Destination 》Asia 》East Asia 》Taiwan
Year Visited: 2019 – April
I visited Taiwan for two weeks during summer of 2019, just before I started two months backpacking trip around South East Asia with my two boys. Taiwan, historically known as Formosa, is an island nation in East Asia, governed by the Republic of China (ROC) since 1945. Taiwan is the most populous nation and largest economy that is not a member of the United Nations (UN).
Taiwan is largely mountainous with a chain of mountains running from north to south at the center of the island. The west coast is largely plains, where most of the population is concentrated. The east coast, with steep mountains and lush forests, has some very impressive scenic sites and is sparsely populated.
Taiwan public transportation system has a great reputation for its efficiency and convenience. Taiwan’s railway has an island-wide network that offers the most convenient way to access the country’s major towns and cities. Intercity buses are also available for any destination within the island nation. All major cities in Taiwan has an excellent public transportation system in place, with Taipei having one of the highest rated systems in the world.
Taiwanese cuisine is highly regarded by Japanese and mainland Chinese. Some of my Chinese friends used to fly to Taiwan for few days just to relish street food at night markets. One advise to my friends from USA, like in Japan, tipping is not practiced in Taiwan. In fact, it can cause discomfort and confusion if you tip.
Taiwan was under Martial law from 1949 to 1987. Around 140,000 Taiwanese were imprisoned during this period, of whom about 3,000 to 4,000 were executed for their real or perceived opposition to the Kuomintang (KMT), the sole ruling party of the Republic of China from 1928 to 2000. If you are interested in that part of Taiwanese history, just do Google search using Taiwan White Terror.
Taiwan offers lot to explore and experience. Click on any cities below to view my travel photos and stories.
After two weeks of traveling around this beautiful Island country and eating yummy and delicious food, it was time to say goodbye and fly to Thailand, from where I will start two plus months backpacking trip across South East Asia with my two boys.
Window on the World 