Taiwan is a small island nation 180km east of China with modern cities, traditional Chinese temples, hot springs resorts and dramatic mountainous terrain. Taipei, the country’s capital in the north, is known for its busy night markets, Chinese Imperial art at the National Palace Museum and Taipei 101, a 509m-tall, bamboo-shaped skyscraper with an observation deck.

Facts & Figures:

Area : 36,000 square kilometers

Population : 23 million

Language : Mandarin / Taiwanese / Hakka / Indigenous Languages

Religion : Buddhism / Taoism / Christianity / Islam

President : Ma Ying-jeou

Location : Taiwan's total land area is only about 36,000 square kilometers (14,400 square miles); it is shaped like a leaf that is narrow at both ends. It lies off the southeastern coast of mainland Asia, across the Taiwan Strait from Mainland China-- a solitary island on the western edge of the Pacific Ocean. To the north lies Japan; to the south is the Philippines. Many airlines fly to Taiwan, helping make it the perfect travel destination.

Climate : If you are from a high-latitude country, you can leave your winter coat behind when coming to Taiwan and indulge in the pleasant warmth of the sun. If you'd rather experience the carefree sensation of healthy beads of sweat running down your forehead, then you should visit the beach at Kending in southern Taiwan where it is summer all year round. Don't worry too much about getting burnt by the dazzling sun; the island of Taiwan is located in the subtropical climate zone, and the sun is not as stinging hot as it seems bright. Furthermore, the island is surrounded by oceans; and the ocean breezes, which are the reason for Taiwan's humid weather, will surely make you completely forget the dry cold back home Voltage and drinking water : The voltage used in Taiwan is 110 V., 60 Hz. However, most of hotels are equipped with 110 / 220 V sockets. It is recommended to drink bottled water instead of tap water. Bottled water could be found in most of 7- Eleven stores and supermarkets

Currency : The local currency in Taiwan is "New Taiwan Dollars" (NT$).

Tips : It is suggested to tip hotel porter US$ 1 per suitcase for carrying luggage, US$ 1 per day for hotel room-maids, US$ 3 per day for tour guide, and US$2 per day for driver

Others : It is safe to travel in Taiwan. However, it is still suggested not to be out alone, and carry our phone numbers ( 24 hours ) and the mobile phone number of the local guide's for emergency. Please prepare one's own medicine, sun tan lotion and others