Addictions

"...being enslaved to a habit or practice"

By Claire Tyrrell, translated by Ann Li

While "enslaved" seems a little extreme for my daily dose of coffee, the truth is that, in many respects, I am an "-aholic". Desiring once again to be master of my whims, here are some ideas that any chocoholics, shopaholics, workaholics, caffeine junkies or those with video game twitch are free to explore. They might not cure your affliction, but they'll definitely keep you entertained.

Keep it fresh
This isn't technically kicking the habit, but keeping it fun rather than feeding your normal cravings.

Sugar fix: Explore Taipei's many chocolate cafes and sample the range of quality European chocolate. Remember, the darker the chocolate, the better for you! Or, if ice-cream is your thing, try Ximen's Snow King, with enough flavours to keep you tasting for a month or two.

Booze fix: Reject the can/bottle in front of the TV and go and try less common bevies available from Belgium, Germany, Sweden, Russia and Turkey, to name a few. See how far you can work around the world.

Cuddle fix: To quote Robert Palmer and put it politely, "…you're addicted to love." Play away at the full range of the city's love hotels or splash out on some love and luxury at the top-class WeGo or iMore motels.

The "Twist" on the Addiction
Coffee fix: Rather than overdoing the caffeine buzz, savour the aroma while it works for you in other ways. Detoxing coffee wraps are hitting luxury spas world over but, for DIY coffee beautification, check out sites below.

Anime fix: Get out, get sociable, get dressed up and cosplay.

Video game fix: Bring on-line gaming to life with the ultra-cool Lazer Treks. More sociable and more exercise. Be imaginative!
The Replacement

Obvious in theory, "'replacement" is kind of like replacing one vice for another. For example, swap your morning, minor caffeine rush for an ultimate adrenaline rush. Remember, Taiwan's natural landscape makes it ideal for adventure sports like paragliding, kite-surfing and rafting.

Also, if you are addicted to fun, look no further than your Taiwan Fun magazine for inspiration. Good luck and enjoy!

Coffee/chocolate spa treatments:
www.fitsugar.com/250747
www.alldayspas.com

Rafting:
www.launong.com.tw (GaoXiong)
www.rafting.com.tw
www.Hsiangsun.com.tw (Hualien)

Kite boarding:
www.tkc.tw
www.wingstaiwan.com (paragliding)

Hotels:
www.we-go.com.tw
www.imore-motel.com.tw

Other:
www.lazertreks.com
Snow King: 65, WuChang St, Sec 1, XiMen District