An adventure in strength
Mavis Ho was born in Kaohsiung, the second biggest city in Taiwan. She studied in Atlanta and worked in San Francisco. This is where she first connected with imec and that led to an imec job offer in 2015. She lived in the USA for twenty years before returning to Taiwan to live in Taipei, the capital city
A boat to happiness
Mavis, a Taiwanese native with Chinese ancestry, has an incredible family history, especially through her grandmother, ShowMei Ho. ShowMei embarked on a daring journey from China to Taiwan with her young children, including Mavis’s father, TR Ho, during wartime. Their voyage was a harrowing three-day ordeal on the open sea.
Despite the language barrier and initial challenges, Mavis’s father persevered and became a skilled nuclear engineer. He went on to oversee Taiwan’s all three nuclear power plants after obtaining his license in the USA.
Mavis’s journey to joining imec was a source of immense pride for her family, particularly her father and grandmother. To Mavis, it was a significant moment when she bought her first apartment and invited her grandmother to visit. Hearing her grandmother’s heartfelt words, “You have a beautiful home,” served as a poignant reminder of their family’s courageous journey from China to Taiwan, marked by a mixture of fear and hope.
Vibrant and calming temples
Taiwan is renowned for its strikingly beautiful temples that have deep roots in the culture of Taiwanese people. In those days, fishermen of this island country would pray to Gods and Goddesses before going to a haul in the sea. After returning, they would visit the temples to thank the divine power for their safe return.
Taiwan’s temples are more than just places of worship; they are vibrant cultural landmarks deeply ingrained in the country’s fabric. They bring communities together to celebrate traditions rooted in a blend of Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism.
From iconic temples like Longshan Temple and Fo Guang Shan Monastery to Jiufen’s Shinto Shrine are adorned with intricate carvings, colorful art, and exquisite architecture, offering moments of tranquility amid Taiwan’s bustling cities.
Temple festivals are important in Taiwan. The Dajia Jenn Lann Temple’s Mazu pilgrimage, dedicated to the sea goddess Mazu, is renowned. The Lantern Festival features dazzling lantern displays and sky lantern releases, creating a breathtaking spectacle. These festivals are not just about religion; they reflect Taiwanese identity and community spirit. They invite locals and visitors alike to immerse themselves in Taiwan’s rich traditions, folklore, and warm hospitality, making them an integral part of the island’s cultural tapestry.
Food tip
Be sure to try Stinky Tofu at the night markets, an iconic Taiwanese street food with a bold aroma and a surprisingly delicious, crispy-creamy taste, which can be enhanced with condiments like pickled vegetables or sauces.
The call of tranquility
Mavis loves the outdoors, especially nature. She loves the beautiful mountains that adorn Taiwan. Since Taipei is a basin surrounded by mountains, Mavis recommends visiting both.
Taiwan’s mountainous landscape is an integral part of the island’s identity. The Central Mountain Range, running like a spine through the heart of Taiwan, hosts some of the country’s highest peaks. The Yushan, known as Jade Mountain, reigns as the tallest peak. These mountains are more than just scenic beauty; they hold deep cultural and spiritual significance for the people of Taiwan. They are woven into the fabric of local folklore and traditions, shaping how Taiwanese perceive their homeland.
Another highlight of Taiwan travel is the vibrant night markets. They are famous for their food, shopping, and fun. Markets like Shilin Night Market, Liuhe Night Market, Kenting Night Market, and Tainan Flower Night Market come alive in the evening and are a big part of Taiwan’s culture.
Together, these aspects of Taiwan offer both rejuvenation and excitement to visitors and locals alike.
