Taiwan once created an “economic miracle” that aroused the admiration of the world, and now our 3C products are sold throughout the globe. For this reason, the impression of Taiwan in the minds of all too many people is that of a technologically advanced “industrial island” or “island of technology.” After a traveler arrives in Taiwan, however, he or she will discover that this island nurtures a wide array of tourism and ecological resources, a diversity of traditional folk customs, a rich culture, modern arts, and fantastic food. In short, they discover that Taiwan is “beyond their expectations.” Taiwan was first known to the West as Ilha Formosa, or Beautiful Island. And with good reason. We have more than 200 mountains that soar above 3,000 meters in height, and our unique geology and topography have created countless arresting landscapes and alluring coastal scenes. Geographically, Taiwan is situated at the point where the Asian continental shelf meets the vast Pacific Ocean, providing it with an unparalleled ecological diversity and a huge number of plant and animal species concentrated in a relatively small place—perfect for ecotourism. Taiwan has world-class natural landscapes such as the awesome Taroko Gorge; it is the repository of true Chinese culture; its National Palace Museum is listed as one of the five top museums in the world; it has once the world’s tallest certified building in Taipei 101; and it has the highest mountain in Northeast Asia, Yushan or Jade Mountain. We also have some of the friendliest people in the world, 24-hour bookstores and convenience shops, and bustling night markets—all of which imprint indelible memories in the minds of visitors. And Taiwan offers a year-long series of exciting festivals such as the Lantern Festival, the Mazu (Goddess of the Sea) Culture Festival, Ghost Festival, aborigine harvest festivals, and countless others. These events provide countless opportunities for joyful participation, and infinite chances to learn about Taiwan’s religious observances and living practices. If you like culture, Taiwan is the perfect destination for you! Everybody knows that Taiwan is a gourmet’s paradise, with the finest of Chinese cuisine, the booming development of foreign restaurants, and unique dining opportunities in establishments serving local Taiwanese snacks, Hakka dishes, aborigine banquets, and night-market foods, as well as exquisite international dining in five-star hotels. Whatever your preference and budget, Taiwan will easily satisfy your taste buds. We also have the advantage of convenient transportation and an excellent travel environment that you will want to enjoy again and again. On behalf of the Taiwan Tourism Bureau, I wish you a safe and happy visit to our Beautiful Island! Janice Seh-Jen Lai Director General Tourism Bureau, MOTC, R.O.C.

by http://eng.taiwan.net.tw/m1.aspx?sNO=0000247