Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Regions at a Glance
Taipei is surrounded by forested hills and heritage towns that make the
best day trips. Within the city limits there are world-class museums, histor-
ic temples, and never-ending opportunities for snacking and shopping.
Heading out towards the coast or the mountains puts the traveller in north-
ern Taiwan, with its hot springs, surf spots, and many cycling and hiking
routes. The dusty plains of western Taiwan hold some of the best temple
towns, while heading east the unspoiled Central Mountains rise quickly to
over 3000m. Over the mountains lies eastern Taiwan, the least developed
region of the country, with a landscape that's pure eye candy. In tropical
southern Taiwan, ecotourists brush against culture vultures taking in tradi-
tional festivals and night markets. Finally, scattered on both sides of the
mainland are Taiwan's islands, boasting a Cold War legacy, timeless sea-
side villages and a top windsurfing destination.
Taipei
