The Basics
Country: Taiwan
Where is it?: Taiwan is in eastern Asia, north of the Philippines, off the south-eastern coast of China.
Why do people go here?: Some call it the renegade province of China, others call it a autonomous country, whomever you choose to believe is up to you. Taiwan is best known for computers, but a little known wonder is the natural beauty of the place. Running up the middle of the island is a majestic mountain range.
What are the main entry points?: Most people fly into Taipei.
Currency used: New Dollar
Country Code for Phones: 886
Area codes for Major Cities: Taipei 2
Religion: Mixture of Buddhist, Confucian, and Taoist 93%, Christian 4.5%, other 2.5%
Population: 23 million
Ethnic Groups: Taiwanese (including Hakka) 84%, mainland Chinese 14%, aborigine 2%
Government: Multiparty democratic regime headed by popularly-elected president and unicameral legislature
Languages: Mandarin Chinese (official), Taiwanese (Min), Hakka dialects
Travel Information
Major Cities: Taipei
Attractions: Alishan, Tainan
Accommodation: Taiwan Hostels
Tourism Office locations and links: Taiwan Tourism Office
Tips for Visiting
Off-the-Beaten-Path: Penghu Islands, Lanyu
Health Issues: No Health Risks
When to go: Taiwan can be visited most of the year.
Specific Events/Holidays: Most of Taiwan’s holidays are based on the lunar calendar. Therefore, they change every year.
Getting Around: Taiwan has an efficient bus system that you can get you anywhere around the island.
Good to know: Avoid visiting during the Chinese New Year.
Cheapest airport to fly into: The cheapest airport to fly into Taiwan is the Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport.
Need more information?: Check out the Taiwan travel guide for more on what to see, where to stay, and how to get there.
