VITAL STATISTICS

Capital: Taipei City Population: 23.5million Language(s): Mandarin is prevalent, with regional Chinese languages reflecting centuries of migration from China. Outside the major cities, English is uncommon. Time: GMT+8 International dialling code: +886 Visas: Not required by UK nationals for stays of up to 90 days

Money: Taiwan New Dollar (TWD), currently around TWD41 to the UK£

When to go Taiwan has a subtropical and

unpredictable monsoonal climate.

■ Low season – largely dry and warm in the central and southern regions; this coincides with fewer tourists, so is good for discounts. Jan and Feb are busy with visitors during Chinese New Year and the colourful Lantern Festival.

■ Shoulder months – Oct/nov coincide with the annual Taiwan Cycling Festival. ■ – Typhoons and heavy

Peak season rains are possible, but the landscape is green and lush. Jul and Aug are busiest, despite high temperatures (over 35ºc); Sep sees the return of the Moon Festival.

Health & safety

Taiwan has few health concerns and low crime, but is prone to typhoons, heavy monsoons and ’quakes. A good level of fitness and road sense is required to complete National Cycling Route #1.

Further reading & Information

Taiwan (Lonely Planet, 2017) www.eng.taiwan.net.tw – the official Taiwan Tourism Bureau www.taiwanbike.tw – Handy cycling tips Island Etude

(2006) – DVD with subtitles available on www.amazon.co.uk