Taiwan
There are many different types of travelers. Depending on their personal tastes and destination, there are those who choose the places that they will visit depending on a country’s natural, scenic spots; tradition and culture; or the modern amenities that it has to offer.

No matter which of these things you are looking for, there is definitely something that Taiwan will be able to offer when you pay the island a visit.

Taiwan 101

Also known as Formosa, Taiwan is an island nation located in East Asia. Since 1945, Taiwan has been under the rule of the Republic of China government although it is separated from the mainland. It is surrounded by other countries in the region like Japan and the Philippines, and it is currently home to more than 23 million people.

Furthermore, Taiwan is divided into several regions including Northern Taiwan, Central Taiwan, Eastern Taiwan, Southern Taiwan and the Outlying Islands. Although there are many crowded cities in the island, it is also rich in natural bounties like steep mountains and lush forests.

The Culture & Beauty that is All Taiwan’s Own

One of the most popular cities in Taiwan is Taipei which is home to the second tallest skyscraper that is Taipei 101. Taipei showcases the modern aspect of living in and travelling to Taiwan, where you can have a view of dazzling skyscrapers. Similarly, Hsinchu which is a technological hub has a park which is home to many companies operating in the Information Technology industry.

After being introduced to the modern side of Taiwan, how about the natural, scenic spots that it has to offer? If you think that a crowded city is what this island is most known for to worldwide travellers, think again. As citified as Taiwan is, it also is home to a multitude of mountain ranges, pristine beaches, hot springs and lush national parks.

For example, Alishan is a place where you can see giant cypress trees and an amazing sunrise if you happen to be awake at the right hour. Located at the southernmost tip of the island is the Kenting National Park where you can swim and lose yourself in the lush vegetation. If you’re up for an exciting and scenic hike, you can go to the Shei-pa National Park in Hsinchu Country.

Sun Moon Lake, Taipingshan, Taroko Gorge and the Yangmingshan National Park are other natural destinations that you can visit. Finally, there’s the Yushan mountain which is the highest peak in all of East Asia.

If you want to immerse yourself in a culture that is all Taiwan’s own, you can participate in one of the many festivals held year-round. Depending on the time of the year that you will visit, you can take part in the Chinese New Year celebrations, the Ching Ming Festival, the Dragon Boat Festival, the Hungry Ghost Festival or the Mid-Autumn Festival.

Your Taiwan experience will never be complete without browsing through the goods at one of the many night markets where you can even have your fortune told. Finally, there’s the decadent local cuisine which are a must-try when you’re visiting a country like Taiwan. Indulge in a bowl of beef noodles, try out the local oyster omelette or try out the local versions of Taiwan sausage or Taiwanese porridge.

All in all, Taiwan may not yet be included in everyone’s “Places to Visit Before I Die” list – but it’s a place which definitely has something to offer to even the most finicky of travellers. So Taiwan is a place that you should definitely include in your travel itinerary at one point or another.