Taiwan, also called The Republic of China (ROC), is 160 km (99 miles) off the southeast coast of the People's Republic of China (commonly called mainland China). It is the main island in a group of 78 islands. Almost exactly bisected by the Tropic of Cancer, Taiwan is surrounded by the East China Sea, the South China Sea, the Philippine Sea and Pacific Ocean. It is separated from mainland China by the Taiwan Strait. The 2003 population was 22.6 million. Taipei, home to almost 5.5 million people, is the capital. The People's Republic of China considers Taiwan one of its possessions and a breakaway province.
Although heavily industrialized and a center for international business, Taiwan is a beautiful subtropical island. The weather is warm and humid almost year-round. Tourists will find that over half of its territory is forested and it features many impressive and rugged mountains. Taiwan is a prime destination for hiking, windsurfing, fishing and camping. It also is reputed as the gastronomic capital of the east, featuring a wide selection of Chinese food and drink.
Mandarin Chinese is the official language, but English is widely spoken.
Taiwan has a modern and efficient telecommunications system. The postal service likewise is reliable and efficient. International package delivery services maintain offices in Taiwan. Internet access is available in hotels and Internet cafes throughout the country.
Transportation facilities are modern, efficient and inexpensive. Taxis are widely available but few drivers speak English. Trains and domestic airline service facilitate travel throughout Taiwan. Chang Kei Shek International is the major airport. There are non-stop flights to and from 59 cities on popular airlines such as DragonAir, Cathay Pacific, United Airlines, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, JAL and China Airlines.
The cost of accommodations and meals is moderate to expensive. Business travelers and tourists will find that hotels, restaurants and shops accept most major credit cards, and ATMs are widely available. While rental cars are available, traffic can be heavily congested. Taipei has an efficient subway system and taxis are readily available. Cities in Taiwan are linked by a modern rail system and domestic flights.
The crime rate in Taiwan is low but it is rising. Take normal security precautions in crowds to deter petty theft. Avoid large crowds and demonstrations.
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