Taiwan is an island off the coast of China, about the size of the Netherlands with a population of 23 million people. The Philippines are located to the south, and Japan and South Korea to the northeast. The climate is temperate, not as hot as other Asian destinations, like the Philippines or Singapore.

Taiwan has five mountain ranges, with it’s tallest peak 12,966feet. It is a eco-tourist jackpot, with hiking trails (Mt. Dabajian, 11,400 feet is a three day trek. From biking around Sun Moon Lake, or kayaking and rafting through 14 miles of rapids, adventurous travelers seeking the ultimate Instagram will love Taiwan’s craggy coastlines, hot springs, and the marble gorge, Taroko, one of the most beautiful sights I’ve ever seen!

Traveling there is easy, no visa is required, and the flight, though long…is comfortable. Surprisingly, the hotels are fantastic in Taiwan, and the country as well as the large city or Taipei has a low crime rate by world standards. It’s also a foodie paradise. You can “tea” like a local with a special tea ceremony. Taiwanese invented Bubble Tea. They also make excellent mango shaved ice. Because people escaped mainland China years ago, every Chinese cuisine is represented in Taiwan, and the restaurants are very good. Many focus on seafood, and the sophisticated palates provide so many vegetarian choices.