latest 2011 released of the PIXA series for professional, I have decided to get one due to the nature of my work, the PIXA 3 headlamp that is rated for use in explosive and hazardous environment.

The head lamp came very robust and it was much bulkier compare to my previous Tikka XP. It did weigh heavier but mainly due to it's reinforce rubberised construction and able to waterproof up to 1m under water. The battery compartment has a seal to provide water and dust from getting in. The beam selector comes with a 3 way knob instead of button for ease when using with gloves. The headlamp comes with 3 beam mode, spot, flood and spot/flood together however it does burn out the battery pretty fast if spot beam is continuously for 3 hours.

The head lamp comes with an adapter to be use with Petzl Helmets, however I did notice that it not very tightly fit and only a small rubber stopper is used to prevent the headlamp from falling. I would suggest for extreme sport, use the headband instead to prevent losing the headlamp. The adapter would only be idea for low impact work or sport.

BEAM RANGE
Flood : 15mtrs (30 lumens 12hrs)
Spot/Flood: 30mtrs (40 lumens 6hrs)
Spot: 55mtrs (50lumens 3hrs)

The flood beam has it own lamp thus making the flood beam more focus where else the Tikka XP uses a diffuser to create the flood beam and making it more distorted.
The video below shows the PIXA 3 in action, watch how the focused the beams

Pros

crush proof up to 80kg
submerge up to 1m of water
excellent fall resistance up to 2 mtrs
Both the flood and spot bean are more FOCUSED and bright
able to adapt to Petzl Vertex Helmets
lens can be protected during storage
chemical resistance
uses AA batteries
3 years warranty
Constant lighting till battery level is low and auto switch to Flood mode (10hrs)

Cons

short battery life
heavy and bulky
costly

Comparison to Tikka XP (max 40 lumens)

PIXA 3 is bulkier and heavier
PIXA 3 is brighter and more focus beam (same at 40 lumens)
PIXA 3 has only 3 mode selection and Tikka XP has 4 mode
PIXA 3 is more durable
Cost more
Max beam range PIXA 3 55mtrs and Tikka 35mtrs

Conclusion

PIXA 3 is definitely a very robust headlamp for any extreme sports such as caving, river tracing or night hiking. The flood/spot beam mode was very well thought off making night manoeuvres more focused so that it allows you to see what is in-front and what is ahead.

The flood beam at 30 lumens was more focus than Tikka XP 40 lumens. However the battery life does not last long but unlike other headlamps it does have a constant beam till battery is low level.

It does not come with flashing mode or red lighting

PS first generation of MYO XP and Tikka XP that I owned did not last long before it broke down but I am glad Petzl took care of the repair and replacement. However I have faith in the PIXA 3 and will take the abuse much better than any other headlamp

Recommendation- worth the investment

Petzl PIXA 3 link

DIY Heat Reflector cum Windscreen 自製登山爐擋風板

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Wed, 31 Aug 2011 10:20:00 PDT

During the last overnight MTB camping trip, I tried using the DIY mini-windscreen with the Alpine Stove and it was not very effective. The strong wind was blowing from all directions and the flame from the stove was not very constant, making cook time very slow.

在上一次的自行車露營之旅，我嚐試使用自製的登山爐迷你擋風板，結果效果並不是很有效。強風從四面八方吹來使爐火非常不穩定，將烹煮的時間拉長。

I decided to reconstruct another windscreen that can improve the fuel efficiency yet it does not take up space and can be packed with the cookset. The end result, it provides maximum coverage against the wind, the windscreen will also act as a heat reflector and improve the cooking time.
我決定重製一個可以提高燃燒效率的擋風板，它不佔用空間，並可以與炊具收納在一起。使用後的結果，它不但擋住了強風且可讓熱氣包覆在擋風板內進而縮短了烹飪的時間。

I took a MSR heat reflector for this project. This heat reflector is used on cold ground and helps improve the cooking time. However you can use an Aluminum food tray or pie tray that can be found very cheaply in most supermarkets. The thickness of the food tray is almost the same as the MSR heat reflector making them very easy to bend, cut and form a shape. Here's a blog to give you an idea.

我以MSR熱反射板為概念。這種熱反射板是使用在寒冷的地方，可助於熱氣集中並提高烹調效率。自行DIY，可先在超市買便宜的鋁箔食品盒或糕餅鋁箔紙。鋁箔食品盒的厚度幾乎和MSR熱反射板一樣，很容易彎曲，切割，與造型。若要觀看影音示範可連結至博客。

First I took the stove template and make the markings. Slowly using a penknife and cut the markings out. 首先，把錫箔紙包覆在登山爐上抓出一個爐嘴只支架的模型並作出標記然後慢慢地用小刀切割開。

The shape cut out is not perfect so you might have to do a few more trimmings.
若割出的形狀不是很完美，可以做一些修飾。

Using my pot, place it in the center of the heat reflector and slowly bend all the sides up until it form a circular cup. 用一個鍋放在中心然後慢慢的將外緣往內凹，直到它形成一個圓形杯子的形狀。

Next insert the heat reflector and slowly push it down towards the stove, you might have to do some trimming on the edges. Remember the heat reflector must be slightly below the flame outlet otherwise it will not be effective. Also note if you have an auto ignition, make sure the aluminum does not touch the needle otherwise your auto ignition will not work.
接下來將切割好的錫箔紙慢慢推向爐嘴，您可能需要做一些邊緣修剪。請記住擋風板必須略低於爐嘴，否則不會有效。另外請注意如果你的爐具是自動點火，擋風板不可碰到點火的鋁針，否則將無法正常點火。

Using with Pot 用於小鍋

Using with fry pan 用於平底鍋

Packing the Windscreen cum Heat Reflector

This idea came to me when I saw Snow Peak had a similar product however Snow Peak design did not allow a full wind coverage on the stove and there is a gap between the pot and stove. Wind was still able to blow through the windscreen. Some guy on Youtube made a test using a fan and after 5mins he was not able to boil 2 cups of water.
這種想法的產生是當我看到Snow Peak的產品，但它的設計無法完全擋住風而且鍋和爐灶之間縫隙很大。風仍然能夠通過擋風板吹進。有些人在Youtube上做了一個試驗，使用風扇模擬戶外的風邊吹邊煮了5分鐘，始終沒能煮滾2杯水的量。

When constructing this Heat Reflector cum Windscreen, I have to note that it must cover the pot base and also allow some air to pass through between the pot and stove otherwise the flame will not burn properly. This was achieved by cutting a bigger circle than the stove and the corrugated design on the windscreen will allow some air in.
製做這個熱反射板及防風罩時，我體認到，它必須涵蓋鍋底並同時讓一些空氣流通於鍋和爐子，否則火會燃燒不完全。注意：切割時套上爐嘴的圓要稍微大些，空氣才可經過擋風板的波紋流通。

Personally I feel this is a better windscreen, not only it packs with you cook set but it takes lesser time to cook. Should be able to use on most stove with this design. No harm trying as you can buy this cheap aluminum tray from supermarket and it take less than 15min to make one.

我個人覺得這是一個很不錯的擋風板，它不僅可與你的炊具放在一起而且烹調所需時間較短。此種設計之擋風板應能適合大多數的登山爐。您可試著做做看，只需不到15分鐘便可完成！

Reef Convertible Sandal

noreply@blogger.com (scx) — Tue, 16 Aug 2011 02:46:00 PDT

Teva and Chacos have been very popular by demand. They make quality sandals for outdoor and water activities but I have never owned a single pair because the design I wanted, they do not have. I wanted a sandal that can be used as a flip-flop around campsite and also for outdoor or water sport activities.

In 1995 by chance I came across a brand REEF from Brazil that makes both beach flip-flop and sandal. They have the kind of convertible sandal I was looking for. Quality wise I think it is as good as both the top brands, since my first purchase till now, I have owned 2 similiar pairs of sandal and the current has been with me for 10years. I only use this sandal during outdoor, beach or traveling so the wear and tear is rather slow.

So far both pairs I have owned did not breakdown on me under extreme usage, the only thing I realised was the sole worn down rather fast, maybe is my style of walking. They are very comfortable to put on and easy to covert to a flip-flop. The sandal is mostly flat but after breaking in, it will contour to your feet shape. Another thing I like is the weight, my current seasoned pair is 311g. It also packs very flat and it does not take up space in your backpack.

The front strap can be adjusted by means of valcro for a tight fitting during extreme usage.

The rear ankle strap uses valcro for fitting adjustment and can be removed to convert into a flip-flop

After 10 years of usage the sole is 50% worn down.

I have just checked the REEF website and found out they do still carry this sandal but slight different in design. There is a REEF dealer in Taiwan, not sure if they have this convertible sandal. At the moment it is retailing USD38 which is cheaper compare to the top brands. Previously I only paid US20 :-(

Tip: when crossing a flowing river, never use a flip-flop, my partner had her's swept away.

浸水營古道 JinShuiYing by MTB

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Mon, 15 Aug 2011 07:58:00 PDT

This is the first stage of our 3 days 2 night cross-island coastal ride with my dog, Siboy. We supposed to cover 90km in 3 days. You can view the planning HERE. When we arrived at the trail head, I was surprised they have put up a sign NO BIKES allowed. Few months ago, we were hiking this trail and there was no such sign. Well, nothing is going to stop me now, after 2 yrs of desire and weeks of planning and waiting, I just have do it.

trail head - NO ENTRY TO BIKE

10km rest stop

one of the rocky section

suspension bridge

Well, there is nothing much I can write about this trail by MTB since biking is not allowed, I would say if you want to go in by bike, the risk is all yours. This trail is a very technical, not for an average rider and some sections can be very dangerous. Left alone the night before it rained making riding over rocks and logs very slippery. If you like to know more details on this trail by hiking, you can view my previous blog.

Overall, I really enjoyed this technical trail rather than cycling up a mountain track. Riding over logs, rocks and bunny hop along the way is more fun. So far, I would rate this is my best off-road trail riding in Taiwan. Do not have to be fast just have to be sure, that makes technical trail riding fun.

Some precaution to note, I have sustained some injuries from an over hanging vine and also mild sting by poison ivy on my legs and arms. At that time I was only wearing riding shorts and shirts, my skin was exposed. The last section towards the suspension bridge, the trail was almost covered by overgrown vegetation.

After the suspension bridge, you have to traveled down the river bed. The whole river bed trail is around 3km until you reach the aboriginal settlement. I followed a vehicle track until I came across the river crossing, judging from the river flow, I decided to back off this track as I knew those vehicle that crossed the river bed will deepen the crossing. Followed down stream till I met an aboriginal who guided and assisted me to cross the river. When crossing an unknown river, it is best to use a stick to test the river bed before any attempt. The aboriginal guy told me once there was a group of hikers from Taipei came to attempt this trail and they got stuck at the river bed as it was raining for the last few days. The SAR had to fly 6 sorties just to evacuate them all.

Seriously, even a very well planned trip, we need to understand how the weather affects the terrain. I have delayed and waited weeks until this day for this planned trip.

Started the trail around 2.15pm and arrived at the river bed at 6pm, was delayed due to video capturing in this trip. Came to a village and rested till 7.30pm. Called my partner and reported safety. By the time is was total darkness, good thing I found a beach park just not too far away and spent the night there. It was very chilly for a Summer night and the moon was full. Had to use my REI rain gear to warm up for the night, wish I had bought some beers and chilled the night out.

morning 6am at DaWu Beach Park

this beach park can be very noisy at night due to midnight tracks, best have a ear plug.

instant breakfast - noodle and pork with bamboo shoot

17lts camelbak HAWG

View 浸水營古道 MTB in a larger map

阿郎壹古道 ALangYi Trail By MTB

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Sun, 14 Aug 2011 12:47:00 PDT

Day 2, at 7am we broke camp at Dawu Beach Park and traveled down Provincial highway 26 which is around 12.6km before arriving 阿郎壹古道 AlangYi trail head. Just around 200 to 300mtrs away from the Beach Park, we made a pit stop to replenished our water, there is a 7-11 and some breakfast shops beside it.

Riding through the newly completed Highway 26 was very tranquil. There was hardly any cars and the ocean is just beside us. Along the way, we could hear the morning birds chipping away. All I can say from the last time we were there and now, it was a huge difference.

the tarred road ends here

ALangYi Trail Head

We arrived at the foot hill around 9am and decided to take 15mins shelter behind a rock from the sun. As I looked up the hill, it was pretty steep, got my DIY bike belt hooked up and started the climb. Almost every 5 to 10mtrs, we needed a break. It was not an easy task going up with a bike and the sun was burning us down. As we reached the first hill top flat ground thinking that we were over the hill, until we took a turn thru a tree foliage, there was another path leading up the hill. Half way up the climb, I felt some small stones have got into my riding shoes until I realised by sole was giving way. The loose flake of broken slates have cut and damaged my sole and my feet started to hurt.

this is the first stage of hill climb

another section of the hill climb

Under the hot Summer sun, the 100mtrs hill climb have beaten both me and Siboy, my dog. We finished our 2Lts water supply within hours. We tried to find any shaded bush or tree coverage just to cool ourselves down. There were few hikers who saw our incredible feat and praised us and offer us their water. I told them, this was a big mistake if I had just planned to climb this trail but my journey was beyond this so I have to go with the bike. We instantly became their photo blog :-)

Finally the last 40mtrs downhill to the beach, I thought for a while how can I get down on the narrow steep stretch with my bike. The only way is to keep the front wheel up in the air and slowly slide down. Immediately when we got to the pebble beach, we soaked ourselves in the cool ocean sea water. Once down the beach, there were more obstacles, from jagged rocks to pebble beach etc. 3.5km of beach hike until we met the paved road.

one section of the beach obstacles

From the day before the trail at 浸水營古道 Jinshuiying and including this trail, Siboy, my dog have covered almost 44km altogether. I was amazed how he had climbed the steep hill alone. Due to our fatigue, heat exhaustion, injuries, damaged to property and Siboy can't go on any further, which was very clear he was worn down from both injury and heat exhaustion. I have decided to surrender and call for recovery vehicle to SyuHai. At around 3pm we exited the trial and called my partner and waited around 3hour for her to drive down from Kaohsiung. The 3 days planned adventure cross-island coastal trip just have to end here. Probably we will continue the journey again.

View 阿郎壹古道 MTB in a larger map

Few pointers for this trail

get a good pair of shoes, including my shoe there were 3 more hikers with damage soles.
bring plenty of water
shield yourself as much as possible from the sun. 2/3 of the journey is exposed to the sun
The whole trail is around 5km including 3.5km beach trail
You can camp on this trail, coming up from SyuHai after the 3.5km beach hike from the first hill climb, you will meet a shaded open ground which is ideal for camping but you need to get your water supply from the river just before the hill climb.
Based on average timing of the hikers that have passed us, they took around 4 to 5hrs to complete the trail. With my bike I have taken 6hrs including plenty of rest stop.
This trail is NOT ride-able. Not even a single section unless you want to take the risk.
If you really need to bring your bike, DIY a lifting belt and remove the front wheel when you climb bcoz the hill is too steep and your front wheel will get in the way.
to get to this trail, you can take a train to Dawu, arrange a public transport from there. Once at Syuhai, ask the locals, there is a public transport back to the east where you can grab a train otherwise you can spend a night at the nearby campsites or villas.
In my opinion, starting from Syuhai will be much easier as you do not have to attempt the 100m steep hill climb but you will face a problem getting transport to Dawu.
Currently SyuHai Hot Spring is under renovation should be ready in a month time.

SyuHai public Hot Spring

Petzl e+LITE

noreply@blogger.com (scx) — Mon, 08 Aug 2011 01:09:00 PDT

Petzl e+LITE, the "e" stands for "emergency" is designed for use in any situation. It is ultra-lightweight, comes in a hard case and can easily be stored with its batteries in a backpack, jacket or emergency kit up to 10 years. It provides white or red lighting in continuous or blinking mode and can easily be attached with its elastic band and clip.

Packaging

Among all our headlamps, we liked the e+Lite as it is compact, long term storage and comes with various lighting options. The red lighting is great to use for night vision especially if you are on a night coach. If you are thinking to use this headlamp for night hike or bike, I would not really recommend as the maximum 16 lumens is not bright enough to light up the road ahead however we did use it once cycling 80km in the dark after coming back late from an island trip, ideal visibility of the white light was around 12m.

The Petzl e+Lite headlamp is always in our EDC (everyday carry) bags for emergency, one for my partner and one for me. During outdoor this headlamp will be used as a backup headlamp just in case our primary head lamp fails.

Long-term dependability, even when kept for years in harsh conditions:

works in extreme temperatures: - 30 °C to + 60 °C (-22 °F to +140 °F)
always ready for use, can be stored with batteries up to 10 years and still be operational,
waterproof down to -1 m
can be used in potentially explosive atmospheres
compact and ultra-light (28 grams), so it can always be with you
designed to prevent accidental operation with locking switch.

Performance lighting

two white lighting levels (maximum 19mtrs and economic 11mtrs)
one red lighting level
two flashing modes : White (3Km) or Red (1Km for signaling)
shines enough light (19m) to allow easy movement in the dark
provides up to 4 consecutive nights of lighting (45 hours),
easy to use

Very practical
- Can be worn on the head, around the wrist, neck, attached to thin-edged objects just as bike backup lighting
- with integrated clip.
- always shines in the direction you want: light source can be directed 360°
- red light beam helps preserve night vision
- 10-year guarantee.

Newer model Petzl e+LITE comes with an emergency whistle

There is not much difference between the older and newer model except with the additional of a emergency whistle and SOS signalling guide.

SOS signalling guide

Long-range whistle for communication or rescue

- up to 100 dB can be heard up to 500 m away (in the mountains, at night and without wind)
- SOS Morse code illustration on the whistle
- SOS hand signal illustration on the hard case

Tip: Since the headlamp uses the compact CR2032 batteries, I taped the spare batteries together ensuring they do not contact each other and store in the hard case together with the headlamp as additional spare batteries.

Recently just have one of the e+Lite replaced under warranty as one the light was not able to blink. It did take a while (almost 4mths) not sure why the long delay but still got it replaced FOC.

Verdict : Value for money

Solo MTB Southern Cross-Island Coastal Trip (Planning)

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Mon, 01 Aug 2011 07:57:00 PDT

Read about the trip
Day 1 浸水營古道 JinShuiYing
Day 2 阿郎壹古道 ALangYi

Foul weather has sat in again and again and there is probably a typhoon this weekend. Personally I love outdoor activities during foul weather but for this trip, I have to be careful as I am doing alone. The rivers that I will be crossing might cause the whole plan to backfire and I might get myself trapped. So this is one time I have to respect Mother Nature. Anyway it gives me time to write and log about my planning for this trip also allow me to look into my gears second time. I do hope the rivers that I need to cross is not flooded after the typhoon.

So, finally after much slacking, here is my plan to embark on a ride which will cover both On-Road and Off-Road. Most of the journey will be On-Road, only few places will be Off-Road. This trip will take me cross the island from FangLiao Train Station (East) to Dawu Village (West) and down South following the coast to 風吹砂 FengChuiSha then cross back to the East to 大圓山 DaYuanShan or Kenting.

One option is to follow the routes as the map highlighted, take a train or drive to Fangliao Train Station and do a loop back to the train station.

STAGE 1

~~枋寮火車站(?) - 歸崇派出所(?)~~ - 浸水營古道 - 巴塱衛山 (30.9Km?) + 27.7Km

~~Fangliao Train Stn - Police Check Point~~ - JinShuiYing Trail - BaLangWeiShan (camp)

STAGE 2

巴塱衛山- 台26 - 阿郎壹古道 - 九棚大沙漠 - 出風鼻 41.9Km

BaLangWeiShan - Route26 - ALangYi Trail - JiuPeng Desert - ChuFengBi

STAGE 3

出風鼻 - 佳樂水 - 籠仔埔大草原 - 大圓山(營camp) - ~~枋寮火車站(?)~~ 19.6Km + (59Km?)

ChuFengBi - JiaLeiShui - LongZaiPu Grassland - DaYuanShan - ~~FangLiao Train Stn~~

Off-Road Areas

浸水營古道 17.4km mostly downhill
阿郎壹古道 4km plus carrying bike over a hill
九棚大沙漠 2.5km desert riding
出風鼻 11.5km carrying bike over rocky terrain
籠仔埔大草原 2km flat grassland

I would definitely like to take my dog with me, well...that is my partner's advise. If I have to go as plan, I am afraid he can't make the total 180Kms loop. Another option is I get my partner to drive us to 浸水營古道 trail head and end at 大圓山, so in 3 days he has to cover 90km, half of the planned trip. This trip can make it in a day but I prefer to go slow and easy. Time is not a factor, the idea is to camp out and take our own sweet time. Well, this is another option.

Main Objective

鹿寮溪

Main objective of this trip is 出風鼻 (see photo album), our bike group have done this trip several times but I failed to join them. From the info gathered, you will find the most amazing rock formation and ship wrecks around the area. My objective is to camp one night in this area near a river 鹿寮溪 LuLiao River and maybe get a chance to see a deer here. As you know river is a source of life and also a source of death, there might be predators.

Preparation

As this trip involves carrying bike in certain stretch, I would need to go light weight. Using Panniers is not an option, only those essential gears will be considered. Hammock camping will be the most ideal choice for this trip, I hope.

Choice of Pack will be my old faithful 2003 Camelbak HAWG 17L. Will try to store everything from water, food, rain gears, repair kit, first aid, survival kit, clothes and miscellaneous for 3 days 2 nights. The Hennessy Hammock will be stuffed inside a Seal Line Dry Bag and secured to the handlebar.

Checklists

SHELTER
LIGHTING KIT
HYGIENE KIT
SURVIVAL / FIRST AID KIT
COOKING KIT
HYDRATION KIT
UTILITY KIT
CLOTHING and PROTECTION
BIKE REPAIR KIT
RATION

Solo 3 Days 2 Nights MTB Camping Gear Lists

Total Backpack Base Weight 5795g

(Base weight do not include items that is worn or consumable such as food, water and fuel are in Bold Red).

SHELTER (86g)(1273g)

The Shelter will be secured to the bike's handle bar stored in Seal Line Dry Bag.

Hennessy Hammock (1141g)
Seal Line Dry Bag (67g)
Fastening Belt (65g)
6 x Aluminum Tent Stakes (86g)

LIGHTING (302g)(21g)

Primary lighting will be Petzl Tikka XP for biking at night if needed and campsite usage. Petzl e+Lite will be a backup light also to be used for night reading, night vision and bike rear lighting if needed

Petzl Tikka XP with Spare Batteries (139g)
Petzl e+Lite (29g)
Black Diamond Orbit Lantern (134g)
Cat Eye SL-LD100 secured to helmet rear (21g)

HYGIENE KIT (133g)

Disposal Towel
Mini Toothpaste
Mini Toothbrush
Mini Campsud
Toilet Roll
Cotton Bud
Hand Sanitiser
Contact Lens

SURVIVAL / FIRST AID KIT (600g)

Survival Blanket will be used as a ground sheet, tarp or a blanket when the weather is cold. That removes the need for a sleeping bag. Gormmet holes have been prepared on the survival blanket so it can be used as a tarp.

Light Weight Survival Knife with whistle (60g)
550 Paracord 5metres (33g)
Compact Survival Kit (119g)
Survival Blanket (62g)
Mini First Aid Kit (45g)
Sunscreen (36g)
Leatherman Juice Xe6 (188g)
Insect Repellent (17g)
Turbo Lighter (40g)

compact survival kit

COOKING KIT (424g)(136g)

I was considering Alcohol Stove to lighten the weight. After considering some factors such as quick meal and the weight difference was marginal to Alpine Stove, I decided to use the Alpine Stove. I had purchased a Snow Peak Gas canister which is half the weight from the original canister I have and it nested in my pot set nicely thus reducing space in my backpack.

EPI Titan 3pcs Cook Set (205g)
REI Titanium Spork (15g)
Alpine Stove (95g)
~~Alps Gas Canister (120g + 280g)~~
Snow Peak GigaPower 110 Canister (90g + 136g)
3x Salt and Pepper from KFC (3g)
Gas Refilling Adapter (3g)
Dry Cloth and Sponge (13g)

HYDRATION KIT (191g)(2000g)

The water filter will be useful as it involves river camping. A spare bottle for filtered water use for cooking etc.

Platypus Hydration with 2L water (120g + 2000g)
Platypus 2L empty bottle for water filtration (35g)
PureEasy Water Filter (96g)

UTILITY KIT (1635g)(276g)

If it was not the plan for video capturing on this trip, I would have ditched half of this weight. Carabiners will be used for carrying the bike together with the Bike Carrier Belt and also to be used for hanging stuff on the hammock.

Travel Lock (86g)
Glasses (26g)
Spare Batteries (154g)
Solar Charger (275g) for camera batt charging
~~Lumix Camera (135g)~~ just died on me
Panasonic SW20 Camcorder (243g)
Olympus Camera (197g)
2 x 4G SD Spare Cards (4g)
Camera Spare Battery (19g)
Camera Stand (113g)
Garmin Oregon 400t GPS (200g)
iPod Shuffle with Charger and Headphone (68g)
Carabiners (65g)
Note Book and Pencil (29g)
Ear Plugs (4g)
Handphone (109g)
Casio Protrek Watch (76g)
Survival Book for night reading (220g)

CLOTHING and PROTECTION (1144g)(1799g)

The clothing will not be folded, instead it will be compressed in the backpack to fill up all void spaces. This method will save alot of space for packing. Trash bag will be used to waterproof all the contents in the bag.

~~1 x Columbia Convertible Hiking Pants (380g)~~
Leg Warmer (86g)
~~Arm Warmer~~
2 x Socks (43g+41g)
1 x Riding Shorts (215g)
2 x Riding Jersey (177g+211g)
1 x Riding Gloves (72g)
Riding Helmet (326g)
Halo Protex Bandana (31g)
Riding Shoes (865g)
Camp Sandal also use for river crossing (311g)
REI Jacket (410g)
Sunglasses (36g)
Bush Hat (85g)
Kerchief for shower, neck cooling or use as First Aid (34g)

BIKE REPAIR KIT (323g)(360g)

The rear bike seat storage bag have been ditched to minimise weight. Only the bike tube is secured to the seat and the tire pump mounted on the water bottle mounting point. The rest of the repair kit will be in the backpack.

Spare Tube (190g)
Topeak Mini Morph Tire Pump (170g)
Topeak Hexus Tool (172g)
Tire Patch (4g)
Chain Link (3g)
Rear D-Hanger (17g)
Chain Oil (32g) against mud and sea water
2m Duct Tape (16g)
5 x Cable Ty (10g)
Cotton Glove (17g)
DIY Bike Carrier Belt (52g)

bike spare tube and pump secured to bike

RATION (1197g)

Instant Pork Rib Noodle with Dehydrated Cabbage (268g)
Instant Beef Stew Noodle with Dehydrated Cabbage (293g)
Anchovies Congee with Dehydrated Cabbage (67g) Spare Ration
Dehydrated Seaweed Miso Soup (26g) Spare Ration
Oats with 3 x Instant Milo Mix (110g)
2 x Mars Bars (76g)
3 x 7-11 Mixed Nuts (112g)
3 x 7-11 Mixed Meat Jerky (107g)
2 x Wrigleys DoubleMint Chewing Gum (51g)
Pocari Sweat Mix (77g)
3x German Tea (10g)

PACK (957g)

Overall the base pack weight is below 6Kg, gross weight is around 9Kg mostly from ration and water. I must say I am pretty satisfied with the weight as I expected it to be around 12kg total.

2003 Camelbak HAWG 17L (861g)
Flyye Small Accessories Pouch (96g)

If my dog is coming, he will carry his own DIY pack, not going to overload him just some gears and food for 3 days. Water will be shared with me.

The last trip to Hayou River 哈尤溪 I had to carry my partner's bike and my bike through countless river crossings, it was a big mistake that I was not prepared for it. Furthermore I did not packed correctly and ended up carrying a lot of unnecessary weight. This time will get it right. Now let's see how the weather holds.

PRECAUTION

Since I have never been on this trip, some necessary precaution is taken.

Around Kenting area, there have been reports of wild dogs attacking the deers, so a Survival Knife for protection is necessary. If needed, the lightweight survival knife will be used to make a spear as it has a hollow handle.
Survival knife is attached to my backpack harness so that I can draw the weapon quickly.
Partner will be informed and will call back to report safety
Check weather forecast
Register at Police checkpoint
First Aid and Survival Kit, hopefully I do not have to use it.

Well, if you guys have further advise, do comment.

FLYYE Small Accessories Pouch

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Thu, 28 Jul 2011 11:23:00 PDT

Sometimes when you are backpacking and need to access stuff like camera, quick snacks or small tools, it can be very frustrating if you have to remove your backpack just to get to these stuff. The solution, Flyye small accessories pouch.

Specification
Size: 15 x 11 x 4 cm
Weight: 95g
Material: 1000D Cordura Nylon

The Flyye pouch came with a military graded material which makes it tough to handle all kinds of terrain. What I like about the pouch is the size, sufficient enough to squeeze most of the stuff that I often needed. It comes with a button belt loop which makes it very handy to remove and put back on and you can hook anywhere on you backpack or belt. The sides of the pouch has webbing straps which later realise my pocket knife and Leathman Wave could fit in it. It comes with a 2 way zipper which can be handled with gloves on.

10cm long button belt loop

there is a loop in the main pocket, guess is for hooking up your key chain

gourmet drainage hole

pocket knife and multitool on each sides

mobile phone, wallet, camcorder and tripod and there is still space

attaching to the hip belt REI Flash 65 backpack

attaching options on Camelbak hip strap

or just anywhere on the backpack

attaching to MagForce OCTA Versipack

A recent video that I made on a MTB trail using the Panasonic SW20 camcorder, I had used the MagForce and Flyye pouch. The Flyye pouch that was attached to the side was very handy. Each time when I finished videoing, I just slip the camcorder with the tripod attached into the Flyye pouch with ease. Maybe you can catch a glimpse on the pouches in action on video.

One suggestion I would recommend, if you are backing using this pouch. It will be nice to carry a nylon belt which doesn't take up space or weight. This option is great when you have to leave your big backpack behind to go for a short trail or somewhere else. With all your important stuff in this pouch, use the Nylon belt and attached to your hip and you have all your important stuff with you. Ok....that is if your pants do not come with any belt.

Ideal Usage

Personal stuff
First Aid Kit
Survival Kit
Accessories Kit

Snow Peak GigaPower Fuel 110 IsoPro

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Thu, 14 Jul 2011 09:48:00 PDT

Just went out to get this canister for my coming trip. Initially I was planning to use the Alps Gas Canister which weighs around 400g full. After much consideration and calculating the fuel I was burning just to boil 400ml of water with 10g of fuel. The Alps Gas Canister would be overkill and it takes up space in my 17L pack for Solo 3 days 2 night trip.

According to the specification, the Snow Peak GigaPower Fuel 110 IsoPro weighs only 200g. The empty canister weight is 90g and the mixture of Propane and Iso Butane weighs 110g. This mixture will create at low freezing temperature a high flame output. However my trip is neither high attitude nor freezing temperature, main aim is to get the right gear for the trip.

If my calculation is correct, with 110g of fuel, that means I can boil 400ml of water 11 times and if I use the stove 3 times a day, should be able to use this canister for 3.5 days.

size comparison

comes with a dust cap

previous packing with Alps Gas Canister

Snow Peak GigaPower nested nicely in my EPI Titan Cookset

using the Gas Refill Adapter

managed to squeeze in another 24g of fuel

The Snow Peak GigaPower Fuel 110 IsoPro is expensive costing more than 3 time the price of Alps Gas Canister. However if you look from another angle, you can reused the canister if you have the Gas Refill Adapter. This canister is small and light enough for solo 3 days hike. If you are not sharing stove in group camping, then this will be the ideal canister size. I bought it because of the canister size and not the quality of gas mixture. As much as I know, over here only Snow Peak has the canister of such size.

Well, I will let you guys know if my 3 days trip is sufficient with this canister but definitely it is sufficient for 1 to 2 days off-road trip.

Specification

Model: GP-110G

Material: Aluminium

Empty Canister: 90g

Gas: Propane and Iso Butane 110g

Made in Japan

Instant Vegetables

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Fri, 01 Jul 2011 12:03:00 PDT

Previously we had a dehydrator but sold it away because we found it was not cost saving. The electricity used to dehydrate those food had eaten into our utility bills. You can read HERE on our Dehydrated Food.

We found off the shelf dehydrated vegetables, they are cheaper compare we do it ourselves. This will allow us to carry light weight vegetables if we are hiking and they cook pretty fast. Below are two packs of dehydrated vegetables, high mountain cabbage and seaweed. I can't remember how much the seaweed cost but the high mountain cabbage cost below NT100.

HIGH MOUNTAIN CABBAGE

very ideal for instant noodles, just scoop a spoon full and add to your noodles

SEAWEED

We found these imported instant Japanese Miso Soup, they come in 3 different flavor, the silver packing itself is the miso paste. The package comes in 12 serving.

Prefer to use just the Miso paste with dehydrated seaweed, makes a very tasty Miso Seaweed Soup

Packed and ready for camping.

dried shrimps and anchovies can be eaten at their current state, these are another option which can be added with the dehydrated vegetables.

PS if you need these vegetables let us know, we got it just around our area.

Portable Personal Air-Con

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Wed, 29 Jun 2011 12:32:00 PDT

Here is another one of my project for Hot Summer days. The idea was to build a portable air-con for my partner during camping in our vehicle or tent at the same time I can use it at home. You can search under Youtube "DIY Air Conditioner". I have seen most of Youtube videos. Most of them used ice-cooler box which I felt it was too big. I needed something small and yet produce the same effect, easy to construct with minimum cost.

20L Cooler Box

I thought of using our 20L cooler box, it was perfect, the holes were already on the tray but found the cooler box was still oversize. I knew we have a couple more smaller cooler bags, finally found a damaged Rubbermaid 10L cooler bag hidden in the cardboard. Now that was something I can live with, not too big or too small and most important, easy to carry around.

The Rubbermaid cooler bag had a leak and was not insulating properly but I decided to give it a shot. I found a way to make the top lid easily, using a left over mooncake box, took few measurements and cut the cardboard size but found out it was too small. Second cut I gave more allowance.

size and weight difference

Note: The top lid is a Duct Tape Cardboard Construction. Duct tape will provide some insulation and water proofing for the cardboard. I had used a one inch duct tape which is much easier to work with for this size.

225 x 140mm size

Air outlet funnel design

using duct tap to secure in place

Duct tape around all the corners of the cardboard.

The funnel I decided to use red duct tape just to make it nicer.

place the fan on the top cover and trace the interior diameter with a pen

cut the shape out

more duct tapping for protection and insulation

soldering the cigarette lighter plug. RED is positive on the top and BLACK is negative

using a 12V fan, 0.26Amp

Note: higher the amp the faster the fan turns

fully duct tapped carboard

FINAL COUNTDOWN

I have used one bottle of freeze salt water and another just water for melt down test, the rest were freeze packs. The idea is to use freeze PET bottle but I need to know if salt water melts slower and maintains a lower temperature.

110Vac - 12Vdc converter. You should get this converter if you are car or RV camping. Great to use on campsites with power supply.

test run

getting the cold air flow

room temp was 29.4C, at the air outlet temp was 25.4C

everything sits in place and zipped down for transportation

Portable, lightweight and easy to carry.

CONCLUSION

Unlike a home air con unit, this portable unit depends very much on the room temperature. The warmer the room temperature, less cold conditioned air temperature is produce, however at 29.4 deg C room temperature, you can get 4 deg C difference which was very satisfying.

Another point to note because I tested in a room which was much bigger than the tent interior or vehicle, it did affect the outlet air temperature.

Since this is a small unit, I do not expect it to cool my whole room or blow cool air 5mtrs away from me, I have placed it under my workstation and was overwhelmed by the cool air, my partner was pleased too. Well at least it brought the heat down where I was working. Ideal for Summer use at home or work and save your utility bills.

For the fan type, you have to decide, 5V, 12V, 24V or 110V. I wanted a 5V but there was not any so I decided to use a 12V. Do note the faster the fan turns, the higher your power consumption and also the ice will melt faster, plus it will be nosier. The fan I got was alright, not really powerful but at least it was quieter.

The PET Salt water bottle did melt slower and the exterior had icing around it. I will try to get all PET bottle with salt water.

Note: Do not fill the bottle completely, water will expand when freeze.

If you planning to make one which it took me less than 2hr to construct if I had everything in place. The tools used were simple and it was not a messy construction. One idea you can use a carton box but you must insulate the box interior maybe with some Styrofoam and Aluminium foil or duct tape.

Cost and Material

1 useless cooler bag

duct tape

recycle cardboard

fan NT90

cigarette lighter plug NT10

Soldiering iron and flux

Paper cutter

screws for fan

100vAC 12vDC converter

maybe some extension wire

IMPROVEMENT

My next task is to insulate the cooler bag better, intention is to place cardboards all around the interior and duct tape it. Since this is a quick DIY, the electrical connection might have to rework. Need to find a better solution so I can use with my portable battery pack.

If you have any questions, feel free to ask.

福鹿山休閒農莊 FuLuShan Leisure Farm

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Mon, 27 Jun 2011 06:25:00 PDT

台東縣鹿野鄉永安村高台路42巷145號

Tel: （089）550797、552127

Fee: NT500

Google Map

Features: Famous tea, para-gliding NT1200, grassland ski, hilltop camping

Last Visited: Mar 2011

A rather clean campsite but limited camping space. BBQ pits and picnic benches are provided. Not all the camping platform have power supply as some of it are defective. Very quiet in the night as there is hardly any traffic however during the day the campsite is right infront of a tourist hilltop viewing spot and a playground for para-gliding. Nearby you can enjoy grassland ski or sample some of Luye's famous tea.

Sunglasses

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Mon, 27 Jun 2011 05:30:00 PDT

Sight is one of our most important senses, without sight our world will be in darkness. So proper eye protection is very important during outdoor. It helps you to protect from dust, objects hitting your eye and most important is the UV rays from the Sun. Did you know in Australia almost 90% of the people wears a sunglasses when they are outdoor. However in Taiwan very few people have it on.

There are many different types of sunglasses in the market, we have been a loyal fan of Oakley products for years. Not because of the brand but their services. At anytime we can send in our glasses for repair, if the glasses are out of production and can't be repaired, they are willing to trade-in the old glasses for a newer model. Yes, Oakley is expensive and we have tried many models. Finally found the best model for all lifestyle is the Oakley Half Jacket, sadly it has stop production.

In recent years another brand have caught our attention. Uvex started making industrial safety glasses which we used often, now they have ventured into commercial market, they are far cheaper compare to Oakley. Their construction is simple, mostly of plastic resin material which makes the glasses lightweight. You can check out their products HERE.

Choosing correct lens is rather important, there are many colors and types such as polarize lens. It is best you try the sunglasses outdoor before buying. Depending on your outdoor activities, you should always use the correct lens. Under constant tree coverage, transition lens work best but rather expensive. Otherwise yellow or orange lens work well in low sunlight area and they are good for night usage as well. At the beach or top of the mountain, you will want a darker lens, this will help to protect your eyes from the reflection from the sand or sky where UV ray is high.

yellow and orange lens

transition lens

darker lens for extreme sunlight

dark lens for cloudy day

If you are like me a bi-spectacle guy, I have another prescribed transition glasses for daily use. They work rather well in most condition. If I am into serious outdoor action I would use disposable contact lens with my Sunglasses. Having 2 pairs of glasses or lens for low and extreme light is worth the investment. Just ask yourself how much your eyes worth.

Tip for protecting your sunglasses is by adding a glasses neck band. You can buy off the shelf or you can use a Paracord to make one. It will protect your glasses from accidentally dropping to the ground and causing scratches to the lens. It work well for me during mountain biking. To remove my sunglasses, I just hang it on my neck. I have dropped to many times to learn this lesson.

Eye ware investment.

Toiletry Kit

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Sun, 26 Jun 2011 04:47:00 PDT

Many of us over packed our toiletry kit, bring alot of unnecessary stuff and carrying alot of oversize items.

After investing in many different kind of toiletry bags, our best option is to use a sandwich Ziploc bag. The clear bag helps to see the items clearly making much easier to remove the content needed. I have decided to repacked my toiletry kit into 3 days and 7 days kit for all kinds of camping.

3 days Toiletry Kit weighing only 103gm.

Items are disposable towel, toilet roll, toothbrush and paste, 30ml Campsuds, hand sanitizer, floss, cotton bud, shaver and cream.

Toiletry Kit for Kids

I used to prepare toiletry kits for our kids and they each would carry it with them. This allow them to be responsible and they do not have to come running to us for their toiletries. The Kit can be put together easily, items are all from the Hotels; mini bar soap, ready packed shampoo, toilet roll, cotton bud, toothbrush and paste, all stored in a Ziploc bag.

Repacking and Reduction

The trick is to resize most of the items, thus carrying smaller and lesser weight. Do not use any glass containers, they are fragile and heavy. Sometimes the container might not be watertight, the trick is to use plumber tape over it. Most of the toiletries were taken from hotels that we have stayed in, they are small, lightweight and disposable, great items for light weigh camping. Only a handful of the items we thought was worth investing. Below are some items we have put together for our First Aid Kit and Toiletry Kit

Campsuds is a boi-degradable cleaner, you only need a few drops for washings, shower including washing hair. It basically cleans everything even with salt water. Resized the 500ml into smaller bottles.

Hand Sanitiser, only need a feel drops to clean your hand

Nivea sun lotion resized into smaller packable bottle, the bottle is from a contact lens eye drop.

Hotel toothbrush resized to make it packable, the weigh was reduced by half.

Dental floss and cotton ear bud in separate Ziploc bag

Hotel disposable shaver resized to make it more packable

Motel Disposable Towel, lightweight and compact

Hotel soap bar and Campsuds, you can get this small container from DIASO, they are great for storing Hotel mini soap bar.

Toilet Roll, never leave home without it. The paper core was removed so that it can be compact, used a separate Ziploc bag, sometimes you just need only this item to do urgent business.

Disposable Contact Lens, they are more hygiene and you do have to carry extra contact lens cleaner.

OFF insect repellent repacked into smaller spray bottle from DIASO

Firesteel Modification

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Thu, 23 Jun 2011 05:09:00 PDT

Here are some examples you can modified the Fire-Steel to more practical use.

Remove the useless handle and fire striker, use a small length of Paracord outer shield and wrap it around with a 1 inch Duct Tape. You can wrap more if you want so that your emergency duct tape is on your firesteel. I have used half a meter of red duct tape which will be used for trail markings, at the same time the duct tape makes a practical handle that I can use for repairs.

Here is another option for a Leatherman Survival Kit. With the Firesteel handle removed, I can slot the firesteel into the side pocket.

2 x band aid, 1 x cotton bud, 2 x iodine stick, 10mtrs inner Paracord yarn, 1mtr Paracord, compass, tinder, firesteel, paper, signal mirror, whistle, mini-flash light.

Instant Tom Yam Noodle

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Thu, 16 Jun 2011 02:21:00 PDT

I have tasted couple on Thai Restaurant Tom Yam Soup and nothing beats what I am going to introduce you. I dare say this because my family members all agreed. It was first introduced to me by my mother 20 years ago. Today I managed to find it in Carefour, Taiwan and I will show you how to cook it better. You can cook it simply or a bit elaborate. It makes a great, fast to cook camp meal especially on hot or cold days.

each pack of noodle cost only NT12 much cheaper than local instant noodles

Imported Kross Tom Yam Cube

Imported dried lemon leave, fresh lemon grass and calamansi

Basic Ingredients must have

Instant Tom Yam Noodle
Kross Tom Yam Seasoning
Lemon Grass
Lemon Leaves
Calamansi

Choice Ingredient - Is up to your preference but mushroom and prawns is ideal.

add a de-seeded chili if you prefer spicy.

Start de-shelling prawns on the 3rd shell from head. Save the head as this will add flavor, snip off head spikes just after the eye.

First add prawns to a boiling water till cook. This will create a prawn flavor to the soup. Add all the basic ingredient and only a 1/4 of Kross seasoing.

If your pot is too small, pre-cook all the ingredient, this will allow flavoring to the broth. The shishamo fish are pan fried. Once that is all done, you can start to cook the noodles. While cooking taste the noodle texture to your preference and it all ready. Transfer noodles to bowl, add ingredient and pour in the soup.

A simple fast to cook dish better than restaurant.

Bought a carton of 30packs!!!

550 Paracord The Guts

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Wed, 15 Jun 2011 04:04:00 PDT

Inside the 550 Paracord there are 7x1mm nylon yarns aka "the guts" and each yarn there is another smaller 3 ply yarns which provide strength to the Paracord. Some survivalist would suggest taking a 30ft (9.1mtrs) or 100ft (30.48mtrs) of Paracord with you for survival or camping. I never had a chance of fully utilising the 550 Paracord, so one day I decided to simulate a condition where I need to access the Paracord inner strands from a 10mtrs 550 Paracord.

I soon realised removing the 7 yarns was not as easy as I thought, it took me almost one and a half hour to fully removed and fully coiled each of the nylon yarn. At time some of the nylon yarns would entangled up. Assuming if you are in the wild, do you have the space and time to remove these inner yarns from a 10mtrs Paracord? Show me if you have a faster method.

To make things much easier, I have decided to add these yarns as part of my compact survival kit. I do not have to use all the 7 yarns, 2 yarns already provide 20mtrs of usefulness for sewing, fishing line, tying stuff up, making trap, making shelter etc. Moreover if you want a compact survival kit, these yarns do not take up space. If you are traveling, you should take these yarns with you, it will be useful for emergency backpack repair or as a clothe line. You never know what comes next..... Now I need to find a big needle.

The Paracord outer shield is use for lanyards and wire saw protective cover

Boker OEM Subcom Folding Knife

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Wed, 08 Jun 2011 05:53:00 PDT

This is an OEM Boker Subcom Folding Knife, that is really compact and lightweight. The intention was to prepare a Survival Kit for my son and this knife will come in very handy. The design of the knife has many strong features. Although the blade is short but it compensates with the width thickness which gives the blade extra strength. From the factory the blade comes razor sharp. The handle is grooved inwards so that you will get a firm grip and the knife does not slip from your hand.

Specifications

Compact Size: 70mm

Unfolded size: 115mm

Weight: 70g

Blade length: 60mm

blade size comparison

spring locking device

The blade itself has a finger notch on both sides to assist in opening the blade for both left and right handed person however I felt it was in a way, so I removed it. Opening and closing of the blade will need a little effort as it is compact. The complete knife is made of stainless steel except the top part is of raisin.

Overall this is a compact knife ideal for everyday carry which is unnoticeable. The construction quality is average, design and compactness is really great. Ideal for EDC, compact survival kit, emergency rescue or those who do not like carrying a big knife while hiking on a trail. It is so compact that you can clip on the harness of the backpack and you do not even notice it is there. This an advantage for quick access for a cutting tool during emergency especially handling ropes.

After watching the movie 127 Hours based on a true story, realised the importance that all my knife should come with a lanyard that I can loop around my hand and not those fancy lanyard braiding that I cannot loop with.

PS the original Boker Plus Subcom is selling around USD24 what I have here is an OEM version.

巨石咖啡露營區 Jushi Coffee and Bar Camp

noreply@blogger.com (scx) — Mon, 06 Jun 2011 08:47:00 PDT

屏東縣恆春鎮山海里萬里路34-5號
Contact: 08-8869192
Fee: Adult NT200, Kid NT100, Tentage NT200
website link
Google Map
Features: Sun, sand 'n' sea
last visited: 5 Jun 2011

Located on the same stretch of beach with YOHO Bike Hotel, previously was just a beach cafe / bar and homestay, only recently last few years was opened for camping. The camp ground is not big, probably can take up to 30 tents. There are facilities for shower and electricity supply is available at most points, however there is only one washing point. Overall the camp ground is rather clean, however I do think the camp area can be improved to create a Thai beach ambiance and the bar closes too early.

From the camp ground, the beach is just a walking distance and the sea is filled with abundant of sea life. The camp also provide snorkeling gears if you need it. To get a better view of the coral, you will need to wait for low tide and walk 100 metres from the beach, the marine life is more fascinating at the far end.

Safety and Precaution
The sea front is littered with sea urchin, do not go bear foot or sandal. If stung by sea-urchin, contact the camp owner and they will provide you a bottle of ammonia to relief the pain. Do not attempt to remove the sting, it will cause further infection. Let he ammonia do the work and it will eventually dissolve the sting.

Overall the campsite is recommended

Garmin nuvi 2565RT

noreply@blogger.com (scx) — Fri, 03 Jun 2011 06:53:00 PDT

Garmin has released its latest nuvi 2565RT. The 5-inch unit has a user-positionable DDR-10 camera that records 720p HD video onto a microSD, which is clipped onto the windshield mount.

Video recordings are geo-tagged that means Lat and Lon, Speed, Time/Date are recorded. This information and can be reviewed and save immediately or transfer to a computer for archiving.

Its comes with the usual functions, text to speech, Bluetooth for handsfree kit, speed camera alerts, optional real-time traffic updates, various pre-installed POIs and can accommodate up to 100 saved routes and 1,000 user POIs.

At the moment Garmin nuvi 2565RT is available only in Taiwan selling at NT11, 990 (US400). There are plans for Japan, South Korea and Southeast Asia. As for U.S. and European there is no word of release.

CHINESE PRESENTATION

REAL-TIME RECORDING

浸水營古道 JinShuiYing Trail

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Sun, 22 May 2011 06:45:00 PDT

8 May 2011

浸水營古道 JinShuiYing Trail is one of the southern most cross island hiking trail. Used during the Ming Dynasty and Japanese occupation, this trail from Fangliao in Pingtung to Dawu in Taitung is currently very popular with MTBers.

The actual trail head starts from the middle of the cross island. It is around 17km and can be completed in 4hr(fast) or 7hrs(slow). You will still need to hike another 5km if you are heading to Dawu train station. The hike is mostly down hill and can be very slippery at some stretch. If I remembered correctly, there are at least 3 evening trains from Dawu to Fangliao. Anyway here is the Train Timetable.

Hiking this trail proves to be a challenge in transportation because is a one way hike. Most hikers and bikers will go in group so that they can cater a transport and head up to the trail head.

Options to go on this trail

MTB or Hike drop at Fangliao train station, head to 歸崇派出所 GuiChong Police station to register, this is the Police Station to register for the trail, from there hike to trail head. This option is long and you might need 2 days planning.
From Fangliao train station hire a transport around NT2500. This is a new development, Contact: PanMuTeng Tel: 0930773013 / 0929935633. 新開社區發展協會：接駁車及其他有關浸水營古道事項詢問等等，聯絡人、發展協會理事長：潘木籐。電話：0930773013 / 0929935633. 每輛車2500元
Arrange 2 vehicle, one stop at Fangliao train station or 春日鄉 ChunRi Township near the police station and the other vehicle drive up to the trail head and park there. We tried this method but somehow found the timing will be very late to pick up the vehicle at trail head.
Hike or MTB to a temple 一旨靈山寶殿 and spend a night, continue the next day. There is no fixed rate for the accommodation but you get AC, hot shower. Advise to donate above NT100. Tel: (08) 863 221 8 , Contact: Zhang Mingxiong for RESERVATION. 屏東縣崁頂鄉（村）振興路20-1號

DISTANCE

FangLiao Train Station - 歸崇派出所 GuiChong Police Station 9.1Km
歸崇派出所 GuiChong Police Station - Trail Head 21.8Km
浸水營古道 JinShueiYing Trail - suspension bridge 17.4Km
Suspension Bridge - Dawu Train Station 5.1Km

Start the trail early, latest 930am you should be heading off in the trail. Driving from police station to trail head 21.8Km will take around an hour plus.

view in google map

PRECAUTION

take along first aid kit and insect repellent for leeches preferable OFF brand
do not attempt this trail during wet season. River might swell and trail can be very slippery
register at Police Station
ground can be slippery even on dry season
prepare for river cross at the later stage.
bring wet and rain gears
take along extra food and water
if MTB, bring along bike bag or trash bag to pack your bike if you planning to take the train
driving in the dark from the Police Station to Trail head is not recommended, some part of the roads can be very dangerous.

歸崇派出所 GuiChong Police Station

Road to trail head

Next time I will go by MTB!!!

Album

Commando Wire Saw

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Sun, 01 May 2011 09:15:00 PDT

I have the BCB version for many years and found it was effective. There are many types of wire saw but I wanted to get the same as the BCB. Found a supplier and order a few to try it out. Below are some info how to improve the wire saw and a demo I put on YouTube.

close up view of the wire saw edge

I wrap the wire saw with the Paracord outer housing for protection also able to carry as an EDC. If you need to get a wire saw, make sure it has a swivel. This will help to prevent the wire saw from more stress as it is able to self adjust. Most of the wire saw that do not come with a swivel breaks at the end part.

attached to key chain and EDC

I removed the split ring handle but use the Paracord that warp around the wire saw as handle. If gives a better grip and also to lessen the weight.

My Demo

On this vid pay close attention to how I grip the wire saw, I do not use the split ring handle.

Using Wire Saw as Bow Saw

FIND IT IN OUR STORE

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Formosan Serow Biking Club
Kaohsiung, Taiwan