For this reason, the impression of Taiwan in the minds of all too many people is that of a technologically advanced "industrial island" or "island of technology." After a traveler arrives in Taiwan, however, he or she will discover that this island nurtures a wide array of tourism and ecological resources, a diversity of traditional folk customs, a rich culture, modern arts, and fantastic food. In short, they discover that Taiwan is "beyond their expectations."

Taiwan was first known to the West as Ilha Formosa, or Beautiful Island. And with good reason......................