A separate country or not??  A debate that goes round in circles and never seems to end. It gets everyone talking, even surly teenagers (I know this from experience).  China sees it as part of the People’s Republic of China, Taiwan see’s itself as separate and independent.  They compete separately from China in sports events, such as the Olympics, but have to use the name “Chinese Taipei”.  I went there for a long weekend so really only saw Taipei and nothing else. Still, we packed lots in and I got a few ‘firsts’ including my first earthquake experience (minor tremor, felt like being in jelly).

When: September 2009

Where: Taipei

Who: with A.

How: we flew in and out from Hong Kong with Eva Air

Weather: autumnal – cool, but not cold

Food: excellent!! yummy steamed dumplings and I even tried the stinky tofu (fermented tofu)

Sights & Activities: Chiang Kai Shek mausoleum and museum, Taipei 101 (the tallest building in Asia – the world’s tallest building until 2004), hot springs, Hot Springs spa.

Surprises: The arrivals hall in the airport says “Welcome to the Republic of China”. How good the stinky tofu was (just got to get past the smell).

Tips: head out to some hot springs – get a private room and relax….