TheAugBunnies

Located in the North coast of Taiwan overseeing the beautiful beaches is the Oia Cafe 伊亞藝術咖啡館. Furry little Alpaca roam around the cafe enjoying themselves chasing after children and biting everything in sight awaits you as you enter the cafe. The white fluffy animal are a joy to behold and what better way to enjoy them first hand.

The cafe is about 12 mins drive from the nearest Tsamsui station. Getting a uber (unregulated) is quite easy and cost about 300twd/SGD$14. There are public transport to the cafe as well (takes about 1h) but we decide to go with convenience. Interestingly the taxis are about 40% much more expensive.

Upon reaching the cafe which appears to be like a beach house, a sign that reads "草泥马" will indicate that you have reach the right place.


The atmosphere at the cafe is relaxed and full of joy and excitement. 2 white Alpaca are constantly walking around and sometimes chasing after children which brings smiles to everyone faces.



Being a stone throw away from the beach, it is of little surprise they the owner choose to decorate the cafe with sea shells and other souvenirs related to the sea.



Upon entering the cafe, the friendly staff will bring forth the menu and also explain the rules and regulations. Shredded carrot can be taken at the counter to feed the 2 alpacas in the cafe. You can also ask for regular carrots to feed the Alpacas that are residing outside the cafe.

 The Alpaca walk around rather quickly and it is quite difficult to get a proper shot. Carrots draw them towards you like magnet to steel. They are quite friendly but do not attempt to hug or restrain them unless you want to be spit at as one unfortunately lady found out the hard way.

They are like tiny horses except more fluffy and cute especially the baby one. They love carrots so entice them with shredded carrots from the counter for a selfie for the perfect shot





The Alpaca are quite curious animals and will literally chew on anything that is within reach. It is recommended for ladies to bundle up their hair and leave expensive bags beyond reach of the furry animals.




This is of course a food review so let's have a look on whats on offer. The missus order a 3 layered coffee which was just as pretty as it tasted.


My huge cup of Kiwi Slushie was enjoyable and not too sweet. Perfect for my liking.


For food, i went with the Carbonara and top up an additional of 250TWD/$11.20 for soup, drink (missus coffee) and salad. Tha carbonara  was not overly rich and the french beans gave it plenty of crunchy texture.


The salad came with plenty of fresh greens and a wine vinaigrette sauce which acted as a very good appeatiser.





After you are done with your food, check out the outer areas where the larger Alpacas are residing. Their living condition is more farm like and you can get large carrots from the counter to feed them. I will suggest to be friendly and not irritate these animals as they will spit at you! We learn the hard way when one of the Alpacas felt that it did not get its fair share of carrots and spat at us in disgust before walking away.







[BONUS]

Not many people know that the owner of the cafe is a fan of Savannah cats and he imports them from the states. He is generous to impart his knowledge of the cats and can go on and on about how amazing these athletic cats are. To have a look at the cats, enquire from the friendly waiters and they will ring up their boss for you to head up the 2nd floor to check them up.





The exotic cats look majestic and actually quite fierce looking. They are a cross breed between the Servel, an African wild cat and a domestic cat. Their limps are much longer than the standard domestic cat and their leaping ability is awesome as the owner proudly show us.





[BONUS 2]

Behind the cafe is a beautiful stretch of beach which is perfect for a stroll and lovely photographs. You can follow these stone steps to the edge of the water and you may find some people hoping to land the perfect catch. Do be careful as the spacing of the rocks are irregular.








If you love animals, this is a must visit place which is perfect of kids. The service and food is good and you can easily spend a couple of hours playing with the cute Alpacas.





Check out the cute Alpacas during our visit!




How to go [TRAVEL TIPS]

1) Take the train to Tamsui station
2) Take an uber (only about SGD$14). The time saving is worth it especially when travelling.
3) There are plenty of ubers around the town


Considerations
A) Public transport takes 1h
B) Taxis gets you there but are about 40% more expensive. Might not know the exact location.
C) Return trip to Tamsui might not be as easy to get an uber so the taxi might be required.

Miyahara