Taiwan is a small collection of islands located in East Asia with a dominant Chinese culture. Taipei, the capital, offers unique experiences such as night markets and the Taipei 101 Observation Deck. Natural landmarks include Nantou and Taroko National Park, home to many endemic species. Official languages include Mandarin Chinese and Taiwanese, with English and Japanese used in business. A visa may be required to enter the country.
Taiwan, once called Ilha Formosa or “Beautiful Island” by the Portuguese, is a small collection of islands located in East Asia. It is found east of China, southwest of the main island of Japan, and north-northwest of the Philippines. Its dominant culture is of Chinese origin, although it is also home to Aboriginal, Malay and Polynesian peoples.
Taiwan’s capital, Tapiei, is a bustling metropolis with a uniquely oriental sensibility. Taipei is usually the first stop on any tourist’s itinerary in Taiwan, and this city has a lot to offer.
The night markets, for example, are a unique experience in this city. A chaotic swarm of goods and food for sale blocks entire streets when the night markets are on. Inexpensive clothing, exotic snacks and unique kitsch are all available in this maze of makeshift stalls and small display cases. For a little more order and fantastic views, a trip to the Taipei 101 Observation Deck, the current tallest building in the world (soon to be replaced by the Burj Dubai in the United Arab Emirates) is just the thing. Observe Taipei from your perch on the 89th floor. And for a combination of art and history, stroll along the National Palace Museum and marvel at the incredible treasures it has collected over 100 years.
After filling up on the city, head to some of Taiwan’s amazing natural landmarks. Nantou may be a six-hour drive from Taipei, but its lovely scenery is well worth the effort. The majestic Sun Moon Lake, the beautiful Sunglungyen Waterfalls and the meditative Chung Tai Chan Monastery are all in the area.
And then there’s Taiwan’s incredible Taroko National Park. Take a plane to pretty Hualien, spend a day at the beach, then set off to marvel at the wonders of Taroko Gorge. Not to be missed are the Shrine of Eternal Spring, the Swallow Caves, the Nine Turns Tunnel, the famous Paiyang Waterfall and the Qingshui Precipice. The park is a haven for bird watchers, eco-tourists and nature enthusiasts and is home to many species endemic to the region. Some species you may encounter are the single butterfly Atrophaneura horishana, the Formosan whistling thrush and the Formosan Reeve muntjac.
The official languages of Taiwan include Mandarin Chinese and Taiwanese. English and Japanese are sometimes used in business. You may need a visa to enter the country.
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