Teaching Abroad in Taiwan Overview: Known as the Isle of Formosa and the "Butterfly Kingdom" - for the 440 species of butterflies that inhabit its forests and meadows - this pint-sized island off the southeastern coast of China offers an intoxicating blend of beautiful beaches, lush mountains and vibrant, cosmopolitan cities brimming with colorful street life, spectacular skylines and more than 400 years of Hakka, Taiwanese and Chinese history and culture. You can marvel at the one of the world's most spectacular collections of Chinese art at the National Palace Museum of Taipei, explore the spiritual traditions of Buddhism, Taoism and Confucianism in the nation's 5,000 temples and hike through awe-inspiring canyons in the island's mountainous interior. Scuba diving, wind-surfing, mountain biking and hiking are just some of the recreational opportunities to be enjoyed, while the streets of Taipei and other cities throughout Taiwan boast some of the tastiest cuisine, hippest nightlife and finest shopping to be found anywhere in East Asia. Teachers working abroad bring students and ideas together while helping locals become fluent in English. Taiwan is famous for English teachers so you will be in good company with other expatriates as you enjoy the nation's many attractions and sights.
Interesting Facts About Taiwan
Taipei 101, once the world's tallest building at 1,671 ft/518 m, was intended to be higher until planners realized it was too close to the flight path of the domestic airport.
If you hear a singing truck, it is not ice cream. In fact, it is trash. And if you don't live in an apartment building where trash is centrally collected, you are expected to run out and meet it with your sorted garbage.
Taipei's National Palace Museum has the world's largest collection of oriental art treasures. Much of the immense collection of porcelain, jade, sculptures, paintings, and bronze is regularly rotated.
Taiwan has the highest recycling rate in the world.
Taipei has world's largest "Wi-Fi" (and upcoming WiMAX) system.
Highlights of Working Abroad in Taiwan
Taiwan is another gourmet paradise in Asia, and Taipei is the best place on earth to taste a full range of cuisines from mainland China, as well as some local delicacies.
Join in the celebrations of the many festivals and gain insight into the island's culture. The Chinese New Year, the Dragon Boat Festival and the Mid-Autumn Moon Festival are all colorful affairs that really bring the streets to life.
Soak in a hot spring. Taiwan's volcanic past has left abundant reserves of geothermal energy all over the island, and there are over 100 hot mineral springs.
Try paragliding. Taiwan's precipitous terrain and steady winds offer the perfect opportunity for hang-gliding and paragliding at all skill levels.
Enjoy the cultural variety of the original inhabitants of Taiwan.
Festivals in Taiwan
The Spring Festival The Spring Festival, or the Chinese or Lunar New Year is the longest and most important festival in Taiwan. Debts are paid off, new clothes are purchased, houses are cleaned and families enjoy sumptuous feasts, offering sacrifices to the gods while giving friends and relatives hong bao, (red envelopes) containing "lucky money." There are also firecrackers throughout the night.
