Taiwan — island of 36,000 km², 23 million inhabitants. World's microelectronics leader (TSMC).
- Taiwan produces 60% of global microprocessors TSMC (Taiwan Semiconductor) — world's largest manufacturer. Apple, NVIDIA, AMD — all outsource to TSMC.
- Taiwan vs China — controversial status Taiwan = Republic of China (Taiwan), China = People's Republic of China. Taiwan not recognized by UN since 1971.
- Taipei 101 — 508 m, 101 floors World's tallest building 2004-2010 (before Burj Khalifa). 730-tonne stabilizing ball — for earthquakes.
- Taiwan is a volcanic island + is close to Yangtze (mainland). 200 km from China (Taiwan Strait). Lowland in the west, mountains in the east (3997 m Yu Shan).
- Official language: Mandarin Plus Taiwanese (Hokkien), Hakka, Formosan Austronesian languages. 95% Han Chinese + 2% indigenous Taiwanese.
- Bubble tea — invented in Taiwan (Taichung 1986). Black tea + milk + tapioca pearls. Today a global trend — $100 bn market.
- Taiwan has most LGBTQ democracy in Asia 1st Asian country to legalize same-sex marriage (2019). 30% of Taiwanese support (most in Asia).
- Night Markets — Taiwan phenomenon 100+ night markets. Shilin Taipei — most famous. Stinky tofu, oyster omelette, bubble tea, milk-bathed fish — Taiwanese cuisine.
- Taiwan has 9 national parks 20% of territory protected. Taroko Gorge — marble canyon (gorge cut in marble by Liwu River).
- Taiwan has been democratic since 1996 First direct presidential elections. Earlier (1949-1996) — authoritarianism of Chiang Kai-shek and son Chiang Ching-kuo.
Sources: Directorate-General of Budget, Accounting and Statistics Taiwan, Taiwan Tourism Bureau.