Country Overview

Taiwan is a small island country off the southeast coast of mainland China. Also known as Formosa, it is the largest island of the Republic of China (ROC) in East Asia. Since the end of World War II in 1945, the island group has been under the government of the Republic of China. A hybrid of cultures, at various times the people of Taiwan have been ruled by the Dutch, Chinese, Japanese and even, arguably, the United States. A democracy and autonomous state now, the culture of Taiwan still bears the marks of these foreign powers.

Much of the island is lush forestland, but the topography includes picturesque mountains, rice fields, and balmy beaches. Taiwan enjoys warm weather all year round. The strongest fluctuations in weather conditions are during spring and winter, while the weather is relatively stable during summer and autumn. The annual average temperature is a comfortable 72 degrees Fahrenheit, and with the exception of a few mountain areas where some traces of snow can be found during winter, no snow can be seen throughout Taiwan.

Taiwan is a country of contrast, where cutting edge modern conveniences belie the traditional culture which still remains strong today. The official language of Taiwan is Mandarin Chinese and the most popular foreign language in Taiwan is English, which is part of the regular school curriculum. Taiwan is a safe, well developed country, with a rich Chinese cultural history and great opportunities to teach English.