Emerging out of a unique and complicated modern history, Taiwan has developed into a fascinating and multi-faceted modern society and economy. Mixing Taiwanese Indigenous, Chinese and Japanese culture, as well as traces of many other cultures, Taiwan offers up a range of landscapes with wildly different ambiences, if only one knows where to look.
Taiwan is an island with a unique and complicated history. It is home to a variety of Indigenous peoples and is considered the historical homeland of the Austronesian peoples, who went on sail the oceans and populate places as far removed as Madagascar and Hawaii. The contemporary culture of Taiwan is determined in large part by its large Chinese population, which has existed on the island for many centuries. Finally, roughly 50 years of Japanese colonization, which were paired with a modernization and industrialization drive, have left clear traces in the local culture, as well. Modern Taiwan reflects this mélange of cultural influences but has also transcended it, having been a worldwide innovator in a variety of areas, from high tech (semiconductors) to cuisine (bubble tea). On your visit to Taiwan, students will be able to explore the many cultural faces of this fascinating place, as well as the astounding natural treasures of the island historically known in the West as Ilha Formosa (beautiful island).
Taiwan is open for travel. When arriving in Taiwan, you’re required to self-monitor for 7 days, without quarantine and you don’t need a COVID test. Since April 17th 2023, wearing masks to board public transport is no longer been required.
The best time to visit Taiwan is from February to April and October to December. Falling on either side of the sweltering summer and typhoon season, these two periods let you make the most of the warm, subtropical climate and some of Taiwan’s top events.
