Formosa, Republic of China

Taiwan, ROC, is where i am presently stationed and had been here for a total of nine years (on two separate occassions). The small, turtle-shaped island is home to about 23 million people: the Mandarins, the Hakkas, the aborigines. Other minor islands and islets are Pescadores, Green island, Kinmen, Orchid island and Dioyutai, the latter creating tension as it is also claimed by Japan. Formosa is the 16th century name of the island during the Portugese occupation. The Dutch and Spaniards also ruled the island in the 17th century, and the Japanese occupation in the late 19th and mid 20th century. It was in 1945 that the island became under the rule of Republic of China, and in 1949 became permanently the home for Chiang Kai Shek and his troops after they were defeated by the Communist China. Since then, the island became self-ruled, and is now officially recognized as democratic island nation. It is however of much debate since mainland China claimed the island as one of the provinces of China, and does not recognize the island as an independent nation. However, for the majority of the 23 million citizens, Taiwan does not belong to the People's Republic of China. The name Republic of China is also under a much debate for some people pushing for a change in name i.e. Republic of Taiwan.

Taiwan is also a progressive nation along with Hong Kong, South Korea and Japan. It is also home to many migrant workers mostly coming from South East asia: the Philippines, Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia. The major religion is Buddhism and Taoism, but folk religions are also very eminent. Christians comprise the least percentage but religious freedom is allowed. There are at least three major languages widely spoken: Mandarin (north), Hakka (central), Taiwanese/Hokkien (south).

Taiwan is also known for its 101 skycraper, which became the tallest building in the world for over four years. It is located at the heart of Taipei city. The transportation system is very effcient, however finding a direction is a little bit complicated especially for non-chinese speakers.