Ilha Formosa-Beautiful Island, are said to be the first words out of the mouths of westerners landing on Taiwan. With its lush tropical vegetation, mild weather, stunning basalt cliffs, healing hot springs and green mountains, it must have appeared a paradise. Time, modernization and economic growth have had their impact on Taiwan, but the Taiwanese have managed to spare many of these beautiful attributes from the back hoe and urban sprawl. Taipei is the most vivid example of change in Taiwan. Formerly, pretty much a cesspool, Taipei has cleaned up its environment, built parks along its river, redesigned its architecture, doing away with the garish and ugly, has done away with traffic jams and exhaust fumes by building a light-rail network and has made Taipei one of the most beautiful cities in Asia. The people made this happen, testament to the industriousness and pride of the Taiwanese. Stroll, bike or skate along Taipei's riverside paths. Visit the Shilin Night Market, a carnival of shopping stalls and food vendors that you will fall in love with. If you have only one night in Taipei, this is the place to spend it! Danshui is another place that you will want to fit into your itinerary. A destination with the vibe of youth and a boardwalk-esque festivity, the ocean breeze will stimulate your senses as the scrumptious seafood will sate the most demanding appetite! Most hot springs resorts are away from the city, but if you are limited with funds or time, go to Beitou in Taipei, where locals and tourists go to soak away the stress of the day. To get away from the city and enter a natural world of bamboo forests, over 1,200 species of plants and the amazing scents and sites of flowering rhododendrons, azaleas and Japanese Cherry trees, visit the Yangmingshan National Park, right on Taipei's doorstep. You can also partake of the soothing hot springs waters here. Lengshuikeng, to the east. has springs open to the public, free of charge.

Taiwan is an extremely popular destination, so competition is stiff between just about every major airline in every key country. Air Asia, Cebu Pacific and Jetstar Airways are the three most popular low cost airlines that fly here, so rather than flying direct; you may get your best deal by arranging a connecting flight with one of these carriers. Check into all-inclusive tours into the area also. Tour companies want to fill those slots and will often offer discounts late in the booking season, or for larger groups.