What is the architecture like in Taiwan?

Much of Taiwan is highly developed with large, modern skyscrapers which are office towers and malls. At night, many of the streets light up with neon signs so bright that it looks light daytime. There are also a lot of storefront homes where people live above there shops. Many buildings are tall and narrow with little or no space in between them. Chinese temples are very traditional and decorative.

Do the kids there have similar interests as kids from the U.S?

Kids here seem very interested in American popular culture. Kids seem really interested in video games and sports. Basketball and baseball are very popular.

Are there internet cafes everywhere? Do kids have cell phones and ipods?

There seems to be less internet cafes here than in other places, but many cafes have wireless internet access. It seems like most kids have the latest cell phones and mp3 players are very popular. Ipods are around, but there are also many other brands of mp3 players that people use.


Did the death of the pope and the election of the new pope have any impact on Chinese culture?

The only impact I noticed was on the news. There are Christians here, but it is not the largest religion so the impact was probably less than in other places.

What is the economy like?

The Taiwanese economy is largely based on manufacturing and exporting goods. Electronics are huge here, as is steel, cement, textiles and chemical production. Taiwan also produces a lot of rice, corn and vegetables. Taiwan has a dynamic capitalist economy and exports the majority of its goods to China, despite the ongoing conflict.

What are women's roles in Chinese society?

Women are active participants in society. They run businesses in every sector. The vice-president of Taiwan is a woman.

Is the artwork similar to or different from the other places you have been to? Are there any special art/craft forms specifically Taiwanese?

Taiwanese artwork is the same as Chinese artwork. There are a few aboriginal tribes that have unique artwork.

Aside from the Starbucks, what is your favorite food in Taiwan?

My favorite food in Taiwan is tang yuan. These are glutinous rice balls filled with sesame paste and boiled.

What music is popular there?

There is a huge following of Chinese pop music. Most of the songs are about love. There are also a lot of "covers" of popular American songs. Many Chinese songs sprinkle in some English words.

What sports are popular?

Baseball and basketball seem to be the most popular. There is a huge Reebok billboard in Tainan with a picture of Yao Ming and Allen Iverson. There is a Tracy McGrady billboard too. I'm going to a baseball game tonight, which should be interesting.

How has Tawain changed due to its return to China?

Taiwan does not consider itself part of China. This is the root of the ongoing conflict between China and Taiwan. Right now Taiwan is considered by China to be a renegade province. Taiwan considers itself a sovereign nation and is so in most ways. But it is not a member of most international bodies and is not recognized by China as independent. Taiwan has not officially declared independence for fear of a military response from China, but often stages protests in response to China's policies. Unlike China, Taiwan has a democratic government and a free press.

What is the climate like at this time of year?

It's pretty warm here right now and it is about to get really, really hot.

What food specialties are there in Tawain? Is Chinese food there similar to Chinese food in the States?

Noodles and rice are the staples. There is a lot of pork, beef, chicken feet, pig knuckle, duck blood and other ingredients that I can't quite decipher. There are all kinds of vegetables. Chinese food here is much different than in the States. Dishes like Generals Tso's chicken are nowhere to be found.